After our first visit to the Wind River Range last year, we were absolutely hooked. Steve returned with Brad for a week long trip in July and we planned a backpacking trip in the last week in August after our time in the Beartooth Mountains. We stayed overnight at Big Sandy Lodge to allow an early start from the Big Sandy Trailhead on our first day. This was our itinerary:

Day 1: Big Sandy Trailhead to Big Sandy Lake (~ 5-6 miles, 610 feet elevation gain)
Day 2: Day hike to Jackass Pass (~ 5.5-6 miles, 1110 feet elevation gain)
Day 3: Big Sandy Lake to Deep Lake (~ 2.5 miles, 710 feet elevation gain)
Day 4: Short hike to Temple Lake ~ 2 miles RT, 200 feet elevation gain), return to Big Sandy Lake
Day 5: Big Sandy Lake back to the trailhead

This is one of the most visited spots in the Wind River Range and the parking lot was accordingly packed full of cars. While we saw other hiking and climbing parties, we never felt it was crowded and we found plenty of solitude. We weren't expecting to see much large wildlife, but were pleasantly surprised to see two moose feeding in Clear Lake. We did see a lot of small mammals: short tailed weasels, pikas, and marmots.

The weather was perfect the duration of our trip and even better - no bugs! The scenery was jaw dropping amazing and we had a splendid time. This was Norah's first backpacking trip where she hiked solely on her own - she did an awesome job!

It's hard to single out highlights as the whole trip was really one big highlight. If I had to choose, I would probably say the hike to Jackass Pass was my favorite - the hike itself was scenic and the views of the Cirque of the Towers from the pass were superb. I think Steve was kind of partial to Deep Lake and its dramatic peaks and Norah clearly loved camping at Big Sandy Lake. All in all it was a fantastic five days in the Wind River Range and I'm certain we'll be back!