The Green River in Wyoming flows into Utah and combines with the Colorado River--both are responsible for the Grand Canyon of Arizona. It’s amazing to consider how ecosystems in the American West are interconnected. While the Green slices through much of western Wyoming, its source can be found among the alpine lakes at the northern edge of the Wind River Mountain Range. Two primary lakes are the lower and upper, as well as some much smaller lakes scattered about the high country. Several trailheads begin at the lakes as well, including one that ends at Wyoming’s tallest peak: Gannett, well over 14,000 feet high.
Instructions
Jumping the Green River in Wyoming
1. Locate Pinedale on the map of Wyoming. A few miles past Pinedale, off U.S. Highway 191, is Cora Junction and State Highway 352. Take the Green River Lakes Road (352) north, and follow the directional signs to the lakes.
2. Arrive at the lakes. Stop in the designated parking area and cross the wood bridge, visible below the lower lake. The stream is the Green River at its source, the lower lake. Walk over toward the dilapidated cabin/barn, depending on perspective, located in the field.
3. Return to the automobile and follow directional signs to the Green River Lakes Campground. After setting up camp, take a moment to enjoy the scenery: Quaking Aspen trees amidst evergreens, the lower lake, and Squaretop Mountain. The upper lake is located between the lower and Squaretop.
4. Access the Green River Lakes Trailhead and hike around the lower to the upper lake, and to the smaller alpine lakes beyond. One could argue that the stream feeding the upper lake is technically the source of the Green.
5. Hike to the other trails that connect with the Green River Lakes Trail. There are many trails that run the length of the Wind River Range, particularly the Continental Divide Scenic Trail. One, Gannett Peak Trail, leads to the highest point in Wyoming. Most trails at this elevation are designated as strenuous. Be sure to research the trails length and get current trail conditions from the forest service.
6. Fish any of the Green River Lakes. There is an abundance of freshwater fish in the upper and lower lakes. Further upstream, fishing is excellent for brookies, what the locals call brook fish.
Tags: Green River, Green River Lakes, River Lakes, Green River Wyoming, lower lake, River Wyoming, upper lake