Born to Hike
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- Joined
- Jan 14, 2017
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- 146
I love the Winds, but hate the swarming blood-sucking bugs. I decided to do a loop, opposite direction, that I took 8 years ago with some friends of mine, but this time later in the summer (mid August) to hopefully miss the peak bug season. Success! It was a hot dry year this year (2018) and no bugs. Smoky, though - I guess that was the trade off.
The basic Itinerary:
Day 1: From Big Sandy Trail head hiked North to Skull Lake (10 miles).
Day 2: East to Washakie Pass, continue towards Ranger Park, then South to South Fork Lakes (7 miles).
Day 3: East off-trail up to Lizard Head Plateau, explored around on Lizard Head Trail, then South to Bear Lake (6 miles).
Day 4: West to the Cirque of The Towers, South over Jackass Pass to Big Sandy Lake, then back to the Big Sandy Trail Head (13 miles).
Just me and the dogs. I prefer not going solo, but I had the time and was healthy so off I went..
![0815181443.jpg 0815181443.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73113-74ef9a5dfb95cd208a4633460c68d85c.jpg)
Heading North on the Fremont Trail towards Dad's Lake, a gentle uphill climb through open meadows with peaks to the right (East)..
![0815181533.jpg 0815181533.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73114-a274dd75b41aea617e6792c2daf294ce.jpg)
and a spectacular Cirque of Peaks straight ahead (North).
more peaks to the right (East). Sorry that I didn't take the time with all of the peak names, just enjoying the reverie..
![0815181559.jpg 0815181559.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73117-fecb64c1a1afef165b634c18be598f39.jpg)
Around mile 4 was the the first lake: Mirror Lake
![0815181614.jpg 0815181614.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73119-c4ce258096488633475c67e5cb880da3.jpg)
Then Mount Geikie of the unnamed cirque showing itself again..
![0815181622.jpg 0815181622.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73120-c7bc2941768563202c352251963e073f.jpg)
Dad's Lake was next. What a beautiful Lake! I loved the perspective of hiking North in the late afternoon hours with the sun setting on my left as I headed North.
Passing the North end of Dad's a very large Bald Eagle flew low over my head, checking ME out. I wasn't fast enough with my smartphone to capture that except for a poor video showing it as a small speck as it continued on..it was an awesome scene though..![0815181639.jpg 0815181639.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73121-a0b3a99098787803155f74b266fb184d.jpg)
Even with it being a very hot and dry and late into the summer, there were areas of green with a few wildflowers, AND NO BUGS.
Very nice.![0815181700a.jpg 0815181700a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73122-7ccf54ac0fb3525c3b031b91b05a01c7.jpg)
Next lake was Marms Lake, about 6.5 miles in so far. I saw few campers here as I traveled on.![0815181702.jpg 0815181702.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73123-de4c92f90d5184c34223712473941f2c.jpg)
The junction for Washaikie Pass, Shadow Lake, and Skull Lake was on the North Side of Marms Lake. This photo is looking South at Marms: to the upper left you can see a few peaks on the backside of the Cirque of the Towers.
![0815181712a_HDR.jpg 0815181712a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73125-541af0db9fff518fbacc3c6be38e30c5.jpg)
Soon I was again very much enjoying the views ahead of me, and I couldn't stop taking photos of the views, so here are a few more to enjoy..
![0815181731.jpg 0815181731.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73127-8916d73c510c26352301c10262d0fc50.jpg)
![0815181733.jpg 0815181733.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73128-9eee424ffda6a3a858d0dd5be10de0e5.jpg)
A spectacular cirque of granite peaks, to view during 3 hours of hiking that 1st day. If this cirque does not have a name, it should.
![0815181743.jpg 0815181743.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73129-4debb8b93cd45d99f18fd1f8044109fc.jpg)
The last 45 minutes or so I could see Washakie Pass that I would be hiking over the next day.
![0815181817_HDR.jpg 0815181817_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73130-c493dc0ea5c2bca1bce4b922c18e3dac.jpg)
Finally Skull Lake. The weather was PERFECT, but warm. I went through 3 Liters of water in just over 4 hours of hiking.
![0815181825.jpg 0815181825.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73132-499b46966101cfc609fedef4ffb5c2a6.jpg)
So I dropped my pack and into the Lake I went with clothes and all to rinse them and myself off.
Without being Mr Voyeur (I kept my shorts on) I let my clothing dry while I dried off in the sun and enjoyed an awesome sunset. It doesn't take long to dry off in that thin dry air, especially during such a nice evening.
