Free 2021 Edition Platte Valley Adventures For the “Good Times Valley” & Beyond Saratoga, Encampment, Riverside, Hanna, Medicine Bow, Elk Mountain, The Snowy Range & The Sierra Madres
Your guide to summer activities and attractions
Produced by the Saratoga Sun
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ello and thank you for picking events to pass the time in eastern Interstate 80, take a detour from the 2ZQHGE\ up Platte Valley Adventures, a Carbon County. traffic and take some time to enjoy our 6DUDWRJD6XQ,QF new publication from the staff If you’re still concerned about being scenic beauty. You don’t even have to *DU\DQG6XH6WHYHQVRQ ofH the Saratoga Sun. a little too close to people, you will get back on the interstate to continue Longtime readers of the Sun will also find some simple ideas for social your drives, either. 6XEVFULSWLRQUDWHV remember that, for over 20 years, distancing adventures in the Platte If you’re going east, you’ve got three the newspaper put out an annual 'LJLWDORQO\ Valley and the areas around Hanna, alternate routes in the summer; you summer guide that evolved from the Elk Mountain and Medicine Bow. The can take United States Highway 30 LQ&DUERQ&RXQW\ Platte Valley Adventure Guide to the Valley is surrounded by the Snowy through Medicine Bow, head out on HOVHZKHUHLQWKH Adventure Guide. Originally it was Range and Sierra Madre mountains Wyoming Highway 130 and take in printed on newsprint and eventually and sports wonderful hiking trails. the splendor of the Snowy Range and on glossy, high definition pages. If hiking and biking are a little on Lake Marie or embark on Wyoming In a way, we are returning to our the dry side, why not try something a Highway 230 through Riverside and roots by going back to newsprint. The hope is you will carry us with you as little closer to the water? Better yet, try down into Colorado. you go on your adventures, even if something on the water. There are two If a more westerly direction is it’s rolled up and in your back pocket. blue ribbon fisheries in the area; the in your plans, take United States Previous publications put out by North Platte River, that runs through Highway 70—also known as the Battle the Saratoga Sun have featured Saratoga, and the Encampment River, Pass Scenic Highway—over Battle events throughout the summer that which runs through Riverside. Not Mountain and cross the continental have drawn hundreds of people each only do both rivers provide excellent divide into the Little Snake River year. Last year, many of those events fishing, they are also ideal for floating. Valley. were unable to take place due to the Indeed, there is plenty in this There’s always something new to pandemic. This year, however, you will little corner of the Cowboy State to discover, so why not take the time to find a schedule of new and returning keep you busy for days! If you’re on explore?
2021 Platte Valley Adventures 3 Fishing the North Platte River
ne of the best kept secrets The public access areas are: Six among fishermen is trout fishing Mile Gap, Pickaroon, Bennett Peak, Oin the Upper North Platte River, Treasure Island, Saratoga, Foote, which has been designated by the Pick Bridge, Sanger access and Wyoming Game and Fish Department Eagle’s nest. as a Blue Ribbon trout stream because Always check water levels before of the population of trout that swim its going out on your own. Local waters. With an estimated 868 fish landowners kindly request that per mile, the river offers remarkable visitors respect private property signs. fishing opportunities for all sorts of Riverbanks and bottoms are private fishermen, whether they prefer fly property, even though the water that fishing or tackle and bait fishing. runs over them is public. The river is loaded with several trout Access areas closer to Colorado like species including brook trout, brown Six Mile, Pickaroon and Bennett Peak trout and rainbow trout. Expert guide are more remote with rugged terrain. services located throughout the Valley Access points further down the river offer guided fishing expeditions that are much more open, less rugged and provide some of the most enjoyable more accessible by vehicles. and relaxing fishing trips around ... One favorite of the local Upper Platte and may just land anglers a once-in- Valley fisherman is the Encampment a-lifetime trophy fish. River, which ties into the North Platte Wade fishermen will also find the River just above the Treasure Island Upper North Platte River to be a Access. For access information, haven for their sport. Numerous public consult the office of Wyoming Game access areas are scattered along the and Fish by calling 307-326-5583, or length of the river from the Sierra one of the Valley’s fishing guides. Madre Mountains closer to Colorado, Licenses, conservation stamps, near the towns of Encampment and tackle, flies and bait can be purchased Riverside, to the high prairies near at any of the numerous fishing retailers Saratoga. in the Valley. Pic Bridge Access Boating and Floating the North Platte River
hether your idea of fun is a lazy afternoon on tranquil waters or a heart-pounding whitewater Wadventure, the North Platte River has what you’re looking for. With one of the most diverse ecosystems in southern Wyoming, the North Platte has a wide variety of wildlife to see and fish to catch. 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. 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, boaters should take along sunscreen, plenty of water, a dry bag with warm clothing and perhaps a wetsuit. North Platte water remains cold late into the summer and those floating should be prepared. Float times vary depending on how high the river is running, so some flexibility should be built into the timetable of any trip.
