- Joined
- Dec 23, 2013
- Messages
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The Wyoming Range.
Why the Wyoming Range? Good question.
Last year, @Bob had sent me some routes that he created in CalTopo of potential future backpacking trips. One of the routes, was along the Wyoming Range Trail, which is a National Recreation Trail, that runs just off the ridge of a majority of the Wyoming Range.
Now as most on this forum know, I tend to lean towards Yellowstone when it comes to spending my time in the backcountry, with an occasional foray into wilderness areas that tend to be near or adjacent to the Park. You see, I need my grizzly bear fix, so when I use up my vacation time from work, I need there to be a reasonable possibility of seeing a bear, or signs of bear, as a major part of the criteria I use as to where I am going. So the first thing I did was to look up if there were grizzlies in the Wyoming Range. It turns out that there have been four confirmed sightings in the range as of 2020, and the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee includes the range in their current distribution, so that was good enough for me, and thus I began to lean towards a trip to the Wyoming Range.
Now, I knew absolutely nothing of the Wyoming Range before this trip. I had seen bits of it as I drove through and out of Star Valley before, but only between gaps in the Salt River Range. I also had seen them off in the distance to the west when I drove home from Yellowstone along highway 189 from Hoback Junction south to Kemmerer, but I haven't taken that route in 25 years.
So once we decided on the Wyoming Range, I sat down and digitized the Wyoming Range Trail off of the 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps, then created a KMZ for it and opened it up in Google Earth. I soon realized that the map and Google Earth didn't quite marry up, so I digitized the trail on Google Earth, and then imported that into my topographic map. At that point, I created waypoints on my old Magellan eXplorist 500. Recording a point every 0.20 mile for the length of the trail - from south to north.
Now I guess this would be a good time to give some details on the trail and maybe the range too. The south end actually starts in Snider Basin along South Piney Creek and works its way up to the high country, heading north, all the way to the Willow Creek Trailhead, which is located just south of Hoback Junction. The range itself extends from just northwest of Kemmerer in the south, to Hoback in the north. The range is located to the west of 189, and east of the Salt River Range which forms the eastern edge of Star Valley in Wyoming. The range is fairly remote, especially the further south you go. For instance, it was approximately 22 miles from Daniel Junction to a washed out bridge where we shuttled vehicles to, mostly on county and forest service gravel/dirt roads.
Even though the official trail starts in Snider Basin, we chose to start at Middle Piney Reservoir instead. Have to ask Bob on that.
But, we found out that they had been working on the dam of the reservoir, and they would not let anyone park overnight there, so we would have to move one drainage to the north, the Straight Creek Trailhead, to start our trek.
Now in the final days leading up to our trip, @Dreamer decide to join us for the first five nights He had to report to work on Thursday, so he'd exit down North Horse Creek on Wednesday while Bob and I would continue on to the Willow Creek Trailhead. Unfortunately, our plans all came crashing down on day one and we had to change our agenda for the remainder of our trip.
Scatman trip facts:
- two cameras taken
1. Canon EOS 70D
2. Canon PowerShot SX710 HS
- I took a total of 2104 shots, pretty evenly distributed between the two cameras
- My pack (includes water and cameras) weighed in at a hefty 51 pounds for what was supposed to be a nine day trip
Now, this is going to be a long report, so pop some popcorn, pull up a chair, relax and enjoy, or not enjoy if you so choose.
Here we go!
![WR_Trip_Overview.jpg WR_Trip_Overview.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122565-2e458913b8de282b671fde1fa46ac540.jpg)
Final Trip Overview Map
Day 1 - Drive from Salt Lake to Willow Creek Trailhead, Shuttle vehicles, backpack into camp along the Straight Creek Trail
I woke up at 4:30 AM on the 26th of June and headed north at 5:30 AM to meet Bob at the Willow Creek Trailhead, located about six miles southeast of Hoback Junction (Turn by the fiberglass moose
). I arrived just before ten o'clock, and it began to rain while I waited.
Bob showed up about half an hour later, we moved my gear to his truck, and we were off to meet Dreamer at Daniel Junction, to shuttle his truck to a bridge on North Horse Creek that had been closed due to a wash out. After dropping his vehicle off, we all piled into Bob's truck and headed back to Daniel Junction for lunch at The Bear Den. From there, we drove to the Straight Creek Trailhead, located about 23 miles west/northwest of Big Piney, to start our adventure.
![WR_Day_1.jpg WR_Day_1.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122572-c9743f7e56e8d5640f23aee53cb7ebd3.jpg)
Day one overview map
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122566-0c97dceeb2e096bb4c491fe0f6a7883e.jpg)
The information sign at the Willow Creek Trailhead
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122567-8eefb1f3b85fa5eddccf94772b480ace.jpg)
Dropping off Dreamer's vehicle at the bridge on North Horse Creek
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122568-511ec4e66ede7cfbdbc4b3675fa86209.jpg)
Lunch at The Bear Den. I had the bison burger, which was very good.
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122569-aee3a5d6991abfca7732fecce65f8a98.jpg)
Conditions at the Straight Creek Trailhead when we arrived - pouring rain with some hail mixed in, and snow at the higher elevations
![04b.jpg 04b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122575-a207009373be62810fe3ccf2ca4c23b5.jpg)
Looks like we are heading the right direction
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122570-ee15556bc105e0ce0508a09b4bb8a066.jpg)
The storm let up after about an hour and we were off - departure time was about 3:30 pm, with Straight Creek below
![04c.jpg 04c.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122576-95bf5d4afa12e77cbc80b74113964c12.jpg)
View along Straight Creek
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122571-a24f83d3df17308f41976f5292c5a878.jpg)
Bob, crossing Lake Fork Creek
![08.jpg 08.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122573-553cd922a60c5663590800a894c01d1b.jpg)
Beginning to hit some snow as we gain elevation
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122574-6c54502b156ea33fe635f09a5e2bf764.jpg)
Eventually, we had to deal with to much snow. I was beginning to posthole, the temp
had dropped to 39 degrees, and my feet were wet and freezing. The trail was also
becoming difficult to follow, so we made a decision to turn around, hike down below
snowline and set up camp, and discuss our options going forward.
We arrived at our camp late in the day, so we set up our tents, ate and hit the sack.
Day 2 - Hike back to trailhead, drive north to North Horse Creek, backpack up North Horse Creek
Ate our breakfast, packed up our gear, and headed back to the Straight Creek Trailhead.
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122577-28264104c2c3ffaf34d694b23ef16d50.jpg)
Mine and Dreamer's tents on the morning of day two
![11.jpg 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122578-2c6ca156b40c2dee175681a3a8360440.jpg)
View south from our campsite, looking up towards peak 10626
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122579-02a92ee51d3ab7232639944a7c4a9aeb.jpg)
Silky phacelia
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122580-01fdc83095da541a41d22760ccab7b7d.jpg)
Dreamer arrives back at the trailhead. Time for a drive.
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122581-5ebe31c5c8987e1ef1e50c546a41fb5e.jpg)
First, we drove up to Middle Piney Lake
![WR_Day_2.jpg WR_Day_2.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122582-53cb6bcc9aca31666a1e73501828a83b.jpg)
Overview map of day 2 - back to the trailhead, drive north along Forest Road 10046, eventually reaching Dreamer's truck on North Horse Creek, hiking in a few miles to set up camp.