![0815181912.jpg 0815181912.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73133-d72275b7b97d246ba65acf5c53daf032.jpg)
For those who would rather see the sunset over Skull Lake without me in it..![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0815181912_HDR.jpg 0815181912_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73134-a46050b48f7e91c01d82594b8e51cc34.jpg)
A poor attempt with my smartphone to capture the moon after the sun went down.
![0815182102a.jpg 0815182102a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73135-4c511d17a0da3020d1dfced5449fb993.jpg)
Day #2.
The next morning by chance I crossed paths with a Youtuber, aka "Fikeandhish", who my wife and I met him while Backpacking in the Uintas 2 months earlier. He was finishing a 9 day through hike in the Winds with his son. Small world!![0816181109.jpg 0816181109.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73136-752081901af1c4103507a238fa2c33de.jpg)
![0816181109b.jpg 0816181109b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73137-f135be38438f54065e6b1ba5d05e9e28.jpg)
Starting the climb up towards Washakie Pass looking Southward. It was a VERY smoky day - California in the air in all the wrong ways. Through the haze you can see more Peaks from the backside of The Cirque of The Towers.
![0816181129a_HDR.jpg 0816181129a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73138-40e6033e6a25e151218e28869d5c6512.jpg)
My dogs happily finding snow on Washikie Pass. The climb up the pass from the West was not bad, better than the climb from the East going the opposite direction 8 years ago. Maybe I was in better shape this time around..
![0816181232.jpg 0816181232.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73140-dac12a983ad3e9d06e5177fb8c2b37c5.jpg)
Descending the small glacier looking towards Ranger Park and Buffalo Head Peak. Even with all the haze the views were worth the effort.
Another large Bald Eagle was soaring high above this basin - probably the same one that I saw the day before at Dad's lake.
![0816181233.jpg 0816181233.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73141-6a23167aeaf2e9cfebba09ff92ae0d31.jpg)
Finished my successful "glissade", and happy about it.
![0816181238a.jpg 0816181238a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73142-a5fa852f48ab21bfe4ff609b4f3d6788.jpg)
A few more late summer wildflowers..
![0816181405.jpg 0816181405.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73143-dc22bab6414dab4f7872f09681ba328a.jpg)
Buffalo Head. To stay at elevation by not dropping down to Ranger Park and then back up again, I chose to skirt around this peak off trail towards South Fork Lakes.
![0816181435_HDR.jpg 0816181435_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73144-ef5fa66814ad15dac685f352f8d3b14c.jpg)
Looking back towards Washakie Pass and Little Washakie Lake as I was on my way off trail towards South Fork Lakes.
![0816181456_HDR.jpg 0816181456_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73145-e8768657a96cf5a326ab2b0a9032e7e8.jpg)
A massive boulder cleft in two that I would have loved to take home and put in my yard. Just not enough space in my pack though..lol..
![0816181458_HDR.jpg 0816181458_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73146-d6404c0682b7d56e7fc3fbb1fce634cc.jpg)
Drainage out of South Fork Lakes
![0816181537.jpg 0816181537.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73147-834b45553feeaa44a8d435c0393df258.jpg)
Very stellar-looking peaks around Buffalo Head
![0816181537_HDR.jpg 0816181537_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73148-231ca609f355b945fcfd11a5aee69323.jpg)
My first view and first visit to South Fork Lakes. This basin rocks (no pun intended!).
![0816181540_HDR.jpg 0816181540_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73149-b321847dc1b9f0dcd6060a50a8b21c62.jpg)
A massive glacier below Camels Hump Peak, and..
![0816181629a_HDR.jpg 0816181629a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73150-dae9860dd3d1d9ed7c251de11fb1823b.jpg)
A water fall coming off of Lizard Head Plateau!
I really loved this basin and would have spent a few days here if I had more time on this trip.
![0816181638a.jpg 0816181638a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73152-894b0c397ae5e2c4bc8159e9f34fd93e.jpg)
![0816181652a.jpg 0816181652a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73154-2c717c2d28905691176c1118f969fc7e.jpg)
Enjoying the view of Buffalo Head from my camp while the sun set.
![0816181848b.jpg 0816181848b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73155-e31572c172123b28a4c9953764a8e97b.jpg)
From this perspective Buffalo Head should be named "Elephant Head". Can you see it?![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0816182024.jpg 0816182024.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73156-95c3aabf89f133336519da47085a5c9b.jpg)
Day #3
The smoke had cleared out a bit, no clouds and perfect weather. The massive monolith peaks are amazing in these mountains.
