Photographers Point via Pole Creek Trail
Pinedale, Wyoming
Details
Distance
9.26 miles
Elevation Gain
1188 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Andrew Slaton
Take in amazing views of the Wind River Range on this hike to Photographer's Point. And as the name implies, there will be great photo opportunities, so don't forget your camera.
Begin at the main Elkhart Park parking area. Take the Pole Creek Trail directly adjacent to the restroom. You will follow this trail for approximately 4.5 miles through lodgepole pine forests and beautiful alpine parks.
When you begin seeing large boulders and sheer rock walls, you are approaching the famous "photographer's point". It's a great spot to rest if you're going into the Winds further. It's also a great destination if you just want a nice little hike with a pretty view as a payoff.
Be advised that the Winds now have lots of Grizzlies. Hike in groups, make noise, and carry bear protection. Also, many outfitters frequent this trail, so be courteous and move off the trail on the uphill side when horses and mules are passing!
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Reviews
I did this hike in summer 2017 during a week-long trip to Wyoming. It was a fantastic hike. I was visiting the area from North Texas, so I didn't want to do anything terribly strenuous (I normally live at about 700 feet above sea level). This hike was perfect for what I wanted to do. It goes through dense pine forest, meadows of wildflowers, and has several scenic viewpoints, with Photographer's Point being the big payoff. The hike is not particularly strenuous, but is about a 10-mile round trip. Endurance will be a bigger issue than elevation, even though you are above 10,000 feet. We saw enough other hikers to feel not completely alone, but not many. Be sure to carry bear spray as you are in bear country (everyone we saw had bear spray). Also, the drive up to the trailhead is beautiful. We camped at Fremont Lake Campground the night before the hike, which is a good campground with plenty of sites.
5.0
This spot has a stunning panoramic view of the Wind River Range. There's not much for photographic composition in the foreground to offset the massive peaks but using your tent or hiking partner works pretty well.
4.0
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