upper north platte valley adventure guide 2016

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SARATOGA SUN

TO THE UPPER NORTH PLATTE VALLEY

2 Welcome to the Platte Valley! Summer 2016

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Summer 2016 The Platte Valley’s Summer Adventure Guide 3

Welcome to the Platte Valley p5Town of Saratoga Map p 6The Town of Saratoga p7 Hot Springs p9 Saratoga Lake Map p12 Saratoga Lake p13 Saratoga Museum p15Fish Hatchery p17Trout Fishing the Platte p19North Platte River Flow Levels p20Floating North Platte River p21North Platte River Map p23Hiking Map p24 & 25Hiking Trails p26Hiking p27Camping Spots & Information p29Riverside/Encampment Map p30

The Town of Riverside p31The Town of Encampment p33Area Wildflowers p34Grand Encampment Museum p35Snowy Range Scenic Byway p37Battle Mountain Scenic Byway p39Ranching & Agriculture p40Aquatic Invasive Species p41Bear Safety p42Valley Churches p43Town/Emergency Numbers p43Calendar of Events May & June p44Calendar of Events July p45Calendar of Events, July, Aug. p46Calendar of Events, Aug. p46Calendar of Events, Sept. p47Advertising Index p47

123 Years of Continuous Service

A National Historic Landmark

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• Signature Prime Rib• Congenial atmosphere• Well-stocked salad bar• Old-fashioned saloon• Chicken & seafood• Wireless internet• Nicely appointed rooms• Catering

101 E. Bridge Ave., Saratoga, WY 82331(307) 326-5525 • www.wolfhotel.com

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Guide Index


Owners:Gary W. Stevenson

Sue Stevenson

Publisher Keith McLendon

ReportersMadeline Weiss

Max MillerFred Broschart

Graphic Artist: Keith McLendon

Saratoga Sun • Established in 1888116 East Bridge Street

Saratoga, WY 82331 • (307) 326-8311email: [email protected]

The Saratoga Sun is published every Wednesday by Saratoga Sun, Inc. Entered asPeriodical matter at the post office at Saratoga, Carbon County, Wyoming. USPS 482-040.

Postmaster: Send address changes to the Saratoga Sun, P.O. Box 489, Saratoga, WY 82331.Subscription Rates: $37 in Carbon County • $47 elsewhere in the contiguous U.S.

$35 online only at www.saratogasun.comOwned by: Saratoga Sun, Inc.

Gary and Sue Stevenson, owners.

Front cover photo credit:Saratoga Sun Staff


Although indigenous peoples lived in this area for millennia prior, the first American pioneers arrived in

the Upper North Platte River Valley in the 1870s. Enticed by the Platte’s reliable water supply and the area’s abundant game and wildlife, these first settlers raised crops and livestock.

Miners and lumberjacks, drawn by the riches found in the surrounding Sierra Madre and Medicine Bow Mountains, soon joined these homesteaders.

Like the Ute, Arapahoe and Cheyenne peoples before, settlers and passers-through quickly came to appreciate Valley amenities such as natural hot springs, wild game and excellent fishing.

These remain draws today. The North Platte River and its tributaries continue to support many of the same ranching families that originally settled the area, in addition

to adding to a thriving outdoor recreation and tourism industry.

Opportunities for outdoor fun in the Valley abound: world-class fishing, hunting, rafting, paddling, camping, hiking and photography are all right out the back door.

Large game such as elk and moose roam the forests and enormous herds of pronghorn antelope dot the grasslands just outside of town. Mule deer strut town streets with stately dignity year-round, and bald eagles routinely feast on fish plucked from the North Platte River, which can be seen right off Bridge Avenue in Saratoga.

With two museums, golf courses, art galleries, historic destinations and annual rodeos and concerts, there’s entertainment for every taste in the North Platte Valley. Stop by any time – just make sure you have an extra day or two to spare in case you end up staying longer than expected.

Welcometo the North Platte Valley!


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©Saratoga Sun. This map is for reference purposes only and is not to scale.

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Saratoga is known nationwide for its outstanding trout fishing and lives up to its slogan, “Where the Trout Leap in

Main Street.” The North Platte River flows through the center of Saratoga, and visitors from all over the world come to enjoy excellent fishing, stellar mountain scenery, world-class trophy hunting and the relaxing mineral hot springs.

The municipal airport is paved, with a lit runway, beacon, and tiedowns for light aircraft and parking for larger planes. Saratoga Aviation is a fixed-based operator supplying aviation fuels.

For road travelers, Saratoga is an hour-and-a-half drive west of Laramie via I-80, and lies 20 miles south of Walcott Junction, (exit 235 onto WYO 130/230). For a more scenic drive through the mountains, take WYO 230 southwest from Laramie to Mountain Home, change to Colorado 127/125, turn west on WYO 230 to Riverside, and then north on WYO 230/130 to Saratoga.

Two other scenic mountain routes are open in the summer only. WYO 130 over the Snowy Range, west of Laramie, is usually open Memorial Day weekend until October or November. Wildflowers and mountain lakes make it one of the most beautiful

scenic byways in the country. WYO 70 over Battle Mountain Scenic Byway, west of Encampment to Baggs, opens around the same time as the Snowy Range Scenic Byway and crosses the continental divide.

Attractions in Saratoga include the Saratoga Museum, the National Fish Hatchery north of town, unique shopping and dining opportunities, and some of the best sunsets in the West.

The summer season is packed full of events including rodeos, a microbrew festival, a bull-riding competition, farmers markets, and live music performances. Kathy Glode Park and Veterans Island have recreational playground equipment and picnic areas. Veterans Island also includes a skateboard park.

Two other parks are located in the downtown area: Hat Creek Saddlery Park and Khe Sanh West American Legion Memorial Park on Bridge Street.

There is also a park just for pups, where four-legged friends can run in a large fenced area and get a drink of water. The Kaake Walk dog park is open to the public seven days a week.

Saratoga offers plenty of opportunities to shop in stores supplying western hospitality and unique gift items. Visitors can find the perfect item for any occasion.

The Town of Saratoga


In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed a stone-encircled pool and the pools continued to grow in renown.

Few today believe that the springs can cure serious diseases, but they remain a popular balm for stresses and aches. Many repeat visitors and residents swear nothing soothes like a soak.

Since 1982, the hot springs have been owned and maintained by the town of Saratoga. The town runs a heated bath house facility next to the pools, with show-ers, toilets and a changing area.

Inside the hot pool, temperatures average around 108 degrees. For the brave or reck-less, though, there is a smaller pool known as “the lobster pot” near the south end that averages 119 degrees. A recently added “not so hot pool” is usually 95-100 degrees and suits those less heat inclined.

No alcoholic beverages or glass containers are allowed in the pool area. Doctors advise visitors to avoid the pool after consuming alcohol or while smoking, because the con-striction of blood vessels can lead to fainting. Visitors are strongly advised to bring water with them while soaking, and should exit the pool if they begin to feel lightheaded.

W hether you’ve been out all day, or are just nursing aching joints, there’s no better medicine at day’s

end than a relaxing soak in Saratoga’s mineral hot springs. Located along the North Platte River, the hot springs are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They are also free to the public.

