Sinks Canyon State Park
Written By: Sarah Reish
It was close to 90% of the people that we spoke to who told us to head to Sinks Canyon State Park while we were visiting Lander, Wyoming. I also believe we went there each day we were in town. It is a beautiful area that is open year-round making it perfect for the outdoor - recreation community that makes up a large part of the Lander, Wyoming residents. The state park is directly adjacent to and exits right into Shoshone National Forest.
The Sinks Canyon phenomenon
The sink, we learned, is actually where the Popo Agie River disappears, or drains, into the limestone cavern at the middle fork of the river. The area is stunning and there is a marked trail to hike down to it. The cavern is massive and awe inspiring. A quarter of a mile down river the water reappears in pools that are calm and teaming with wildlife, like rainbow trout and ducks.
While there are accessible areas, the paved path to access the cavern overlook area is quite steep. It is also slippery in the winter so please be advised. Those who experience mobility issues may struggle with accessing this particular area. However, there are many smooth and flat areas to explore. The trails will be difficult if not impossible to access if you or someone in your party has mobility issues. Please visit the Sinks Canyon State Park website and research your plans.
The trails
The trails are beautiful and curl around the river and rock formations, but need maintained, especially in the winter. We had the opportunity to meet and visit with Rio Rose, owner of The Bike Mill. Rio is, as his professions hints at, an avid biker. He is also the Forest Trails Service Coordinator in that area and he heads up all of the maintenance working closely with the Bureau of Land Management and the US Forest Service. While our visit was short we found he truly loved being outdoors and helping keep trails cared for and safe for those venturing out into nature.
We brought a picnic lunch into the park. After eating we took a hike on the Popo Agie Nature Trail Loop near the Yurts, at the Popo Agie Campground that you can rent year round. We crossed a suspension bridge and took off exploring. It was the perfect day to enjoy Sinks Canyon.
The recreation
Sinks Canyon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. We went on a short walk down to the cavern to see where the water sinks below ground. We also went for a short nature hike. The area is know for its rock climbing, trails, biking, and fishing. This little paradise is in the Wind River Mountains and popular for Fat Biking.
The beauty
Beautiful does not accurately depict the scenery. The Wind River Mountains, the Popo Agie river, the cavern, the sunshine, and the snow… it was all breathtaking. We could not have asked for better weather during this excursion. We enjoyed the park fully.
The details
Open Year Round / 6 am - 10 pm
Visitor Center open May 16 - September 15 / 9 am - 5 pm
Download maps and Brochures here
Dogs must be on a leash
Follow all rules and regulations
Hit the road
This needs to be on your road trip or day trip bucket list. The area is gorgeous and while not a large park it offers something for everyone. The area is very well cared for so be sure to show respect and care while visiting. Post your adventures on social media and be sure to tag us @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld
