A key recommendation of the Master Plan calls for building a new Visitor Center in the Sawmill District “ where most people are arriving ,” Ashby said . That will allow rangers to educate visitors about the park ’ s scenic wonders before they pass them by .
“ I think that ’ s going to make the park much cleaner for the firsttime visitor ,” Carruthers said .
Another recommendation calls for relocating other structures , including some offices and maintenance buildings , to “ rewild ” certain key areas of the park , Ashby said .
PARK ’ S MAGIC NOT LIMITED TO THE POPO AGIE
A paved , ADA-accessible trail connects The Sinks and The Rise districts of the park . Overlook platforms at both sites allow visitors sweeping views of the Popo Agie ’ s disappearing act . But while that may be the park ’ s namesake attraction , there is much more to see and do within its 585 acres .
There are miles of hiking and biking trails , some of which directly connect with trails that continue on into the adjacent Shoshone National Forest . In warmer months Lander residents routinely bike the seven miles from town to enjoy those trails . And in winter the trails are taken over by snowshoe enthusiasts .
The new Master Plan recommends creating even more trails that will connect the four park districts and drawing greater distinctions between trails designated solely for hiking or biking .
Camping is also a popular activity in the park , particularly in the Popo Agie Campground . This spot features four yurts that have beds and are heated , allowing for comfortable camping even in the dead of winter .
A ROCK-CLIMBING MECCA
Every year rock climbers from across the United States and beyond descend upon Sinks Canyon to take on its steep walls .
“ This is one of the preeminent rock-climbing areas in the country ,” Ashby said .
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