The springs were originally used by area Native American peoples, the Utes, the Arapahoe and the Cheyenne, who came from far afield to enjoy the springs they believed had healing properties.

As easterners settled the area, a small-pox epidemic ravaged native communities. When the hot springs failed to halt the dis-ease, many natives came to view the springs as “Bad Medicine” and abandoned them.

The first pioneers had no such fears. As the springs popularity grew, local resident William Caldwell built a three room house next to them, complete with hot tubs for wea-ry travelers and soldiers from nearby Fort Steele. People suffering from rheumatism, blood disorders, eczema, stomach trouble, kidney problems and other ailments began flocking to Saratoga, which was originally named “Warm Springs.”

Mineral Grains per gal.

Silica 4.987Iron and Aluminum 0.227Lithia tracePotash 6.467Soda 20.463Lime 28.067Magnesia 6.478Hydrocholoric Acid 20.749Sulphuric Acid 29.205Carbonic Acid 17.789Less oxygen equivalent 4.665 to chlorine

Total Solids 129.811

Hot PoolMineral Content

Saratoga Hot Springs


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Saratoga Gun Club

Rifle Range

Hot Springs

Saratoga Resort &

Spa

Saratoga Lake

©Saratoga Sun. This map is for reference puposes only and is not to scale


With a panoramic view of the Snowy Range Mountains as a backdrop, Saratoga Lake’s sandy beaches,

wetlands, bird nesting area and two boat launches make it the perfect spot to while away a summer afternoon. Only 1.5 miles north of Saratoga on WYO 130/230, the lake is easily accessible to the conveniences of downtown Saratoga, but abundant wildlife and mountain vistas give the locale a rustic flavor.

The lake’s sandy beach is accessible from the south by heading east from town on Pic Pike Road, turning north on County Road 205 and turning left at the first dirt road. This is the place to go to work on a tan, fish with friends, build a sand castle or take a dip in the lake.

Saratoga Lake recreation area also boasts a campground operated by the Town of Saratoga. There’s water and restrooms at these 46 lakeside sites, and for a small fee, campers can use the electrical hookups provided. Campsites are open May 1 to October 30, and also during the January Ice Fishing Derby.

The Storer - Saratoga Lake Wetland Project is immediately adjacent to Saratoga Lake, and it’s where you’ll want to head if you’re a birdwatcher. The wetland project

provides a safe nesting and brooding habitat for Canada geese, mallards, teals, widgeons and other types of fowl.

If you’d rather pick out a lure than focus a pair of binoculars, Saratoga Lake has plenty to offer you as well. The lake is full of hungry fish, and according to Mike “Hack” Patterson, owner of Hack’s Tackle and Outfitters, “You can pretty much use whatever you want,” to fish it. Flies, hardware and bait are all effective at the lake.

For fly fishermen, Hack recommends olive wooly buggers, damsel nymphs and scuds, Carey specials, half-backs and anything “buggy” looking in the spring. There’s no particular need to change things up during the summer months, but some prefer to transition to smaller nymphs, Copper Johns, hare’s ears and pheasant tails then.

Keep it simple. These fish know what they want to eat. If one fly isn’t producing, switch to something else and it give it some action,” Hack suggests.

Large caddis, called sedges, hatch throughout the summer.

“Use Hornbergs or any other large dry fly to represent a caddis, and give it a lot of movement, twitch and strip out,” the outfitter recommends. “The insects in the lake don’t change much during the year, so when you get to fall, keep using the same stuff you’ve been using.”

Fishermen are reminded that using live minnow bait isn’t allowed at Saratoga Lake, but spoon-shaped minnows or the ever–trustworthy Rapala can be substituted. Silver and gold are generally good colors to try, but experimenting with other hues can also be profitable.

Whatever the time of year, the key for bait fishermen is to keep it off the lake bed. A mini–marshmallow that’s been slid onto the hook next to the worm can help keep your bait buoyant enough to stay off the bottom.

No matter what your pleasure happens to be, no trip to Saratoga is complete without a visit to the lake. Grill some burgers, throw a frisbee, or have a fire and gaze up at the stellar wonders that appear on a pitch black night 6,800 feet above sea level.

Saratoga Lake


Welcome to the ValleyWelcome to the ValleyCome see our large

North Americanbig game

trophy collectionDeer • Whitetail Deer

Pronghorn • ElkNorthern Pike • Lake Trout

Rainbow TroutMountain Lion • Moose

Black Bear

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Sun. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.


H oused in a Union Pacific Railroad depot that started serving the val-ley in 1915, the Saratoga Museum

is a piece of living history that is itself filled with geological, paleontological and archaeological treasures. These artifacts tell the story of South Central Wyoming in a way that can’t be appreciated on the pages of a book or the screen of a computer.

A geology exhibit takes visitors back over 1 billion years with a series of illustrations provided by Dr. S. H. Knight of the University of Wyoming.

Fossilized remains of algae, dinosaur droppings and even perfectly preserved mammoth teeth provide another window into the area’s vibrant past. Since the 1870s, South Central Wyoming has enjoyed some renown as a paleontological hot-spot, and seeing the wonders discovered by amateur fossil-hunters on display in the Saratoga Museum can be inspirational. Popular with students, a hands-on exhibit of various minerals and fossils allows the tactilely inclined to get a real feel for history.

Those interested in the more recent past can pore over the Homestead Exhibit. This section tells the story of the rugged ranchers, merchants, loggers, dentists physicians, clergy and educators who settled the Valley during America’s Westward Expansion. It also relates the experiences of women pioneers who worked and settled the land beside the men.Another case is devoted to the stones that have been useful to humans living

in the valley for eons. These include tools crafted thousands of years ago by Paleo-Americans, uranium samples, copper ore from the Ferris-Hagerty mine, coal and even a gold nugget.

Wyoming’s largest jade boulder on display is outside, alongside a restored sheep wagon a blacksmith shop, a caboose and a memorial garden as well. An art display depicting the Platte River’s history and its influence on area ranching can also be appreciated in the outdoor area. The mural, painted by local artist and poet Dawn Senior-Trask, was funded through a grant from the Platte Valley Arts Council and the United States Forest Service.

A 19th century school bell from one of Wyoming’s rural schools can also be examined outdoors. The memorial garden is dedicated to community members who contributed to the Saratoga Museum and the history of the Platte Valley. The Pavilion, located on the Museum grounds, was built in 1993 with money from the George B. Storer Foundation. An ornate, octagonal bandstand sitting on carefully landscaped grounds, the Pavilion boasts a beautiful view of Saratoga’s mountainous backdrop.

The Saratoga Museum is free and open to the public 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday to Monday May 28 through October 1. Visitors should note that it is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. To contact the Saratoga Museum, call (307)326-5511 or visit www.saratoga-museum.com. Donations are optional but appreciated.

Saratoga Museum


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Four miles northeast of Saratoga, just off WYO 130, lies the Saratoga Nation-al Fish Hatchery (SNFH) ,which is op-

erated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Hatchery sends trout eggs to fisheries across the nation and raises endangered toads native to Wyoming for conservation and release.

The hatchery is part of the National Fish Hatchery System, which according to the agency’s website is, “a network of field stations located throughout the nation that work with tribal, local, and state governments, other federal agencies, and foreign nations to conserve fisheries.”

