The Green River Lakes form the headwaters of the Green River--the same Green River that flows through Flaming Gorge, Dinosaur and Canyonlands National Park. Lower Green River Lake with the backdrop of Squaretop Mountain forms one on the most photogenic vistas in the state of Wyoming. Located at the northwest corner of the reclusive Wind River Range--outside of any national park boundary--the Green River Lakes are far less known and less visited than the more familiar scenes of the Tetons and Yellowstone. From the Cirque of the Towers in the south to Titcomb Basin in the north, the 80-mile long Wind River Range features some of the most remote, wild and dramatic terrain of the lower 48 states. The Green River Lakes are no exception.
 |
| Lower Green River Lake with Squaretop Mountain beyond |
The western flank of the Wind Rivers is home to several large, natural, glacially formed lakes--the largest of which (Fremont Lake) is 12 miles long and up to 600 feet deep. Lower Green River Lake, significantly smaller, is better proportioned for human-powered paddle craft. The Green River Lakes Recreation Site is 50 miles north of Pinedale, WY along mostly unpaved road. Despite the distance, the road is in decent condition and the miles pass surprisingly smoothly. The northern half of the road is public land and has many pleasant and scenic dispersed camping sites in the rolling meadows between the Wind River Range foothills and the meandering Green River. There is also a forest service campground at the lake. Bears inhabit this area, so camp responsibly.
Scenery: 5
Shoreline Interest: 2
Use: Low-moderate
Fee: None for day use
Access: Gravel
Full elev: 7975; minimal variation; natural
Weather
If you show up on a weekday in August, you may see more people than you might expect for a place that seems so far from civilization. The Green River Lakes trailhead is one of a handful of portals into the vast wilderness of the Wind River Range. Many people who pass through this place are on multiday backpacking adventures. And most of the area's visitors come during the two-month summer between early July and early September.
 |
| Lower Green River Lake Inlet |
The wild and remote nature of Green River Lakes make weather and safety important considerations for paddling here:
First of all, the water can be cold--consider a taking a wetsuit. And wear a PFD!
Second, the winds are unpredictable here. The lower lake is 1.8 miles long and the deep, elongated valley that cradles it can amplify and redirect area wind patterns into a stiff headwind or tailwind. The wind direction can completely reverse in less than an hour. The lake's size and openness can make for choppy conditions just about anywhere on the lake. For these reasons, we recommend a two-ended kayak paddle setup. If a headwind does develop on the return, two paddle ends and a low profile can be the difference between being able to travel against the wind or not.
Third, the only easy access point to either lake is the north end of Lower Green River Lake. While there are hiking trails that generally parallel the shorelines, their locations aren't always obvious nor always close to the shoreline. In the event of an emergency, there are no good bailouts; the easiest way back to the parking area is on the water.
Despite its simplistic shape, Lower Green River Lake has some interesting features to explore. The forested western shore has scattered rock outcrops and a some small, scenic coves. The southern end of the lake is an unexpected yet expansive beach. The southeast corner of the lake hides the lake's inlet from the Green River.
The connecting channel from Upper Green River lake meanders for about mile between the two lakes. However, the overall elevation difference is only about 10 feet. The channel likely isn't cleanly navigable without some wading over shallow stretches, but some paddlers still make the excursion because the upper lake is even more dramatic than the lower. Some short stretches of the channel may require vigorous paddling to overcome the current.
The Green River Lakes offer an exotic paddling adventure in a wild and spectacular setting. This remote place hides plenty of hazards, and safe practices are especially important here. Come prepared, watch the weather carefully, use good judgement and wear a PFD!
No comments:
Post a Comment