Hikes in Wind River Mountain Range
Activities in Wind River Mountain Range
The Wind River Mountain Range is a postcard-perfect collection of granite peaks. This impressive range in the Rocky Mountain Range crests the Continental Divide, commanding Wyoming’s skyline. It’s home to the state’s tallest summit—Gannett Peak—and over 40 named mountains over 3,962 m. In addition to the range’s glaciated granite peaks, the area is also characterized by the Bridger-Teton National Forest, Shoshone National Forest, Popo Agie Wilderness, and the Bridger Wilderness that bound the massifs with alpine forest, montane meadows, and backcountry trails.
Boasting a diverse repertoire of hiking routes throughout the range, this area boasts some of the most incredible scenery with a fraction of the crowds that Yellowstone and the Grand Teton National Parks see. While summit ascents and climbing are plentiful, the Winds also present countless manageable and equally beautiful sub-alpine excursions that the whole family can enjoy, like the Green River Lakes Trail. With over 2,000 crystalline lakes, several glaciers, and granite summits, this area is bursting with wonderment and incredible scenery. Offering technical treks, overnight backpacking expeditions, and enchanting lakeside strolls, this amazing mountain range is a must-add to your Wyoming adventure itinerary.
15 Fantastic Hiking Routes in the Wind River Range
The mountainous landscape and diversity of flora and fauna yield amazing hiking opportunities in the Wind River Mountain Range. Though it was a challenging feat, we curated a list of the area’s best hikes—Enjoy!
- The Sinks Canyon Trail - The Sinks Canyon Trail offers a unique experience. Study the geological anomaly of the Popo Agie River disappearing into a limestone cavern at The Sinks and watch it reappear at The Rise. This mesmerizing scene attracts a crowd, so expect some company!
- Big Sandy Lake Trail - The Big Sandy Lake Trail is perhaps the most popular route in the range as it serves as a gateway into the Continental Divide and the Cirque of the Towers. While busy, this epic adventure yields a diversity of flora and fauna, glistening alpine lakes, and mesmerizing views of the granite massifs that rise from the landscape.
- Willow Lake Trail - Explore the backcountry and indulge yourself with breathtaking views of the Bighorn Mountains on the Willow Lake Trail. Granting tranquility and seclusion from reality, this high-country hike warrants a memorable experience.
- Roaring Fork Mountain Hike - Reserved for experienced hikers, the Roaring Fork Mountain Hike will challenge stamina and navigational skills. While demanding, this trek into the clouds reveals awe-inspiring views of the Wind River Mountains and the adorning glacial lakes.
- North Lake Hike - Extending past Big Sandy Lake, the North Lake Hike demands a modest effort. This incredible adventure boasts spellbinding views of the looming crags and the countless crystalline lakes that decorate the alpine environment.
- Cirque of the Towers Overlook Hike - The Cirque of the Towers Overlook Hike is a strenuous climb in the Winds that rewards captivating vistas of the famous cirque and the intrepid rock climbers scaling the crags. This heart-pumping adventure is not for the faint of heart.
- Seneca Lake Trail - Immerse yourself in the high country along the Seneca Lake Trail. This amazing alpine excursion presents breathtaking panoramas of the Wind River Mountains from the lush montane meadows abundant with wildlife.
- Long Lake Trail - Those seeking a scenic adventure without the range’s quintessential elevation gain or long-distance will appreciate the Long Lake Trail. This short but steep adventure climbs down to the shoreline of a shimmering lake that often mirrors the scenes of the encompassing granite ridges.
- Diamond Lake Trail - We wish we could say that the Diamond Lake Trail is a diamond amongst the rough, but in reality, the encompassing routes are also pristine. The Diamond Lake Trail is a family-friendly hike at the base of the Winds that travels to three charming lakes.
- Trapper Lake Stock Trail - The Trapper Lake Stock Trail boasts a tranquil experience. This lightly trafficked route explores lush montane meadows, alpine forests, and shimmering lakes while offering wonderful scenes of the looming mountainscape.
- Little Half Moon Trail - The Little Half Moon Trail is another lovely adventure that has somehow remained relatively undiscovered. Marvel at the beauty of the granite monoliths that command the skyline as you progress through lush meadows and dense tree stands.
- Green River Lakes Loop - The Green River Lakes Loop is family-friendly and extraordinarily scenic. Boasting the famous scene of Squaretop Mountain rising above the Green River, this route is a must-add to your Wind River Range to-do list.