![0817180905a.jpg 0817180905a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73157-8eedc4ae5905a7aae510eaf9a5c316c7.jpg)
One last view of the waterfall before ascending off-trail to Lizard Head Plateau.![0817181122.jpg 0817181122.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73158-c8ce1bd14475c064c5415d329618070b.jpg)
It was a tough climb, but enjoyed every bit of catching my breath and taking in the views behind me. Looking back at South Fork Lakes Basin.
![0817181128a.jpg 0817181128a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73159-f78a354a7988adb9dafeeca82f352261.jpg)
Another shot with the front camera on my phone. Not sure why the photo is reversed, but still an awesome photo!![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0817181153.jpg 0817181153.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73161-28e35c7f8cd9ce8d64158a6abfa8c3ba.jpg)
This is the off-trail, very steep route that I and the dogs scrambled up. It was one of those take 25 steps, then stop and catch your breath climbs - very steep - especially carrying your backpack at over 11,000 feet!
I was a bit concerned how it would go and if it was really a good idea, but it worked out well.
![0817181138a.jpg 0817181138a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73160-7caa9828af3ff6aad061f872ad7fee31.jpg)
Avoiding boulder hopping I stayed to the left and halfway up was on grassy/peat moss-type-turf. I month earlier I'm sure this was all still covered in snow/glacier.
![0817181201.jpg 0817181201.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73162-bf5c8d88eded34ec94174891b4092184.jpg)
What is left of the glacier this time of year..
![0817181219a.jpg 0817181219a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73163-4a79c2cf3e5c401530573828e0145354.jpg)
That scamble up took over an hour, but finally we (the dogs and I) made it on top of Lizard Head Plateau and the trail.
![0817181228a.jpg 0817181228a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73164-d3c8e5095a0d402632db205b722c2cb4.jpg)
![0817181238.jpg 0817181238.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73165-0adabab8153fbe26c1bac4bc8fe81aeb.jpg)
I headed North on Lizard to find the source of the water fall dropping into South Fork Lakes. This Plateau is over 11,500 feet in elevation with not much for a water source, but after about a mile of exploring North I found the stream, and followed it to where it cascaded into the Basin.
The waterfall begins behind me. South Fork Lakes in the background.
![0817181244a.jpg 0817181244a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73168-d333502ed90e3966a41b564cb7f377aa.jpg)
I love this Plateau - it is like moonscape. A definite must-see to experience. Pictures just does not do justice of being there.![0817181244.jpg 0817181244.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73167-e23564c8ac05f1032a6f0c03da608138.jpg)
![0817181310.jpg 0817181310.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73169-8c4337a20b5ef4d08f13fd155983939b.jpg)
I spent a couple of hours on Lizard Head just taking my time, enjoying the near perfect weather (very little to no wind on that day) and soaking it all in as best I could.
![0817181310a_HDR.jpg 0817181310a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73170-08e278e3332278d86abe7f5492189cad.jpg)
![0817181316.jpg 0817181316.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73171-2590c025d52569c3d24fe1ebe2815e06.jpg)
![0817181324b.jpg 0817181324b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73172-10ffd956d44edbe871ef0215fbc43924.jpg)
Eventually I made my way further South and began descending down towards Lizard Head Meadows. The Monolith was quick to show itself.
![0817181350a.jpg 0817181350a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73174-14f19bd11140fa8879d0eab522115cb0.jpg)
Lower and upper Bear Lakes at the base of Lizard Head Peak, with The Cirque of the Towers to the left. It was still early in the afternoon, but decided to stop and camp at the upper Bear Lake and avoid the crowds in the Meadow and the Cirque area.
![0817181402.jpg 0817181402.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73175-bb200fe5c549c6b4557ee7db72341ef0.jpg)
Another view of The Monolith as I continued the descent towards Bear Lakes and Lizard Head Meadows.
![0817181419_HDR.jpg 0817181419_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73176-4cab75b4f17884dfd6c19025af16600e.jpg)
Well the sun was still out, I was alone and sweaty and dirty again with extra time to burn. The stream (behind me) coming out of upper Bear Lake looked and was VERY COLD, but good to wash clothes and body off again.
