Established on October 9, 1972, Washakie Wilderness was named after Chief Washakie of the Shoshone Indians. The total area of the region is 704,529 acres. The area begins north at
Dubois and runs between
Cody and the east entrance to the
Yellowstone National Park. The
Wind River Indian Reservation borders it to the SE. The area contains narrow valleys exposing volcanic material of the
Absaroka-Beartooth Mountain Range, featuring tall cliffs and buttes. Visitors can check out the Pinnacles near
Dubois to see a true example. The area also contains geological formations, remains of petrified forests, and abundant wildlife and vegetation. Elevations range from 6,600 ft to 13,153 ft. The Wilderness area lies in the
Shoshone National Forest, and contains fewer lakes than in the
Wind River Mountains. Large game birds migrate and reside in the area, and frequently elk, moose, bears, and Bighorn sheep can be spotted. Birds like the Pregrine falcon and bald eagle can also be seen.
