Sinks Canyon State Park

Overview

Sinks Canyon State Park features a geologic phenomenon in which the Popo Agie River vanishes into a large cavern, otherwise known as "The Sinks". The river reappears in a trout- filled pool, "the Rise", about a half-mile down the canyon. These trout live a leisurely life, with no fishing allowed. A visitor center features wildlife and recreation exhibits, viewing sites and interpretive signs about wildlife and habitat requirements. The park contains hiking trails and offers camping, picnicking, rock climbing and fishing. Sinks Canyon is home to a wide variety of wildlife, birds and plants. Visitors might see porcupines, black bears, red squirrels, bighorn sheep, mule deer, moose or golden eagles.

The amount of water flowing in "The Sinks" varies seasonally, and the average amount of water in the river is 150 cubic-feet per second. For many years it was disputed that water flowing into "The Sinks" was the same water as at the "Rise". However, through dye tests, it was proven otherwise. It takes about two hours for the water to flow between the two spots. "The Sinks" are likely a result of the Ice Age, thousands of years old.

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