North Platte River Public Access
Platte Valley Adventures Page 5
Hiking the Snowy Range and Sierra Madres
ith the Sierra Madres to the rises to 12,013 feet above sea-level. south and the Snowy Range Wildflowers, spruce-fir forests and Wrising up in snow-capped glory stunning panoramic views provide to the east, the Platte Valley is right next ample rewards for those willing to door to a veritable alpine playground. attempt the physically demanding trek. Easily accessible trails and picnic areas Compared to better-known national allow beginning hikers to enjoy the parks, neither the Snowy Range nor the region’s unique beauty while remote Sierra Madres are teeming with people, wilderness areas and peaks provide a so those wishing to truly immerse challenge to even the most experienced themselves in solitude can find it in mountaineers. southern Carbon County. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway linking The Sierra Madre Mountains are even Saratoga to the town of Centennial less visited than their Snowy Range is only open between Memorial Day counterparts. These mountains, Weekend and late fall, but it is well worth straddling the Continental Divide, the wait. The drive is one of the most form part of North America’s tectonic beautiful in the country and provides backbone. They, too, offer myriad access to many trails, peaks, pristine opportunities for camping, backpacking, lakes and alpine meadows. Along this mountain biking and hunting. route, anglers can fish in remote Mirror, Particular highlights include Green Lookout and South Gap Lakes while Mountain Falls, the Encampment River hikers can make an ambitious attempt Wilderness and Bridger Peak. at summiting Medicine Bow Peak, which
Snowy Range Hiking Trails
Platte Valley Adventures Page 7 Calendar of Events
House. a special third course which will be and Rodeo is a perennial Father’s Day JUNE held at the Old Peryam Stage Stop event that draws participants from all ENCAMPMENT east of Riverside. Registration is $50, over. Watch as loggers compete for SARATOGA don’t forget the Friday night blind draw the title of Rocky Mountain Champion June 5-12, 2021: The Grand double at the 3rd course with a $5 buy Lumberjack. June 5, 2021: 11th Annual Hiwater Encampment Museum will celebrate in. End the day by attending the melodrama Hoedown. Whether the river is at Grand Encampment’s copper mining at the Grand Encampment Opera highwater or not, enjoy this annual history for an entire week as they hold June 19-20, 2021: Attend the 60th House, a perennial favorite that elicities music event near downtown Saratoga. their inaugural Tramway Days. Annual Woodchopper’s Jamboree and plenty of laughs and encourages Wyoming musicians Jalan Crossland June 5, 2021 - New York Times Rodeo and watch log tosses, axe throws audience involvement. bestselling author C.J. Box will be and J. Shogren Shangai’d will be joined or timber climbs on one side of the signing copies of his newest book “Dark by Texas-based The Lonesome Heroes Encampment Lions Club Fairgrounds June 25-26, 2021: Learn more about Sky”. at The Yard for a night of great music. or watch steer roping and bull and Lora Webb Nichols, the turn-of-the- Doors open at 5 p.m., tickets are $20 century photographer who documented June 9, 2021: Grand Encampment bronc riding on the other side. Started each. Food provided by The Fire Truck day-to-day life in the copper mining Museum will dedicate their newest in 1960, the Woodchopper’s Jamboree from Firewater. days of Grand Encampment. The display, a model tramway built by local history of Nichols will be presented by community members and historians. June 23: The Saratoga Historical Nicole Hill, professor of art at Humboldt State University. Presentation will be at and Cultural Association will hold the June 11 & 12, 2021: Grand Encampment the Grand Encampment Museum. Saratoga Museum Annual Dinner at Museum will hold the True West History the Platte Valley Community Center. Symposium featuring Bob Boze Bell, The association will be “Honoring Our Johnny Boggs and more. HANNA Founders” this year with a program led by founders Elva Evans and Dick Perue. June 12, 2021: Mother Mountain June 25-26, 2021: Though the days of Evans and Perue will sign copies of Anglers will hold their 5th Annual Tale coal mining in Hanna are long gone, their book “Saratoga: 150 Years”. Music of Two Cities disc golf tournament. coal is still king. The town’s annual King will be provided by local musician and Disc golfers compete on courses at Coal Days kicks off the last weekend in character, Teense Willford. The event Grand View Park in Encampment, Rick June beginning with 3-on-3 basketball will be catered by Firewater Public Martin Memorial Park in Riverside and and a community barbeque.
