Wind River Scenic Loop Expedition

Expedition Itinerary: Wind River Wilderness Loop

Primary Objective: Loop Hike

Trip Duration: 6 days

Total Estimated Mileage: ~60 miles

Experience Level: advanced

Terrain Type: alpine lakes

- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 5000 ft

- Start and end trailhead: Big Sandy Trailhead, WY

- GPS coordinates: 42.7636, -109.2443

- Permits: Required. Obtain from the local ranger station or online via Recreation.gov.

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DAY 1: Big Sandy Trailhead, WY to Big Sandy Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +800 ft

- Terrain description: Gradual ascent through forested trails

- Notable features or side quests: Views of Big Sandy River

- Key water sources: Big Sandy River

- Campsite location: Big Sandy Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear activity; food storage required

- Trail tip: Start early to secure campsites

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DAY 2: Big Sandy Lake to Clear Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1200 ft

- Terrain description: Rocky paths with moderate elevation

- Notable features or side quests: Stunning views of Temple Peak

- Key water sources: Clear Lake

- Campsite location: Clear Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: High exposure; prepare for variable weather

- Trail tip: Stay on marked paths to avoid damaging flora

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DAY 3: Clear Lake to Cirque of the Towers

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +1400 ft

- Terrain description: High-alpine terrain, more rugged paths

- Notable features or side quests: Cirque of the Towers panorama

- Key water sources: Nearby streams

- Campsite location: Cirque of the Towers

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for sudden storms

- Trail tip: Early morning best for photography

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DAY 4: Cirque of the Towers to Lonesome Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, -1000 ft

- Terrain description: Alpine meadows and boulder fields

- Notable features or side quests: Stunning lake views

- Key water sources: Streams around Lonesome Lake

- Campsite location: Lonesome Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Stay aware of steep sections

- Trail tip: Filter water from running sources

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DAY 5: Lonesome Lake to Island Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +1000 ft

- Terrain description: Varied terrain with both shaded and open areas

- Notable features or side quests: View of Fremont Peak

- Key water sources: Island Lake

- Campsite location: Island Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Mosquitoes prevalent; use repellent

- Trail tip: Set camp early to explore the area

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DAY 6: Island Lake to Big Sandy Trailhead, WY

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, -1400 ft

- Terrain description: Gentle descent through diverse ecosystems

- Notable features or side quests: Final view of the Wind River Range

- Key water sources: Streams along the trail

- Campsite location: N/A

- Wildlife or safety notes: Encounter with wildlife common

- Trail tip: Have your transportation coordinated in advance

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CAMPSITE INTEL

- Camp names and elevation: Big Sandy Lake, Clear Lake, Cirque of the Towers, Lonesome Lake, Island Lake

- Fire restrictions: Check current conditions

- Bear safety and food storage: Mandatory bear canisters

- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Cirque of the Towers, Island Lake

- Noise level or solitude factor: High in peak season

- Nearest water source: Lakes and streams at each site

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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

- Typical temps: 40-70°F in August

- Sun exposure: High, especially in open alpine areas

- Acclimatization tips: Spend extra day at trailhead if needed

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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)

List tailored to terrain and season

Include 1–2 pro tips:

- 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 trekking poles for stability; consider a small solar charger for electronics

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OPTIONAL UPGRADES

- Scenic side trips: Climb Pingora Peak for advanced scramblers

- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise over the Cirque of the Towers

- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Local dining in Pinedale, WY

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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

- Trail hours per day: 5-8 hours

- Wake/sleep rhythm: Rise with dawn, sleep by dusk

- Estimated calories burned per day: ~3500-5000 calories

- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters

- Recommended pack weight range: 35-45 lbs

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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.

Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.