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122583-859b2e4c8b870b89162254b5130d509a.jpg)
The drive north on FS 10046
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122584-03869c8152899bd16eecd00153105bee.jpg)
View from the road
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122585-273b0cbaa13db06bec706fd43364e3f5.jpg)
View up the Lunch Creek Drainage
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122586-ea9949c107fc34ebe23f92dff5d25bc2.jpg)
View from South Cottonwood Creek
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122587-013c0a33ca3558f4c02c25d2be14d845.jpg)
FS Road heading towards Soda Lake
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122588-f80a3eb51c496ba40633962e752bd41f.jpg)
Looking back on Peak 10896 (Bare Mountain)
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122589-96a2abc2f1d4e4ac7cc13c340885a537.jpg)
Now here is a view. Arrowleaf balsamroot as far as one can see, with the Wind Rivers as a backdrop - The High and Lonesome Ranch
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122590-23481fe9a002152db560eae0b3da9656.jpg)
Larkspur too
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122591-d238e43882edb97d05c96dbc1af36a5e.jpg)
Back at North Horse Creek. Because the bridge was closed, we had to hike up about three miles of road to reach the official trail-
head
![WR_Day_2b.jpg WR_Day_2b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122595-a02ff7ced5a48867836e3d98efed436b.jpg)
Overview map of day two - to campsite on North Horse Creek. The little green dot is for you @Rockskipper, signifying our crossing of Mule Creek.![Thumbs Up :thumbsup: :thumbsup:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122592-faee93e4aa5dd5cf9a0b0b56a3f342c0.jpg)
North Horse Creek viewed from FS Road 10389
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122593-01836da55e3c7d63d41787d0818a82ff.jpg)
The lonesome road.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122594-2113cdb61a128af8727b4280df0039d7.jpg)
The only one using the road besides us
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122596-636018932deb23774ab1ab10717faa49.jpg)
Heart leafed arnica by the roadside
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122597-d51e301e8629366931f7e009419ba61e.jpg)
Arriving at the official trailhead. At least we think we have as there was no signage.
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122598-98f67dc44410733fb454d00675f69a6a.jpg)
Must be the right place
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122599-309367930747b226fc602d4955399fe8.jpg)
California corn lily
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122600-dc7af6db158639f2cc21cd53be05d05b.jpg)
North Horse Creek below. We saw a moose just before reaching camp. It took off as soon as we saw it, so no picture.![Frown :( :(](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122601-36078bf1a2401cc460b4863e85afcd98.jpg)
Bob and Dreamer getting ready to eat on night number two
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122602-d8f235a77d43678bdaa6f1c7c48ad519.jpg)
My meal for the night was Peak's Venison Country Casserole, which I quite liked.
Day 3 - Camp on North Horse Creek to campsite on Third Creek
Up around 7:00 AM and headed further up North Horse Creek. Today, we would finally reach the Wyoming Range Trail which had just alluded us on day one due to the snow. A perfect day for us weather wise and the hiking was enjoyable. Once in the high country, spring beauties just took over. They were everywhere.
![WR_Day_3.jpg WR_Day_3.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122640-4a737ea990f551671ac29d2966f08b75.jpg)
Overview map of day three
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122603-a14267a440f79371741d05d73e9b487a.jpg)
More North Horse Creek
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122604-9d9c46dba6553c03da5cea4a948e8edd.jpg)
Our first deer sighting
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122605-1bb43e71204158cd49172def18f82b0f.jpg)
Still working our way up North Horse Creek
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122606-0a7f194a1b17243a4be9336b9adb50fc.jpg)
View up into the high country
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122607-15e8c04b508103195361e55d0c96ad9b.jpg)
County Creek
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122608-4d44ba9a8ab6860292ad9b95cb0b10c1.jpg)
That way to the Wyoming Rang Trail. We went straight instead.
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122609-b1a600d1b762b331ad6bb2ad5f089335.jpg)
Looking up a draw of a tributary of North Horse Creek
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122610-9d98aa2b8a75a2f81d341c1534fe0929.jpg)
Below, the willows of North Horse Creek
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122611-23a64f94597888a91bd715d5514c291c.jpg)
Staring to see quite a few spring beauties at this point. Soon, they would take over
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122612-432eac6d491e4aac06700491a1c758e2.jpg)
Our first sighting of the Wyoming Range Trail
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122613-f0460546ed83daef4a8b3eb56fb8695b.jpg)
Forest Service Cabin with a view. Looking back towards Mount McDougal
![46.jpg 46.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122614-2bf285d8aa4b8f6b467fb93b33c412a0.jpg)
Another shot of the cabin
![47.jpg 47.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122615-9559bea2cba22981ed376f9d2c31065a.jpg)
On the Wyoming Range Trail!![Thumbs Up :thumbsup: :thumbsup:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122616-e187ee6eab5bc1dc7418b17c0e0a4cd1.jpg)
Deadman Mountain, with the Wyoming Range Trail below
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122617-7cec8905b8796f4066af90f53a51e7c2.jpg)
Break time!
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122618-8e3f63c5fdd1d9168f73b1a514925c2e.jpg)
View to the northeast from out break location
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122619-6d323e7eed9b96831bcc9a40ae8cf3f3.jpg)
Whelp, time to get moving
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122620-a4fb6a19a95efbaa23b1b181934469b9.jpg)
Third Creek, here we come.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122621-d1cedd615f5a6edb6133b76ef01ba561.jpg)
Deer track on the trail. The deer in the range had a very hard winter.
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122622-e70e28ac41448322dfb72995cd258004.jpg)
View to the north
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122623-dbd01eda3707e29228093deb1243decb.jpg)
View to the west towards the Salt River Range
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122624-3962b6d3df234e22ac14b7845178868d.jpg)
A @Dreamer track?
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122625-25141725e38573fac7a168720afec59e.jpg)
A Bob sighting.
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122626-97de5f8f9bda3fa4eb857d0da6d21f3f.jpg)
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122627-40fbda2761825dfbd86ac6fb6686d08d.jpg)
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122628-28e49860cd2d1eefacddff71c59949ee.jpg)
An old cabin
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122629-ef26bf6bc5f8d7fa1b19c94e892762bc.jpg)
Can just barely make out the Tetons from the cabin
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122630-953114dc6c945431f544c64d5c85512d.jpg)
First Creek up ahead
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122631-b66cbe1162645e74395784539f4c8e29.jpg)
View to the northeast as we near our campsite on Third Creek
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122632-201924dacb8ce20a12fc3a16b8c164b1.jpg)
This picture doesn't due it justice, but the spring beauties were really beautiful
![63b.jpg 63b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122633-ef5b625eb7b7b3570417a47707409735.jpg)
Dreamer, dropping down into the Third Creek Drainage
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122634-3a6573798437cbf64b22050d5be9a069.jpg)
Dinner for night number three. I believe that this is my favorite freeze-dried meal
Day 4 - From campsite on Third Creek to campsite on shelf above Pickle Pass
This was the toughest day I thought. The climb up from Little Greys River, heading towards Pickle Pass kicked my ass. Also, we got off on some nice elk trails and had to find our way back to the human trail a few times. The campsite above Pickle Pass was worth all the effort though.
![WR_Day_4.jpg WR_Day_4.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122639-1dad7b9dd24fa1a2f9f1058b01708121.jpg)
Overview map of day four
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122635-276fbc773cc4f6ee98e40293ede53060.jpg)
Morning view to the west from our campsite on Third Creek
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122636-8b03a7b65526eb78b4a66edf6661f563.jpg)
Oatmeal and cocoa ought to get me moving this morning.
