Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
The first several miles of the Middle Fork Trail are open and exposed. In the summer heat, that can make for a hot few miles so be sure to stay hydrated.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
Luckily, this part of the trail follows the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River meaning not only plenty of filterable drinking water, but lovely swimming holes like this.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
Be watchful for free-range cattle along the trail. Most will keep their distance, but cows can be aggressive.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
Shortly after turning onto the Pinto Park Trail, you'll begin to climb a rocky grade that lasts for about one mile. While long in its entirety, this small stretch is the most strenuous part of the trail.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
If taking the Deep Creek Cutoff Trail, you'll descent into the drainage before climbing back up to Deep Creek Lakes. Before the descent, take in the view of Wind River Peak and Little El Capitan.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
You'll need to cross a very wide stream output before reaching the shores of the first Deep Creek Lake. Fortunately, the large boulders make this crossing easy without getting wet.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
The first Deep Creek Lake offers stunning camping possibilities not far from it's crystalline shores.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
If you're a fisherman, try your luck and cast a line. The Winds are known for stellar fishing of Brook, Cutthroat, and even Golden Trout.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
You'll find fish of all sizes. Just keep in the mind the regional daily limit of seven fish per person.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
If wandering around the lake shore, be watchful for boggy ground and ankle-breaker holes in the soft grass.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
If you have time, it's highly recommended that you explore further in the area. There are dozens of lakes within a 2-mile radius.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
If you continue on to the next lake in the series, you'll find views of the gorgeous, flat-topped Wind River Peak. A summit bid can be launched from here following the southeast ridge.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
Wind River Peak may be the highest in the southern Winds, but the real eye-catcher here are the imposing walls of Little El Capitan behind it.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
07/25/2021
Nothing beats waking with the sun to catch the dawn alpenglow in the Winds.