WOODCHOPPERS JAMBOREE & RODEO
June, Encampment, WyomingChips fly during the exciting Woodchoppers Jamboree and Rodeo held every Father’s Day weekend at the Encampment-Riverside Lions Club Arena in Encampment, Wyoming.
Beginning in the late 1950’s, the Jamboree and Rodeo were separate happenings that joined forces in 1961. Needing more space for the increasingly popular event, the old Union Pacific stockyard and grounds were acquired. A major fundraising effort by the Encampment-Riverside Lions Club raised $12,500 to begin building a steel rodeo arena now known as Lions park. The Woodchoppers Jamboree continues the heritage of multi-use of the natural resources of the region.
The weekend entertainment starts with the Woodchoppers Jamboree and Rodeo Parade. The Honorable Grand Marshals and Jamboree Queen kick off the parade riding in the lead car, followed by horses, cowboys and lumberjacks.
After the parade, woodchoppers power up their saws. Loggers come from all over the country to compete for the title of Rocky Mountain Champion Lumberjack. Using power saws, axes and handsaws, men and women competitors cut down "trees", chop logs, and saw squared wood blocks in half, racing the clock for the fastest time. Other events include the pole throw, axe throw, power saw log bucking, mad loggers chainsaw throw, and the pole climbing exhibition.
The Rodeo, sanctioned by the Wyoming Rodeo Association, has men’s and women’s team roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and bull and saddle bronc riding. Stay at the arena for a delicious barbeque lunch with all the trimmings.
All events admission is $7 per day, and children under 12 are free. The Woodchoppers Jamboree and Rodeo is sponsored by the Encampment-Riverside Lions Club. All proceeds are used for civic projects.
While in the Encampment-Riverside area, there are many other things to enjoy. The Grand Encampment Museum is fascinating and features many historic, period-decorated buildings surrounding a lush grassy field. The Museum recounts the beginnings of Encampment, a town that grew quickly after a rich copper strike in the Sierra Madre Mountains in 1897. A segment of the 16-mile aerial tramway that transported copper from the Sierra Madres to Encampment is proudly displayed.
Abundant outdoor activities are just minutes away from Encampment-Riverside. Summertime brings mountain hiking, biking, camping and fishing in the Blue Ribbon trout-rich Encampment River. Drive on the Sierra Madre Scenic Loop tour, which highlights many points of natural and historic interest.
Lots to do, lots to experience – come see for yourself!
For more information on Woodchoppers Jamboree & Rodeo visit www.saratogachamber.info
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