A circus peanut might help @TractorDoc.
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122637-55f749388a19e30738c4e1ca0c83575b.jpg)
And we are off. I believe that that is the ridge ahead of us that we have to climb to get to Pickle Pass.
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122638-f83003f6051b0aaa25274c7b7523bee0.jpg)
Views from the trail
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122641-143a7ee239af130c61e1ee5e080939b1.jpg)
I liked how these flowers made a ring - common twinpod maybe?
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122642-1eebf4d3f2915bfafc8f09c9006ac9a6.jpg)
Approaching the drop down into the Little Greys River Drainage
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122643-2f040c180bc4c60d575e90fa62437995.jpg)
View from the trail to the west
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122644-103a6b436efcb906fc5bd6f97ff35fc2.jpg)
Getting a good picture
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122645-d3c9308a8268a06346f810ca5b7f4853.jpg)
Looking back on Deadman Mountain and the fire lookout
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122646-7a98863882f8431a120c75c3ec27801e.jpg)
Another view of Deadman Mountain on the left
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122647-27beae884ba98c52dee90e84524ced62.jpg)
Cinquefoil
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122648-9975e1808e30fe60eb5462eacc6692be.jpg)
Wyoming townsend daisy
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122649-ddddf2746e2e0881f45f6dd357475cfc.jpg)
Scat, taking a break with some scat.![Big Grin :D :D](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![79.jpg 79.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122650-fbece085e780852ecfce7a34d58ce5a5.jpg)
One of my favorite pictures of our trip. At peace with the world.
![80.jpg 80.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122651-d2d5d07c5dbed5bf7e727f06ac61c291.jpg)
Bird of prey
![81.jpg 81.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122652-10933333431e82c458cdd338201db54d.jpg)
The drop off to the Little Grey's River ahead.
![81b.jpg 81b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122654-c4f365e7b011994cb19fa780bd1177c3.jpg)
Huh oh! Scatman down! I tried hard no to fall on this trip, but the loose rock on a steep trail got me.
Photo courtesy of the
Dreamer
![82.jpg 82.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122655-d3b4aa13cbda664df1faf7833d94e615.jpg)
Off on one of the infamous elk trails. Also, putting our rain gear on. we should have taken a right at Albuquerque.![Big Grin :D :D](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![83.jpg 83.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122656-f6241566488ff7105237567dac232769.jpg)
Waiting out the rain under some pine trees with M&M's in hand - almond and peanut
![84.jpg 84.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122657-74f55d2330ae0b0f50f5f2bb67dbb8f4.jpg)
Heading back to get on the right trail
![85.jpg 85.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122658-e2de3e433b81cfab2ccdd985ad0724b9.jpg)
Left to Pickle Pass
![86.jpg 86.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122659-8d31ff141a4e4c93f7f3d71036054f7c.jpg)
3.5 big ones!
![87.jpg 87.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122660-e5885ece34eb85c829aa59e34ba1634f.jpg)
Look what is ahead, not only the Little Grey's River, but one of Bob's infamous horse trails! Straight up the hill!
You know if you backpack with Bob that you are gong to get one of these. You don't necessarily know when, but you do know
that it is only a matter of time. This was like a 1400 foot climb that didn't believe in switchbacks.
My left knee is still hurting
from this one.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![88.jpg 88.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122661-54cababc1201253461098958494fe1cc.jpg)
Dreamer, crossing the Little Greys River
![89.jpg 89.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122662-42bdb9397c2cd9f3ce9cb87b9f0f5614.jpg)
Of course gaining elevation means nice views
![90.jpg 90.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122663-fbec701594e98229be93f959e7b90650.jpg)
More views, looking back towards Peak 10484
![91.jpg 91.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122664-89e2a012b51901c79e460d4bcfc3a3c9.jpg)
@Bob, tearing up the horse trail
![92.jpg 92.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122665-0d3dbe6e3fc56ef3d1806d93d8c624a9.jpg)
Common stickseed
![93.jpg 93.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122666-b078e85798074b7264f9a43b9cdb2e2d.jpg)
Twisted leaf balsamroot
![94.jpg 94.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122667-4f501e1b19b9687e995cef36ca916c54.jpg)
Bob, taking it all in
![95.jpg 95.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122668-73624d76d0de7779f5ebda20f285817b.jpg)
A big anthill next to the trail. I took a GPS point of it to see if I could see it on Google Earth. I haven't checked yet.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![96.jpg 96.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122669-e156c742eda20b1d2b25a5eacb94c056.jpg)
Filled my bottle with snow
![97.jpg 97.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122670-4e114e920a5df84db7372797f66e486c.jpg)
Hoback Peak
![98.jpg 98.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122671-f2db3a3a2d127b33ba91925985afc0c5.jpg)
Nearing the highpoint of our climb
![99.jpg 99.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122672-fbbf3bd74cad19cb591ce5bc3a134356.jpg)
How good is that?
![100.jpg 100.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122673-0767bf2dc396f6a1d23db64e52ffaa31.jpg)
A break near the top
![101.jpg 101.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122674-d5e535273e7326ab40e2bd4eea344490.jpg)
The Wyoming Range Trail
![102.jpg 102.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122675-b58a4711da53890f20a474bd0c3cd880.jpg)
Looking down on Pickle Pass
![103.jpg 103.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122676-3b16a7b32e3a35d5883980da11618a2a.jpg)
My tent at campsite number four
![104.jpg 104.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122677-a50dc32a2a66b8958dd8974380ed4712.jpg)
A fossil in a rock near camp
![105.jpg 105.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122678-b0d5cbe2fd97286c4432ccb4d1f95e03.jpg)
View to the west from our campsite of the east end of Grayback Ridge
![106.jpg 106.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122679-e2f579364757b887eb587e4aade41be6.jpg)
Night four's meal - very good too.
![107.jpg 107.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122680-fee7b2ea8e00c1e06fac5965290021cd.jpg)
Brandegee's onion at camp
![108.jpg 108.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122681-defdf242d8aba5be922392f44fa62dee.jpg)
Canary violet at camp
![109.jpg 109.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122682-559b831c2d3c77afd91ffefc49e6bd3c.jpg)
![110.jpg 110.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122683-3dd81663258e7d0997879755d23084e4.jpg)
I wandered downhill from camp and saw some movement, then we stood looking at each other for a long time
![111.jpg 111.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122684-be5cdcf95c4dec865aaa9ec163e72a03.jpg)
I had wet feet the entire trip and my feet got pretty torn up
Day 5 - Campsite above Pickle Pass to campsite on Willow Creek near the confluence with Hunter Creek
This turned out to be a wet day, as it started to rain on us in the afternoon, and really didn't let up until deep into the night.