SNFH is part of the National Broodstock Program. The program supplies eggs that are genetically sound and disease-free to hatcheries, states, tribes and research facilities. The eggs of trout harvested at SNFH are sent out and the fish spawned from them will go on to live in lakes and

streams across the country. The trout broodstock at SNFH are

artificially spawned. In late fall, workers carefully squeeze the abdomens of trout which causes females to release eggs and the males to release the milt that contains sperm.

The eggs and the milt are combined to fertilize the eggs. The eggs are placed in incubators where they develop until the eyes of the spawn are visible. At that point, the eggs are shipped out to their destinations across the country.

The SNFH also breeds tadpoles of the endangered Wyoming toad and the threatened Boreal toad. The tadpoles raised at SNFH are released into the toads’ native environment.

Visitors are welcomed for self-guided tours. The facility is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, and hatchery employees are available to answer visitors’ questions.

Saratoga National Fish Hatchery


Hack’s is an equal opportunity service provider under permit by the Medicine Bow/Routt National Forest & BLM.

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One of the best kept secrets among fishermen is trout fishing in the Upper North Platte River, designated by the

Wyoming Game and Fish Department as a Blue Ribbon trout stream because of the population of trout that swim its waters. With an estimated 868 fish per mile, the river offers remarkable fishing opportunities for all sorts of fishermen, whether they prefer fly fishing, or tackle and bait fishing.

The river is loaded with several trout species, including brook trout, brown trout and rainbow trout. Expert guide services located throughout the Valley offer guided fishing expeditions that provide some of the most enjoyable and relaxing fishing trips around that just may land anglers a once-in-a-lifetime trophy fish.

Wade fishermen will also find the Upper North Platte River to be a haven for their sport. There are numerous public access areas scattered along the length of the river from the Sierra Madre Mountains closer to Colorado, near the towns of Encampment and Riverside, to the high prairies near Saratoga.

The public access areas are: Six Mile Gap;

Pickaroon; Bennett Peak; Treasure Island; Saratoga; Foote; Pick Bridge; Sangers and Eagle’s nest.

Always check water levels before going out on your own, and local landowners kindly request that visitors respect private property signs. Riverbanks and bottoms are private property, even though the water that runs over them is public.

Access areas closer to Colorado like Six Mile, Pickaroon and Bennett Peak are more remote with rugged terrain. Access points further down the river are much more open, less rugged, and much more accessible by vehicles.

One favorite of the local Upper Platte Valley fisherman is the Encampment River, which ties into the North Platte River just above the Treasure Island Access. For access information, consult the office of Wyoming Game and Fish located in Saratoga, or one of the Valley’s fishing guides.

Licenses, conservation stamps, tackle, flies and bait can be purchased at any of the numerous fishing retailers in the Valley.

Trout FishingIn the North Platte Valley


USFS Rapid Rating System(I) Very Easy Wavessmall,regular;passagesclear,verylittlemaneuvering;riffles.(II) Easy Rapidsofmediumdifficulty,somemaneuveringnecessary;lowedges,slowrockgardens,

medium,regularwaves.(III) Medium Wavesnumerous,high,irregular;rocks,strongeddies,passagesclearthoughnarrow,

expertiseinmaneuveringrequired,inspectionnecessarythefirsttime.(IV)Difficult Longrapids,wavespowerful,irregular;dangerousrocks,boilingeddies,inspection

usuallynecessary;powerfulandprecisemaneuveringrequired;maximumsafetyprecautionsnecessary.

(V) VeryDifficult Verylargeirregularwaves,criticalcomplexmaneuveringrequired;maximumsafety

precautionsnecessary.Risktoboatandlife;limitsofcontrollednavigation.(VI) Limits Navigationpresentssevererisktolifeandboat;rarely,ifever,run.

Northgate Canyon Rapids Rating

River Flow LevelsRapids Rating System

River Flow LevelsBelow 900 cfsVerymarginalforrafts:smallraftsandkayaksmaybeOKdownto800cfsorso;dependsonskilllevelandknowledgeofriver.

900-1200 cfsOKforkayaks,smalleroarboatsandpaddleboats.Notadvisedforloadedoarboats(gearboats).

1200-2500 cfsGoodwaterlevelsforallrafts–averytechnicalanddifficultrun.

2500-2900 cfsGetting pretty fast –stillsuitableforpaddleboats.

Above 2900 cfsVery significant and dangerous at this point! Water levels above 2900 cfsDEMAND expertexperienceandmaneuveringabilityforasuccessfulandsaferivertrip.Advisedforveryexperiencedoarsmenandkayakersonly.


Whether your idea of fun is a lazy afternoon on tranquil waters, or a heart-pounding whitewater adven-

ture, the North Platte River has what you’re looking for. With one of the most diverse riparian ecosystems in southern Wyoming, the North Platte has a wide variety of wild-life and fish to offer nature enthusiasts and fishermen as well.

One way to explore this unique waterway is by floating it on a boat or raft. Though the river can be tricky and even dangerous in places, there are plenty of seasoned local guides who can help enthusiasts who are unfamiliar with the area.

Fishermen should be sure to pick up a current regulation guide to familiarize themselves with each area’s limits and regulations. Also, it’s important to note that each person in a boat or raft is required to have a life preserver.

Another consequential rule to remember is that in the state of Wyoming, water flowing over private land is public, but the underlying river beds and adjacent shorelines are still considered private. Signs found along many portions of the North Platte indicate whether land is public or private, and can be helpful to those floating the river. Public access to the

North Platte is dependent on mutual respect between private property owners and the boaters and fishermen who float the river.Generally, the river flows best for fishing and rafting during June and July. By these months, the water has usually stabilized from spring and early summer run-off, and fishing is good for both spinning tackle and fly-fishing.

In addition to life preservers, rafters should plan to take along sunscreen, plenty of water, and perhaps a wetsuit. North Platte water remains cold late into the summer, and those floating should be prepared.

Floaters can launch from 14 public access points, from the Rout Launch access in Colorado to Fort Steele just North of Interstate 80 in Wyoming. Trips can range from three to four days from Routt to Fort Steele, or less than six hours from the Treasure Island access to Saratoga.

Float times can be variable depending on how high the river is running, so some flexibility should be built into the timetable of any trip. Floaters are also reminded that canoes are prohibited between the Routt access and Six-Mile Gap, unless the floater has written permission from the USFS to canoe this section.

FloatingThe North Platte River


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Multi-functional Facilityfor all your conference and entertainment needs!


North Snowy Range Hiking Trails


• Tie Hack Trail is usable with bridge damage• All trail lengths are one way• Easy - Route is mostly level with short uphill/downhill sections• Mod. - Route is level to sloping with longer uphill/downhill sections• More -Route is level to steep with sustained uphill/downhill sections• Some trailheads require a day use fee

Caution - A SNAG is a standing, dead tree. These have the potential to fall or break offsuddenly and without warning. Use extreme caution, especially during periods of high winds.

Hiking Trails


Wildflowers, spruce-fir forests and stunning panoramic views provide ample rewards for those willing to attempt the physically demanding trek.

