The inspiration for this book came from Claude Poulet, a French photographer, whose pictures often appear in many top publications in his own country. His photographs have formed the framework for a number of French picture books about the West and other far flung places in the world. Claude fell in love with the American West 25 years ago and he has spent much of his time there since then. As he researched the area, he became aware of the fact that, despite countless books about Wyoming and places like Jackson Hole, very little had been written about Wind River Country, the hidden heart of Wyoming, which remains comparatively unknown to the public. He strongly felt that this situation should be corrected, given the area's tremendous attractions and authentic charm. Claude sought in vain for a backer to help him publish a book about this overlooked part of the West until, by a lucky chance, he met Bernard Masson, a French businessman, who has also fallen under the spell of the region. Bernard provided the financial support and publishing expertise needed to bring the project to fruition.

Bayard is a Yale graduate who spent 20 years living in Europe, Iran, Africa and the South Pacific before settling in Wyoming. He has studied five foreign languages in depth and is still fluent in several. He bought the Bitterroot Ranch on the East Fork of the Wind River in 1971. It was a rather run down place then, but he and his family have turned it into a thriving dude and cattle ranch. Bayard is also the creator and owner of Equitours Worldwide Riding Vacations organizing riding adventures in 30 countries since 1980. His websites are www.bitterrootranch.com and www.ridingtours.com.