![0817181508.jpg 0817181508.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73177-b69f9a00556e6b6c1918674930c575a9.jpg)
Just chillin after washin'
Again NO BUGS to speak of.
![0817181744.jpg 0817181744.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73178-c04b158ca9f74d066aad50ae4e6e4ff5.jpg)
Watching the sun drop behind Lizard Head Peak.
![0817181758_HDR.jpg 0817181758_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73179-40587251554dd02f29f047cbd3e3fb20.jpg)
The view of The Monolith looking opposite of Lizard Head Peak. Not a bad place to camp for the night eh?
![0817181853_HDR.jpg 0817181853_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73180-4f2c62028b0833d9e91eff13f9e6f2cf.jpg)
Day #4
It rained hard that night for a good 3 hours. The next day the air was clear and cool and full of moisture - perfect for a 13 + mile "walk" back to the car.
This was the view in front of me after descending down from Bear Lakes into Lizard Head Meadow, heading West into the Cirque then veering left up to Jackass Pass. Another spectacular view in front of me to enjoy!
And this is where the people where..lots of them. During the next 2 miles I passed 50 + hikers/campers. Some camping right on the trail. It was Saturday/the weekend.
![0818181055.jpg 0818181055.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73181-e4502706051849af81389b7dbacd4d19.jpg)
A shot of wildflowers beginning the climb towards Jackass Pass. Amazing for mid August.
![0818181148.jpg 0818181148.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73182-6555ad9dfe4c3299d25954c7b7ca057d.jpg)
There are thousands of photos of the "WatchTower" in the Cirque, so no harm posting another one, right?![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0818181148_HDR.jpg 0818181148_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73183-dee37f9fb14dec426e52a21644315754.jpg)
Looking back at The Watch Tower and Lonesome Lake in the Cirque and towards Texas Pass. My 4 day, 36 mile trip was basically a clockwise loop around and through The Cirque.
![0818181156.jpg 0818181156.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73184-35b95650b54dcdfc105641fc7cb45f1d.jpg)
A better view of Texas Pass (where the bit of snow is just right-center of the photo), looking North as I was close to the top of Jackass Pass.
![0818181214a.jpg 0818181214a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73187-c1e15404ddb213d779d5b342d3fa5002.jpg)
The climb up to Jackass from The Cirque was fairly quick.
![0818181215.jpg 0818181215.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73188-1e8ba24e6a706cf8f2d41bd734dc5ae0.jpg)
The next Lake was Arrowhead Lake -a fitting name. Granite peaks and boulder fields everywhere. It looked and felt like rain, but it never came till I was driving away from the trail head.
![0818181218a.jpg 0818181218a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73200-60df9aaf728de4ac2ac65cf9ffe3a083.jpg)
A few pics of North Lake on the way down to Big Sandy Lake.
![0818181304a_HDR.jpg 0818181304a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73191-e605dc69a1c45c1e533665d69198cfb6.jpg)
![0818181301_HDR.jpg 0818181301_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73190-66343b259e30d6b4b6de70dc0bd07609.jpg)
Another cirque of granite peaks towering above Big Sandy Lake to the South. The trail from this point was in good shape and easy.
![0818181335_HDR.jpg 0818181335_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73192-c9246b5cd883634d069c8df9b2b53024.jpg)
![0818181344_HDR.jpg 0818181344_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73193-d38518788b5e7b057b20ded2e5b3f4d0.jpg)
I stopped for a lunch break at Big Sandy to refuel and rest a bit for the final 6 + miles. Then boogied back to the car. The smoke was still hanging around this basin.
![0818181349_HDR.jpg 0818181349_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73194-30bda2728071e1c882ac7e55fe5a83a7.jpg)
I would have fly fished along the Big Sandy River - had I brought my fly rod - and had more time, but was "smelling the barn" at this point and hiking as fast as a fast walk would carry me.
![0818181517.jpg 0818181517.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73195-a682fa6fb394982a0d049a6965cb6800.jpg)
The point of coming full circle: Four days earlier I turned left at this junction towards Dad's Lake. Now looking back on the trail right, coming from Big Sandy Lake.
![0818181552.jpg 0818181552.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73196-f4a48506e89107251066a9f639579f6f.jpg)
Hello humanity! A very packed parking lot, and my ride home.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0818181603_HDR.jpg 0818181603_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73198-70acac9e7ce0065aac10e881afb35ee2.jpg)
After a five hour drive home I dropped my pack and left it for for a few days (minus the dirty clothes) to remind me of the wonderful trip I just experienced, solo in the Windrivers.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0820181433.jpg 0820181433.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73199-b495faa05f1656bfbc051f032e1ab335.jpg)
The basic Itinerary:
Day 1: From Big Sandy Trail head hiked North to Skull Lake (10 miles).