Compared to better-known national parks, neither the Snowy Range nor the Sierra Madres are teeming with people, so those wishing to truly immerse themselves in solitude can find it by heading south on highway 70.

This leads to the Sierra Madre Mountains, which are even less visited than their Snowy Range counterparts. These mountains, straddling the Continental Divide, form part of North America’s tectonic backbone. They too offer myriad opportunities for camping, backpacking, mountain biking and hunting.

Particular highlights include Green Mountain Falls, the Encampment River Wilderness and Bridger Peak.

With the Sierra Madres to the south and the Snowy Range rising up in white-crowned glory to the east,

Saratoga is right next door to a veritable alpine playground. Easily accessible trails and picnic areas allow beginning hikers to enjoy the region’s unique beauty, while remote wilderness areas and peaks provide a challenge to even the most experienced mountaineers.

The Snowy Range Scenic Byway linking Saratoga to the town of Centennial is only open between May 31 and October 31, but it is well worth the wait. The drive is one of the most beautiful in the country, and provides access to many trails, peaks, pristine lakes and alpine meadows. Along this route, anglers can fish in remote Mirror, Lookout and South Gap Lakes, while hikers can make an ambitious attempt at summiting Medicine Bow Peak, which rises to 12,013 feet above sea-level.

HikingThe Snowy Range & Sierra Madres


BRUSH CREEK/HAYDEN RANGER DISTRICT

# on Campground Season Elevation Number Max Vehicle/ Notes Fee (May Map Name (Variable) (Feet) of Sites Trailer Size change)

2 Bottle Creek 6/01-9/15 8,800 12 45 F $10 3 Bow River 6/10-9/15 8,600 13 32 F $10 4 Deep Creek 7/01-9/15 10,200 12 22 F $10 5 French Creek 6/01-9/15 8,000 11 32 F $10 6 Jack Creek 6/10-9/15 8,500 16 22 F $10 7 Hog Park** 6/15-9/15 8,400 50 30 R, F, B (HP, E, IC) $10 8 Lincoln Park 6/01-9/15 7,800 12 32 F $10 9 Lost Creek 6/01-9/15 8,800 10 22 F $10 10 Ryan Park 6/01-9/15 8,000 48 32 R, NW $10 11 Silver Lake 7/15-10/01 10,400 17 32 F, B (HP) $10 12 Sixmile Gap 5/15-9/15 8,000 9 32 F $10 13 S. Brush Creek 6/01-9/15 7,900 20 32 F $10

LARAMIE RANGER DISTRICT 28 Bobbie Thomson 6/01-10/15 8,800 12 32 F $10 29 Brooklyn Lake 7/15-10/01 10,500 19 22 R, F, B (HP) $10 30 Lake Owen 6/01-10/15 9,000 38 22 F, B (HP, E, IC) $10 31 Libby Creek – Aspen 6/01-10/15 8,600 8 22 F $10 32 Libby Creek – Pine 6/01-10/15 8,600 6 16 F $10 33 Libby Creek – Spruce 6/01-10/15 8,600 8 16 F $10 34 Libby Creek – Willow 6/01-10/15 8,600 16 22 R, F $10 35 Miller Lake 6/01-10/15 9,100 7 22 F, B (HP) $10 36 Nash Fork 7/01-10/15 10,200 27 22 F $10 37 North Fork 6/15-11/01 8,600 60 30 R, F $10 38 Pelton Creek 6/15-10/15 8,100 15 16 F $10 39 Rob Roy 6/15-10/01 9,500 65 35 F, B (HP, E, IC) $10 40 Sugar Loaf 7/15-10/01 10,700 16 22 R, F, B (HP) $10

• All Campgrounds have toilets and water unless noted. There are no electrical hookups or showers.

• Opening dates of campgrounds depend on weather conditions and snow removal. Please call district offices for confirmation of dates.

• Stay limit in all campgrounds is 14 consecutive days.

• Dogs are allowed in campgrounds; however, they must be on a leash.

• Horses are not allowed in campgrounds.

(R) Reservations may be made at www.recreation.gov or by calling the National Recreation Reservation Service at (877) 444-6777, TDD: (877) 833-8777.

(F) Fishing(B) Boating (HP=hand-powered, E=Electric motors allowed,

IC=Internal Combustion Motors allowed)(NW) No water available at site during the summer

** Please note that some campgrounds may be affected by the Mountain Pine Beetle epidemic and sites may be impacted by ongoing removal of hazard trees or other maintenance work. Please call ranger district for latest conditions and updates.

Camping Spots

SaratogaLake

Campground


$37 in Carbon County (print only) • $38 (print & online) $47 everywhere else (print only) • $48 (print & online)

$35 Online onlyMail check with name and address to: Saratoga Sun, P.O. Box 489, Saratoga, WY 82331

or call 307-326-8311 to pay with credit card or pay online at www.saratogasun.com.

Brighten your week!Subscribe to the

Saratoga Sun today!


No visit to the Good Times Valley would be complete without stopping in Riverside, a town that welcomes

visitors with small town charm and friendliness, activities and beautiful vistas. The town is located at the junction of WYO 70 and WYO 270.

The town was established in 1902 and previously had two other names; Swan and Doggett.

Since 2005, the town has hosted its annual Riverside Party Day, offering a day of food, music and socializing to residents and visitors alike. The Party day is held in Riverside’s Rick Martin Park, a shady, tree-filled park named after the town’s first casualty of the Vietnam War.

This year, the festivities will take place Aug. 13 in the park. A barbecue dinner will be served at 4 p.m., and at 5 p.m. there will be live music performed by the High Plains

Tradition Bluegrass band, a traditional Bluegrass band that has played in the U.S., Canada, and Ireland.

There is no charge for visitors to enjoy Riverside Party Day, eat dinner or attend the concert.

Riverside also offers other amenities to travelers, including bars and restaurants, overnight camping, rental cabins, and a sporting goods retailer. Visitors to the town can also visit the Indian Bathtubs a short distance outside the town. These natural bowl-shaped rock formations become natural bathtubs when filled with rain water.

The Encampment River, a treasure for local fishermen, runs though the town and there is public fishing access at Finch Memorial Park.

WhatFest, hosted in town, is one of the largest music festivals in the state. It happens this year on July 29-30. To see an up-to-date lineup, see their website at whatfest.com.

The Town of Riverside


The history of Grand Encampment, as it was originally named, is influenced by mining and forestry

more than downstream communities like Saratoga. Trappers and trailblazers like Jim Baker were the first Anglos to visit the Encampment area. Although they built cabins scattered in the mountains, these early mountain men didn’t establish permanent communities.

In the 1870s, ranches were established along the Encampment River and its tributaries, which brought families and new businesses to the area.

The tie-hack industry developed when the Union Pacific Railroad came through southern Wyoming and crossed the North Platte at Fort Steele, downstream from Encampment.

Entire families spent the winter isolated from town in mountain tie camps where men cut timber. In the spring, they returned to lower elevations and floated huge timber rafts downriver to be loaded on trains at Fort Steele.

Forestry remained important to the economy following the end of the tie industry, and there were several local timber mills.

At the end of the 19th century, copper was

discovered in the Sierra Madre Mountains, which resulted in the construction of a 16-mile aerial tramway from the mines to a smelter on the bluffs above the Encampment River. Only the foundations are visible today.