- Indian and Wolf Trails - The Indian and Wolf Trails are an awesome network of routes that grant wonderful views of the Wind River Mountains. Wander through lush montane meadows and revel in the dramatic mountainous landscape.
- Whiskey Mountain Trail - Explore the Fitzgerald Wilderness and marvel at the scene of the granite mountain range on the Whiskey Mountain Trail. While this route warrants some exhaustion, the terrain is not technical.
- Popo Agie Falls Trail - This family friendly trail culminates at a charming waterfall in Sinks Canyon. The Popo Agie Falls Trail boasts incredible scenery year-round, but the autumn is our favorite time to visit when the aspens are golden.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Wind River Mountain Range?
There is no question that the Wind River Mountain Range is best explored in the summer season. While some hiking routes remain open and accessible year-round, hiking amongst the soaring snow-capped crests poses inherent dangers in the winter season, including the implicit threat of avalanches and sudden storms.
Summer excursions present awesome hiking, trekking, rock climbing, and mountain biking opportunities. In July and August, the high-altitude trails are cleared of snow, the threat of avalanches has decreased, and the vibrant wildflowers are in bloom. The summer is also ideal for water recreation. Those seeking a more tranquil experience can explore in the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when the trails remain passable, but the crowds have thinned.
Other Outdoor Activities in the Wind River Range
The Wind River Range is a backpackers and hikers’ oasis. While there is an extensive network of hiking routes to explore, the range offers more than just wonderful treks. Though hiking is arguably our favorite activity, rock climbing is by far one of the area’s most popular adventure activities. The jagged crests of the Winds boast ideal climbing and scrambling opportunities for technical mountaineers. There are also select mountain biking trails in lower-altitude areas that beckon a crowd! In addition to rock climbing, hiking, and biking, water recreation is another pursuit many indulge in, such as kayaking, swimming, fishing, and canoeing.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Wind River Mountain Range
Where is the Wind River Mountain Range?
The Wind River Mountain Range is located in the central Rocky Mountains in west-central Wyoming.
Are the Wind River Mountains part of the Teton Mountains?
No, the Wind River Mountains are in the Wind River Range within the Rocky Mountains.
Are there grizzly bears in the Wind River Mountain Range?
Yes, there are grizzly bears and black bears in the Wind River Mountain Range. Make sure at least one person carries bear spray when exploring the backcountry.
Are dogs permitted in the Wind River Mountain Range?
Yes, most trails in the Wind River Mountain Range permit dogs if they remain on leash. Select routes also allow off-leash—just make sure your four-legged friend has a quick recall.
What towns are near the Wind River Range?
The Wind River Range is near Lander, Dubois, Hudson, Jeffery City, and Riverton.
Epic Adventure Tours in the Wind River Mountains
Unfortunately, we have yet to curate a Wind River Mountain Range adventure but keep an eye out as we are always adding more to the roster! Until we have a Wind River Range tour, we encourage you to check out our United States adventure tours, which include trips to Wyoming, Yellowstone and Grand Tetons.
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Route guides for Hiking in Wind River Mountain Range
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The Sinks Canyon Trail Route Guide
The Sinks Canyon Trail is a family-friendly adventure through a picturesque Canyon south of Lander, bisected by the Popo Agie River. Surprisingly, the beautiful scenery isn’t the main attraction, instead, it's the geological mystery of the Popo Agie River vanishing into a limestone cave beneath the ground only to reappear a half-mile away at ‘the Rise’. A magnet for outdoor explorers and geologists alike, a trip to The Sinks is worth adding to your itinerary.
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Big Sandy Lake Trail Route Guide
Seeking the best hike in the Wind River Range? Well, you’ve found one of our favorites—the Big Sandy Lake Trail. This gorgeous adventure yields a diversity of flora and fauna, stunning alpine lakes, and of course, breathtaking views of the Wind River Mountains that rise from the lively landscape—including the Cirque of the Towers.
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Willow Lake Trail Route Guide
The Willow Lake Trail is unrivaled in its beauty, boasting breathtaking views of the Bighorn Mountains from the shoreline of the blue-hued alpine lake. Granting tranquility and isolation from the real world, this hike into the clouds provides ample time for reconnection and relaxation.
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Roaring Fork Mountain Hike Route Guide
Indulge yourself with spellbinding scenery as you hike the Roaring Fork Mountain Hike. Reserved for the intrepid, this backcountry adventure demands some off-trail navigation and a low-class scramble to the summit of Roaring Fork Mountain. While taxing, the captivating views of Wind River along this route are unrivaled.
