Wind River Range Backpacking, 168 miles, 8.5 days, Free in the Winds

[@markb.4988]

Ps. Great video. 👍

[@thebikeweiss]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for your comments!

[@TalesFromAbroad-SJ]

Wow, what an epic journey! 168 miles in just over 8 days are very impressive. The Wind River Range is a very stunning place, and your video really captures its beauty. Loved seeing the variety of trails and those Cirque of the Towers views! Thanks for sharing your adventure and have a great day 😊

[@thebikeweiss]

Yes!... a wonderful trip in a wonderful place. So glad you enjoyed the video; thank you so much for your comments, Simon! Truly appreciated!

[@glennunderwood4292]

Thanks for another great adventure Ted! You may have convinced me of the solitude and views of the Wind River over the populated Tetons and my emotional connection with them. Definitely an inspiration for a trip next year.

[@thebikeweiss]

For sure the Winds are a worthy of the top of the list, Glenn. But don't give up on the neighboring Tetons. Even with the popularity of the Tetons, not many people are willing to forego showers, camp chairs, and coolers; so the backcountry is typically still a great place of solitude (even in the crazy popular National Parks)! Thanks for your comments! Cheers!

[@socmarine87-D]

I did the Teton Crest Trail last year, mid July and only ran into 6 people. Hiked the Cirque and saw no one.

[@anselmocat]

Well done on getting your stakes back. Hope I have that kind of luck when/if I need it 🤣

[@thebikeweiss]

Thank you! ...I've found many stakes that others have lost but this was the first time losing my own.

[@socmarine87-D]

No one mentioned that you shouldn't backpack alone. Nice. Sometimes you have no choice. I always have to go alone.

[@thebikeweiss]

Right and right! I love your honesty!

[@markb.4988]

Can I ask about the permitting process for this area?? Hard to get? How far in advance did you apply? Etc. Thx

[@thebikeweiss]

No permit needed, at least for now. Some suspect it may change in the future because of increasing use. But as for now, walk up and go! Check with the Pinedale Ranger District (Bridger-Teton National Forest) for rules/regulations (www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/btnf/recarea/?recid=71401). Also, entrance from the east side of the range is a bit more limited b/c much of the land is Native American reservations. I understand you can get access permits from the tribes but I've never done so and don't know what it requires.

[@markb.4988]

@@thebikeweiss Thanks. MN guy here. Want to get back out west next season. I do most of my backpacking here on the Superior Hiking Trail, just looking for a broader experience now that retirement is here. Thanks again for the reply.

[@thebikeweiss]

Cheers to your retirement and best wishes for many wonderful adventures to come!

[@markb.4988]

@@thebikeweiss thanks! If you're not there yet, hope it comes soon!!