Page 8 Platte Valley Adventures Calendar of Events
1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Tickets are $30 and family descendants detail the day- event and the children can play on the JULY and include raffle and dinner catered by to-day of early Grand Encampment. classic park equipment at Rick Martin The Grumpy Italian Eatery. Memorial Park while you tap your feet. SARATOGA July 30-31, 2021: 6th Annual Koyoty July 2-4, 2021: The Great Hall at the Howl. Saratoga’s Koyoty Sports show AUGUST Platte Valley Community Center in their appreciation for their customers SEPTEMBER SARATOGA Saratoga is the place to be during the with this annual summer event in ENCAMPMENT July 4 weekend for the 2021 Festival downtown Saratoga. Owner Warden of the Arts. Local and regional artists Patzer brings regional and national August 21, 2021: The Saratoga/Platte converge on the Platte Valley with suppliers and outfitters to town with Valley Chamber of Commerce proudly September 11-12, 2021: View antique mediums ranging from oil pastels to great deals for new and returning presents the 25th Annual Steinley Cup tractors and watch tractor pulls at the stone. A must see if you’re in the Valley. customers alike. Live music and lunch Brewfest at Veterans Island Park. Enjoy Annual Copper Days Festival and provided. live music as you wander around the Dance. This family friendly event has July 3, 2021: Party in downtown island trying different types of chili and run for more than 30 years and excites Saratoga during the 3rd Annual ENCAMPMENT brews. Make your selection for People’s people of all ages as tractor owners put Saratoga Days. Wyoming’s own Choice and see who the judges will their machines to the test in friendly competition. Sponsored in part by the Chancey William and the Young July 16-18, 2021: The Grand determine walks away with the coveted Encampment Chug ‘n’ Tug Tractor Brothers Band will headline the event Encampment Cowboy Gathering Steinley Cup. Admission is $30 for Club, this event is held the weekend this year and will be joined by Jackie will be celebrating its 18th and 19th attendees 13 and up. Children 12 and after Labor Day. For more fun, come to and the Racket and That Eighties Band. year. Cancelled last year due to the under are free. Contact the Saratoga/ the polka dance Saturday evening at Admission is free and vendors will be coronavirus pandemic, this annual Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce at the Grand Encampment Opera House. on hand with food and drinks during this event will return to Grand View Park 307-326-8855 for more information. For more information, call the Saratoga/ and will be free to attendees. Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce Friday night, join cowboy poets for a August 21, 2021: An Evening with 307-326-8855. campfire jam session following the Gema Pearl singing the blues. Held at free open mic poetry/music event. the Platte Valley Community Center. September 21, 2021: Come view On Saturday night, attend the All Star Cost of $50 for Meet and Greet with Cowboy Poetry/Music Show followed Gema and her All Star Band before the classic cars of all types as the 32nd by a dance with music provided by The show! Hors d’oeuvres and open bar. Annual Colorado Grand Charity Car Poudre Valley Playboys with Jason Advanced concert tickets $25, $30 at Tour makes its way to Encampment. Swedlund at the Grand Encampment the door. Six or more tickets include For more information visit co1000.com. Opera House (there will be a $5 CDs with tickets. admission fee for the dance). August 27, 2021: Girls Nite Out. Come July 23-25, 2021: The annual Sierra to The Yard to listen to Patti Fiasco Madre Muzzleloaders Mountain Man featuring 10 Cent Strangers and Susan Rendezvous returns to the grounds of Gibson. Music begins at 5 p.m. family friendly event. the Grand Encampment Museum. Local blackpowder enthusiasts recreate the August 28, 2021: Make your way out to July 5, 2021: Settle in at The Lawn days of the Mountain Men with primitive the Buck Springs Arena for the Saratoga at Firewater Public House for the 3rd