The boom was short-lived, and many of the miners moved on following the fall in copper prices. However, some area ranches remain in the families of the original homesteaders.

Several original buildings still stand and some have been updated to restore their historic grandeur. More information about historic structures can be found at the Grand Encampment Museum located in town.

The Grand Encampment Opera House is a pillar of pride for the community, and it underwent a extensive renovation in 2011.

The Opera House is now the epicenter of the community, hosting concerts, plays, weddings, dances, funerals and other community events. It is enjoyed by young and old alike.

Visitors can enjoy a hike around the Encampment River Trail, with the trailhead located at Oddfellows Campground south of town.

The Encampment River can be floated at certain water levels and local outfitters will guide this exciting stretch of river.

The Town of Encampment


In the summer months, the Snowy Range Scenic Byway explodes with color as dozens of wildflower species bloom in their alpine

climes. Depending on the season, wildflower en-

thusiasts will encounter everything from blue columbines and marsh marigolds to the poetically named Jacob’s Ladders and Indi-an Paintbrushes, the Wyoming state flower.

Picking wildflowers is illegal, but there are no rules against taking photos or mak-ing mountainside memories. In any case, the plants are more readily enjoyed alive in their natural environment than they are when slowly dying inside a vase. Miner’s Cabin Trail near Libby Flats offers some of the best opportunities to see and learn about the wide array of wildflowers found in the area. The easy one-mile hike has many interpretive signs and also features historic mines and cabins for history buffs.

Area Wildflowers


hard frontier winters. The 65-foot fire look-out tower is perfect for taking in a view of the Valley. Special arrangements can be made for sunrise or sunset photo shoots from the fire tower for a fee.

Also on exhibit is a caboose from the Saratoga and Encampment Railway Co., the only surviving railroad car of the defunct rail-road company, which was built during the turn of the century copper boom in the Platte River Valley.

In 2016, the Grand Encampment Museum will celebrate its 50th year. It is a milestone for historic preservation, education and local community pride.

Although the entire year will be dedicated to the anniversary, the GEM plans to official-ly celebrate its anniversary on August 5-7. The celebration will be a 3 day event with a ceremony, food, and music. A time capsule will be opened and there will be a re-dedica-tion of the Doc Culleton building. This event is coordinated with the Encampment All Class Reunion and everyone who graduat-ed from Encampment High School since the 1950s will be invited to the 50th celebration.

The Snowy Mountain Brewery is brewing two specialty beers for the Grand Encamp-ment Museum in honor of the museum’s an-niversary. They will launch the Copper Rail Car Lager on May 28, and the Outhouse Bock sometime in late July. The beer will be on tap all summer long at two locations: the Snowy Mountain Brewery at the Saratoga Inn and at the Bear Trap in Riverside.

The Grand Encampment Museum is free to the public with tours conducted daily. Tours can take from one to two hours and admit-tance to the buildings is available only with a tour guide. Donations for admission are ap-preciated and pay for the several restoration and research projects the GEM is involved with.

For more information call 307-327-5308 or visit www.GEMuseum.com.

The Grand Encampment Museum (GEM) truly is the gem of southern Wyoming, having been named the Wy-

oming office of tourism’s “Attraction of the Year” of 2011. The museum grounds host 18 historical buildings set on two city blocks that tell the stories of the Native Americans, fur trappers, traders, tie-hacks, ranchers, min-ers, loggers and sportsmen that make up the deep and colorful history of the Grand En-campment area and the Platte River Valley.

The museum is open May 27 through Oct. 10, 2016 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturday and Sundays from 1-5 p.m. and all summer holidays. The museum holds many original structures from the area including homestead cabins, a one room school house, a tie-hack cabin, a mercantile store, a saloon, an old time newspaper office, a doctor’s office, a forest service cabin and a mineral exhibit donated from the old Casto’s Rock shop.

The historic tram tower exhibit that tells the story of Encampment’s decade-long cop-per boom during the late 1800s and early 1900s is on exhibit, as well as the ever popu-lar two-story outhouse that was built so that workers could still use the outhouse when the snow drifts covered the first level during the

Grand Encampment Museum


T he splendor of the Snowy Range is one of the greatest and most beautiful natural features of the

Good Times Valley, and one of the best ways to experience the splendor of these magnificent mountains is a drive on the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. The winding mountain highway section, a part of Wyoming Highway 130, is the second forest road in the U.S. to be named as a National Forest Scenic Byway.

The Snowy Range Scenic Byway is usually open by Memorial Day weekend until the middle or later part of fall when it is closed by snow.

The road winds through the forested areas of the Snowy Range, eventually crossing the summit of the mountains, offering visitors the opportunity to view the beauty of the alpine ecosystem juxtaposed against the imposing granite faces of the mountains of the Snowy Range. As the byway weaves its way across the landscape, visitors are afforded views of forest, glens filled with wildflowers and argent lakes. Lake Marie is at the foot of 12,013 foot-high Medicine Bow peak. As the highest peak in the range, Medicine Bow towers above

the lake below. Travelers can easily stop to walk a paved trail around Mirror Lake and Lake Marie to stretch their legs and enjoy scenic views.

It is part of one of the state’s loop tours — the Snowy Range and Laramie Plains Loop.

The Byway connects the Platte Valley with the mountainside community of Centennial, and continues on to Laramie, home of the University of Wyoming. From there, the loop continues out of Laramie and though the ranching towns of Rock River and Medicine Bow. It then passes though the coal mining town of Hanna before continuing on WYO 130/230 back to the town of Saratoga in the Platte Valley.

There are several hiking trails accessible from the Byway, including one that goes up to Medicine Bow Peak. There are also picnic and camping areas, as well as observation areas and interpretive centers. There are also visitor’s centers run by the U.S. Forest Service at both ends of the Byway where visitors can get information about all the activities available in the Medicine Bow National Forest and the Snowy Range Scenic Byway.

Snowy RangeScenic Byway


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Just west of the town of Encampment is Wyoming Highway 70, also known as the Battle Mountain Highway

or the Battle Highway. The road winds though the Sierra Madre Mountain Range, over the Continental Divide, passing through the towns of Savery, Dixon and Baggs. The route has been a Wyoming Scenic Byway since 2012.

In 2011, a slide damaged part of the highway, and a new alignment was built to avoid the area damaged by the slide. Visitors can still drive portions of the old highway and see some magnificent vistas, however.

The road leads to several areas of note, including Battle Lake, where Thomas Edison once fished in 1878, and Aspen Alley. Aspen Alley is one of the largest aspen groves in the U.S., and stands out as the trees there grow unusually large for aspens. The area is an excellent backdrop for photography.

During the fall, the area becomes very colorful, with Aspen Alley as a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The Sierra Madre area is also home to many species

of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, moose, deer and elk. It is also possible to see mountain lions and bears in the area.

The road passes through several abandoned mining towns in the Sierra Madre mountains, and crosses the hike-able Continental Divide at an altitude of 9,915 feet. The road is a seasonal closure road, and the goal is to open it from Memorial Day Weekend until sometime in mid or late fall when snow closes the Byway. Some years, however, it opens later or closes earlier.

Visitors are advised to obey speed limit signs carefully and pay attention, as wildlife will often cross the road.