![WR_Day_5.jpg WR_Day_5.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122685-5955f26a5c6c1ecc370622a35a108340.jpg)
Overview map for day five
![112.jpg 112.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122686-e1506d2ebcd6bda5a8e6dc0b1903368f.jpg)
Morning shot of the Star Peaks
![113.jpg 113.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122687-b8604fb943a7cfd995a199d512a2c96a.jpg)
Tetons to the north
![114.jpg 114.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122688-16c7621978e5cc97247b44f630c52f7f.jpg)
Signs at Pickle Pass
![115.jpg 115.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122689-b114b8c24381e5f51eda229f8032d0c0.jpg)
Making our way across Pickle Pass
![116.jpg 116.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122690-09aa700179b14ecdb3be4d774d973d34.jpg)
Bob stepping across the headwaters of Willow Creek
![117.jpg 117.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122691-067c7958085a585acc9e70e5272ed1c1.jpg)
![118.jpg 118.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122692-cf4d95ea93e916bb95b55d6850dc0d73.jpg)
![119.jpg 119.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122694-6ab69e3e61483378419235db3c4cbc1a.jpg)
![120.jpg 120.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122695-1ceb08b1b5fbc62b34a78089fc4eac70.jpg)
Elk
![121.jpg 121.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122696-a48eecc1bb2e99acdfac1b16f27e006e.jpg)
Dreamer, crossing Willow Creek, with many more crossings to come
![122.jpg 122.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122697-10e98c513de38be0bf04115c484680c8.jpg)
Another deer watches us from a distance
![123.jpg 123.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122698-daf53604f147a1e639ac78e6f4096c3c.jpg)
And more elk
![124.jpg 124.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122699-ad4a695bafa9233f1f7e90c0551bece6.jpg)
Good view of Grayback Ridge
![125.jpg 125.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122700-6cc911da0cc8f80382ab72d3def59779.jpg)
They had a landslide in the drainage a couple of years back causing Willow Creek to form a lake
![126.jpg 126.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122701-27adf54146f9aa5b2123fee5b22d2113.jpg)
Strawberry
![127.jpg 127.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122702-43e83d9dbaff8e1a74dbfa8a13011820.jpg)
Bob and Dreamer checking out the landslide. They stand atop the debris field.
![128.jpg 128.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122703-d4e9fbb3caf2c67f6336a70c84a16b01.jpg)
I was trying to take a picture of a chipmunk when this guy showed up.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![129.jpg 129.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122704-2263d6ec1a0a2d274aa5b92267160980.jpg)
Time for rain gear again. It wouldn't stop this time.
![130.jpg 130.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122705-6cee70e84662b992002096453125a7ef.jpg)
Coyote track
![131.jpg 131.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122706-6ee5bf3685c1077bb274e6463dc5a58a.jpg)
One, two, three @Rockskipper! Scatman yoga at a hunter's camp in the rain - the downward dog I believe. Notice how the pack
and the water bottle counterbalance each other.![Big Grin :D :D](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![132.jpg 132.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122707-6ba25b45da549a0f20deb41cacdf7b3f.jpg)
We've hit the motherlode @Rockskipper! Horse feed at the hunter's camp. Bring Dooley as quick as you can.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![133.jpg 133.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122708-7da371730b5f38809ef02a0843ba1858.jpg)
Scarlet gilia (scarlet trumpet)
![134.jpg 134.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122709-af9575f90600593a72bbaa74b4c9fa2b.jpg)
Bear tracks in the trail
![135.jpg 135.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122710-09758942a6c930ad07c968656d35bb1b.jpg)
Bob's giving the thumbs up to moral I think. Or maybe he is ready to get out of the rain now that his tent is set up?
![136.jpg 136.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122711-f68ccbd6dc4a03fe0cf7f4aac8b445db.jpg)
Trail sign close to camp
Day 6 - Campsite on Willow Creek to the Willow Creek Trailhead
This was a muddy day. It had stopped raining in the night, though around 9:00 PM it poured like all get out, with fierce winds. We simply made our way down Willow Creek, then up and over the ridge to leave the Willow Creek Drainage and drop down to the trailhead. The climb out of Willow Creek was special due to the hillsides being covered with mule-ears and geraniums. Absolutely worth the price of admission.
Being wet and cold, we ate some energy bars and packed up and headed out. We stopped down the trail a ways, when the sum poked out, and ate some breakfast.
![WR_Day_6.jpg WR_Day_6.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122736-3ac365274df022858d7f897bd0892cd9.jpg)
Day six overview map
![137.jpg 137.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122712-e218e38f591d1b7c1d57c05e73ff7b0c.jpg)
The theme for the day
![138.jpg 138.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122713-d9ba83f778a60eef1cfb590b37ad9d31.jpg)
Willow Creek has grown a bit form its headwaters
![139.jpg 139.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122714-68b7758db042f48091b43f6cab3fbfd9.jpg)
Fog lingers in the drianage
![139b.jpg 139b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122715-351f7484cb5333bccab2ec6ffdef6ec9.jpg)
Breakfast with some sunshine on Willow Creek
![140.jpg 140.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122716-43d5124e983b1dcd0c42da07ca08af02.jpg)
View from the trail
![141.jpg 141.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122717-0d6521099b238e61e8ab8f59bf823602.jpg)
A bend in Willow Creek
![142.jpg 142.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122718-aeacf5876c612130b944fb1649ddbc0b.jpg)
Willow Creek
![143.jpg 143.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122719-8aa50dede49f996bc47c55bc21e064c7.jpg)
One of our many fords on day six
![144.jpg 144.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122720-4401cb9181313deff708882cd4fd3527.jpg)
And another one![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![145.jpg 145.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122721-053d667d68418ab179de90e29834faa4.jpg)
Hitchhiker! No wonder my pack weighed so much.![Big Grin :D :D](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![146.jpg 146.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122722-8da52478cc3bebd895dbea9567d518f2.jpg)
Beginning the climb out of Willow Creek
![147.jpg 147.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122723-d855bf401b4ed9d72a0c5ee53f7afad3.jpg)
Looking back upcreek on the climb out
![148.jpg 148.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122724-404ad97c310d577e28ae77d01f062a5f.jpg)
A wild rose
![149.jpg 149.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122725-4e248f596d542e44e196d261fdc11ab3.jpg)
And then the main event started. Spectacular!
![150.jpg 150.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122726-e31ca90cd39e26454d43d257f6282d8e.jpg)
Eating it up!
![151.jpg 151.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122727-25207f93ac49990348cdec0b02ec00d2.jpg)
Endless
![152.jpg 152.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122728-5c05efa72a26f3d698a513a685f2cfa1.jpg)
Cream Puff Peak
![153.jpg 153.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122729-7dda49524c47988d1f1df4928c01a1f9.jpg)
A right here I guess
![154.jpg 154.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122730-1d3a930785fb79c8e1620ea4ad609bbb.jpg)
Tick!
![155.jpg 155.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122731-16d3e5cc3eab753262c110f6a6177182.jpg)
A western tanager stops for a drink on the muddy trail in front of us
![156.jpg 156.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122732-c8f27e051f932b5df1220f26442a333a.jpg)
This is getting ridiculous as some horse riders and their dog approach
![157.jpg 157.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122733-1b4d6628132880716a4fc6c696f4ceb9.jpg)
Since there was a downed tree across the muddy main trail, we met up in the shrubs. Touch and go Skipper.
![158.jpg 158.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122734-4e8adc1643cbf684b1a4e856be3b2244.jpg)
Beaver Mountain
![159.jpg 159.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122735-657ade537c35810797aad0eff7e2ccd7.jpg)
The Sube! Back at the trailhead.
Well, what a trip, with fantastic scenery and great companions. Thanks Bob and @Dreamer for making it happen.
It was a bit too rainy for my liking, but the elk and the wildflowers sure made up for it. I have never seen more sign of elk anywhere, and that includes Yellowstone. And if solitude is what you are looking for, then look no further, at least in the month of June. We only saw people near the trailheads - horse riders and day hikers. We had the interior of the range all to ourselves.