camping, authentic costuming, traders Bullfest. This annual bull-riders-only Annual Firewater Fifth. This event row, and blackpowder shoots and event will be guaranteed to thrill as the features local and regional bands with tomahawk throws. region’s top cowboys compete to see varying musical genres for patrons and who comes out on top. Event begins at passerby to enjoy. The nearby North July 24, 2021: Go back in time at 7 p.m., children 12 and under are free. Platte River adds to the ambiance. the Grand Encampment Museum. Held the same time as the Sierra ENCAMPMENT July 9-10, 2021: Drive out to Buck Madre Muzzleloaders Mountain Man Springs Arena for the Platte River OCTOBER Rendezvous, the Grand Encampment August 7, 2021: Find long lost Rodeo Association Rodeo. This Museum’s Living History Day gives Wyoming Rodeo Association and treasurers and good deals during the SARATOGA locals and visitors alike a glimpse into day, enjoy live music and barbecue Colorado Professional Rodeo what life was like for settlers of the at night. The Town of Encampment October 16, 2021: A Toast to History. Association sanctioned rodeo features Encampment area. Local historians barrel racing, bronc riding, team roping, Community Yard Sale gives everyone a Enjoy an evening pairing wine with steer wrestling and bull riding. Kids chance to upcycle those little treasures appetizers from restaurants and events typically include mutton bustin’ that have been sitting in storage for way entrepreneurs around the Valley. Cost and steer riding. Held at 7 p.m. both too long. After a day of yard sales, head is $25 each or $45 per couple for nights admission is $7 with kids 6 and to Grand View Park for the 15th Annual advanced tickets, $30 each at the door. under free. Town of Encampment Community BBQ & Music in the Park. October 28, 2021: Ghosts, goblins July 24, 2021 : Join the Saratoga and witches will be seen during Museum and New York Times RIVERSIDE Saratoga’s Downtown Halloween Walk. Bestselling author C.J. Box for the Local businesses will hand out treats, organization’s annual Joe Pickett August 21, 2021: If you’re in search of and maybe some tricks, in a safe Trivia Contest. For this year’s theme, a slower pace, head down to Riverside environment to school age children. Call contestants are encouraged to go for Riverside Party Day and enjoy the Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of “Sleuthing with Joe Pickett”. A total of the bluegrass stylings of High Plains Commerce for more information at 307- $900 in prize money will be awarded for Tradition. Food is provided at this free 326-8855.
Platte Valley Adventures Page 9 Hiking the Huston Park Wilderness
he Huston Park Wilderness is the second largest wilderness area in the Medicine Bow National TForest. The forest is filled with aspen, pine, spruce and fir. Many small streams flow through marshy meadows that are home to moose, elk and deer. Many of the hiking trails are high enough to give spectacular views that stretch for miles. The most notable trail being the Continenal Divide Trail, 13 miles of which run through the Huston Park Wilderness. The CDT does have its navigational challenges as some sections are not developed and are marked only with blazes. The average elevation of the wilderness area is around 10,000 feet above sea level. Heavy winds and cooler temperatures can be expected. The higer elevations can remain under snow until July. Altitude sickness can be experienced by those who have not yet acclimated to higher elevations. Be aware of how your body is reacting to the height. Spend a day or two getting use to the elevation before embarking on a long hike. Making adjustments to your typical behaviors is a good idea if you are just beginnig to acclimate. Walk at a slower pace and be sure to take deliberate slow, deep breaths. Drinking extra water can also help avoid altitude sickness. Be sure to pack pleanty for the hike. It is not advised you drink directly from streams due to risk of Giardia. Following a little common sense will go a long way for a safe and Hog Park excting hike through some amazing country.
