The
300,000 acre Gros Ventre Wilderness, on the Bridger-Teton National
Forest, became a part of the National Wilderness Preservation System in
1984. It is composed of high craggy peaks, glacier scoured valleys,
and rolling sagebrush foothills. The name is from the French word
for "big belly", and originated from Indian sign language meant
to convey the idea of "always hungry". The higher elevations
are usually free of snow around mid-July anduntil mid-September.
Elevations range from 7,000 to over 11,000 feet. Expect summer
time temperatures to range from highs in the 70s-80s during the day to
lows of around 30 at night. Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning and
rain showers are common in the summer. It can snow any day of the year,
so visitors should come prepared for a wide variety of weather and temperature
conditions.
The
Gros Ventre Wilderness area can be accessed from the Hoback Canyon near
Granite Hot Springs to the south and from the Upper Green River to the
east. Access to the northern portion is via Jackson and the Gros Ventre
River. Roads to trailheads are single lane gravel roads that are passable
to passenger cars, although higher clearance vehicles are recommended.
Trailheads and parking areas are remote and primitive, with no services
or phones. Cell phone reception within the wilderness area is spotty at
best.
The area is home to elk, moose, deer, black and grizzly bear, and many
other species. It is considered to be essential calving ground for
the Jackson Hole elk herd. There are a variety of trails through the
area that offer an exceptional backcountry experience in unspoiled,
pristine country. Trails within the wilderness area are for foot travel.
Mechanized vehicles, including mountain bikes and snowmachines, are not
allowed. Horses, mules and llamas are permitted. Views from the high country
include the Tetons, Absarokas, Wind River Mountains and the Wyoming Range.
The
Gros Ventre Mountains receive much less use and impact than the more well
known Wind River Range. Backcountry visitors are asked to practice Low
Impact Camping to protect the pristine values of the wilderness area.
Dogs are allowed, but must be kept under control at all times.
The
Gros Ventre Wilderness area has fewer lakes than the nearby Wind River
Mountains, but still offers satisfying fishing experiences for several
species of trout. For those who want a relaxing end to their backcountry
experience, remote Granite Hot Springs makes a nice conclusion
to a trip.
Licensed
outfitters and guides offer summer pack trips, hiking, backpacking, llama
tours and full service hunting trips. The area has seasons for elk, mule
deer, grouse, mountain goat and bighorn sheep. For more information see
wildlife page.
www.visitsublettecounty.com Sublette County Visitor's Guide
Sublette County, Wyoming
For more information call the Sublette County Visitor's Center
at 1-888-285-7282 or e-mail: .
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