I would love to head back and take in the southern section that we missed on this one.
For those looking for a slightly different perspective on our trip, be sure and read Bob's excellent trip report here Wyoming Range
Well, if you haven't fallen asleep yet I guess you made it through. It might be time for some more popcorn.
Happy trails!
The End.
Why the Wyoming Range? Good question.
Last year, @Bob had sent me some routes that he created in CalTopo of potential future backpacking trips. One of the routes, was along the Wyoming Range Trail, which is a National Recreation Trail, that runs just off the ridge of a majority of the Wyoming Range.
Now as most on this forum know, I tend to lean towards Yellowstone when it comes to spending my time in the backcountry, with an occasional foray into wilderness areas that tend to be near or adjacent to the Park. You see, I need my grizzly bear fix, so when I use up my vacation time from work, I need there to be a reasonable possibility of seeing a bear, or signs of bear, as a major part of the criteria I use as to where I am going. So the first thing I did was to look up if there were grizzlies in the Wyoming Range. It turns out that there have been four confirmed sightings in the range as of 2020, and the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee includes the range in their current distribution, so that was good enough for me, and thus I began to lean towards a trip to the Wyoming Range.
Now, I knew absolutely nothing of the Wyoming Range before this trip. I had seen bits of it as I drove through and out of Star Valley before, but only between gaps in the Salt River Range. I also had seen them off in the distance to the west when I drove home from Yellowstone along highway 189 from Hoback Junction south to Kemmerer, but I haven't taken that route in 25 years.
So once we decided on the Wyoming Range, I sat down and digitized the Wyoming Range Trail off of the 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps, then created a KMZ for it and opened it up in Google Earth. I soon realized that the map and Google Earth didn't quite marry up, so I digitized the trail on Google Earth, and then imported that into my topographic map. At that point, I created waypoints on my old Magellan eXplorist 500. Recording a point every 0.20 mile for the length of the trail - from south to north.
Now I guess this would be a good time to give some details on the trail and maybe the range too. The south end actually starts in Snider Basin along South Piney Creek and works its way up to the high country, heading north, all the way to the Willow Creek Trailhead, which is located just south of Hoback Junction. The range itself extends from just northwest of Kemmerer in the south, to Hoback in the north. The range is located to the west of 189, and east of the Salt River Range which forms the eastern edge of Star Valley in Wyoming. The range is fairly remote, especially the further south you go. For instance, it was approximately 22 miles from Daniel Junction to a washed out bridge where we shuttled vehicles to, mostly on county and forest service gravel/dirt roads.
Even though the official trail starts in Snider Basin, we chose to start at Middle Piney Reservoir instead. Have to ask Bob on that.
Now in the final days leading up to our trip, @Dreamer decide to join us for the first five nights He had to report to work on Thursday, so he'd exit down North Horse Creek on Wednesday while Bob and I would continue on to the Willow Creek Trailhead. Unfortunately, our plans all came crashing down on day one and we had to change our agenda for the remainder of our trip.
Scatman trip facts:
- two cameras taken
1. Canon EOS 70D
2. Canon PowerShot SX710 HS
- I took a total of 2104 shots, pretty evenly distributed between the two cameras
- My pack (includes water and cameras) weighed in at a hefty 51 pounds for what was supposed to be a nine day trip
Now, this is going to be a long report, so pop some popcorn, pull up a chair, relax and enjoy, or not enjoy if you so choose.
Here we go!
![WR_Trip_Overview.jpg WR_Trip_Overview.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122565-2e458913b8de282b671fde1fa46ac540.jpg)
Final Trip Overview Map
Day 1 - Drive from Salt Lake to Willow Creek Trailhead, Shuttle vehicles, backpack into camp along the Straight Creek Trail
I woke up at 4:30 AM on the 26th of June and headed north at 5:30 AM to meet Bob at the Willow Creek Trailhead, located about six miles southeast of Hoback Junction (Turn by the fiberglass moose
Bob showed up about half an hour later, we moved my gear to his truck, and we were off to meet Dreamer at Daniel Junction, to shuttle his truck to a bridge on North Horse Creek that had been closed due to a wash out. After dropping his vehicle off, we all piled into Bob's truck and headed back to Daniel Junction for lunch at The Bear Den. From there, we drove to the Straight Creek Trailhead, located about 23 miles west/northwest of Big Piney, to start our adventure.
![WR_Day_1.jpg WR_Day_1.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122572-c9743f7e56e8d5640f23aee53cb7ebd3.jpg)
Day one overview map
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122566-0c97dceeb2e096bb4c491fe0f6a7883e.jpg)
The information sign at the Willow Creek Trailhead
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122567-8eefb1f3b85fa5eddccf94772b480ace.jpg)
Dropping off Dreamer's vehicle at the bridge on North Horse Creek
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122568-511ec4e66ede7cfbdbc4b3675fa86209.jpg)
Lunch at The Bear Den. I had the bison burger, which was very good.
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122569-aee3a5d6991abfca7732fecce65f8a98.jpg)
Conditions at the Straight Creek Trailhead when we arrived - pouring rain with some hail mixed in, and snow at the higher elevations
![04b.jpg 04b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122575-a207009373be62810fe3ccf2ca4c23b5.jpg)
Looks like we are heading the right direction
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122570-ee15556bc105e0ce0508a09b4bb8a066.jpg)
The storm let up after about an hour and we were off - departure time was about 3:30 pm, with Straight Creek below
![04c.jpg 04c.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122576-95bf5d4afa12e77cbc80b74113964c12.jpg)
View along Straight Creek
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122571-a24f83d3df17308f41976f5292c5a878.jpg)
Bob, crossing Lake Fork Creek
![08.jpg 08.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122573-553cd922a60c5663590800a894c01d1b.jpg)
Beginning to hit some snow as we gain elevation
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122574-6c54502b156ea33fe635f09a5e2bf764.jpg)
Eventually, we had to deal with to much snow. I was beginning to posthole, the temp
had dropped to 39 degrees, and my feet were wet and freezing. The trail was also
becoming difficult to follow, so we made a decision to turn around, hike down below
snowline and set up camp, and discuss our options going forward.
We arrived at our camp late in the day, so we set up our tents, ate and hit the sack.
Day 2 - Hike back to trailhead, drive north to North Horse Creek, backpack up North Horse Creek
Ate our breakfast, packed up our gear, and headed back to the Straight Creek Trailhead.
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122577-28264104c2c3ffaf34d694b23ef16d50.jpg)
Mine and Dreamer's tents on the morning of day two
![11.jpg 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122578-2c6ca156b40c2dee175681a3a8360440.jpg)
View south from our campsite, looking up towards peak 10626
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122579-02a92ee51d3ab7232639944a7c4a9aeb.jpg)
Silky phacelia
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122580-01fdc83095da541a41d22760ccab7b7d.jpg)
Dreamer arrives back at the trailhead. Time for a drive.
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122581-5ebe31c5c8987e1ef1e50c546a41fb5e.jpg)
First, we drove up to Middle Piney Lake
![WR_Day_2.jpg WR_Day_2.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122582-53cb6bcc9aca31666a1e73501828a83b.jpg)
Overview map of day 2 - back to the trailhead, drive north along Forest Road 10046, eventually reaching Dreamer's truck on North Horse Creek, hiking in a few miles to set up camp.