Huston Park Wilderness Hiking Trails
Page 10 Platte Valley Adventures A National Historic Landmark
Hotel Wolf & Restaurant As Featured in the C.J. Box novel “ e Disappeared” (DVW%ULGJH6WUHHW6DUDWRJD:\RPLQJ ZZZZROIKRWHOFRP Indian Bathtubs Trail ountless hiking trails can be growing out of a small rock formation. At found throughout the county the top of the hill, however, hikers will be Cthat cater to skill levels from the greeted by a rock strewn path that slopes novice to the advanced. One trail that is down towards East Cottonwood Creek. a joy for both sits just outside the small Remember to be cautious as this part of town of Riverside. the trail has a steep drop-off. The Indian Bathtubs Trail is a three- After dropping into the cottonwoods quarter mile trail with a trailhead that surround the creek, hikers cross a alongside Carbon County Road 211, bridge and begin the climb towards the commonly referred to as Blackhall Indian Bathtubs. The rock formation will Mountain Road. not be hard to find as it sits near the end A bit more than a half-mile east of of the trail. Riverside along Wyoming Highway While there, hikers can climb on and 230, keep an eye out for a sign reading around the formations and marvel at the “Blackhall Mountain Road.” Turn right depressions worn into them. Directly onto the road to arrive on CCR 211. About across from the tubs sits “Chair Rock,” a mile from Highway 230, drivers will named for its chair-like formation. see a turnout with a sign for the Indian Once hikers finish enjoying these Bathtubs trailhead. ancient rock formations, they only need The trail may not look like much at to head back the way they came to return first as it runs alongside a juniper tree to their vehicles. Indian Bathtub Trail Platte Valley Adventures Page 15 2021 Festival of the Arts July 3, 10am-5pm • July 4, 10am-4pm July 3 • Downtown Platte Valley Adventures Saratoga Lake aratoga Lake is easily and widgeons. action.” accessible and provides According to Mike “Hack” Large caddis, called sedges, Squality picnic and summer Patterson, owner of Hack’s hatch throughout the summer. fun with prime recreation, fishing Tackle and Outfitters, there isn’t “Use Hornbergs or any other and impressive panoramic anything secret or special about large dry fly to represent a mountain views, just one-and- fishing in Saratoga Lake. caddis, and give it a lot of a-half miles north of Saratoga “You can pretty much use movement, twitch and strip it,” on WYO 130/230. whatever you want,” he said Patterson said. “The insects The campground provides water referring to flies, hardware or in the lake don’t change much and electrical hookups for a fee bait. “If something isn’t working during the year so when you get and is operated by Saratoga. It for you, just change what you to fall, keep using the same stuff is open between May 1 and Oct. are doing, or move to another you’ve been using.” 30, and during the annual Ice spot.” Live minnow bait is not permitted Fishing Derby in January. For fly fishermen, he at Saratoga Lake, so use The lake’s Sandy Beach is recommends olive wooly spoon-shaped minnows or the accessible from the south by buggers, damsel nymphs and ever-trustworthy Rapala. Silver heading east from town on Pic scuds, Carey specials, half- and gold are good, but don’t be Pike Road, turning north on backs and anything “buggy” afraid to try other colors — it County Road 205, and turning looking in the spring. There’s may be just what the trout need left at the first dirt road. no need to change things to entice a bite. Sandy Beach is a choice location much in the summer, but some Year-round, the key for bait for sun-tanning, swimming, like to go to smaller nymphs, fisherman is to keep it off the sandcastle building and birding. Copper Johns, hare’s ears and bottom. When using worms, The Storer-Saratoga Lake pheasant tails. slide a mini-marshmallow onto Wetland Project is adjacent “Keep it simple. Those fish the hook and then tip that with to the lake and provides safe know what they want to eat. If a worm, or use a worm blower nesting and brooding habitat for one fly isn’t producing, switch to to inflate the worm, keeping it Canada geese, mallards, teals something else and give it some above the lakebed. (DVW%ULGJH$YH 6DUDWRJD:< ZZZVWXGLRWDUWJDOOHU\QHW 6HHWKH6WXGLR7$UW *DOOHU\SDJHRQ )DFHERRN 7ULVKD.DXIIPDQ2ZQHU /RRNLQJIRUXQLTXHSLHFHVIURPUHJLRQDODUWLVWV" /RRNQRIXUWKHUWKDQ6WXGLR7 :RRG&DUYLQJV3KRWRJUDSK\&XVWRP3ULQWV-HZHOU\*ODVVZDUH3RWWHU\ Platte Valley Adventures Page 17 Camping East Carbon County BRUSH CREEK/HAYDEN RANGER DISTRICT • All Campgrounds have toilets and water unless # on Campground Season Elevation Number Max Vehicle/ Notes Fee (May noted. There are no electrical hookups or showers. Map Name (Variable) (Feet) of Sites Trailer Size change) • Opening dates of campgrounds depend on 2 Bottle Creek 6/01-9/15 8,800 12 45 F $10 weather conditions and snow removal. Please call 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 district offices for confirmation of dates. 