 When you think of the Rocky Mountains, you probably think of Colorado or the Tetons, but the Wind River Range, seen just behind me, is quite possibly the quintessential mountain range of the Rockies. The Wind River Mountains, or the winds, as they are affectionately known, stretch approximately 100 miles in the western portion of Wyoming. These mountains are home to two national forests and three wilderness areas. They boast some of the highest summits with elevations over 13,000 feet and are also home to Gannett, Wyoming's tallest peak. They also have one of the largest glacial systems in the United States, including seven of the largest glaciers in the Rocky Mountains. The winds provide a mecca for backcountry enthusiasts. No motorized vehicle roads cross these mountains, but there are at least 600 miles of maintained trails that crisscross their way through the wilderness. So the next time you're looking for a unique mountain experience, think about visiting the winds in western Wyoming. If you won't be disappointed, from the University of Wyoming Extension, I'm Tina Russell, Exploring the Nature of Wyoming.