Exploring Sinks Canyon State Park
Just six miles southwest of Lander, Sinks Canyon State Park offers hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing and striking canyon scenery within a short drive of town. The Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River winds through the canyon, surrounded by limestone cliffs and forested slopes, making the area an easy addition to any Wind River Country itinerary.
The canyon is best known for the unusual geological feature that gives it its name. At “The Sinks,” the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River disappears underground into a limestone cavern. About a quarter mile down the canyon, the water emerges again at “The Rise.” While the connection between the Sinks and the Rise has been confirmed, the river’s underground route remains a fascinating part of this distinctive natural attraction.
The Sinks and The Rise in Sinks Canyon State Park
The Sinks and the Rise are must-see stops within Sinks Canyon State Park. Start at the Sinks, where overlooks provide a close-up view of the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River disappearing into the limestone cavern. Interpretive displays help explain the canyon’s geology and the unusual underground journey of the water.
Continue down the canyon to the Rise, where the water resurfaces in a large pool before continuing downstream. The viewing area offers a chance to watch the water—and the large trout that gather in the pool. Together, the two stops provide an easy way to experience the natural feature that made Sinks Canyon famous.
Where the Sinks Canyon River Disappears
A viewing area at the Sinks gives visitors a closer look at the limestone cavern where the river disappears underground. Water levels change throughout the year, so the experience can look and sound quite different from season to season.
For an even closer look, Sinks Canyon State Park offers guided cave tours seasonally, typically from September through April when water levels allow access. These tours provide an opportunity to explore the cave and learn more about the geology and hydrology behind the Sinks. Check with Sinks Canyon State Park for current tour dates, availability and requirements before your visit.
The Mystery of the Underground Journey
What happens to the river between the Sinks and the Rise remains one of the canyon’s most intriguing questions. Dye tests have confirmed that water entering the Sinks eventually reaches the Rise, but its underground route is not fully understood. Although the two features are only about a quarter mile apart, dye takes more than two hours to travel between them—much longer than expected for such a short distance.
Adding to the mystery, measurements have shown that more water emerges at the Rise than enters the Sinks, suggesting additional groundwater joins the river somewhere along its underground journey.
The Rise and Its Trout
At the Rise, water emerges from beneath the canyon and collects in a large pool before continuing downstream. The clear water makes it easy to spot the large trout that gather here, and a viewing platform offers visitors a close look.
Fishing is not permitted at the Rise, but visitors can feed the fish from the viewing area. Fish food is available for purchase nearby, making this an especially popular stop for families.
Getting to Know Sinks Canyon Wyoming
Beyond the Sinks and the Rise, the canyon offers a striking introduction to the geology of the southern Wind River Range. Ancient limestone, dolomite and sandstone form the canyon walls, while glacial deposits along the canyon floor tell the story of glaciers that once moved through the area. The Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River continues to shape the landscape today.
Located just southwest of Lander along Wyoming Highway 131, Sinks Canyon is easy to reach by car and close enough to explore as a short outing or as the starting point for a full day of outdoor adventure.
Location and Access near Lander
Sinks Canyon State Park is located about six miles southwest of Lander and is easily accessible by car. From Lander, follow Highway 131 south as it enters Sinks Canyon and winds alongside the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River.
The paved highway continues beyond the state park into Shoshone National Forest, providing access to additional trailheads, campgrounds and recreation areas. Farther into the mountains, the route connects with the Loop Road, a seasonal scenic drive that travels through the southern Wind River Range and eventually connects with the South Pass area.
The Visitor Center and Nature Trail
The Sinks Canyon Visitor Center is a helpful first stop, with exhibits highlighting the canyon’s geology, wildlife and natural history, as well as information to help visitors explore the park. From here, it’s easy to visit the Sinks and continue down the road to the Rise.
Visitors can also explore short nature trails in the area for a closer look at the canyon’s landscape. For current visitor center hours, programs and trail conditions, check with Sinks Canyon State Park before your visit.
Hiking Trails in Sinks Canyon
Hiking opportunities in Sinks Canyon range from short walks within Sinks Canyon State Park to longer trails that continue into Shoshone National Forest and the Popo Agie Wilderness. Visitors can choose an easy outing along the canyon floor or head farther into the mountains for more challenging day hikes and backpacking adventures.
Because many of the area’s trails extend beyond the state park boundary, it’s a good idea to check trail conditions, maps and land-management information before setting out.
Popular Day Hikes and Trail Distances
For a longer hike, one of the canyon’s most popular options is the Popo Agie Falls Trail. Beginning at the Bruce’s parking area in Shoshone National Forest, beyond the state park, the trail follows the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River for approximately 1.5 miles to a series of cascades and waterfalls. The roughly three-mile round-trip hike is a popular choice for families and visitors looking to spend a few hours exploring the canyon on foot.
Sinks Canyon also provides access to a much larger network of trails in Shoshone National Forest and the Popo Agie Wilderness, with options ranging from day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. Trail distances, difficulty and seasonal conditions vary, so hikers should choose a route that matches their experience and check current conditions before heading out.
Rock Art and the Canyon’s Cultural History
Sinks Canyon has a human history stretching back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence shows that people camped in the canyon as far back as 9,000 years ago, using this natural corridor through the mountains for travel, hunting and gathering.
Rock art found within the canyon provides another connection to this long history. Sinks Canyon State Park identifies the rock art as the work of ancestors of the Shoshone people and protects these culturally significant sites by keeping their locations private. Visitors are asked not to seek out the rock art and to help preserve these places for future generations.