5 French Creek 6/01-9/15 8,000 11 32 F $10 • Stay limit in all campgrounds is 14 consecutive 6 Jack Creek 6/10-9/15 8,500 16 22 F $10 days. 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 • Dogs are allowed in campgrounds; however, 9 Lost Creek 6/01-9/15 8,800 10 22 F $10 they must be on a leash. 10 Ryan Park 6/01-9/15 8,000 48 32 R, NW $10 • Horses are not allowed in campgrounds. 1 1 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 (R) Reservations may be made at www. 13 S. Brush Creek 6/01-9/15 7,900 20 32 F $10 recreation.gov or by calling the National Recreation Reservation Service at (877) 444-6777, TDD: LARAMIE RANGER DISTRICT 28 Bobbie Thomson 6/01-10/15 8,800 12 32 F $10 (877) 833-8777. 29 Brooklyn Lake 7/15-10/01 10,500 19 22 R, F, B (HP) $10 (F) Fishing 30 Lake Owen 6/01-10/15 9,000 38 22 F, B (HP, E, IC) $10 (B) Boating (HP=hand-powered, E=Electric 31 Libby Creek – Aspen 6/01-10/15 8,600 8 22 F $10 motors allowed, IC=Internal Combustion Motors 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 allowed) 34 Libby Creek – Willow 6/01-10/15 8,600 16 22 R, F $10 (NW) No water available at site during the summer 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 ** Please note that some campgrounds may be affected 37 North Fork 6/15-11/01 8,600 60 30 R, F $10 by the Mountain Pine Beetle epidemic and sites may be 38 Pelton Creek 6/15-10/15 8,100 15 16 F $10 impacted by ongoing removal of hazard trees or other 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 maintenance work. Please call ranger district for latest conditions and updates. Platte Valley Adventures Page 19 Åyz| Åy|}y ¤¬¡e¦¬¡§¦¤~¡¤¡¬±§ª¤¤±§ª§¦ª¦¦¦¬ª¬¡¦¥¦¬¦«Y Museums Elk Mountain Museum southern Wyoming. The grounds host 18 information about the Native American an authentic coal camp cottage next door. 105 Bridge St. Elk Mountain historical buildings that illustrate the stories tribes who once called the area home, Recent additions to the museum grounds Cost: Free/Donation of the diverse groups who make up the homesteading, ranching, the original U.S. include the Victor G. Anderson Memorial Hours: Wednesday 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Friday colorful history of the area. Mail route, the Union Pacific Railroad and, Building as well as a foot bridge used to 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 The museum features original area of course, “The Virginian”, the first western connect Hanna in its early mining boom p.m. structures including homestead cabins, a novel ever published. days. Memorial Day through Labor Day one room school house, a tie-hack cabin, Outside, the grounds feature a For more information, call 307-325-6465 or a mercantile store, a saloon, an old time sheepherder’s wagon, an old time coal visit hannabasinmuseum.com. Starting its sixth year of operation, the newspaper office, a doctor’s office and a bin, an outhouse, numerous farming and ranching implements and wooden cabin Elk Mountain Museum is a great place to forest service cabin. Saratoga Museum The historic tramway stands testament to built by Owen Wister, author of “The find local historic artifacts including a rare 104 Constitution Ave. Saratoga Virginian”. The museum was recently 1940s coat made from muskrats trapped at Encampment’s copper boom in the late named an area visitor center and is Cost: Free/Donation Bloody Lake. The horse-drawn mail wagon 1800s and early 1900s. Also on display currently working on adding the world Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday - and an area highlighting past and present is a recreation of the two story outhouse, famous Fossil Cabin to the grounds in the Saturday veterans and military personnel are some built so workers could use the facility when snow drifts covered the first level in winter. near future. must see displays for visitors. Located in a depot that once belonged The 65-foot fire lookout tower is perfect for For more information, call 307-379-2383 or Summer events often include history to the Union Pacific Railroad, the viewing Valley panoramas. Arrangements visit www.medbowmuseum.com. presentations for children and adults, a Saratoga Museum is filled with geological, can be made for sunrise or sunset photo partnership with the local library to