Wyoming Range Trail
Trail Quick Facts
About the Wyoming Range Trail
The Wyoming Range National Recreation Trail (WRNRT) is one of the best-kept secrets in the American West. Stretching approximately 70-75 miles along the crest of the Wyoming Range, this remote trail offers an unparalleled wilderness experience through some of Wyoming’s most stunning and least-visited terrain. Located in the Bridger-Teton National Forest in west-central Wyoming, the trail traverses rolling alpine ridgelines, expansive wildflower meadows, and rugged mountain passes—all while providing the kind of solitude that has become increasingly rare in today’s outdoor recreation landscape.
Despite its designation as a National Recreation Trail and status as one of only thirteen national priority trails in the entire United States, the WRNRT remains remarkably unknown outside local communities. The trail forms part of the 20+ million acre Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, passing through the lesser-explored southern reaches of this world-famous region. Unlike the crowded trails of nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks or even the popular Wind River Range, the Wyoming Range offers an authentic wilderness experience where you’re far more likely to encounter elk, moose, and bears than other hikers.
Difficulty Level
The Wyoming Range Trail is rated as moderate to difficult for backpacking and long-distance hiking. While the trail doesn’t require technical climbing skills or mountaineering equipment, it presents significant challenges that should not be underestimated. The “difficulty” stems less from any single dramatic feature and more from the cumulative challenges of remote wilderness travel.
Navigation is perhaps the trail’s greatest challenge. Unlike well-maintained trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail or Appalachian Trail, the WRNRT is minimally maintained and sees very little use. Trail marking and tread quality varies significantly: some sections near access points are well-defined, while other stretches become overgrown with wildflowers and grasses in summer, making the tread difficult or impossible to follow. In alpine meadows and tundra, the trail often disappears entirely, requiring good map-reading skills and the ability to navigate by terrain features. The trail is essentially a patchwork of old sheep trails, fire suppression roads, and primitive footpaths that connect but don’t always form an obvious route.
The remote nature of the trail adds another layer of difficulty. There are no convenient road crossings for resupply along the main route, no trailside amenities, and essentially no reliable cell phone coverage. Self-sufficiency and wilderness skills are essential. The trail also features significant elevation changes as it repeatedly climbs and descends along the mountain crest, with much of the route maintained at higher elevations. Mountain bikers who attempt this trail report it as among the most challenging backcountry routes anywhere, with extensive “hike-a-bike” sections on steep grades.
That said, the trail is absolutely achievable for experienced backpackers with solid wilderness skills. It’s not recommended as a first backpacking trip, but for those with backcountry experience, good navigation skills, and a sense of adventure, the Wyoming Range Trail offers an unforgettable journey.
Elevation Profile
The Wyoming Range Trail features significant but not extreme elevation changes. The northern terminus at Willow Creek/Bryan Flat Guard Station sits at approximately 6,300 feet, while the southern terminus at Snider Basin/South Piney Creek is around 8,200 feet. However, much of the trail traverses the high country, with typical elevations between 8,500 and 9,500 feet, and numerous climbs to passes and ridgelines that exceed 9,000 feet.
Wyoming Peak, which tops out at 11,363 feet (the highest summit in the range), can be accessed via a side trip from the trail. Many hikers add this optional scramble for exceptional 360-degree views. The cumulative elevation gain over the full trail distance is substantial, though exact figures vary depending on the specific route taken and any side trips attempted.
The high-elevation nature of much of the trail has several implications: thinner air can affect those not accustomed to altitude, the hiking season is limited by snow, and weather can change rapidly. The upside is spectacular views, cooler temperatures in summer, and terrain that stays above the hot, buggy valleys.
Weather Conditions
Weather in the Wyoming Range varies significantly by season and can change rapidly at any time of year.
Early Season (May-June): Lower elevation sections may be snow-free by mid-May, but expect significant snow coverage on north-facing slopes and at higher elevations well into June. Snowmelt creates swollen creek crossings. Daytime temperatures are generally cool to moderate (40-65°F), with freezing nights common. Rain and occasional snow are possible. Mosquitoes begin emerging in late June, especially near water sources.
Peak Season (July-August): This is the optimal hiking window. Most snow has melted except for some remnant patches in shaded areas. Daytime temperatures are pleasant (60-75°F), though can reach 80°F+ in exposed areas. Nights remain cool (40-50°F) at high elevations. This is peak wildflower season, with meadows exploding in color—one of the trail’s signature features. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially in August. Mosquitoes and biting flies are most active in July, decreasing by mid-August.
