Pathfinder Dam is the major storage dam for the Bureau of Reclamation (North Palatte Project) located in Alcova, Wyoming, which is basically in the middle of Wyoming in the middle of nowhere. The closest city is Casper and it's about an hour away, with absolutely nothing in between. Why would anyone want to come here? Because if you are looking for a challenging yet peaceful hike, rock climb, fishing or kayaking experience this place is for you. It was originally built for the purpose of reclaiming arid lands into productive farmlands, completed on June 14, 1909. There was very little info in the way of researching this trailhead and what actually convinced me to go there was an areal video taken by a rock climber. In fact, one afternoon was just not enough time to complete the entire trail. When we arrived people where camping and fishing in the massive lake on the opposite end of the dam. As we made our way to the path, the terrain became very rocky and there were (small) cactus all around the rock formations. There are several look-out points where you can see the massive gorge under the dam, including a small suspension bridge that I was dying to get to. Unfortunately we didn't complete the full trail loop since we had a 2hr drive back, we went through part of the trail then drove down to hike up to the bridge, which we later found out was closed for crossing. However it was still worth the go as you got to see the rock formations at a much closer view, and with the afternoon sun casting dramatic shadows on the rocks–the scenery was breathtaking, reminding me of Arizona & New Mexico, really wasn't expecting to get these views in Wyoming. So in short if you are in the Casper or Laramie area, check out this massive dam and hike the trail, it's another amazing off-the-beaten-path trail with very few hikers, lots of solitude and lots to explore.
Below is the Trail Brochure. There is not much information online on this trailhead but this brochure is a good guide on the area and what you can expect.
A Shout-Out to Casper
Before heading to Pathfinder Dam, we made a quick stop in Casper, Wy. and while we didn't stay there very long, we did hike The Rotary Park which is in the middle of the city. It's a super cute park with waterfalls and an elevation gain of 1,000 ft. The loop trail to get to the top of the park is roughly 3.5 miles one-way, however the trail splits into smaller paths so that you can check out other views of the park. It's funny that this park is in the middle of town in a residential area. Just goes to show how cool Wyoming is.
Hi Jessy. Other than that ricketty looking wooden footpath bridge over the gorge I think the pictures of the urban Rotary park is more dramatic. Looks like you had another eye opener trip