Battle Mountain Scenic Byway


B esides the natural beauty afforded by the nearby mountains and the river, the Platte Valley also has some of

the best ranch land in the United States. Ranch land is an integral part of the local ecosystem, as it provides open spaces for vegetation, clean air and watershed stability for the Platte River.

As the watershed is is the lifeblood of the Valley and the ranches, water is managed very carefully.

Ranching is a key economic activity in the Platte Valley, contributing to the local economy year-round.

Ranches can be made up of private, state or federal land, and the lands are managed to provide for multiple uses. Sportsmen, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts all benefit from the open spaces provided by ranches in the Platte Valley.

Though ranches are a key ingredient to the beauty and bounty of the Platte Valley, please respect no trespassing signs when enjoying outdoor activities.

Respect private property

Ranching & Agriculture


Any watercraft transported into Wyoming from March 1 through Nov 30 must undergo a mandatory inspection by an

authorized inspector prior to launching in any water in the state.

According to the Wyoming Game and Fish website, www.wgfd.gov, any person transporting a watercraft who did not encounter a mandatory aquatic invasive species check station prior to reaching a water of the state may launch without further inspection if the watercraft has a proper-ly affixed seal applied by an authorized inspec-tor and is accompanied by a valid seal receipt during transit. The person transporting the wa-tercraft may remove the seal immediately prior to launching on the destination water and must retain the seal and valid seal receipt while on the water.

If your watercraft has been in a water infest-ed with zebra/quagga mussels within the last 30 days, it is required to undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching during all months of the year. Waters positive for Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are often posted at boat ramps and launches. A list of waters known to be infested and other infor-mation is available on the Wyoming Game and Fish website.

If your watercraft was transported into Wyo-ming from Dec.1 through the last day of Febru-ary, has not been in a water infested with zebra/quagga mussel within the past 30 days, and did not encounter a mandatory aquatic invasive spe-cies check station prior to reaching a water of

the state, you may launch without an inspection.

Boat InspectionsAll boaters must stop at established check sta-

tions. Check stations are established at ports of entry, border locations, or at boat ramps. They are set up to ensure watercraft are drained, cleaned and dried before launching. Inspections are also available at WGFD Regional Offices during normal business hours.

All watercraft must have a valid Wyoming AIS decal before boating on any waters in the state. Decals are available online, at regional offices and at automated license selling agents.

To have your boat inspected in Saratoga, make an appointment with Hack’s Tackle at 307-326-8923.

This Guide is distributed throughoutWyoming and the region.

If you would like to see this guide inyour location, call 307-326-8311.

Limiting Aquatic Invasive Species


GIVE US A CLICK!WWW.SARATOGASUN.COM

SCAN WITH YOUR SMART PHONE TO GET THERE FAST!

Wyoming’s outdoors are full of nat-ural beauty and plenty of oppor-tunities for recreation, but they

are also home to several large carnivores such as brown bears. Tourists should use caution while exploring wild areas. Here are some tips to keep in mind when visit-ing these animals’ natural habitat.

BEAR SAFETY TIPS:

WHEN HIKING:

Always look for signs posted at trail heads that may warn you of recent bear activity. Pay attention to your surroundings and be on the lookout for fresh tracks or scat. Make noise when hiking to avoid surprising a bear, and hike in groups when possible.

Leave your dog at home if you can. They can draw bears back to you. If it’s not possible to leave your dog at home, keep it on a leash.

Have bear spray handy and accessible at all times.

Bears are often active around dusk and dawn, so be extra cautious at those times.

Animal carcasses can be food for bears for days; stay clear of them.

If you see a bear cub, find another route. The mother is nearby and will be defensive.

WHEN CAMPING:

Don’t leave food out. Keep it in a bear locker or vehicle.

Use bear-proof garbage cans for your trash.

Maintain a clean and odor-free camp. Be mindful of things like streams, gar-bage cans, animal carcasses and other things that may attract bears when choosing your camp site.

Anything that smells sweet or has food odors can attract bears. This includes food, cooking utensils, lotions and bath products and even clothes with food odors. Store these things away from your camp in a bear-proof container.

Cook 100 feet away from your camp and don’t eat in camp.

Pack out all trash. Bears have a keen sense of smell and can find trash even when buried.

AROUND THE HOME:

Don’t feed wildlife on purpose or by leaving food out. Feeding animals can cause bears to become habituated to finding food around homes.

If a bear enters your yard repeatedly, look for what may be drawing it in.

Put garbage out the day of pickup, not the night before.

Place birdfeeders out of bears’ reach and take them down during times of high bear activity.

Keep barbeque grills clean and grease-free.

Keep pet food and other attractants in-side a building.

Pick fruit from fruit trees and off the ground surrounding them.

Compost piles can attract bears. Avoid adding meat or fish to compost, and add lime to speed breakdown of organic matter.

Use electric fences to keep bears out of yards, orchards, gardens, beehives and compost piles.

Keep brush trimmed. This gives bears fewer places to hide. In this way, trim-ming mitigates the risk of a surprise encounter.

Don’t try to chase bears from your prop-erty. Call Fish and Game for assistance instead.

Be Bear Aware


Church of Christ, Second and McCaffrey, (E).

Saratoga Alliance Church, 1302 South River, (S)

Foothills Baptist Church, 510 Freeman, (E)

St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 216 West Spring, (S)

Encampment Presbyterian, 918 Rankin, (E)

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Ninth and Hugus, (S)

Platte Valley Lutheran Church, 514 S. First, (S)

St. James Episcopal Church, McCaffrey Ave., (E)

First Presbyterian Church, Third and Bridge, (S)

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 106 West Main, (S)

Platte Valley Christian Center, Assem-bly of God, Seventh and Main, (S)

First Baptist Church, 802 W. Main, (S)

Christian Community Church, 3.5 miles north of Encampment on WYO 230 (R)

SGI-USA Wyoming, Saratoga District, (S)

Abundant Life Fellowship, 211 North First St., (S)

Ride on Faith Ministries, 7 miles South of Saratoga

(S): Saratoga (E): Encampment (R): Riverside

Phone NumbersSARATOGA

Emergency, 911Saratoga Police Department, 326-8316

Wyoming Highway Patrol, 800-442-9090Saratoga Town Hall, 326-8335

Medical Clinic, 326-8381Dentist, 326-5474 or 326-8895

Pharmacist, 326-5129Game Warden, 326-5583, 800-842-1934

Forest Service, 326-5258Post Office, 326-5611

Saratoga Sun Newspaper, 326-8311School District Office, 326-5271

Airport, 326-8344Library, 326-8209

Chamber of Commerce, 326-8855Platte Valley Community Center, 326-7822

ENCAMPMENT/RIVERSIDEEmergency, 911

Encampment/Riverside Police, 326-8316

Encampment Town Hall, 327-5501Riverside Town Hall, 327-5266

Post Office, 327-5747Encampment School, 327-5442

Library, 327-5775

Area Codes: The area code for the state of Wyoming is 307. There are no long-dis-

tance charges between Saratoga, Encampment and Riverside.

Zip Codes:Saratoga - 82331.

Encampment/Riverside - 82325.