Fall Season (September-October): September often provides excellent hiking conditions with cooler temperatures (50-65°F days, 30-40°F nights), fewer bugs, and beautiful fall colors in the aspen groves. However, weather becomes more unpredictable with increased chance of storms and early-season snow. Important: Hunting season begins in September, and hunters actively use this area. Wearing blaze orange is essential for safety during this time. By mid-September, weather windows begin closing, and by October, winter conditions can arrive at any time.
Winter (November-April): The trail is buried under deep snow and is essentially impassable except by ski or snowshoe. This is not a winter hiking destination.
Trail Season: The practical hiking season runs from mid-July through mid-September for the safest and most enjoyable experience. July offers peak wildflowers but more bugs. August provides the best overall conditions. September brings solitude and fall colors but requires orange clothing for hunting season and carries risk of early snow.
📸 Trail Photo Gallery
Experience the wild beauty of the Wyoming Range:
Trail Sections & Highlights
The Wyoming Range Trail can be hiked from either direction, though most hikers prefer starting from the north at Willow Creek due to better road access. The trail is typically divided into several sections based on major landmarks and creek drainages.
Elevation Range: 6,300-8,845 ft | Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: The trail begins at Bryan Flat Guard Station near the Hoback River. Initial sections climb steadily through lodgepole pine and aspen forests. Creek crossings are numerous and scenic. Pickle Pass offers the first major alpine views and marks the transition to higher-elevation terrain.
Challenges: Trail can be faint and overgrown in lower sections. Multiple creek crossings. Navigation required in meadow sections.
Water: Abundant from Willow Creek and numerous tributaries
Elevation Range: 8,500-10,500 ft | Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Highlights: This is the heart of the Wyoming Range experience. Trail traverses high ridgelines with panoramic views. Extensive wildflower meadows (especially July). Multiple alpine passes. Views of Wyoming Peak and surrounding summits. Spring beauties carpet entire hillsides.
Challenges: Trail often disappears in meadows and tundra sections. Significant elevation gain and loss. Exposed to weather. Afternoon thunderstorms common.
Notable Landmarks: Deadman Mountain, Third Creek, County Creek, Mount McDougal
Water: Generally reliable in drainages; some longer carries across ridge sections
Elevation Range: 7,500-9,500 ft | Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Continues high-elevation traverse with excellent views. North Horse Creek area is particularly scenic. Access to Wyoming Peak (11,363 ft) – the range’s highpoint. Beautiful camping in alpine basins.
Challenges: Some sections poorly maintained. Overgrown tread in meadows. Stream crossings.
Water: North Horse Creek and tributaries provide reliable water
Elevation Range: 7,800-9,200 ft | Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Continuation of ridge traverse. Good wildlife habitat—excellent chance of seeing elk herds. Ends at South Piney Creek trailhead in Snider Basin.
Challenges: Remote southern end has longer road access. Can be very hot and dry in late season.
Note: Middle Piney Lake Campground offers developed camping near this section for those section hiking
Planning Your Adventure
Permits and Regulations
Great News: No Permits Required!
Unlike many popular trails, the Wyoming Range National Recreation Trail requires absolutely no permits for hiking, camping, or access. This is completely free wilderness recreation. However, you should still follow all Leave No Trace principles and Bridger-Teton National Forest regulations.
What You Do Need:
- No wilderness permit needed
- No camping permit needed
- No quota system
- No advanced reservations
- No entrance fees
Important Regulations:
- Camp at least 200 feet from water sources and trails
- Use Leave No Trace practices (pack out all trash)
- Fires: Check current fire restrictions with Bridger-Teton NF
- Bear-resistant food storage required (canister or proper hang)
- Hunting season (September): Wear blaze orange for safety
- Respect seasonal closures if posted
Access & Trailheads
Accessing the Wyoming Range requires driving on forest service roads that range from well-maintained gravel to rough and potentially challenging.
Northern Terminus (Willow Creek Trailhead): Located approximately 6 miles southeast of Hoback Junction. From Hoback Junction on US-26/89/189, head south and east on forest service roads. This is the most accessible trailhead with the shortest drive from main highways. High-clearance vehicle recommended but not always required. GPS: ~43.45°N, 110.65°W.