show paleontological and archeological shoots from the tower for a fee. Hanna Basin Museum movies documenting historic events and treasures. For those who are interested Daily tours take from one to two hours and 502 Front St. Hanna a quilt show. A walking history tour of the in the more recent past, the Homestead give you admittance to the buildings. Cost: Free/Donation town will provide a hands-on experience. Exhibit tells the story of the diverse peoples For more information, call 307-327-5308 or Summer Hours: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday - For more information, call 307-348-7037. who settled the Valley. visit www.GEMuseum.com. Sunday Wyoming’s largest jade boulder on display Grand Encampment sits outside alongside a restored sheep Hanna Basin Museum honors those men Medicine Bow Museum & wagon, a blacksmith shop, a caboose and Museum and women who made possible American’s 807 Barnett Ave. Encampment Visitor’s Center Industrial Revolution: railroaders, coal a memorial garden. The Saratoga Museum Cost: Free/Donation 405 Lincoln Hwy, Medicine Bow miners, timber workers, ranchers and Pavilion provides a resting spot and shade Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday, Cost: Free/Donation homesteaders of Carbon, Hanna, and during the hot summer days, though it often Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday, 9 northeastern Carbon County. Through has an event being held such as Farmer’s Memorial Day through Labor Day a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday & Sunday photographs, primary accounts and Markets. Memorial Day through Labor Day meaningful artifacts, museum visitors will In 2020, voters passed a ballot measure Named the Wyoming Office of Tourism’s gain insight and understanding into these to form the Saratoga-Ryan Park Museum “Attraction of the Year” for 2011 and True Housed in a Union Pacific Railroad Depot, often unacknowledged Wyoming heroes. District. West Magazine’s “Best Living History Farm the Medicine Bow Museum is filled with The museum is on Front Street, adjacent For more information, contact the Museum” for 2021, the Grand Encampment local and regional artifacts. Included within to the present railroad. Walk through the Saratoga Museum at 307-326-5511 or visit Museum (GEM) truly is the gem of the museum’s collection are artifacts and main building, the Old Community Hall or ww.saratoga-museum.com. Worship in the Platte Valley SARATOGA 7 miles south of Saratoga Church of Christ 120 Heather Dr. Hanna, WY 82327 307-329-7183 2nd & McCaffrey Ave. Encampment, WY 307-325-9748 Abundant Life Fellowship 82325 Saratoga Alliance Church 307-327-5682 First Baptist Church 211 1st St. Saratoga, WY 82331 300 Adams St. Hanna, WY 82327 307-326-8360 1302 S. River St. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-326-8307 Christian Community Church 307-325-9541 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- 3.5 miles north of Encampment on HWY Hanna Hills Church Day Saints Saratoga Presbyterian Church 230 307-329-5522 205 Main St. Hanna, WY 82327 950 Hugus Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 303 W. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-220-1597 307-326-8232 307-326-5337 Encampment Presbyterian Church St. Joseph’s Catholic Church First Baptist Church of Saratoga St. Ann’s Catholic Church and St. 918 Rankin Ave. Encampment, WY 82325 3 Heather Dr. Hanna, WY 82327 802 W. Main Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 Joseph’s Mission 307-327-5331 307-325-6434 307-326-8162 218 W. Spring St. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-326-5491 St. James Episcopal Church Platte Valley Christian Center 822 McCaffrey Ave. Encampment, WY MEDICINE BOW 111 N. 7th St. Saratoga, WY 82331 St. Barnabas Episcopal Church 82325 307-326-5520 206 N. 1st St. Saratoga, WY 82331 Medicine Bow United Methodist 307-327-5558 303-910-6699 512 Wyoming St. Medicine Bow, WY Platte Valley Lutheran Church 82329 513 S. 1st St. Saratoga, WY 82331 ENCAMPMENT/ HANNA 307-742-6385 307-326-5449 RIVERSIDE Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Ride on Faith Ministries Day Saints 220 Pine St. Medicine Bow, WY 82329 Platte Valley Adventures Page 21 Restaurants SARATOGA 101 E. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 MEDICINE BOW 307-326-5525 The Bear Trap Cafe & Bar Bella’s Bistro 120 Riverside Ave. Riverside, WY 82325 C Spear Bar and Grill 218 N. 1st St. Saratoga, WY 82331 J.W. Hugus & Co 307-327-3277 202 Lincoln Highway Medicine Bow, WY 82329 307-326-8033 405 N. 1st St. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-520-3030 307-326-5046 The DiVide Restaurant and Lounge Duke’s Bar & Grill 520 McCaffrey Ave. Encampment, WY 82325 The Historic Virginian Hotel 110 E. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 Saratoga Sandwich Company 307-327-5064 404 Lincoln Highway Medicine Bow, WY 82329 307-326-3853 104 W. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-379-2377 The Mangy Moose Firewater Public House Snowy Mountain Pub 108 Riverside Ave. Riverside, WY 82325 ELK MOUNTAIN 110 E. Main Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 601 Pic Pike Rd. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-327-5117 307-326-3473 307-326-5261 Elk Mountain Trading Company HANNA 205 Bridge St. Elk Mountain, WY 82324 Sweet Marie’s Bakeshop The Grumpy Italian Restaurant 307-348-7478 113 W. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 107 W. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 Nugget Bar 307-326-3210 307-326-3244 2200 1st St. Hanna, WY 82327 The Historic Elk Mountain Hotel 307-325-6872 102 E. Main St. Elk Mountain, WY 82324 The Hotel Wolf Restaurant ENCAMPMENT/RIVERSIDE 307-348-7774 Area Lodging SARATOGA 412 E. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 Spirit West River Lodge Riviera Lodge 307-326-5974 313 Shoshone Ave. Encampment, WY Copperline Lodge 104 E. Saratoga Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 82325 417 W. Rochester Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-326-5651 ENCAMPMENT/RIVERSIDE 307-327-5753 402-885-5611 Roan Hill Ranch Guesthouse The Cabin at Riverside, Wyoming Vacher’s Bighorn Lodge Deer Haven RV Park N 11th St. Saratoga, WY 82331 205 Riverside Ave. Riverside, WY 82325 508 McCaffrey Ave. Encampment, WY 706 N. 1st St. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-326-8502 307-760-0017 82325 307-326-8746 307-327-5110 The Sage & Sand Motel Cottonwood Cabins Hacienda Motel 311 S. 1st St. Saratoga, WY 82331 411 1st St. Riverside, WY 82325 MEDICINE BOW 1500 S. 1st St. Saratoga, WY 82331 888-860-8339 307-327-5151 307-326-5751 The Virginian Hotel Saratoga Hot Springs Resort Lazy Acres Campground 404 Lincoln Hwy. Medicine Bow, WY 82329 Hood House Bed & Breakfast 601 Pic Pike Rd. Saratoga, WY 82331 110 Fields Ave. Riverside, WY 82325 307-379-2377 214 N. 3rd St. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-326-5261 307-327-5968 307-326-8901 ELK MOUNTAIN Saratoga Riverview RV Park Riverside Garage & Cabins Hotel Wolf 106 Pic Pike Rd. Saratoga, WY 82331 107 Riverside Ave. Riverside, WY 82325 The Historic Elk Mountain Hotel 307-224-2250 101 E. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 307-327-5361 102 E. Main St. Elk Mountain, WY 82324 307-326-5525 Silver Moon Motel 307-348-7774 Phone Numbers SARATOGA Saratoga Sun: 307-326-8311 Riverside Town Hall: 307-327-5266 Medicine Bow Post Office: 307-379-2356 CCSD2 Central Office: 307-326-5271 Encampment/Riverside Post Office: 307- Hanna Branch Library: 307-325-9357 Emergency: 911 Saratoga Jet Center: 307-326-8344 327-5747 Elk Mountain Branch Library: 307-348-7421 Saratoga Police Department: 307-326-8316 Saratoga Branch Library: 307-326-8209 Encampment Branch Library: 307-327-5775 Medicine Bow Branch Library: 307-379- Wyo. Highway Patrol: 1-800-442-9090 Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of 2888 Saratoga Town Hall: 307-326-8335 Commerce: 307-326-8855 HANNA/ELK MOUNTAIN/ Platte Valley Clinic: 307-326-3169 Platte Valley Community Center: 307-326- MEDICINE BOW AREA CODES MHCC Medical Clinic - Platte Valley: 307- 7822 Wyoming’s area code is 307 315-0158 Platte Valley Dental: 307-326-5474 Emergency: 911 ENCAMPMENT/RIVERSIDE Great Divide Dental Associates: 307-326- Hanna Marshall: 307-325-9444 ZIP CODES 8895 Hanna Town Hall: 307-325-9424 Saratoga: 82331 Valley Pharmacy: 307-326-5129 Emergency: 911 Elk Mountain Town Hall: 307-348-7333 Encampment/Riverside: 82325 Saratoga Game Warden: 1-800-842-1934 Encampment/Riverside Police: 307-326- Medicine Bow Town Hall: 307-378-2386 Hanna: 82327 U.S. Forest Service: 307-326-5258 8316 Hanna Post Office: 307-325-6742 Elk Mountain: 82324 Saratoga Post Office: 307-326-5611 Encampment Town Hall: 307-327-5501 Elk Mountain Post Office: 1-800-275-8777 Medicine Bow: 82329 Page 22 Platte Valley Adventures Serving the Upper Platte River Valley for over 90 years Visit both of our locations Hunting • Fishing & Camping Supplies •Plumbing & Electrical Supplies • Housewares • Hardware • Lawn & Garden • Ranching Equipment & Supplies • Tires • Power Sports 119 E. Bridge Ave. Saratoga, WY 82331 • www.shivelys.com • (307) 326-8383 6+,9(/< +$5':$5( We’re more than a Hardware store Shively Hardware North• 1961 WY 130 Saratoga, WY 82331 www.shivelyhardware.com • (307) 326-8880