Valley Churches

$37 in Carbon County • $47 everywhere elseAdd $1 for online AND delivery • $35 online only

THREE WAYS TO PAY:1. Send Check made out to the Saratoga Sun to: P.O. Box 489, Saratoga, WY 82331

2. Call 326-8311 to pay with your credit card 3. Go online at www.saratoga.com

Interested in more of the Platte Valley?


ENCAMPMENTMay 27: Grand Encampment Museum

Opening Day — The museum is open from 9-5 Tuesday-Saturday and 1-5 Sundays. SARATOGA

May 28: Saratoga Museum Opening Day — The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. seven days a week from May 22 to Oct. 12th

May 28: Grand Encampment Museum Beer Launch – The Snowy Mountain Brewery is brewing two specialty beers for the Grand En-campment Museum in honor of their 50th Anni-versary, the Copper Rail Car Lager on and the Outhouse Bock (sometime in late July.) ENCAMPMENT

June 4: 20th Annual Cow Pie Open Golf Tournament — Have you ever golfed in a cow pasture? Well, here is you chance. Find out how good you are with the natural hazards of the course.

June 4: Encampment Summer Celebration — Come celebrate summer as the local green-house hosts its anniversary party with food and drinks, the museum remains open for the day and Encampment merchants offer specials.SARATOGA

June 4: Hi Water Hoedown – Concert with Halden Wofford and the Hi Beams, Dee Taylor, Dana Cooper, J Shogren Shanghai’d. The Yard. Gate opens at 5 p.m., music 6 to 10 p.m.

June 11: Saratoga Museum’s Historic Saratoga Trek — Take a step back into histo-ry with the Historic Saratoga Trek sponsored by the Saratoga Museum.

June 11: Let the good times roll at our sec-ond annual Wounded Warrior Poker Run- WYCO Freedom Ride! Hop on your motorcy-cle and ride through scenic southern Wyoming and northern Colorado while having fun and raising money for the Northern Colorado/Wyo-ming Chapter of Wounded Warriors. The event begins at the Saratoga Resort and Spa in beauti-ful Saratoga, Wyoming when you check in and receive a punch card and a route map. Partici-pants then return to the Saratoga Resort and Spa around 5pm, where each punch card is turned in for a poker hand, food, live music and multiple prizes! Visit our website for route map, punch cards and to reserve your stay.

June 12: Michael Martin Murphy – Battle Pass Scenic Byway Alliance proudly announces that Michael Martin Murphey will play a benefit Matinee performance at the Platte Valley Com-munity Center on Sunday, June 12th from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.ENCAMPMENT

June 15-18: Grand Encampment Opera Melodrama “The Treasure of Shiver River or It’s Hard to Drive Cattle When Their Horns are Frozen” by Flip Hobler & Cindy Marcus. All at 7pm at the Opera House.SARATOGA

June 16: Art Walk – Beginning at 4 p.m. in downtown Saratoga, experience art and music with Laura M Gallery, Studio T and Lollypops. There will be an open mic at Dukes Bar and Grill. ENCAMPMENT/RIVERSIDE

June 18-19: Woodchoppers Jamboree and Rodeo — For over 50 years, the chips fly during Father’s Day weekend in Encampment as log-gers come from all over the country to compete for the title of Rocky Mountain Champion Lum-berjack. Using power saws, axes and hand saws, men and women competitors cut down “trees”, chop logs and saw squared wood blocks in half, racing the clock for the fastest time. Cowboys ride bulls and broncs. This unique Wyoming event assures a good time will be had by all. Sponsored by Encampment-Riverside Lions Club. Events begin Saturday with a parade at 9 a.m. from Encampment to Riverside led by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars. Wood-chopping events begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. Sunday. The rodeo begins both days at 1:30 p.m.SARATOGA

June 24: Concert at The Yard – Mama Len-ny and the Remedy, The Peculiar Patriots. Gate opens at 4 p.m., music from 5 to 10 p.m.

July 2-4: The community is planning a full weekend of fun for the Fourth of July, includ-ing live music, a car show, a barbecue and food vendors. For up-to-date information, visit the Chamber’s website: www.saratoga-chamber.info, or visit www.saratogasun.com

July 2-4: Platte Valley Arts Festival – About 40 artists will gather at the Platte Valley Com-munity Center for a juried art show. Friday, July

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1 is invitation only. Viewing is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Monday 9 am to 4 pm. There will be a sale and prize money will be awarded.

July 2: A Celebration of Custom & Culture — Hosted by the Saratoga Museum, learn about the tipi traditions of Native Americans and watch one go up. Learn about the history of the Platte Valley including the homesteaders who came and tried to tame the west. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

July 2: Freedom Fest at the Yard – The Matt Skinner Band, Hike Hurwitz and the Aimless Drifters, Western Centuries, Daron Little, Fire-ball. Proceeds to benefit Project Healing Waters. Gate opens at 4 p.m., music 5 to 10 p.m.

July 4: Fourth of July Parade — Join the gang together and enter a float in the old-fash-ioned parade; complete with patriotic music, candy, vintage cars, political candidates, horses and lots of fun! The parade is led by the local American Legion. Immediately after parade- an Old Fashioned Bake Auction- Live auction of homemade pies, cakes, cookies, bread and other goodies on the corner of Bridge Avenue down-town. Proceeds go to the Platte Valley Kiwanis Club for their community projects! Fireworks will be fired from Saratoga’s Old Baldy Club at dusk. ENCAMPMENT

July 7: Wyoming Ranchers’ Family Camp — In its 71st year, The Wyoming Ranchers Family Camp is a three-day interdenominational excursion where participants can worship God. Actitivities include adult and youth Bible study, a worship service, talent and music sharing, eve-ning campfire services with sing-along. Dinners will feature chuck-wagon-style meals. Ranchers Family Camp is located at Bottle Creek Camp-ground in the Sierra Madres west of Encamp-ment.SARATOGA

July 8-9: Platte River Rodeo Association Rodeo — Since 1996, the Platte River Rodeo Association has produced a fantastic rodeo in July. The WRA sanctioned rodeo begins at 7 p.m. at Buck Springs Rodeo Arena on Friday and Saturday nights.

Events include: Tie-down Roping, Team Rop-ing, Breakaway Roping, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bareback Riding, Steer Wrestling

and Barrel Racing. There will also be a clown act at the rodeo both nights.

Kids events may include: Kids Boot Race, Goat Dressing, Mutton Bustin’ and Steer Riding (kids can sign up the night of the event at the Arena).

July 8: Chancey Williams and the Younger Brothers Band - Enjoy a concert at the Platte Valley Community Center.

July 9: Saratoga Museum Lake Marie Trek – Join the Saratoga Museum for a Historic Trek at Lake Marie. ENCAMPMENT

July 15-17: Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering — The annual Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering is a truly unique event orga-nized by ranchers, musicians, poets and writers living in the area as a way to help preserve and promote ranching, cowboy culture and lifestyle. It is sponsored by the Grand Encampment Cow-boy Gathering Outfit.SARATOGA

July 16: Saratoga Open Golf Tournament –The Saratoga Open Golf Tournament, sponsored by All-In-One, is a fun and challenging event held at the Saratoga Public Golf Course at the Saratoga Resort and Spa.

