Sweetwater Canyon WSA
Values
The Sweetwater Canyon WSA encompasses a river canyon and tributary draws with dense riparian vegetation, surrounded by gently rolling hills. The WSA is along the southeastern flank of the Wind River Range in the high plains desert. The canyon is roughly 7 miles long and averages 500 feet deep with bare rock that in places form nearly vertical walls. The contrast between the Sweetwater River Canyon’s scenic diversity (with its pleasing colors and textures) and the surrounding hills is abrupt and striking. Vegetation in the bottom of the gorge and along the river tributaries consists of willow, limber pine, aspen, cottonwoods, and juniper. Sagebrush, grasses, and shrubs dominate the uplands. Rainbow, brown, and brook trout inhabit the river and its tributaries, and moose, elk, mule deer and antelope may be found in the area, depending on the time of year. Golden eagles, prairie falcons and ferruginous and red-tailed hawks dot the skies. Opportunities for solitude, hiking, backpacking, fishing, hunting, nature study, and photography are outstanding.
Visitation Information
The Sweetwater Canyon WSA is accessed from highway 287 approximately 34 miles southeast of Lander, WY. Drive west on the Hudson-Atlantic City Road, approximately 5 miles north of the intersection of highways 287 and 135. Drive the Hudson-Atlantic City Road approximately 15 miles to the Lewistown Lakes. The WSA is south of these lakes. Motorized travel in the WSA is prohibited. Additionally, the WSA is closed to mineral entry, including gold panning.
Visitor Advisory
Access to wild lands inherently requires good navigational skills. Visitors should be prepared for adverse weather and road conditions. The WSAs are primarily accessed by four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles on unnamed or unsigned two-track roads that in many cases may be difficult to find without sufficient navigational skills and equipment.
Wilderness Study Areas
WSAs are undeveloped federal lands that retain their primeval character and influence, without permanent improvements or human habitation, and are managed so as not to impair their suitability for preservation as wilderness. Backcountry recreation is a common use along with Leave no Trace Outdoor ethics. Please be advised these areas are restricted and do not allow for the use of motorized and mechanized equipment.