Day 2: East to Washakie Pass, continue towards Ranger Park, then South to South Fork Lakes (7 miles).
Day 3: East off-trail up to Lizard Head Plateau, explored around on Lizard Head Trail, then South to Bear Lake (6 miles).
Day 4: West to the Cirque of The Towers, South over Jackass Pass to Big Sandy Lake, then back to the Big Sandy Trail Head (13 miles).
Just me and the dogs. I prefer not going solo, but I had the time and was healthy so off I went..
![0815181443.jpg 0815181443.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73113-74ef9a5dfb95cd208a4633460c68d85c.jpg)
Heading North on the Fremont Trail towards Dad's Lake, a gentle uphill climb through open meadows with peaks to the right (East)..
![0815181533.jpg 0815181533.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73114-a274dd75b41aea617e6792c2daf294ce.jpg)
and a spectacular Cirque of Peaks straight ahead (North).
![0815181546a.jpg 0815181546a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73115-4fca4de0ba91c0e074c91b5a87b4bd4a.jpg)
![0815181559.jpg 0815181559.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73117-fecb64c1a1afef165b634c18be598f39.jpg)
Around mile 4 was the the first lake: Mirror Lake
![0815181614.jpg 0815181614.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73119-c4ce258096488633475c67e5cb880da3.jpg)
Then Mount Geikie of the unnamed cirque showing itself again..
![0815181622.jpg 0815181622.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73120-c7bc2941768563202c352251963e073f.jpg)
Dad's Lake was next. What a beautiful Lake! I loved the perspective of hiking North in the late afternoon hours with the sun setting on my left as I headed North.
Passing the North end of Dad's a very large Bald Eagle flew low over my head, checking ME out. I wasn't fast enough with my smartphone to capture that except for a poor video showing it as a small speck as it continued on..it was an awesome scene though..
![0815181639.jpg 0815181639.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73121-a0b3a99098787803155f74b266fb184d.jpg)
Even with it being a very hot and dry and late into the summer, there were areas of green with a few wildflowers, AND NO BUGS.
Very nice.
![0815181700a.jpg 0815181700a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73122-7ccf54ac0fb3525c3b031b91b05a01c7.jpg)
Next lake was Marms Lake, about 6.5 miles in so far. I saw few campers here as I traveled on.
![0815181702.jpg 0815181702.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73123-de4c92f90d5184c34223712473941f2c.jpg)
The junction for Washaikie Pass, Shadow Lake, and Skull Lake was on the North Side of Marms Lake. This photo is looking South at Marms: to the upper left you can see a few peaks on the backside of the Cirque of the Towers.
![0815181712a_HDR.jpg 0815181712a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73125-541af0db9fff518fbacc3c6be38e30c5.jpg)
Soon I was again very much enjoying the views ahead of me, and I couldn't stop taking photos of the views, so here are a few more to enjoy..
![0815181731.jpg 0815181731.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73127-8916d73c510c26352301c10262d0fc50.jpg)
![0815181733.jpg 0815181733.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73128-9eee424ffda6a3a858d0dd5be10de0e5.jpg)
A spectacular cirque of granite peaks, to view during 3 hours of hiking that 1st day. If this cirque does not have a name, it should.
![0815181743.jpg 0815181743.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73129-4debb8b93cd45d99f18fd1f8044109fc.jpg)
The last 45 minutes or so I could see Washakie Pass that I would be hiking over the next day.
![0815181817_HDR.jpg 0815181817_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73130-c493dc0ea5c2bca1bce4b922c18e3dac.jpg)
Finally Skull Lake. The weather was PERFECT, but warm. I went through 3 Liters of water in just over 4 hours of hiking.
![0815181825.jpg 0815181825.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73132-499b46966101cfc609fedef4ffb5c2a6.jpg)
So I dropped my pack and into the Lake I went with clothes and all to rinse them and myself off.
Without being Mr Voyeur (I kept my shorts on) I let my clothing dry while I dried off in the sun and enjoyed an awesome sunset. It doesn't take long to dry off in that thin dry air, especially during such a nice evening.
