Trip Teaser - the Wind Rivers

The Impossible Thrill has just returned from backpacking in the Wind Rivers wilderness area in WY. Was out of town from Sep 2nd-9th, so if I didn't return your call/email during that time, now you know why :-)

It'll certainly take a several days to collect my thoughts and photos and get 'em posted here. But for now, I'll just offer a few teaser comments ...

Wyoming's Wind Rivers wilderness area delivered beyond my expectations. It's incredibly beautiful, remote (we saw very few other humans, which of course is the point), and rugged (the terrain totally kicked our asses on at least 2 of the 5 days!) The mountain range itself is rugged, however at least some of the ass-kicking came from severe trail erosion/washouts in some areas, due (I think) to sheep hunting parties traveling the area on horseback with pack mules, of which we encountered several.

As far as travel to/from the region, after driving through North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota, I have a better understanding of the states, Minnesota's geographical place in the landscape, and the transition from Midwest to West. Which leads directly to a profound (and newfound) appreciation for Minnesota, the Twin Cities, and Minneapolis. It's good to be home.

Now, for a hot shower and some sleep!