Southern Terminus (South Piney Creek/Snider Basin): Most remote access. From Daniel or Big Piney, head west on county roads, then north on forest service roads. Approximately 22+ miles from the nearest highway, mostly on gravel/dirt roads. Road conditions vary significantly by season and recent weather. High-clearance vehicle strongly recommended. Plan for 1-1.5 hours driving time from pavement. GPS: ~42.15°N, 110.40°W.
Alternative Access Points: Multiple trailheads provide access along the trail’s length, including Middle Piney Lake, North Piney Creek, Horse Creek, and others. McDougal Gap is a popular access point for the trail’s scenic central section.
Important Access Note: Some years, bridges on access roads wash out or are closed for repairs, requiring longer approaches. Always check current conditions with the appropriate Bridger-Teton National Forest ranger district before your trip.
Best Time to Hike
Optimal Season: Late July through Mid-September
Peak Wildflowers (July): Early-mid July offers the most spectacular wildflower displays the Wyoming Range is famous for. Entire hillsides covered in blooms. Trade-off: More mosquitoes and biting flies, potential for lingering snow patches at highest elevations.
Best Overall Conditions (August): Mid-late August typically provides the best combination of factors: reliable weather, diminished bugs, full snow melt, stable water sources, and warm temperatures. This is the “Goldilocks” window for the trail.
Solitude & Fall Colors (Early September): September offers increasing solitude, beautiful fall colors in aspen groves, cool comfortable temperatures, and almost no bugs. However, hunting season begins (wear orange!), and weather becomes less predictable with increased risk of storms and early snow.
Avoid: May-June (snow), October-April (winter conditions)
Hiking Direction: North vs South
The trail can be hiked in either direction, and both have advantages:
Northbound (Snider Basin to Willow Creek): Start at ~8,200 ft and gradually work down to 6,300 ft, ending with more downhill. Southern trailhead more remote—feels more adventurous. However, road access is significantly harder to the southern terminus.
Southbound (Willow Creek to Snider Basin) – RECOMMENDED: Better road access to start. Begin with climbing to get the elevation gain done when you’re fresh. The trail’s most scenic high country comes in the middle sections when you’re trail-hardened. Most popular direction.
Shuttle Logistics
The Wyoming Range Trail is a point-to-point hike, requiring a car shuttle or other transportation logistics. This can be challenging due to the long distances on forest service roads between trailheads (approximately 2-3 hours of driving on often rough roads).
Options:
- Two vehicles: Leave one at each end (expensive in time and gas)
- Driver drop-off: Have someone drop you and pick you up (best option if possible)
- Hitchhike: Possible but unreliable given the remote forest service roads
- Out-and-back: Hike to a midpoint and return to your starting trailhead
- Section hike: Focus on specific sections with nearby access points
There are no established shuttle services for this trail due to its remote nature and low usage. Plan transportation logistics carefully as part of your trip planning.
Suggested Itineraries
Note: These itineraries are general suggestions only. Actual times will vary significantly based on individual fitness, trail conditions, weather, navigation challenges, and chosen route variants. Use these as planning starting points, not rigid schedules.
5-Day Thru-Hike (Fast-Paced):
- Day 1: Willow Creek to beyond Pickle Pass (~14 miles)
- Day 2: To Third Creek area (~15 miles)
- Day 3: To North Horse Creek (~15 miles)
- Day 4: To Middle Piney area (~15 miles)
- Day 5: To South Piney terminus (~14 miles)
7-Day Thru-Hike (Recommended):
Allows for more reasonable daily mileage (10-12 miles), time to enjoy scenery, potential weather day, and side trip to Wyoming Peak. This is the sweet spot for most hikers.
3-4 Day Section Hike:
Focus on the scenic central section from McDougal Gap area through North Horse Creek. This captures the trail’s best high-country scenery without requiring the full distance or complex shuttle.
Essential Gear & Preparation
Packing List
The Big Three:
- Shelter: 3-season tent or lightweight tarp. Free-standing tents easiest in rocky terrain. Weight: 2-4 pounds. Must withstand mountain storms and afternoon thunderstorms.
- Sleep System: 20-30°F rated sleeping bag or quilt (nights can dip to freezing even in summer). Insulated sleeping pad R-value 3-4+. Combined weight: 2-4 pounds.
- Backpack: 50-65 liter capacity for week-long trip with full food carry. Must be comfortable for daily mileage with 30-40 pound load. Weight: 2-4 pounds.