![0815181912.jpg 0815181912.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73133-d72275b7b97d246ba65acf5c53daf032.jpg)
For those who would rather see the sunset over Skull Lake without me in it..
![0815181912_HDR.jpg 0815181912_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73134-a46050b48f7e91c01d82594b8e51cc34.jpg)
A poor attempt with my smartphone to capture the moon after the sun went down.
![0815182102a.jpg 0815182102a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73135-4c511d17a0da3020d1dfced5449fb993.jpg)
Day #2.
The next morning by chance I crossed paths with a Youtuber, aka "Fikeandhish", who my wife and I met him while Backpacking in the Uintas 2 months earlier. He was finishing a 9 day through hike in the Winds with his son. Small world!
![0816181109.jpg 0816181109.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73136-752081901af1c4103507a238fa2c33de.jpg)
![0816181109b.jpg 0816181109b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73137-f135be38438f54065e6b1ba5d05e9e28.jpg)
Starting the climb up towards Washakie Pass looking Southward. It was a VERY smoky day - California in the air in all the wrong ways. Through the haze you can see more Peaks from the backside of The Cirque of The Towers.
![0816181129a_HDR.jpg 0816181129a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73138-40e6033e6a25e151218e28869d5c6512.jpg)
My dogs happily finding snow on Washikie Pass. The climb up the pass from the West was not bad, better than the climb from the East going the opposite direction 8 years ago. Maybe I was in better shape this time around..
![0816181232.jpg 0816181232.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73140-dac12a983ad3e9d06e5177fb8c2b37c5.jpg)
Descending the small glacier looking towards Ranger Park and Buffalo Head Peak. Even with all the haze the views were worth the effort.
Another large Bald Eagle was soaring high above this basin - probably the same one that I saw the day before at Dad's lake.
![0816181233.jpg 0816181233.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73141-6a23167aeaf2e9cfebba09ff92ae0d31.jpg)
Finished my successful "glissade", and happy about it.
![0816181238a.jpg 0816181238a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73142-a5fa852f48ab21bfe4ff609b4f3d6788.jpg)
A few more late summer wildflowers..
![0816181405.jpg 0816181405.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73143-dc22bab6414dab4f7872f09681ba328a.jpg)
Buffalo Head. To stay at elevation by not dropping down to Ranger Park and then back up again, I chose to skirt around this peak off trail towards South Fork Lakes.
![0816181435_HDR.jpg 0816181435_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73144-ef5fa66814ad15dac685f352f8d3b14c.jpg)
Looking back towards Washakie Pass and Little Washakie Lake as I was on my way off trail towards South Fork Lakes.
![0816181456_HDR.jpg 0816181456_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73145-e8768657a96cf5a326ab2b0a9032e7e8.jpg)
A massive boulder cleft in two that I would have loved to take home and put in my yard. Just not enough space in my pack though..lol..
![0816181458_HDR.jpg 0816181458_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73146-d6404c0682b7d56e7fc3fbb1fce634cc.jpg)
Drainage out of South Fork Lakes
![0816181537.jpg 0816181537.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73147-834b45553feeaa44a8d435c0393df258.jpg)
Very stellar-looking peaks around Buffalo Head
![0816181537_HDR.jpg 0816181537_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73148-231ca609f355b945fcfd11a5aee69323.jpg)
My first view and first visit to South Fork Lakes. This basin rocks (no pun intended!).
![0816181540_HDR.jpg 0816181540_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73149-b321847dc1b9f0dcd6060a50a8b21c62.jpg)
A massive glacier below Camels Hump Peak, and..
![0816181629a_HDR.jpg 0816181629a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73150-dae9860dd3d1d9ed7c251de11fb1823b.jpg)
A water fall coming off of Lizard Head Plateau!
I really loved this basin and would have spent a few days here if I had more time on this trip.
![0816181638a.jpg 0816181638a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73152-894b0c397ae5e2c4bc8159e9f34fd93e.jpg)
![0816181652a.jpg 0816181652a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73154-2c717c2d28905691176c1118f969fc7e.jpg)
Enjoying the view of Buffalo Head from my camp while the sun set.
![0816181848b.jpg 0816181848b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73155-e31572c172123b28a4c9953764a8e97b.jpg)
From this perspective Buffalo Head should be named "Elephant Head". Can you see it?
![0816182024.jpg 0816182024.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73156-95c3aabf89f133336519da47085a5c9b.jpg)
Day #3
The smoke had cleared out a bit, no clouds and perfect weather. The massive monolith peaks are amazing in these mountains.
