2018-11-19 01:10:32
Wyoming’s wide-open spaces are a playground for rough-and-tumble types. Tie in, drop a line or saddle up for the outdoor adventure of a lifetime at these Cowboy State treasures. SUBLIME CLIMBS Geological wonders, prehistoric boulders and limestone crags beckon climbers of every skill level for an unforgettable day on the rocks at these top climbing sites. Devils Tower National Monument This otherworldly, rocky cathedral near Hulett and Sundance is clad with sheer dihedrals on every side, luring crack-climbers from around the world with 5.6–5.13 difficulty. Note: Many rock climbers honor the monument’s significance to local tribes by voluntarily opting not to ascend the tower during the month of June, when many American Indian cultural activities take place. Vedauwoo These granite outcrops between Cheyenne and Laramie look like they were stacked by giants. “Land of the Earthborn Spirit,” as it’s known to the Arapaho Indians, is home to hundreds of fun and challenging routes for bouldering, sport and trad climbing. Sinks Canyon Climbers will feel at home in the town of Lander, which hosts the International Climbers’ Festival each July. The big draw is nearby Sinks Canyon State Park, featuring more than 300 climbs on pockety limestone, sandstone and granite. REEL BIG FISH No matter what time of year you cast a line, our chilly tailwaters, blue-ribbon streams and alpine lakes are teeming with really big fish. Tackle ’em at these legendary spots. Miracle Mile This storied section of the North Platte River near Casper is the holy grail for serious anglers. Bring your nymph rigs and streamers to land behemoth rainbow and brown trout or enlist one of the many local outfitters to show you their secrets. Green River Meltwater from the Wind River Range feeds the Green River in southwest Wyoming, which becomes a hotspot for dry fly-fishing each summer. Get outfitted in Pinedale, then set out in search of trout. Jackson Lake Deep, cold waters at the base of Grand Teton National Park harbor abundant trout, trophy-size pike and even salmon. June through September is high season, but the spring ice-out brings droves of hungry fish to the shallows. GIDDY UP There may not be a more quintessential way to explore Wyoming than on horseback. Unleash your inner cowboy or cowgirl and saddle up for these equine adventures. Day Rides Day rides are a good way to stretch your legs while road tripping through the state, and local outfitters supply a variety of options, from one-hour to full-day trips. Under the wing of a knowledgeable guide, trot the grounds of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks or survey the Bighorn, Wind River or Absaroka mountains. Summer Pack Trips Many outfitters and dude ranches also offer multi-day guided pack trips, which let riders delve deep into the Wyoming wilderness on horseback. Excursions include authentic chuckwagon meals and cowboy breakfasts to counter the massive amounts of calories you’ll burn in and out of the saddle on your journey. Dude Ranches Wyoming dude and guest ranches allow visitors to participate in incredible horseback-riding programs that include daily opportunities to partake in excursions of various lengths. A seasoned wrangler will pair you with a horse for the entirety of your stay (typically a week) who perfectly matches your riding abilities. Learn more on p. 70. Horse Camping Wyoming’s more than 45,000 square miles of public lands are laden with wide-open spaces and stunning landscapes perfect for discovering on horseback. Those planning a trip with their equine companion will find a bounty of boarding options and horse-friendly campgrounds and trails. Learn more at TravelWyoming.com/things-to-do/horseback-riding. WY Am I Here? Wyoming residents appreciate genuine enthusiasm and interest, so ask questions and for help — from the folks behind the counter at the sporting goods stores and bait shops, on the phone at the Wyoming Game & Fish offices, at the shooting ranges, in the coffee shops — wherever you see like-minded people gathered. — KATHRYN P. BOSWELL Hunter & Angler Participation Coordinator for the Wyoming Game & Fish Department & Organizer of the Wyoming Women’s Antelope Hunt
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