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layer (shirt and optional bottoms)
- Insulating layer (fleece or lightweight puffy jacket)
- Warm down or synthetic jacket for camp and cold mornings
- Rain jacket (waterproof/breathable – afternoon storms common!)
- Rain pants (recommended for storms)
- Hiking shorts/pants or convertible pants
- Extra underwear and socks (2-3 pair each)
- Sun hat with brim (high elevation = intense sun)
- Warm beanie for cold mornings/nights
- Lightweight gloves
- Blaze orange vest/hat if hiking September (hunting season!)
Footwear:
- Trail runners or lightweight hiking boots (trail runners popular for lighter weight)
- Break in footwear thoroughly before trip
- Camp shoes or sandals for stream crossings and comfort
- Gaiters (optional but useful for meadow sections and morning dew)
Navigation (CRITICAL):
- Detailed topographic maps (USGS 7.5′ quads or Bridger-Teton NF map)
- Compass and knowledge of how to use it
- GPS device or smartphone with offline maps (Gaia GPS, CalTopo, etc.)
- Battery bank (10,000+ mAh) – no chance to recharge
- Charging cables
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Note: Trail is primitive and unmarked in sections – navigation skills essential!
Communication & Safety:
- Satellite communicator (InReach, Garmin, SPOT) – HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
- No reliable cell coverage on trail
- First aid kit with wilderness medicine supplies
- Emergency shelter/bivy (optional backup)
- Fire starter and waterproof matches
- Knife or multi-tool
- Repair kit (duct tape, tenacious tape, needle/thread)
- Whistle (3 blasts = emergency signal)
- Mirror for signaling (optional)
Food & Water:
- Water filter or purification system (filter recommended)
- Water bottles or bladder (2-3 liter capacity – water generally available)
- Lightweight stove and fuel (canister stoves popular)
- Cook pot (1 liter for solo, 1.5-2L for groups)
- Spork or spoon
- Food bag and odor-proof storage (Ursack or similar)
- Bear canister (not required but recommended given grizzly presence)
- Food for entire trip – no resupply possible!
Wildlife Protection:
- Bear spray (2 canisters recommended for grizzly country)
- Bear bag hanging kit (50+ feet paracord, carabiner, rock bag)
- OR bear canister (BearVault, Bearikade, etc.)
- Knowledge of proper bear country camping and food storage
Miscellaneous:
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for creek crossings and rough terrain)
- Sunglasses with UV protection (high elevation)
- Sunscreen SPF 30+ and lip balm with SPF
- Toiletries and hygiene items (biodegradable soap)
- Toilet paper and trowel for catholes
- Bug protection (head net and repellent for July)
- Permits and ID
- Small amount of cash for emergencies
- Journal/camera (optional)
- Field guide to wildflowers (optional – but rewarding!)
Target Base Weight: Aim for 12-18 pounds base weight (pack without food and water). The primitive nature of the trail and need for navigation equipment may push weights slightly higher than ultralight setups.
Training & Fitness
The Wyoming Range Trail demands good fitness and backcountry skills:
Physical Preparation (3-4 months before):
- Build cardiovascular endurance with hiking, running, or cycling
- Progressive loaded backpacking trips (work up to 30-35 pounds)
- Strengthen legs, core, and stabilizing muscles
- Practice on rough, uneven terrain
- Build up to consecutive days of hiking (2-4 day trips)
- Hike at altitude if possible (most of trail above 8,500 feet)
Skills to Practice:
- Navigation: Map and compass skills are ESSENTIAL for this trail
- Wilderness first aid and emergency response
- Bear safety and proper food storage techniques
- Leave No Trace camping and hygiene practices
- Water filtration and purification
- Setting up shelter in various conditions
- Gear repair and maintenance
- Weather assessment and storm safety
Mental Preparation:
- This is a remote, primitive trail with potential for routefinding challenges
- Practice comfort with solitude and self-reliance
- Develop problem-solving skills for trail obstacles
- Build resilience for changing conditions and plans
Safety & Hazards
Primary Hazards
- Wyoming Range is on the southern margin of grizzly bear habitat
- Both grizzly and black bears present, though black bears more common
- Grizzly sightings have been reported despite not being “officially” expanded to this range
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it (2 canisters recommended)
- Proper food storage is ESSENTIAL – use bear canister or perfect hanging technique
- Make noise on trail, especially in dense vegetation and near water
- Never approach bears; give them space and respect
- Camp away from game trails and water sources where bears travel