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122583-859b2e4c8b870b89162254b5130d509a.jpg)
The drive north on FS 10046
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122584-03869c8152899bd16eecd00153105bee.jpg)
View from the road
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122585-273b0cbaa13db06bec706fd43364e3f5.jpg)
View up the Lunch Creek Drainage
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122586-ea9949c107fc34ebe23f92dff5d25bc2.jpg)
View from South Cottonwood Creek
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122587-013c0a33ca3558f4c02c25d2be14d845.jpg)
FS Road heading towards Soda Lake
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122588-f80a3eb51c496ba40633962e752bd41f.jpg)
Looking back on Peak 10896 (Bare Mountain)
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122589-96a2abc2f1d4e4ac7cc13c340885a537.jpg)
Now here is a view. Arrowleaf balsamroot as far as one can see, with the Wind Rivers as a backdrop - The High and Lonesome Ranch
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122590-23481fe9a002152db560eae0b3da9656.jpg)
Larkspur too
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122591-d238e43882edb97d05c96dbc1af36a5e.jpg)
Back at North Horse Creek. Because the bridge was closed, we had to hike up about three miles of road to reach the official trail-
head
![WR_Day_2b.jpg WR_Day_2b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122595-a02ff7ced5a48867836e3d98efed436b.jpg)
Overview map of day two - to campsite on North Horse Creek. The little green dot is for you @Rockskipper, signifying our crossing of Mule Creek.
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122592-faee93e4aa5dd5cf9a0b0b56a3f342c0.jpg)
North Horse Creek viewed from FS Road 10389
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122593-01836da55e3c7d63d41787d0818a82ff.jpg)
The lonesome road.
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122594-2113cdb61a128af8727b4280df0039d7.jpg)
The only one using the road besides us
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122596-636018932deb23774ab1ab10717faa49.jpg)
Heart leafed arnica by the roadside
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122597-d51e301e8629366931f7e009419ba61e.jpg)
Arriving at the official trailhead. At least we think we have as there was no signage.
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122598-98f67dc44410733fb454d00675f69a6a.jpg)
Must be the right place
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122599-309367930747b226fc602d4955399fe8.jpg)
California corn lily
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122600-dc7af6db158639f2cc21cd53be05d05b.jpg)
North Horse Creek below. We saw a moose just before reaching camp. It took off as soon as we saw it, so no picture.
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122601-36078bf1a2401cc460b4863e85afcd98.jpg)
Bob and Dreamer getting ready to eat on night number two
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122602-d8f235a77d43678bdaa6f1c7c48ad519.jpg)
My meal for the night was Peak's Venison Country Casserole, which I quite liked.
Day 3 - Camp on North Horse Creek to campsite on Third Creek
Up around 7:00 AM and headed further up North Horse Creek. Today, we would finally reach the Wyoming Range Trail which had just alluded us on day one due to the snow. A perfect day for us weather wise and the hiking was enjoyable. Once in the high country, spring beauties just took over. They were everywhere.
![WR_Day_3.jpg WR_Day_3.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122640-4a737ea990f551671ac29d2966f08b75.jpg)
Overview map of day three
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122603-a14267a440f79371741d05d73e9b487a.jpg)
More North Horse Creek
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122604-9d9c46dba6553c03da5cea4a948e8edd.jpg)
Our first deer sighting
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122605-1bb43e71204158cd49172def18f82b0f.jpg)
Still working our way up North Horse Creek
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122606-0a7f194a1b17243a4be9336b9adb50fc.jpg)
View up into the high country
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122607-15e8c04b508103195361e55d0c96ad9b.jpg)
County Creek
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122608-4d44ba9a8ab6860292ad9b95cb0b10c1.jpg)
That way to the Wyoming Rang Trail. We went straight instead.
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122609-b1a600d1b762b331ad6bb2ad5f089335.jpg)
Looking up a draw of a tributary of North Horse Creek
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122610-9d98aa2b8a75a2f81d341c1534fe0929.jpg)
Below, the willows of North Horse Creek
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122611-23a64f94597888a91bd715d5514c291c.jpg)
Staring to see quite a few spring beauties at this point. Soon, they would take over
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122612-432eac6d491e4aac06700491a1c758e2.jpg)
Our first sighting of the Wyoming Range Trail
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122613-f0460546ed83daef4a8b3eb56fb8695b.jpg)
Forest Service Cabin with a view. Looking back towards Mount McDougal
![46.jpg 46.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122614-2bf285d8aa4b8f6b467fb93b33c412a0.jpg)
Another shot of the cabin
![47.jpg 47.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122615-9559bea2cba22981ed376f9d2c31065a.jpg)
On the Wyoming Range Trail!
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122616-e187ee6eab5bc1dc7418b17c0e0a4cd1.jpg)
Deadman Mountain, with the Wyoming Range Trail below
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122617-7cec8905b8796f4066af90f53a51e7c2.jpg)
Break time!
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122618-8e3f63c5fdd1d9168f73b1a514925c2e.jpg)
View to the northeast from out break location
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122619-6d323e7eed9b96831bcc9a40ae8cf3f3.jpg)
Whelp, time to get moving
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122620-a4fb6a19a95efbaa23b1b181934469b9.jpg)
Third Creek, here we come.
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122621-d1cedd615f5a6edb6133b76ef01ba561.jpg)
Deer track on the trail. The deer in the range had a very hard winter.
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122622-e70e28ac41448322dfb72995cd258004.jpg)
View to the north
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122623-dbd01eda3707e29228093deb1243decb.jpg)
View to the west towards the Salt River Range
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122624-3962b6d3df234e22ac14b7845178868d.jpg)
A @Dreamer track?
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122625-25141725e38573fac7a168720afec59e.jpg)
A Bob sighting.
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122626-97de5f8f9bda3fa4eb857d0da6d21f3f.jpg)
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122627-40fbda2761825dfbd86ac6fb6686d08d.jpg)
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122628-28e49860cd2d1eefacddff71c59949ee.jpg)
An old cabin
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122629-ef26bf6bc5f8d7fa1b19c94e892762bc.jpg)
Can just barely make out the Tetons from the cabin
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122630-953114dc6c945431f544c64d5c85512d.jpg)
First Creek up ahead
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122631-b66cbe1162645e74395784539f4c8e29.jpg)
View to the northeast as we near our campsite on Third Creek
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122632-201924dacb8ce20a12fc3a16b8c164b1.jpg)
This picture doesn't due it justice, but the spring beauties were really beautiful
![63b.jpg 63b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122633-ef5b625eb7b7b3570417a47707409735.jpg)
Dreamer, dropping down into the Third Creek Drainage
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122634-3a6573798437cbf64b22050d5be9a069.jpg)
Dinner for night number three. I believe that this is my favorite freeze-dried meal
Day 4 - From campsite on Third Creek to campsite on shelf above Pickle Pass
This was the toughest day I thought. The climb up from Little Greys River, heading towards Pickle Pass kicked my ass. Also, we got off on some nice elk trails and had to find our way back to the human trail a few times. The campsite above Pickle Pass was worth all the effort though.
![WR_Day_4.jpg WR_Day_4.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122639-1dad7b9dd24fa1a2f9f1058b01708121.jpg)
Overview map of day four
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122635-276fbc773cc4f6ee98e40293ede53060.jpg)
Morning view to the west from our campsite on Third Creek
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122636-8b03a7b65526eb78b4a66edf6661f563.jpg)
Oatmeal and cocoa ought to get me moving this morning.
