The Wind River Range - GORP


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Burnished Winds
The Wind River Range
By Karen Berger

Wind River Mountains
Bridger-Teton National Forest
Wyoming

Copper-colored grasses of the Wind River Range

The copper-colored grasses of fall

With rugged peaks, sparkling tarns set jewel-like in dramatic cirques, and one of the biggest systems of glaciers in the lower 48, the Wind River Range is one of America's premiere hiking destinations. In the summer months, you can expect lots of company. But the hiking window extends into September — at least in some years — and if you hit the weather just right, you're likely to have a hike that will set the standard for all other mountain hikes to come. For one thing, the trails are quiet and the campsites empty. You'll also find unexpected fall color in the least expected place of all: above the treeline. The fall grasses are burnished to a bright copper color and golden-hued willows line the streams. In good weather, the days are usually warm enough for hiking in shorts. In bad weather, you'd better have a couple of extra layers.

A warning: The earlier in September you hike, the less the chance of snow. This is one of those places where it can snow any day of the year — and your chances increase as the autumn days tick by. By late September, the Winds are frequently impassable. So bring lots of warm clothes, extra food, a map and compass (and the ability to use them), and a current, reliable weather report.

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