Wind River Wilderness Sojourn > Wilderness Area
The Wind River
The
Wind River is one of the famous “Three Rivers” in the Peel Watershed.
It lies to the west of the Bonnet Plume and Snake Rivers. It flows
through the heart of the Wernecke Mountains and the Peel Plateau. This
area is currently a candidate for wilderness protection.
The Wind offers paddlers approximately 190km (118 mi) of moving water including some class I-II sections. Novice paddlers will enjoy its relatively mellow path through this breathtaking land. However, the river provides some excitement with sharp turns, standing waves, sweepers, requiring a sharp eye and intermediate moving water skills. The river winds it way through breathtaking alpine mountain views and if you keep an eye on the often snow-capped mountains you might spot some of the area's abundant wildlife, including; woodland caribou, Dall sheep, and grizzly bears. Those who overlook the Wind in search for bigger whitewater are missing out on a classic wilderness river.
The Wind provides ample opportunities for hiking in the alpine. The river flows through a number of accessible alpine hiking areas. Whether looking for day hikes or multi-day backpacking expeditions the Wind River does not disappoint.