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially in August
- Much of trail is exposed on high ridges and passes
- Get below ridgelines by early afternoon if storms developing
- Avoid summits, isolated trees, and open terrain during storms
- Lightning is a serious hazard in exposed alpine terrain
- Monitor weather patterns and plan daily schedule accordingly
- Trail is primitive, minimally maintained, and often disappears in sections
- Tread quality varies significantly – some sections clear, others very faint
- Overgrown meadow sections can be confusing
- Trail markers are inconsistent or absent in many sections
- Easy to lose trail in alpine tundra and meadows
- Strong navigation skills are REQUIRED
- Carry detailed maps, compass, and GPS with waypoints
- Download offline maps before trip
- Stop and reorient if you lose trail – don’t blindly proceed
- Numerous creek crossings throughout the trail
- Most are manageable but can be tricky with full pack
- Higher and faster flows during June snowmelt
- Bring camp shoes or sandals for crossings
- Use trekking poles for stability
- Cross in morning when flows are lowest
- Unbuckle pack hip belt in case of fall
- Much of the trail is between 8,500-9,500 feet
- Some sections reach higher elevations, passes above 9,000 feet
- Altitude sickness possible for those coming from sea level
- Acclimatize gradually – don’t rush first day
- Stay hydrated and watch for symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness)
- Descend if severe symptoms develop
- Mosquitoes can be intense in July, especially near water and meadows
- Bring head net and repellent for July trips
- Horse flies and deer flies also present
- Ticks in lower elevation areas – check regularly
- Insect pressure decreases significantly by mid-August
- Wyoming Range is actively hunted in September
- Wear blaze orange clothing (vest and hat minimum) for safety
- Elk hunting is particularly popular in this range
- Be aware of your surroundings and make your presence known
- Consider avoiding September if uncomfortable with hunters
- High-elevation exposure to sun, wind, and storms
- Hypothermia risk if wet and cold
- Heat exhaustion possible on hot, exposed sections
- Rapid weather changes – be prepared for all conditions
Emergency Considerations
Remote Location – Limited Rescue Options:
- No reliable cell phone coverage on the trail
- Multiple days from road access in central sections
- Helicopter evacuation possible but expensive and weather-dependent
- Self-evacuation could take 1-2 days from trail center
- Satellite communicator (InReach, SPOT) highly recommended
- Carry comprehensive first aid kit and wilderness medicine knowledge
- Know evacuation routes to nearest trailheads
- File detailed trip plan with emergency contact
Emergency Contacts:
- Bridger-Teton National Forest: 307-739-5500
- Teton County Search & Rescue: 911 or 307-733-2331
- Wyoming Game & Fish: 307-777-4600
- Be 307 Aware: Use channel 307 on FRS/GMRS radios for emergency communication in Wyoming
Water Safety
Water is generally reliable in the Wyoming Range, especially in drainages and alpine basins, but all water must be treated.
Water Sources: Numerous creeks, springs, and seasonal streams. Most sections have water available every 3-8 miles. Ridge sections may have longer carries (8-12 miles). Always carry capacity for at least 2-3 liters.
Water Treatment: Treat all water. Giardia, bacteria, and other pathogens present. Filters are most popular method. Chemical treatment or UV also work.
Wildlife & Natural History
Wildlife Viewing
One of the Wyoming Range Trail’s greatest rewards is exceptional wildlife viewing. The trail passes through prime habitat for numerous species, and the low human presence means animals are often more visible and less wary than in heavily visited areas.
Commonly Seen Animals:
🦌 Elk: Extremely abundant. The Wyoming Range supports large elk herds, and hikers report seeing elk almost daily. Fresh sign is everywhere. Listen for bugles in September (rutting season). Early morning and evening offer best viewing opportunities.
🫎 Moose: Common near willow-lined creeks and wet meadows. Give moose plenty of space – they can be aggressive, especially cows with calves. Most dangerous in September-October (rutting) and May-June (calving).
🦌 Mule Deer: Frequently encountered throughout the range, especially at forest edges and in meadows.
🐻 Black Bears: Common throughout the range. Practice proper food storage and bear safety. Most bears are not aggressive but are very food-motivated.
🐻 Grizzly Bears: Occasionally present despite not being “officially” part of grizzly range. Sightings have been reported. Treat all bears as potentially grizzly – carry bear spray and use grizzly-country protocols.
