Planning So You Can Care for Yourself
The Wind River Range is wild and remote, neither of which should be taken lightly! For those adventure seekers out there, that’s pretty exciting! With that, though, is a significant element of risk. Not trying to scare you, but just underscoring how important it is to do a great job of planning, being really prepared, and know clearly what to expect (and what not to expect!). You can absolutely have the adventure of a lifetime here, but PLEASE know what you’re doing in the backcountry and always exercise good judgement! Oh, one more thing, mastering the skill of self-reliance in the backcountry is way neat!
We always tell people not to expect to be rescued, and that certainly gives them pause for a moment. It’s not that we don’t care about your well-being, but we believe having that mindset translates to safer behavior. Did we say the Wind River Range is remote? Think you can rely on your phone? Nope. Is that Garmin always going to work? Maybe not. Is Search and Rescue always going to be able to reach you in time? Who knows? Please, we want you and your loved ones to be safe. Be cautious, expect the best but prepare for the worst. Act as is you are completely on your own in the backcountry.
With all that said, here are some more things to think about:
Weather is always unpredictable, ALWAYS! And it can QUICKLY get cold, snowy, damp and nasty on any given summer day! I’ve seen plenty of snowy landscapes in July and August. Never get caught off guard here, hypothermia is no joke, and is a killer when you’re soaked. And hope you all know about cotton.
Speaking of weather, the Wind River Range LOVES winter, that’s why it sticks around for about 9-10 months of the year. It’s better to wait to later in the summer (mid July-August), but know if you come early season, expect a bunch of snow and dangerous streams swollen with runoff!
If the range here looks high, well, it is! Acclimatize. Altitude related sickness occurs more than what we care to see.
This is no zoo, we have wild animals here that can be dangerous. Keep a clean camp and always store your food properly! Never ever approach wildlife, even those herbivores that look tame, newsflash, they’re not! and can they can really hurt you!
Its a big place, and people get lost. Write down your route and dates, leave that info with someone back home. Sublette County has a registration form. But the BEST thing you can do is to always carry a map and compass and know how to use them!
Expect the unexpected. Things like carrying extra food, an emergency shelter, matches/fire starter can literally be things that can save your life. You are on your own here!
Man, that water looks pure and super refreshing, but there is a risk of it containing pathogens. Always treat your water, those little bugs can make you miserably sick!