Copyright: National Park Service
Grand Teton National Park
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Description
- Wyoming, geographically, consists of mountains in the west and high plains and basins in the east. The Green, Laramie, Medicine Bow and Sierra Madre Mountains lie in the eastern half of the state, but do not occupy as much mass as the ranges in the west. The Continental Divide leads from the north western corner of the state, along the Wind River Mountains to the southern border with Colorado. This is a relatively arid state with only a few rivers feeding the landscape. the Green River and Snake River are the major drainages that eventually lead to the Pacific Ocean. On the eastern side of the Continental Divide are the Yellowstone, Wind, Sweetwater, Powder and North Platte Rivers. Wyoming is a big state and it provides habitat for several large mammals. In Jackson is the National Elk Preserve, which is a winter refuge for nearly 10,000 elk. In the terrain comprising Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks visitors may encounter wolves, moose, grizzly bears and brown bears, among other animals. The areas mentioned above are the most populated in the state. Other areas to enjoy the wilds of Wyoming include Bighorn, Black Hills and Medicine Bow National Forests in the eastern half of Wyoming. BLM lands and state parks in this region complete the landscape. In the southwestern quadrant of the state is Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. The reservoir was formed through the damming of the Green River fifteen miles south of the Wyoming border in Utah. This site includes a boating, hiking and camping facilities and a visitor center.
Recreation - This state provides excellent opportunities for all outdoor enthusiasts. The amazing scenery will impress individuals backpacking or driving across the state. The Wyoming mountains, basins and plains facilitate exciting adventures throughout the year.
Climate - The climate in Wyoming changes with the topography. Generally the western mountains and basins receive large amounts of precipitation and create a rain shadow for eastern Wyoming. Most of the precipitation occurs during the winter months and falls in the form of snow. Temperatures are cooler in this region than the eastern part of the state, because of the generally higher elevation. The eastern and lower elevations of Wyoming have been known for the constant wind that blows from west to east. During the winter this may be a Chinook, which warms the region. Temperatures in eastern Wyoming can be extreme. Summer days may reach 100 degrees F cooling quickly after sunset. Winter temperature lows can reach below zero with the wind adding to the intensity.
Location -
LAT: 43.4210088299
LONG: -107.40234375
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