We had no detailed map of the area so stopped in Atlantic City to look for a map of the local back roads. A nice waitress made a photocopy for us of one they had, wouldn't take any $ for it. She also gave us some tips about where to go in the area, there are lots of back roads.
Willie`s Marker (??) Almost 200 people froze to death here one winter. They started their journey too late in the season, without enough supplies. Our dog had a quick swim in the Sweetwater R, then we were off exploring dirt roads, with great views of the Wind River mountain range.
We saw so many antelope we lost count. Stopped for a picnic lunch with a view, watched dark clouds dumping rain on the mountains (could have been snow).
It's a somewhat historic area. The Pony Express route went right through here:
A nearby pass made this a popular route for the Oregon Trail:
Red Canyon was spectacular. Elk herds winter here, and the interior road was not yet open for the season, as it's calving season for the elk.
On to Lander for gas, and out to Sinks Canyon. There are some camping areas here, but day use is free for non-campers. Some rain fell but it was still a great place to visit. We saw mountain sheep, huge trout, a small but great interpretive center.
It was a short walk to the Popo Agie River. Lots of water still, but less than the spring peak. The river still disappears underground for a bit now, but flows overland in spring flood stage.
The river disappears underground for a bit, then comes out here, where the big trout hang out:
 |
| Re-entry from underground |
Then back to our cg for a beer and a sit outside to enjoy that view. Real nice day trip.
No comments:
Post a Comment