Must-Have Gear for the Wind River High Route

Frontiersman bear spray is an essential piece of must-have gear for the Wind River High Route and anytime you’re traveling in grizzly bear country. I prefer Frontiersman because of the holster design. The bear spray is easy to get in and out of the holster and it doesn’t require you to fuss with any additional straps. Remember to carry your bear spray somewhere accessible. Also, if you have an old canister, remember to test your bear spray before you head out; bear spray expires. I have personally discharged a can – as a test – that was expired (it’s the propellant that goes).

A mosquito head net may not make you look like the coolest hiker (it makes you look like an awesome hiker), but you won’t care much about what you look like when you are simply looking for a way to protect yourself from mosquitoes. The mosquitoes in the Wind River Range can be brutal and a head net is a lightweight piece of insurance against potential days of misery.

To protect the rest of your body (not covered by your mosquito head net), Repel Sportsmen Max Formula Aerosol Insect Repellent is a great solution. Yes, you could live in your rain jacket, wind/rain pants, and gloves for the entirety of your hike, but that’s not realistic (or fun). And don’t try to go too ultralight with this. Bring a bigger container if in doubt. This is not where you want to try to save weight (it’s not worth it, trust me).

You’re going to push yourself on the Wind River High Route as it’s not a particularly easy hike. Thinking about and rewarding your future self is one of the best things that you in the past can do for you right now. Bringing a supply of Mountain House meals to eat each night may not be your usual go-to, but it’s worth the extra cost when out on a route as challenging as the WRHR.

The Cabela’s Polar Cap Equalizer 40-Quart Cooler can keep your food and beverages cold for up to seven days – enough time for you to finish the Wind River High Route. It’s always a good idea to leave yourself some beverages and treats for when you make it back to the car. That way, no matter what condition you arrive in, you can take time and relax before speeding off to town for that first meal. As a bonus, this cooler’s bear-resistant design means you can lock up your food and not have to worry about returning to a cooler that’s been raided by bears.

Lastly, it would behoove you to have a comfortable chair in your vehicle for the start of your journey and – perhaps more importantly – for the end. The Cabela’s Big Outdoorsman XL Fold-Up Chair will be a welcome sight for anyone who just spent the last week navigating rugged conditions at altitude. Want something that’s going to give you a bit more recline (but that still features the all-important cup holder)? Check out the Bass Pro Shops Ergo High Back Camp Chair as well.