🐑 Bighorn Sheep: Present in the range, especially on rocky slopes and cliffs. Exciting sighting if encountered!
🐺 Other Mammals: Mountain lions (rarely seen), lynx (very rare), pine martens, pikas (alpine areas), yellow-bellied marmots (common), ground squirrels, chipmunks, snowshoe hares.
🦅 Birds: Red-tailed hawks, golden eagles, Clark’s nutcrackers, Steller’s jays, mountain bluebirds, western tanagers, various woodpeckers, grouse, and numerous songbirds.
🐄 Domestic Animals: Sheep and cattle (“slow elk”) graze in some areas during summer. Respect ranching operations. Watch your step in meadows!
Wildflowers
The Wyoming Range is famous among locals for spectacular wildflower displays, particularly in July when the meadows explode in color.
Peak Wildflower Season: Early July through early August, with peak typically around mid-July. Different elevations bloom at different times, so the window varies by section.
Common Species: Spring beauties (blanket entire hillsides in pink/white), Indian paintbrush, lupine, mountain bluebells, arnica (heart-leaved and other species), columbine, elephant’s head, fireweed, sticky geranium, and many more.
The wildflower displays are one of the trail’s signature features and a major reason to time your hike for July, despite the increased mosquito activity.
Geology & Landscape
The Wyoming Range is composed primarily of sedimentary rock layers that have been uplifted and folded. The characteristic red peaks are formed from distinctive red sedimentary formations. The range features rolling alpine ridgelines, steep slopes covered in lodgepole pine forests, aspen groves, and extensive subalpine meadows.
The landscape is less dramatic and jagged than the nearby Wind Rivers or Tetons but offers its own gentle alpine beauty. The rolling high country above treeline provides extensive views and easier cross-country travel than more rugged ranges.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Location and reputation. The trail sits in the shadow of world-famous Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Parks, and the popular Wind River Range. Most visitors to the region head to these iconic destinations. Additionally, the trail’s primitive nature, difficult access on forest service roads, and minimal publicity keep it off most hikers’ radar. This is great news for those seeking solitude!
No, this is not recommended as a first backpacking trip. The Wyoming Range Trail requires solid navigation skills, comfort with primitive trails, self-sufficiency in remote areas, and good wilderness judgment. The overgrown sections, lack of trail markers, and absence of any support infrastructure make it unsuitable for beginners. Get several multi-day backpacking trips under your belt on more established trails before attempting this one. That said, experienced backpackers with good map skills will find it very achievable.
Possible but not recommended. Experienced navigators can certainly complete this trail with just paper maps and compass, but a GPS device with the trail track loaded makes life much easier given the frequent sections where the trail disappears. Download offline maps (Gaia GPS, CalTopo, etc.) and carry extra batteries or a backup power bank. Many hikers use both GPS and paper maps as backup systems.
Not crowded at all – true solitude! Most hikers report seeing more wildlife than people. You might encounter a few day hikers near trailheads and occasionally see other backpackers, but long stretches of complete solitude are normal. You’ll likely encounter more horseback riders than hikers. Some trips see no other people for days at a time. This is one of the trail’s greatest appeals for those seeking a genuine wilderness experience.
No practical resupply options. This is a continuous wilderness traverse with no convenient road crossings, towns, or supply points along the main route. You must carry all food and supplies for your entire trip. Plan for 7 days of food if doing the full trail, which will make your pack heavy at the start. Some hikers use lightweight, calorie-dense foods to minimize weight. Proper food storage (hanging or bear canister) is required throughout.
Technically yes, realistically extremely challenging. The trail is open to mountain bikes and occasionally ridden as a bikepacking route, but it’s considered one of the most difficult backcountry mountain bike routes anywhere. Extensive “hike-a-bike” sections on steep grades, overgrown tread, and primitive trail conditions make it more of a “bike-carry-hiking” trip than traditional mountain biking. Highly experienced backcountry cyclists with strong technical skills have completed it, but most riders report it as brutally difficult. If you’re considering it, research trip reports carefully and be prepared for slow progress (2-5 mph average pace).
Stay calm and follow grizzly protocols. Stop and assess the situation. If the bear hasn’t seen you, slowly back away without making noise. If the bear is aware of you, speak calmly and back away slowly. Never run. Group together with other hikers. Have bear spray ready (safety off). If the bear charges, stand your ground until the last second, then deploy bear spray when bear is 20-30 feet away. If attacked, play dead (cover neck, lie on stomach). Only fight back as a last resort if the attack continues. Prevention is best: make noise on trail, store food properly, be especially alert near water and dense vegetation.