![0817180905a.jpg 0817180905a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73157-8eedc4ae5905a7aae510eaf9a5c316c7.jpg)
One last view of the waterfall before ascending off-trail to Lizard Head Plateau.
![0817181122.jpg 0817181122.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73158-c8ce1bd14475c064c5415d329618070b.jpg)
It was a tough climb, but enjoyed every bit of catching my breath and taking in the views behind me. Looking back at South Fork Lakes Basin.
![0817181128a.jpg 0817181128a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73159-f78a354a7988adb9dafeeca82f352261.jpg)
Another shot with the front camera on my phone. Not sure why the photo is reversed, but still an awesome photo!
![0817181153.jpg 0817181153.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73161-28e35c7f8cd9ce8d64158a6abfa8c3ba.jpg)
This is the off-trail, very steep route that I and the dogs scrambled up. It was one of those take 25 steps, then stop and catch your breath climbs - very steep - especially carrying your backpack at over 11,000 feet!
I was a bit concerned how it would go and if it was really a good idea, but it worked out well.
![0817181138a.jpg 0817181138a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73160-7caa9828af3ff6aad061f872ad7fee31.jpg)
Avoiding boulder hopping I stayed to the left and halfway up was on grassy/peat moss-type-turf. I month earlier I'm sure this was all still covered in snow/glacier.
![0817181201.jpg 0817181201.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73162-bf5c8d88eded34ec94174891b4092184.jpg)
What is left of the glacier this time of year..
![0817181219a.jpg 0817181219a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73163-4a79c2cf3e5c401530573828e0145354.jpg)
That scamble up took over an hour, but finally we (the dogs and I) made it on top of Lizard Head Plateau and the trail.
![0817181228a.jpg 0817181228a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73164-d3c8e5095a0d402632db205b722c2cb4.jpg)
![0817181238.jpg 0817181238.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73165-0adabab8153fbe26c1bac4bc8fe81aeb.jpg)
I headed North on Lizard to find the source of the water fall dropping into South Fork Lakes. This Plateau is over 11,500 feet in elevation with not much for a water source, but after about a mile of exploring North I found the stream, and followed it to where it cascaded into the Basin.
The waterfall begins behind me. South Fork Lakes in the background.
![0817181244a.jpg 0817181244a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73168-d333502ed90e3966a41b564cb7f377aa.jpg)
I love this Plateau - it is like moonscape. A definite must-see to experience. Pictures just does not do justice of being there.
![0817181244.jpg 0817181244.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73167-e23564c8ac05f1032a6f0c03da608138.jpg)
![0817181310.jpg 0817181310.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73169-8c4337a20b5ef4d08f13fd155983939b.jpg)
I spent a couple of hours on Lizard Head just taking my time, enjoying the near perfect weather (very little to no wind on that day) and soaking it all in as best I could.
![0817181310a_HDR.jpg 0817181310a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73170-08e278e3332278d86abe7f5492189cad.jpg)
![0817181316.jpg 0817181316.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73171-2590c025d52569c3d24fe1ebe2815e06.jpg)
![0817181324b.jpg 0817181324b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73172-10ffd956d44edbe871ef0215fbc43924.jpg)
Eventually I made my way further South and began descending down towards Lizard Head Meadows. The Monolith was quick to show itself.
![0817181350a.jpg 0817181350a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73174-14f19bd11140fa8879d0eab522115cb0.jpg)
Lower and upper Bear Lakes at the base of Lizard Head Peak, with The Cirque of the Towers to the left. It was still early in the afternoon, but decided to stop and camp at the upper Bear Lake and avoid the crowds in the Meadow and the Cirque area.
![0817181402.jpg 0817181402.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73175-bb200fe5c549c6b4557ee7db72341ef0.jpg)
Another view of The Monolith as I continued the descent towards Bear Lakes and Lizard Head Meadows.
![0817181419_HDR.jpg 0817181419_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73176-4cab75b4f17884dfd6c19025af16600e.jpg)
Well the sun was still out, I was alone and sweaty and dirty again with extra time to burn. The stream (behind me) coming out of upper Bear Lake looked and was VERY COLD, but good to wash clothes and body off again.
![0817181508.jpg 0817181508.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73177-b69f9a00556e6b6c1918674930c575a9.jpg)
Just chillin after washin'
![0817181744.jpg 0817181744.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73178-c04b158ca9f74d066aad50ae4e6e4ff5.jpg)
Watching the sun drop behind Lizard Head Peak.