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122637-55f749388a19e30738c4e1ca0c83575b.jpg)
And we are off. I believe that that is the ridge ahead of us that we have to climb to get to Pickle Pass.
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122638-f83003f6051b0aaa25274c7b7523bee0.jpg)
Views from the trail
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122641-143a7ee239af130c61e1ee5e080939b1.jpg)
I liked how these flowers made a ring - common twinpod maybe?
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122642-1eebf4d3f2915bfafc8f09c9006ac9a6.jpg)
Approaching the drop down into the Little Greys River Drainage
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122643-2f040c180bc4c60d575e90fa62437995.jpg)
View from the trail to the west
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122644-103a6b436efcb906fc5bd6f97ff35fc2.jpg)
Getting a good picture
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122645-d3c9308a8268a06346f810ca5b7f4853.jpg)
Looking back on Deadman Mountain and the fire lookout
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122646-7a98863882f8431a120c75c3ec27801e.jpg)
Another view of Deadman Mountain on the left
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122647-27beae884ba98c52dee90e84524ced62.jpg)
Cinquefoil
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122648-9975e1808e30fe60eb5462eacc6692be.jpg)
Wyoming townsend daisy
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122649-ddddf2746e2e0881f45f6dd357475cfc.jpg)
Scat, taking a break with some scat.
![79.jpg 79.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122650-fbece085e780852ecfce7a34d58ce5a5.jpg)
One of my favorite pictures of our trip. At peace with the world.
![80.jpg 80.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122651-d2d5d07c5dbed5bf7e727f06ac61c291.jpg)
Bird of prey
![81.jpg 81.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122652-10933333431e82c458cdd338201db54d.jpg)
The drop off to the Little Grey's River ahead.
![81b.jpg 81b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122654-c4f365e7b011994cb19fa780bd1177c3.jpg)
Huh oh! Scatman down! I tried hard no to fall on this trip, but the loose rock on a steep trail got me.
Dreamer
![82.jpg 82.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122655-d3b4aa13cbda664df1faf7833d94e615.jpg)
Off on one of the infamous elk trails. Also, putting our rain gear on. we should have taken a right at Albuquerque.
![83.jpg 83.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122656-f6241566488ff7105237567dac232769.jpg)
Waiting out the rain under some pine trees with M&M's in hand - almond and peanut
![84.jpg 84.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122657-74f55d2330ae0b0f50f5f2bb67dbb8f4.jpg)
Heading back to get on the right trail
![85.jpg 85.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122658-e2de3e433b81cfab2ccdd985ad0724b9.jpg)
Left to Pickle Pass
![86.jpg 86.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122659-8d31ff141a4e4c93f7f3d71036054f7c.jpg)
3.5 big ones!
![87.jpg 87.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122660-e5885ece34eb85c829aa59e34ba1634f.jpg)
Look what is ahead, not only the Little Grey's River, but one of Bob's infamous horse trails! Straight up the hill!
You know if you backpack with Bob that you are gong to get one of these. You don't necessarily know when, but you do know
that it is only a matter of time. This was like a 1400 foot climb that didn't believe in switchbacks.
from this one.
![88.jpg 88.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122661-54cababc1201253461098958494fe1cc.jpg)
Dreamer, crossing the Little Greys River
![89.jpg 89.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122662-42bdb9397c2cd9f3ce9cb87b9f0f5614.jpg)
Of course gaining elevation means nice views
![90.jpg 90.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122663-fbec701594e98229be93f959e7b90650.jpg)
More views, looking back towards Peak 10484
![91.jpg 91.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122664-89e2a012b51901c79e460d4bcfc3a3c9.jpg)
@Bob, tearing up the horse trail
![92.jpg 92.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122665-0d3dbe6e3fc56ef3d1806d93d8c624a9.jpg)
Common stickseed
![93.jpg 93.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122666-b078e85798074b7264f9a43b9cdb2e2d.jpg)
Twisted leaf balsamroot
![94.jpg 94.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122667-4f501e1b19b9687e995cef36ca916c54.jpg)
Bob, taking it all in
![95.jpg 95.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122668-73624d76d0de7779f5ebda20f285817b.jpg)
A big anthill next to the trail. I took a GPS point of it to see if I could see it on Google Earth. I haven't checked yet.
![96.jpg 96.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122669-e156c742eda20b1d2b25a5eacb94c056.jpg)
Filled my bottle with snow
![97.jpg 97.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122670-4e114e920a5df84db7372797f66e486c.jpg)
Hoback Peak
![98.jpg 98.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122671-f2db3a3a2d127b33ba91925985afc0c5.jpg)
Nearing the highpoint of our climb
![99.jpg 99.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122672-fbbf3bd74cad19cb591ce5bc3a134356.jpg)
How good is that?
![100.jpg 100.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122673-0767bf2dc396f6a1d23db64e52ffaa31.jpg)
A break near the top
![101.jpg 101.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122674-d5e535273e7326ab40e2bd4eea344490.jpg)
The Wyoming Range Trail
![102.jpg 102.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122675-b58a4711da53890f20a474bd0c3cd880.jpg)
Looking down on Pickle Pass
![103.jpg 103.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122676-3b16a7b32e3a35d5883980da11618a2a.jpg)
My tent at campsite number four
![104.jpg 104.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122677-a50dc32a2a66b8958dd8974380ed4712.jpg)
A fossil in a rock near camp
![105.jpg 105.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122678-b0d5cbe2fd97286c4432ccb4d1f95e03.jpg)
View to the west from our campsite of the east end of Grayback Ridge
![106.jpg 106.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122679-e2f579364757b887eb587e4aade41be6.jpg)
Night four's meal - very good too.
![107.jpg 107.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122680-fee7b2ea8e00c1e06fac5965290021cd.jpg)
Brandegee's onion at camp
![108.jpg 108.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122681-defdf242d8aba5be922392f44fa62dee.jpg)
Canary violet at camp
![109.jpg 109.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122682-559b831c2d3c77afd91ffefc49e6bd3c.jpg)
![110.jpg 110.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122683-3dd81663258e7d0997879755d23084e4.jpg)
I wandered downhill from camp and saw some movement, then we stood looking at each other for a long time
![111.jpg 111.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122684-be5cdcf95c4dec865aaa9ec163e72a03.jpg)
I had wet feet the entire trip and my feet got pretty torn up
Day 5 - Campsite above Pickle Pass to campsite on Willow Creek near the confluence with Hunter Creek
This turned out to be a wet day, as it started to rain on us in the afternoon, and really didn't let up until deep into the night.