Possible but requires careful consideration. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but this is bear country which complicates things. Dogs can attract or provoke bears, creating dangerous situations. If you bring a dog, keep it under control at all times, consider a bear bell, have bear spray accessible, and be extra vigilant. Your dog needs fitness for 10-15 mile days with elevation gain, and ability to cross streams. Consider whether your dog’s presence is worth the added risk in grizzly habitat.
Essentially no coverage – plan accordingly. There is no reliable cell phone service on the Wyoming Range Trail. While you might catch occasional weak signal near some lower trailheads or ridges, you should plan for zero connectivity throughout the hike. This is true wilderness with no dependable communication. You’ll be essentially off the grid. Carry a satellite communicator (InReach, SPOT, or similar) if you want any emergency communication ability. Download all maps offline before you start. Inform someone of your detailed itinerary and expected return date. Embrace the digital detox!
More challenging than hiking with others. Solo hiking is certainly done on this trail, but it increases both risk and responsibility. Navigation errors are more consequential alone. Medical emergencies have no backup. Bear encounters are statistically more dangerous for solo hikers. Stream crossings are trickier. The remote nature and minimal traffic mean help is far away. That said, experienced solo backpackers with good judgment, strong navigation skills, emergency communication device, and proper preparation successfully hike this trail alone. Just be honest about your skill level and comfort with extended solitude.
Essential Resources & Information
Land Management & Official Information
Bridger-Teton National Forest
Official managing agency for the Wyoming Range Trail. Check current conditions, fire restrictions, and alerts before your trip.
Visit USFS Site →Friends of Bridger-Teton
Local nonprofit supporting trail maintenance and conservation in the 3.4 million acres of Bridger-Teton National Forest.
Support the Trail →Wyoming Game & Fish
Wildlife information, hunting seasons, and bear safety resources for Wyoming.
Wildlife Info →Maps & Navigation
USGS Topographic Maps
Essential for navigation. Download 7.5-minute quad maps for the Wyoming Range. Multiple quads needed to cover full trail.
Get Topo Maps →Gaia GPS
Popular app for backcountry navigation. Download offline maps and create waypoints. Essential tool for this primitive trail.
Get Gaia GPS →CalTopo
Free online mapping tool. Create custom maps, print topo maps, and plan routes. Excellent for trip planning.
Plan Your Route →Trip Reports & Information
AllTrails – WRNRT Sections
User reviews, photos, and current conditions for various sections of the trail. Helpful for research and planning.
Read Reviews →Backcountry Post Forum
Detailed trip reports and discussion of Wyoming Range adventures. Excellent firsthand accounts.
Read Reports →SummitPost Wyoming Range
Comprehensive mountain and range information including routes, access, and peak descriptions.
Learn More →Safety Resources
Be 307 Aware
Wyoming’s emergency communication channel on FRS/GMRS radios. Channel 307 connects you to search and rescue.
Learn About 307 →Bear Safety Resources
Learn proper bear safety, food storage, and what to do in bear encounters. Essential reading for grizzly country.
Bear Safety Info →Leave No Trace
Seven principles for minimizing impact in wilderness areas. Required reading for all backpackers.
Learn LNT →Weather & Conditions
Mountain Weather
Mountain-specific weather forecasts for Wyoming. Check before departure and monitor trends.
Check Weather →Teton Interagency Fire
Current fire danger, restrictions, and wildfire information for the region.
Fire Info →Ready for True Wilderness?
The Wyoming Range Trail offers something increasingly rare in modern America: genuine solitude in stunning wilderness. This is not a trail for everyone—and that’s exactly what makes it special.
- Strong navigation skills and comfort with primitive trails
- Self-sufficiency and wilderness experience
- Proper preparation for bear country
- Physical fitness for remote mountain travel
- Acceptance that you may see more wildlife than people
- Respect for a trail that demands your attention and rewards your effort
For those who embrace the adventure with proper skills and preparation, the Wyoming Range Trail provides an unforgettable journey through Wyoming’s hidden gem. Walk through meadows painted with wildflowers, traverse high ridgelines with panoramic views, camp in alpine basins where elk bugle at dawn, and experience the kind of solitude that restores the soul. This is backpacking as it was meant to be.