19-Jun-2004 -- After reviewing the August 2003 incomplete visit and consulting detailed maps and satellite images, we determined this site was best approached from the rim of the Trout Creek tributary canyon. We visited the confluence around noon on Saturday, June 19, 2004. The site is remote, rugged, and striking. The confluence is at least three hours from the nearest paved road, and our route required a challenging two-mile hike. In addition, we lost our power steering pump and a running board due to the rugged roads.

From Lovell, WY, we took Highway 14A 10 miles East to the Bighorn River causeway. We then traveled for three hours over 15 miles of (very) unimproved roads. Our path took us up Little Mountain via John Blue Canyon and then on the private road through Devil’s Canyon and into Deer Creek Canyon. After reaching a crossroads near the Moss Ranch (Picture 10), we left our vehicle two miles later near Trout Creek. We then hiked (mostly uphill) for two miles to reach the confluence.

The site identified by our GPS was located just 30 feet from a sheer cliff with a 150 foot drop to the creek below. The terrain includes steep hills, rocky ledges, and steep canyons. Sparse prairie grasses and sagebrush are scattered about the area. A few rabbits were the only wildlife we observed near the site. The Bighorn Mountains provide a stunning view looking East from the site. If you go during the summer, take plenty of water, as the route to the site has limited natural sources once you start hiking. For more pictures, please visit http://www.johnmangus.com/confluence.htm.

epe was 10m, and elevation was 5264 ft.