![WR_Day_5.jpg WR_Day_5.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122685-5955f26a5c6c1ecc370622a35a108340.jpg)
Overview map for day five
![112.jpg 112.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122686-e1506d2ebcd6bda5a8e6dc0b1903368f.jpg)
Morning shot of the Star Peaks
![113.jpg 113.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122687-b8604fb943a7cfd995a199d512a2c96a.jpg)
Tetons to the north
![114.jpg 114.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122688-16c7621978e5cc97247b44f630c52f7f.jpg)
Signs at Pickle Pass
![115.jpg 115.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122689-b114b8c24381e5f51eda229f8032d0c0.jpg)
Making our way across Pickle Pass
![116.jpg 116.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122690-09aa700179b14ecdb3be4d774d973d34.jpg)
Bob stepping across the headwaters of Willow Creek
![117.jpg 117.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122691-067c7958085a585acc9e70e5272ed1c1.jpg)
![118.jpg 118.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122692-cf4d95ea93e916bb95b55d6850dc0d73.jpg)
![119.jpg 119.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122694-6ab69e3e61483378419235db3c4cbc1a.jpg)
![120.jpg 120.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122695-1ceb08b1b5fbc62b34a78089fc4eac70.jpg)
Elk
![121.jpg 121.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122696-a48eecc1bb2e99acdfac1b16f27e006e.jpg)
Dreamer, crossing Willow Creek, with many more crossings to come
![122.jpg 122.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122697-10e98c513de38be0bf04115c484680c8.jpg)
Another deer watches us from a distance
![123.jpg 123.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122698-daf53604f147a1e639ac78e6f4096c3c.jpg)
And more elk
![124.jpg 124.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122699-ad4a695bafa9233f1f7e90c0551bece6.jpg)
Good view of Grayback Ridge
![125.jpg 125.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122700-6cc911da0cc8f80382ab72d3def59779.jpg)
They had a landslide in the drainage a couple of years back causing Willow Creek to form a lake
![126.jpg 126.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122701-27adf54146f9aa5b2123fee5b22d2113.jpg)
Strawberry
![127.jpg 127.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122702-43e83d9dbaff8e1a74dbfa8a13011820.jpg)
Bob and Dreamer checking out the landslide. They stand atop the debris field.
![128.jpg 128.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122703-d4e9fbb3caf2c67f6336a70c84a16b01.jpg)
I was trying to take a picture of a chipmunk when this guy showed up.
![129.jpg 129.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122704-2263d6ec1a0a2d274aa5b92267160980.jpg)
Time for rain gear again. It wouldn't stop this time.
![130.jpg 130.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122705-6cee70e84662b992002096453125a7ef.jpg)
Coyote track
![131.jpg 131.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122706-6ee5bf3685c1077bb274e6463dc5a58a.jpg)
One, two, three @Rockskipper! Scatman yoga at a hunter's camp in the rain - the downward dog I believe. Notice how the pack
and the water bottle counterbalance each other.
![132.jpg 132.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122707-6ba25b45da549a0f20deb41cacdf7b3f.jpg)
We've hit the motherlode @Rockskipper! Horse feed at the hunter's camp. Bring Dooley as quick as you can.
![133.jpg 133.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122708-7da371730b5f38809ef02a0843ba1858.jpg)
Scarlet gilia (scarlet trumpet)
![134.jpg 134.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122709-af9575f90600593a72bbaa74b4c9fa2b.jpg)
Bear tracks in the trail
![135.jpg 135.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122710-09758942a6c930ad07c968656d35bb1b.jpg)
Bob's giving the thumbs up to moral I think. Or maybe he is ready to get out of the rain now that his tent is set up?
![136.jpg 136.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122711-f68ccbd6dc4a03fe0cf7f4aac8b445db.jpg)
Trail sign close to camp
Day 6 - Campsite on Willow Creek to the Willow Creek Trailhead
This was a muddy day. It had stopped raining in the night, though around 9:00 PM it poured like all get out, with fierce winds. We simply made our way down Willow Creek, then up and over the ridge to leave the Willow Creek Drainage and drop down to the trailhead. The climb out of Willow Creek was special due to the hillsides being covered with mule-ears and geraniums. Absolutely worth the price of admission.
Being wet and cold, we ate some energy bars and packed up and headed out. We stopped down the trail a ways, when the sum poked out, and ate some breakfast.
![WR_Day_6.jpg WR_Day_6.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122736-3ac365274df022858d7f897bd0892cd9.jpg)
Day six overview map
![137.jpg 137.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122712-e218e38f591d1b7c1d57c05e73ff7b0c.jpg)
The theme for the day
![138.jpg 138.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122713-d9ba83f778a60eef1cfb590b37ad9d31.jpg)
Willow Creek has grown a bit form its headwaters
![139.jpg 139.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122714-68b7758db042f48091b43f6cab3fbfd9.jpg)
Fog lingers in the drianage
![139b.jpg 139b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122715-351f7484cb5333bccab2ec6ffdef6ec9.jpg)
Breakfast with some sunshine on Willow Creek
![140.jpg 140.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122716-43d5124e983b1dcd0c42da07ca08af02.jpg)
View from the trail
![141.jpg 141.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122717-0d6521099b238e61e8ab8f59bf823602.jpg)
A bend in Willow Creek
![142.jpg 142.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122718-aeacf5876c612130b944fb1649ddbc0b.jpg)
Willow Creek
![143.jpg 143.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122719-8aa50dede49f996bc47c55bc21e064c7.jpg)
One of our many fords on day six
![144.jpg 144.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122720-4401cb9181313deff708882cd4fd3527.jpg)
And another one
![145.jpg 145.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122721-053d667d68418ab179de90e29834faa4.jpg)
Hitchhiker! No wonder my pack weighed so much.
![146.jpg 146.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122722-8da52478cc3bebd895dbea9567d518f2.jpg)
Beginning the climb out of Willow Creek
![147.jpg 147.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122723-d855bf401b4ed9d72a0c5ee53f7afad3.jpg)
Looking back upcreek on the climb out
![148.jpg 148.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122724-404ad97c310d577e28ae77d01f062a5f.jpg)
A wild rose
![149.jpg 149.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122725-4e248f596d542e44e196d261fdc11ab3.jpg)
And then the main event started. Spectacular!
![150.jpg 150.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122726-e31ca90cd39e26454d43d257f6282d8e.jpg)
Eating it up!
![151.jpg 151.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122727-25207f93ac49990348cdec0b02ec00d2.jpg)
Endless
![152.jpg 152.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122728-5c05efa72a26f3d698a513a685f2cfa1.jpg)
Cream Puff Peak
![153.jpg 153.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122729-7dda49524c47988d1f1df4928c01a1f9.jpg)
A right here I guess
![154.jpg 154.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122730-1d3a930785fb79c8e1620ea4ad609bbb.jpg)
Tick!
![155.jpg 155.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122731-16d3e5cc3eab753262c110f6a6177182.jpg)
A western tanager stops for a drink on the muddy trail in front of us
![156.jpg 156.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122732-c8f27e051f932b5df1220f26442a333a.jpg)
This is getting ridiculous as some horse riders and their dog approach
![157.jpg 157.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122733-1b4d6628132880716a4fc6c696f4ceb9.jpg)
Since there was a downed tree across the muddy main trail, we met up in the shrubs. Touch and go Skipper.
![158.jpg 158.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122734-4e8adc1643cbf684b1a4e856be3b2244.jpg)
Beaver Mountain
![159.jpg 159.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/122/122735-657ade537c35810797aad0eff7e2ccd7.jpg)
The Sube! Back at the trailhead.
Well, what a trip, with fantastic scenery and great companions. Thanks Bob and @Dreamer for making it happen.
It was a bit too rainy for my liking, but the elk and the wildflowers sure made up for it. I have never seen more sign of elk anywhere, and that includes Yellowstone. And if solitude is what you are looking for, then look no further, at least in the month of June. We only saw people near the trailheads - horse riders and day hikers. We had the interior of the range all to ourselves.
I would love to head back and take in the southern section that we missed on this one.
For those looking for a slightly different perspective on our trip, be sure and read Bob's excellent trip report here Wyoming Range
Well, if you haven't fallen asleep yet I guess you made it through. It might be time for some more popcorn.
The End.
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