Wind River Alpine Lakes Traverse

Expedition Itinerary: Wind River Traverse

Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse

Trip Duration: 6 days

Total Estimated Mileage: ~70 miles

Experience Level: advanced

Terrain Type: alpine lakes

- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 10,500+ ft

- Start and end trailhead: Big Sandy Trailhead, WY to Green River Lakes Trailhead, WY

- GPS coordinates: 42.7561, -109.2751 to 43.2728, -109.7870

- Permits: Obtain through Bridger-Teton and Shoshone National Forest websites

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DAY 1: Big Sandy Trailhead, WY to Lonesome Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1,200 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Big Sandy Trail → North Fork Trail

- Terrain description: Gradual ascent through forest to alpine meadows

- Notable features or side quests: Clear views of War Bonnet and Mitchell Peak

- Key water sources: North Fork Popo Agie River

- Campsite location: Lonesome Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for marmots and pikas

- Trail tip: Start early to secure campsites

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DAY 2: Lonesome Lake to Cirque of the Towers

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1,800 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: North Fork Trail → Texas Pass Route

- Terrain description: Rocky terrain with steep ascent over Texas Pass

- Notable features or side quests: Spectacular views of Cirque of the Towers

- Key water sources: Lonesome Lake

- Campsite location: Cirque of the Towers

- Wildlife or safety notes: Be bear-aware

- Trail tip: Prepare for windy conditions at the pass

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DAY 3: Cirque of the Towers to Titcomb Basin

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +2,000 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Jackass Pass → Highline Trail → Indian Pass Trail

- Terrain description: Alpine basins and rugged terrain

- Notable features or side quests: Iconic peaks like Pingora

- Key water sources: Creek near Big Sandy Lake

- Campsite location: Titcomb Basin

- Wildlife or safety notes: Store food properly

- Trail tip: Allocate time to explore the basin

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DAY 4: Titcomb Basin to Island Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, -1,000 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Indian Pass Trail → Highline Trail

- Terrain description: Descending trail with stunning lake views

- Notable features or side quests: Photograph Island Lake at sunset

- Key water sources: Streams along the trail

- Campsite location: Island Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Mosquitoes prevalent; pack repellent

- Trail tip: Enjoy a late afternoon swim

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DAY 5: Island Lake to Elkhart Park

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, -2,500 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Highline Trail → Pole Creek Trail

- Terrain description: Forested path with gradual descent

- Notable features or side quests: Seek out waterfalls off-trail

- Key water sources: Pole Creek

- Campsite location: Cook Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Rattlesnake sightings possible

- Trail tip: Test water crossings before proceeding

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DAY 6: Elkhart Park to Green River Lakes Trailhead, WY

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, -3,000 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Pine Creek Trail → Lakeside Trail

- Terrain description: Gentle descent to glacial lakes

- Notable features or side quests: Take in views of Squaretop Mountain

- Key water sources: Green River

- Campsite location: None

- Wildlife or safety notes: Mind the marmots at the trailhead

- Trail tip: Celebrate the journey with a group photo

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CAMPSITE INTEL

- Camp names and elevation: Lonesome Lake (10,100 ft), Cirque of the Towers (10,600 ft), Titcomb Basin (10,300 ft), Island Lake (10,000 ft), Cook Lake (9,500 ft)

- Fire restrictions: Check local guidelines

- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear canisters

- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Titcomb Basin, Island Lake

- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate to high solitude in most areas

- Nearest water source: Typically within 0.5 miles

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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

- Typical temps: 40°F to 75°F in August

- Sun exposure: High; use sunscreen and hats

- Acclimatization tips: Spend a day in Pinedale or at higher altitude before the trek

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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)

- Navigation tools (map, compass)

- Water filtration system

- Sunscreen and sunglasses

- First aid kit

- Fire starter and matches

- Pocket knife

- Headlamp with extra batteries

- Shelter system (tent, tarp)

- Insulating layers

- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)

Pro tips: Use lightweight, packable gear to accommodate bear canisters.

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OPTIONAL UPGRADES

- Scenic side trips: Climb Pingora Peak for experienced climbers

- Photo-worthy moments: Sunset at Island Lake

- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Enjoy a meal at Wind River Brew Co. in Pinedale

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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

- Trail hours per day: 6-9 hours

- Wake/sleep rhythm: Awake at dawn, sleep at sunset

- Estimated calories burned per day: 3,000-4,000 calories

- Water needed per person: 3-5 liters

- Recommended pack weight range: 25-35 lbs

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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.

Your expedition awaits, Christopher Nicholas Arace.