Pinedale

Pinedale, Wyoming, rests at an elevation of 7,175 feet, cradled by the formidable Wind River Range to the east, the Wyoming Range to the west, and the Gros Ventre Wilderness to the north. It is a place where the grandeur of the American West is not merely a backdrop, but an integral part of daily life. The town declares itself 'All the Civilization You Need,' a nod to its remote location and the self-sufficient spirit of its residents.

This high-altitude valley, abundant with pine groves along Pine Creek, offers a gateway to unparalleled outdoor adventure. From the deep glacial waters of Fremont Lake to the headwaters of the Green River, Pinedale is an authentic Western town that has preserved its unique character despite modern changes. It is a community that thrives on its connection to the land, its enduring story, and the hardy individuals who have called it home for generations.

The Fur Trade Era and Mountain Men

The story of Pinedale is deeply rooted in the exploration of the American West, particularly the Rocky Mountain fur trade of the early 19th century. From 1820 to 1840, the Green River Valley became a central hub for mountain men, fur trappers, and traders, drawn by the abundance of beaver. These rugged individuals, including legendary figures like Jim Bridger and Kit Carson, would gather annually for the Green River Rendezvous, a series of fairs where they exchanged pelts for supplies, shared stories, and connected with Native American tribes such as the Shoshoni and Crow.

Six of the sixteen historic rendezvous took place near present-day Pinedale, making it a pivotal location in the fur trade. These gatherings were not only commercial events but also significant cultural exchanges that helped pave the way for westward expansion. The era, however, came to an end around 1840 when the demand for beaver felt hats declined, leading to the collapse of the fur trade.

From Settlement to County Seat

Permanent settlement in the Pinedale area began in the late 1800s, with Charles A. Peterson and his family arriving in 1895 and taking possession of an abandoned trapper's cabin. The town itself was officially founded in 1904 when John F. Patterson, along with ranchers Charles A. Petersen and Robert O. Graham, proposed establishing a townsite. Pinedale was incorporated in 1912, gaining the distinction of being the incorporated town farthest from a railroad in the United States.

In 1921, Pinedale achieved a significant political milestone when it was chosen as the administrative center of the newly formed Sublette County. This decision, though controversial at the time, solidified Pinedale's status as a regional center. The town's early economy relied heavily on agriculture, particularly sheep and cattle ranching, and tourism, which began even before Pinedale's official founding with "dude" guests seeking guided trips into the Wind River Mountains.

Twentieth-Century Developments and Modern Growth

Throughout the 20th century, Pinedale experienced periods of growth and adaptation. During the 1920s, the town saw the development of streets and sidewalks, and the introduction of electric streetlights. The Great Depression spurred community generosity, notably in the construction of public buildings like the famous log library and the expansion of the town's oldest building, now the Chambers Bed and Breakfast.

World War II brought Pinedale into global events, serving as a training ground for the 10th Mountain Division. In the latter half of the century, the discovery and extraction of natural gas in nearby fields, such as the Jonah Field and Pinedale Anticline, brought significant economic changes and an influx of new residents. Today, Pinedale continues to balance its deep-rooted Western traditions with the challenges and opportunities of steady industrial growth and a flourishing outdoor recreation economy.

Begin your exploration at the Museum of the Mountain Man, which offers an immersive journey into the fur trade era. Here, you can see artifacts like Jim Bridger's rifle and a 300-year-old Shoshoni sheep-horn bow, alongside exhibits detailing the lives of trappers and Native American tribes.

Just minutes from town, Fremont Lake invites discovery. As Wyoming's second-largest natural lake and one of the deepest in the country, it offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking.

For scenic drives, take the Skyline Drive Loop, a 32-mile route offering views of Fremont Lake, Half Moon Lake, and Soda Lakes, with ample chances for wildlife spotting. Another option is the Wyoming's Centennial Scenic Byway for expansive mountain and river vistas.

The surrounding Wind River Mountains and Bridger Wilderness are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can embark on day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips to destinations like the Cirque of the Towers or Titcomb Basin. The area is also known for its extensive network of trails for horseback riding, mountain biking, and in winter, snowmobiling.

Consider a visit to Green River Lakes, the headwaters of the Green River, for inspiring views of Squaretop Mountain and excellent fishing. Do not miss the Green River Rendezvous Days in July, a lively reenactment of the fur trade era with historical encampments, parades, and cultural demonstrations.

Pinedale is a year-round destination, but the best time for warm-weather activities like hiking, fishing, and boating is from late June to mid-August. During these months, temperatures are comfortable, typically in the low 80s Fahrenheit, with less cloud cover and lower chances of rain.

For those interested in the Green River Rendezvous, plan your visit for the second full weekend in July. Winter offers opportunities for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and skiing, though temperatures can be frigid.

Pinedale is located in Sublette County, Wyoming. The closest commercial airports are in Jackson (77 miles), Rock Springs (100 miles), and Salt Lake City (250 miles). While there are no local car rental services or commercial bus lines in Pinedale, shuttle services are available from these airports.

For local transportation, the Pinedale Cab Company offers taxi and shuttle services, and the Senior Citizen Center provides shuttle services with advanced arrangement. Pinedale offers a range of accommodations, from hotels and motels to bed and breakfasts. Dining options include local restaurants and a craft brewery.

Given the high elevation of Pinedale (7,175 feet) and the surrounding mountains, it is advisable to take precautions for altitude sickness, especially when engaging in strenuous activities like hiking.