2017-11-09 04:29:06
Wyoming is the West at its wildest. It’s home to some of the nation’s most iconic national parks and top destinations for fly fishing and rafting while its pristine landscapes beckon intrepid, independent lovers of the untamed outdoors. WATER ADVENTURES Whitewater rafters should recognize the name Snake River Canyon, since it’s one of the state’s premier spots for high-throttle action on the rapids. Other highlights for whitewater paddlers include Wind River Canyon near Thermopolis and the Shoshone River outside of Cody. The Shoshone flows through Red Rock Canyon and allows rafters to retrace the footsteps of mountain man Jeremiah Johnson and wilderness scout Buffalo Bill Cody. OFF-ROADING From southern Wyoming’s Medicine Bow National Forest to the Bighorn National Forest in the state’s northern quadrant, there are more than 400 miles of trails and 8,000 miles of road for off-road enthusiasts to explore on ATVs, off-road motorcycles and four-wheel- drive vehicles. Pair your horse-power-packed excursion with other adventures like camping, hunting and fishing. Find trails and regulations at wyotrails.state.wy.us/ORV. EXTREME RACING The Bighorn Canyon Triathlon in July takes adventurers on a journey through Bighorn Canyon Recreation Area, where participants run, bike and swim their way to the finish line amid breathtaking views of northern Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains. Or check out the hiking/paddling/mountain-biking race in Cheyenne known as Curt Gowdy Strong in August. HIKING THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL Wyoming makes up an essential 550 miles of the Continental Divide Trail experience, with stops in Yellowstone, the Teton Wilderness and Wind River Range. Hikers prepping for the journey should look up the gateway communities of Pinedale and Rawlins — two stops that offer easy access to the trail, plus essentials that will help you make the most of your hike. NEED HELP PLANNING YOUR EPIC ADVENTURE? Check out our guide and outfitter listings starting on p. 124, or go to TravelWyoming.com/things-to-do/guides-and-outfitters.
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