Q & A with Jhamil Bader
Q: It sounds like you had an amazing trip exploring Wyoming off the beaten path! Before we dive into the details, can you tell us what inspired you to embark on this adventure?
A: I've always been drawn to the less-explored corners of our world, and Wyoming, beyond its famous national parks, seemed like a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. I wanted to experience the state's diverse landscapes, rich culture and incredible stargazing opportunities.
Q: Your journey starts in Worland, a charming city near Ten Sleep Canyon and Big Horn National Forest. What was your first stop on this adventure?
A: My first stop was the Meadowlark Lake Lodge, a wonderful collection of cabins nestled in the hillside. The retreat is surrounded by natural beauty, and if you’re lucky, you may even see some wildlife as you enjoy your morning coffee from your cabin balcony.
Q: The lodge sounds delightful! Did you have a chance to do any stargazing while you were there?
A: Absolutely! One of the highlights of staying at the lodge was the incredible stargazing you can experience most nights since the lodge is located away from the city in the Bighorn National Forest. After dinner, I drove up the highway a little ways to the James T. Saban Lookout where one can enjoy a spectacular night sky, free of light pollution.
Q: After a restful night at the lodge, what was your next move?
A: I headed to Ten Sleep Canyon to hike to Tensleep Canyon Falls. The scenery was beautiful, and the shaded trail provided a welcome respite from the late morning heat. Depending on how much time you want to spend in the area, there are multiple hikes to explore.
Q: Before moving on to Thermopolis, you spent some time in the town of Worland. What were some of your favorite experiences there?
A: I visited the Washakie Museum to learn about the area's geological history and the development of Worland. I also enjoyed a delicious lunch at Stogie Joe's, a local hot spot serving wood-fired pizza and sandwiches.
Q: Thermopolis is known for its natural hot springs. Can you tell us more about your experience there?
A: The hot springs in Thermopolis are truly special. The water flows over colorful terraces along the Big Horn River at a consistent temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit. I learned that the local Native American tribes have used these springs for centuries, believing in their healing and strengthening qualities.
Q: Did you have a chance to experience the hot springs yourself?
A: Yes, I did! The park has a free Bath House where the water is maintained at 104 degrees for therapeutic bathing. I enjoyed a relaxing soak for about 20 minutes.
Q: Your journey then took you to the Wind River Indian Reservation. What were your impressions of this culturally rich area?
A: The Wind River Indian Reservation is a fascinating place with a complex history. It's home to the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone tribes, who have been sharing this land for over a century.
Q: The reservation is also known for its efforts in wildlife conservation. Can you tell us more about that?
A: Yes, the reservation has a large roadless wilderness area dedicated to preserving various species, including moose, wolves, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope and, more recently, bison.
Q: Tell us more about Bison being reintroduced to the area.
A: I had an inspiring tour with the Tribal Buffalo Initiative, learning about their work in bison conservation. Founded by Jason Baldes in early 2022, the organization's mission is to bring bison back to the wilderness through land rematriation and create opportunities for community revitalization and youth education. The team there was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their work. It was inspiring to see. You can reach out via their website to support their work or schedule a tour. If you’re lucky, and depending on where the herd is currently grazing, you’ll even get a chance to have an up-close experience with the bison!
Q: Your first stop on the reservation was the Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary. What was that experience like?
A: It was wonderful! The sanctuary is one of four public off-range pastures in the United States. I learned about the importance of horses in Native American culture and the history of wild horses in North America.
Q: Did you have a chance to see the wild horses up close?
A: Yes, I went on a ride-along tour of the pasture and saw many of the 200+ wild horses that live there.
Q: After your time with the wild horses, where did you head next?
A: I drove to the Wind River Basin Campground just outside Lander, Wyoming. The camp includes multiple teepees for an authentic glamping experience and a wonderful summer or early fall retreat. I had the unreal experience of witnessing a Wyoming thunder and lightning storm all around the camp.
Q: Your journey continued to Sinks Canyon State Park. What makes this park special?
A: The park is named after the distinct geological phenomenon where the Popo Agie River sinks into a limestone cavern and then reappears a quarter mile down the canyon. The exact trajectory the water takes is unknown, but it takes over two hours to make the seemingly short journey. Beyond the natural phenomenon, wildlife and excellent rock climbing the canyon offers, its other claim to fame is being named the first international dark sky park in Wyoming. After the sun sets and the evening sky darkens, step outside your yurt, tent or camper and enjoy the myriad of stars you can easily see within the park.
Q: You rounded off the trip in Jackson Hole. Can you tell us more about that experience?
A: I started by picking up some inflatable kayaks from Superior Paddle Sports in Jackson before heading out to Jenny Lake for an afternoon of paddling. With Tweewinot Mountain and Mount St. John as the backdrop, exploring the lake by boat is a visually stunning experience. You can rent paddleboards and kayaks for Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, String Lake or one of many other legendary waterways near Jackson, Wyoming, and each rental reservation includes delivery to you and everything you’d need for your experience.
Q: To cap off your adventure, you spent an evening at the Snow King Mountain Observatory and Planetarium. What was that like?
A: The evening began with an introduction and show in the planetarium. Then, it proceeded with a stargazing party on the planetarium's roof, exploring the night sky through various smaller telescopes and the state-of-the-art 1-meter Planewave Telescope on-site. Throughout the evening, the two on-staff astronomers guiding the experience provided insight into the sights we were viewing, the technology behind the telescopes and so much more. If you have a free evening in Jackson Hole, visiting the planetarium should be high on your priority list!
Q: What advice would you give to others looking to explore more off-the-beaten-path areas in the state?
A: I'd say: Embrace the unexpected, be open to new experiences and take the time to connect with the local culture and the natural wonders that surround you. Wyoming has so much to offer beyond its well-known attractions, and I encourage everyone to venture off the beaten path and discover its hidden treasures.