Climbing, Camping and Yurts in Sinks Canyon
Sinks Canyon is also a popular base for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for rock climbing, camping and overnight stays surrounded by the canyon landscape. Climbers come for the area’s limestone walls and established climbing routes, while several camping options within the canyon provide convenient access to trails, fishing and other outdoor activities.
For visitors looking for something between tent camping and traditional lodging, Sinks Canyon State Park offers yurts for a unique overnight stay in the park.
Rock Climbing and Weather Considerations
Sinks Canyon is a well-known climbing destination, with limestone and dolomite walls offering a variety of established routes. Different areas of the canyon provide options for a range of experience levels, although climbers should research individual routes and current conditions before heading out.
Conditions can vary considerably throughout the canyon depending on the season, weather and sun exposure. Some walls receive abundant sunshine while others remain shaded for much of the day, giving climbers options during different times of year. As with any mountain outing, check the forecast and current conditions before climbing, and be prepared for changing weather.
Campgrounds, Yurts and Where to Stay
For visitors who want to spend the night in the canyon, Sinks Canyon State Park offers camping at Sawmill and Popo Agie campgrounds, with sites for tents and small campers.
For a different overnight experience, yurts at Popo Agie Campground offer a comfortable alternative to tent camping and can be reserved in advance. Additional camping is available farther up Sinks Canyon in Shoshone National Forest, while nearby Lander offers hotels, vacation rentals and other lodging options. Check current availability, seasonal services and reservation requirements before your stay.
Water, Wildlife and Nighttime Skies
The Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River, abundant wildlife and dark nighttime skies add to the many ways to experience Sinks Canyon. Visitors can spend time fishing or watching for wildlife during the day, then stay into the evening to enjoy the canyon as the landscape quiets and the stars come into view.
Fishing the Middle Fork Popo Agie River
The Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River offers opportunities to fish for brown and rainbow trout in the scenic surroundings of Sinks Canyon. Anglers can find access within and beyond the state park, with additional fishing opportunities as the river continues toward Lander.
Fishing is prohibited at the Rise and along the section of river immediately downstream to the bridge on Sinks Canyon Road, where the large trout are for viewing only. Elsewhere, anglers should carry a valid Wyoming fishing license and check current Wyoming Game and Fish Department regulations before heading out.
Waterfalls and Water Slides
Farther up the canyon, the Popo Agie Falls Trail leads hikers into Shoshone National Forest along the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River. The trail ends at a series of cascades and waterfalls flowing over large granite formations, making it one of the area’s most popular hikes.
Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of the surrounding canyon. Near the falls, smooth granite and rushing water create natural chutes sometimes referred to as “the water slides.” While they may look inviting, the river can be swift, cold and dangerous, particularly during periods of high water, so visitors should use caution and avoid entering the water when conditions are unsafe.
Stargazing in Wyoming’s First International Dark Sky Park
In 2023, Sinks Canyon State Park became Wyoming’s first International Dark Sky Park, recognizing the quality of its night skies and the park’s commitment to protecting them. Surrounded by steep canyon walls and protected lands, the park offers excellent opportunities to experience the night sky away from excessive artificial light.
On clear nights, visitors can look for constellations, planets and the Milky Way, while park programs offer opportunities to learn more about astronomy and the importance of preserving natural darkness. For campers and evening visitors, experiencing the stars is a memorable way to see another side of Sinks Canyon.
Nearby Places to See
Sinks Canyon is easy to combine with other attractions and experiences around Lander and southern Wind River Country:
- Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary – Located north of Lander on the Wind River Indian Reservation, the sanctuary offers guided tours to see wild mustangs and learn about the cultural significance of horses to Native American people.
- South Pass City State Historic Site – Explore a preserved gold-mining town dating to the 1860s, with historic buildings and exhibits that bring Wyoming’s mining history to life.
- Sacajawea-Friedhof – Located on the Wind River Indian Reservation near Fort Washakie, the cemetery includes the gravesite of Sacajawea according to Shoshone oral tradition, as well as the graves of other notable Shoshone people.
- Downtown Lander – After exploring the canyon, head back to Lander for locally owned restaurants, shops, breweries and galleries, as well as additional opportunities to experience the community’s outdoor culture.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
What is Sinks Canyon, Wyoming? Sinks Canyon is a scenic canyon in the southern Wind River Range, located about six miles southwest of Lander. Sinks Canyon State Park protects the canyon’s best-known geological feature: the Sinks, where the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River disappears underground, and the Rise, where the water reappears farther down the canyon. The surrounding area also provides access to hiking, fishing, climbing, camping and other outdoor recreation in Sinks Canyon and nearby Shoshone National Forest.
Where does the Sinks Canyon river water go? The Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River disappears into a limestone cavern at the Sinks and reemerges at the Rise, about a quarter mile down the canyon. Dye tests have confirmed that the two are connected, but the exact underground route remains unknown. The water takes more than two hours to travel between the Sinks and the Rise, suggesting a much longer underground journey than the short surface distance between the two features.
How long are the trails in Sinks Canyon? Trail distances vary depending on where you choose to explore. Short walks within Sinks Canyon State Park offer an easy way to experience the canyon, while the popular Popo Agie Falls Trail begins at Bruce’s parking area in Shoshone National Forest and is approximately three miles round trip. Longer trails continue into Shoshone National Forest and the Popo Agie Wilderness, offering options for full-day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips.
Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Sinks Canyon offers plenty of reasons to spend more time exploring. See the river disappear at the Sinks, hike to Popo Agie Falls, cast a line in the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River or stay after sunset to experience the night skies of Wyoming’s first International Dark Sky Park. Just minutes from Lander, Sinks Canyon makes it easy to experience some of the geology, scenery and outdoor recreation that make Wind River Country so distinctive.
