Near Lander in Fremont County, Wyoming — The American West (Mountains)
Beaver Rim and the Wind River Range
During the geologic event known as the Laramide Orogeny, the Wind River Mountains were pushed upward 60,000 feet. After 10 million years of erosion, the Precambrian granite peaks, the oldest rocks in the world, were left jutting into the sky, as seen today. Beaver Rim was formed by marine deposits left from shallow, ancient inland seas. The white cliffs reflect the last 65 million years of Wyoming's geologic history.
Native Americans traveled this path for over 10,000 years. Mountain men explored the Wind Rivers for beaver pelts since the early 1800s. Gold miners and pioneers sought their fortune here since the mid-1800s. The Oregon-Mormon-Gold Rush Trail passes within 10 miles to the east of Beaver Rim.
Fremont County is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. It boasts almost 200 miles of the Continental Divide; Gannett Peak, Wyoming's highest mountain, at 13,804 feet; more than 70 miles of the Oregon Trail; 626 lakes and reservoirs; over 2000 miles of rivers and streams; and abundant wildlife.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Exploration • Industry & Commerce • Native Americans • Roads & Vehicles. A significant historical year for this entry is 2000.
Location. 42° 35.118′ N, 108° 17.426′ W. Marker is near Lander, Wyoming, in Fremont County. Marker can be reached from U.S. 287, 12 miles east of Wyoming Highway 28. Marker is located at scenic pullout on north side of US 287. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Lander WY 82520, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 10 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Gold Flakes to Yellowcake Historic Mine Trail (here, next to this marker); Sweetwater Station (approx. 5.9 miles away); Sweetwater Willows (approx. 5.9 miles away); Oregon Trail (approx. 5.9 miles away); The Sweetwater Valley (approx. 5.9 miles away); Sixth Crossing (approx. 6.1 miles away); Women of Sixth Crossing (approx. 6.3 miles away); Willie Rescue Site (approx. 10 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lander.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on July 25, 2013, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. This page has been viewed 1,481 times since then and 77 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on July 25, 2013, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.