July 16: River Poker Run – Register at the American Legion in Saratoga beginning at 10 am for the Hot Pool launch. Call the American Legion for more details 307-326-9600.

July 21: Art Walk – Beginning at 4 p.m. in downtown Saratoga, experience art and music with Laura M Gallery, Studio T and Lollypops. There will be an open mic at Dukes Bar and Grill. ENCAMPMENT

July 22-24: Sierra Madre Muzzleloaders Mountain Man Rendezvous and Black Pow-der Shoot — Come visit Trader’s Row where you can view and trade or purchase a wide array of 1800s plunder, including Native American and mountain man crafts, metal work and cloth-ing. Have a look at grizzled mountain men, voy-agers, trappers and Indians, Indian maidens and pioneer women alike - wearing authentic regalia and cooking over their fires. See the beautiful Indian tipis and other period shelters.

This is a chance for everyone to experience

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a truly historic event. See the sights, smell the smells and hear the sounds from 150 years ago.

July 23: Living History Day, Grand En-campment Museum — Take a step back in time during Living History Day. History is alive in the buildings as descendants of homesteaders feature the buildings donated by their families. See an old-time press run and climb a fire tower. SARATOGA

July 30: Snowy Range Duathalon — The Snowy Range Duathalon is a bike (4.3 miles), hike/run (11 miles), bike (6.83 miles) race of 22.13 miles that will test your stamina and steer you through some of the most beautiful country the Rocky Mountains have to offer. Call 307-326-7822 to learn more about the route. RIVERSIDE

July 29-30: WHAT Fest — One of the larg-est music fest in Wyoming with dozens of acts in various genres, including The Black Lilies, The Patti Fiasco, Jalan Crossland Band and Jake Clayton Band. Located at The Bear Trap in Riv-erside, come for a weekend of fun-filled music. Visit whatfest.com for a full list of performers.ENCAMPMENT

Aug. 5-7: Grand Encampment Museum’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and Reunion – In 2016, the Grand Encampment Museum (GEM) will celebrate its 50th year. This anni-versary is a milestone for Carbon County and for the communities of Encampment and Riverside. It is also a milestone for historic preservation, education, and community pride. The Towns of Encampment and Riverside, and the Carbon County Commissioners have declared 2016 to be the year dedicated to the celebration, obser-vance, and commemoration of the fifty year an-niversary of the Grand Encampment Museum.

Although the entire year of 2016 will be ded-icated to the anniversary year, the GEM plans to officially celebrate its anniversary on August 5-7, 2016. The celebration will be a 3 day event with ceremony, food, and music. This event is purposely coordinated with the Encampment All Class Reunion therefore everyone who has grad-uated from Encampment High School since the 1950’s will be invited to the 50th Celebration.

Aug. 6: Town of Encampment BBQ & Dance — The Encampment Town Council

serves up hamburgers and hot dogs for this an-nual tradition. The barbecue is from 4-7 p.m., with a dance beginning at 6 p.m. Bring your ap-petite, a side dish and a lawn chair to enjoy and evening of fun at Grand View Park.

Aug. 6: CJ Box Book Signing – CJ Box, ac-claimed modern Western writer, will be at the Grand Encampment Museum for a signing be-ginning at 3 pm. ENCAMPMENT

Aug. 12: Quilting Retreat at the Grand En-campment Opera HouseRIVERSIDE

Aug. 13: Riverside Party Day – featuring High Plains Tradition Blue Grass Band. Bring your lawn chairs and dancing shoes! BBQ at 4pm, music at 5pm.SARATOGA

Aug. 13: Saratoga Museum CJ Box Event – The Saratoga Museum is hosting a cook-out with a meet and greet with CJ Box and a themed trivia night. The event will be at the Platte Val-ley Community Center.

Aug. 18: Art Walk – Beginning at 4 p.m. in downtown Saratoga, experience art and music with Laura M Gallery, Studio T and Lollypops. There will be an open mic at Dukes Bar and Grill.

Aug. 20: Steinley Cup — Microbreweries from Wyoming are slated to compete for the coveted Steinley Cup at the 21st annual com-petition. The original and only official State of Wyoming Microbrew Competition will show-case breweries based in Wyoming.

Live music will provide entertainment for the half-day event. The park location features great playground equipment for the kids and horse shoe pits. Local and regional crafters will be showing their hand crafted creations so you can bring home your own trophy.

A chili competition will also be held in con-junction with the festival. Local restaurants and individuals are encouraged to enter red chili, green chili, and salsa vie for the “People’s Choice” award in each category. SARATOGA

Aug. 27: Bullfest — The Bullfest is a bull rid-ers-only event featuring the region’s top cow-boys. The Bullfest, hosted by the Saratoga Lions

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Advertiser IndexAspen Sky Merchant Mall p28Carbon County Visitors Council p36Century 21 Cornerstone Realty p32Chamber of Commerce p34Cottonwood Cabins p38Deer Haven RV Park p04Grand Encampment Museum p38Hat Creek Saddlery and Trading Post p16Hack’s Tackle & Outfitting p18Hotel Wolf p03

Laura M Gallery p10Laura M Backroom p11Platte Valley Community Center p22Saratoga Museum p38Saratoga Resort & Spa p04Saratoga Sun p30Shively Hardware p48Town & County Realty p08Valley Foods p14

Club begins at 7 p.m. at Buck Springs Arena.Aug. 28 – Girls’ Night Out at The Yard –

Women lead singers Susan Gibson, Whippoor-will, Rumors, Rache Harrington. Gate opens at 4 p.m., music 5-10 p.m. ENCAMPMENT

Sept. 10-11: Coppers Day Festival — What could be more fun than a day of fun for the entire family? The Copper Days Festival in Encamp-ment has been entertaining tractor enthusiasts since 1994. Beginning at 11 a.m. on both Sat-urday and Sunday, the whole family can watch antique tractors pull heavy, weighted trailers to compete for the title of strongest tractor. Ad-mission is free! Antique and old time engines will be on display all afternoon, too. Tractors have been collected for decades by those who

reminisce about simpler times when hard work was rewarded with an afternoon of friendly one upmanship. Enthusiasts come from all over the region to compete and share stories and memo-ries with their children and grandchildren. After the Tractor Pull on Saturday, enjoy The Polka Nuts at the Grand Encampment Opera House from 6-9 p.m.SARATOGA

Sept. 10: Saratoga Museum Brush Creek Ranch Trek – Join the Saratoga Museum for a trek to the Brush Creek Ranch outside Saratoga.

Sept. 24: Party on the Platte-Platte Valley Community Center Fundraiser — An annual event to raise money to enhance the beautiful Platte Valley Community Center.

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Historic Shively’sis a good place to start

Serving the Upper Platte River Valley for over 89 years

• Hunting, Fishing & Camping Supplies •• Plumbing & Electrical Supplies •

• Housewares • Hardware •• Lawn & Garden

• Ranching Equipment & Supplies •• Tires • Power Sports •

Serving you from two locations —Downtown & North on WYO 130!

Shively hardware Co.Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. - noon.Corner of Bridge & River Streets • Saratoga • 326-8383

North on WYO 130 • Saratoga • 326-8880

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upper north platte valley adventure guide 2016

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