News Release

Join the Bighorn Basin Outdoor Recreation Collaborative at the Bighorn River Blueway Trail Event

NPS

News Release Date: June 29, 2021

Contact: Christy Fleming, 307-548-5406

The public is invited to take part in a kickoff event for the Bighorn River Blueway Trail Event, July 17 in Manderson & Basin. What is the Bighorn River Blueway Trail? The Bighorn River Blue Way Trail is a proposed river trail that would start at the Wedding of the Waters south of Thermopolis, Wyoming and end at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area in Lovell, Wyoming. From there, recreationalists could continue all the way to the Yellowtail Dam in Fort Smith, Montana if they choose to. This trail offers non-motorized water recreationalists a wide variety of opportunities, including wildlife watching, ever-changing scenery, fishing (over a dozen game fish inhabit the river), and camping.

The creation of this trail has the potential to bring significant recreation and economic growth to the communities along the Bighorn River including Thermopolis, Worland, Manderson, Greybull, Basin and Lovell. It could enhance revenue opportunities for businesses that sell or rent outdoor equipment, shuttle services, fishing guides, and overnight accommodations.

The event on July 17 hosted by the Bighorn Basin Outdoor Recreation Collaborative (BBORC) will highlight the recreational opportunities that the Bighorn River offers with activities for children and adults alike. Those activities include a 1-mile guided beginner river paddle and a 13-mile Bighorn River paddle. Those wanting to participate in the 1-mile paddle should come to Basin Boat Dock Park between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The 13-mile paddle starts at 8 a.m. at the Manderson river launch. Participants will sign in at the ramp and float to the Basin Boat Dock. This paddle will take at least four hours, so bring plenty of water and snacks.

New to river recreation? That’s ok. Bring your lawn chairs and join everyone at the Basin Boat Dock Park from 10 AM to 2 PM. There will be activities for all ages, music, and food. Learn how to cast, play cornhole and enjoy information booths from BLM, Wyoming Game & Fish, BBORC, Wyoming State Parks and Trails, Basin Area Chamber, and the National Turkey Federation. There will also be prizes including fishing poles from North Platte Walleyes Unlimited.

For additional information please call the Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center at 307-548-5406.