![0817181758_HDR.jpg 0817181758_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73179-40587251554dd02f29f047cbd3e3fb20.jpg)
The view of The Monolith looking opposite of Lizard Head Peak. Not a bad place to camp for the night eh?
![0817181853_HDR.jpg 0817181853_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73180-4f2c62028b0833d9e91eff13f9e6f2cf.jpg)
Day #4
It rained hard that night for a good 3 hours. The next day the air was clear and cool and full of moisture - perfect for a 13 + mile "walk" back to the car.
This was the view in front of me after descending down from Bear Lakes into Lizard Head Meadow, heading West into the Cirque then veering left up to Jackass Pass. Another spectacular view in front of me to enjoy!
And this is where the people where..lots of them. During the next 2 miles I passed 50 + hikers/campers. Some camping right on the trail. It was Saturday/the weekend.
![0818181055.jpg 0818181055.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73181-e4502706051849af81389b7dbacd4d19.jpg)
A shot of wildflowers beginning the climb towards Jackass Pass. Amazing for mid August.
![0818181148.jpg 0818181148.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73182-6555ad9dfe4c3299d25954c7b7ca057d.jpg)
There are thousands of photos of the "WatchTower" in the Cirque, so no harm posting another one, right?
![0818181148_HDR.jpg 0818181148_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73183-dee37f9fb14dec426e52a21644315754.jpg)
Looking back at The Watch Tower and Lonesome Lake in the Cirque and towards Texas Pass. My 4 day, 36 mile trip was basically a clockwise loop around and through The Cirque.
![0818181156.jpg 0818181156.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73184-35b95650b54dcdfc105641fc7cb45f1d.jpg)
A better view of Texas Pass (where the bit of snow is just right-center of the photo), looking North as I was close to the top of Jackass Pass.
![0818181214a.jpg 0818181214a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73187-c1e15404ddb213d779d5b342d3fa5002.jpg)
The climb up to Jackass from The Cirque was fairly quick.
![0818181215.jpg 0818181215.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73188-1e8ba24e6a706cf8f2d41bd734dc5ae0.jpg)
The next Lake was Arrowhead Lake -a fitting name. Granite peaks and boulder fields everywhere. It looked and felt like rain, but it never came till I was driving away from the trail head.
![0818181218a.jpg 0818181218a.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73200-60df9aaf728de4ac2ac65cf9ffe3a083.jpg)
A few pics of North Lake on the way down to Big Sandy Lake.
![0818181304a_HDR.jpg 0818181304a_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73191-e605dc69a1c45c1e533665d69198cfb6.jpg)
![0818181301_HDR.jpg 0818181301_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73190-66343b259e30d6b4b6de70dc0bd07609.jpg)
Another cirque of granite peaks towering above Big Sandy Lake to the South. The trail from this point was in good shape and easy.
![0818181335_HDR.jpg 0818181335_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73192-c9246b5cd883634d069c8df9b2b53024.jpg)
![0818181344_HDR.jpg 0818181344_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73193-d38518788b5e7b057b20ded2e5b3f4d0.jpg)
I stopped for a lunch break at Big Sandy to refuel and rest a bit for the final 6 + miles. Then boogied back to the car. The smoke was still hanging around this basin.
![0818181349_HDR.jpg 0818181349_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73194-30bda2728071e1c882ac7e55fe5a83a7.jpg)
I would have fly fished along the Big Sandy River - had I brought my fly rod - and had more time, but was "smelling the barn" at this point and hiking as fast as a fast walk would carry me.
![0818181517.jpg 0818181517.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73195-a682fa6fb394982a0d049a6965cb6800.jpg)
The point of coming full circle: Four days earlier I turned left at this junction towards Dad's Lake. Now looking back on the trail right, coming from Big Sandy Lake.
![0818181552.jpg 0818181552.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73196-f4a48506e89107251066a9f639579f6f.jpg)
Hello humanity! A very packed parking lot, and my ride home.
![0818181603_HDR.jpg 0818181603_HDR.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73198-70acac9e7ce0065aac10e881afb35ee2.jpg)
After a five hour drive home I dropped my pack and left it for for a few days (minus the dirty clothes) to remind me of the wonderful trip I just experienced, solo in the Windrivers.
![0820181433.jpg 0820181433.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/73/73199-b495faa05f1656bfbc051f032e1ab335.jpg)
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