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North Lake Hike Route Guide
Immerse yourself in the Wind River Range on the North Lake Hike. While challenging, this high-country hike exhibits the beauty and grandeur of the craggy mountain range whilst boasting the opportunity to explore several glacial pools along the way.
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Cirque of the Towers Overlook Hike Route Guide
Hike into the heart of the Wind River Mountains and indulge in spell-binding views on the Cirque of the Towers Overlook Hike. While demanding, this adventure to Jackass Pass boasts impressive views of the crags that will render you speechless.
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Seneca Lake Trail Route Guide
Explore a swathe of wilderness occupied by dozens of beautiful lakes, impressive outcrops, mixed pines, and lush meadowlands as you hike the Seneca Lake Trail. This amazing adventure is a gateway into the Titcomb Basin and high country. Offering breathtaking views of the Wind River Mountains and the Continental Divide, this epic route never ceases to amaze.
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Long Lake Trail Route Guide
The Long Lake Trail is a hidden gem in the Wind River Range. Beckoning the exploration of intermediate hikers and families with older children, this adventure will tempt you with an easy way down before demanding a challenging ascent back up to the trailhead. Yielding breathtaking views of the mountains mirrored in the beautiful lake, this trek is hard to beat.
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Diamond Lake Hike Route Guide
Hiking the Diamond Lake Trail makes for a memorable experience. Exhibiting beautiful lakes and breathtaking views of the Wind River Mountains, this easy-going, remote route would make a great addition to your adventure itinerary. Some would say that this route is a diamond in the rough, but honestly, all routes in this area are amazing.
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Trapper Lake Stock Trail Route Guide
Boasting a tranquil experience, the Trapper Lake Stock Trail will make an excellent addition to your hiking itinerary. Explore a landscape occupied by majestic granite mountains, lush meadowlands, crystalline alpine pools, and marvel at the beauty of the Wind River Mountain Range.
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Little Half Moon Trail Route Guide
The Little Half Moon Trail is one of the Wind River Range’s best-kept secrets. This lovely path explores a sequestered corner of the Bridger Wilderness, warranting a tranquil and unspoiled adventure! Ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children, this route is worth adding to your hiking to-do list.
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Green River Lakes Loop Hike Route Guide
The Green River Lakes Loop Hike is a beautiful trail hidden amongst the towering Wind River Mountains. The entire family can enjoy this beautiful trek that circumnavigates the shoreline of Lower Green River Lake, boasting breathtaking views of the bounding, majestic monoliths.
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Dickson Park to Middle Lake Hike Route Guide
Compared to most adventures in the Wind River Range, the Dickson Park to Middle Lake Hike is a perfect intermediate adventure with limited elevation change. Explore the picture-perfect mountain range and indulge in the beauty of the crystalline lakes without over-exhausting yourself.
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Sweetwater Gap Hike Route Guide
The Sweetwater Gap Hike is a beautiful footpath into the backcountry. Explore a swathe of wilderness occupied by lush meadows, mixed-pine woodlands, and the craggy Winds to the wilderness boundary between the Bridger and Popo Agie Wilderness.
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Popo Agie Falls Trail Route Guide
The Popo Agie Falls Trail is a wonderful day-hike outside of Lander, Wyoming. This lovely nature trail wanders through the Sinks Canyon to a beautiful waterfall that cascades from the Middle Popo Agie River. Those seeking a quick escape into the wilderness will appreciate this hike.
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Half Moon Trail Route Guide
Enjoy a scenic stroll along the shoreline of a beautiful alpine lake on the Half Moon Trail. This lovely trail explores the forested shoreline of the glacial pool whilst granting impressive views of the Wind River Range in the distance.
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Johnny Behind the Rocks Trail Route Guide
The Johnny Behind the Rocks Trail is a popular weekend destination for mountain bikers and hikers alike. Explore the desert-like terrain occupied with dense communities of sagebrush, pinyon-juniper woodland, and unique geological features.
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Pole Creek Trail Route Guide
Immerse yourself in the high country as you walk amongst dozens of charming alpine pools and ponds on the Pole Creek Trail. While it demands a modest effort, this hike rewards its hikers with unrivaled views of the majestic granite mountains that command the skyline.
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Dubois Badlands Trail Route Guide
Compared to hikes in the nearby Wind River Range, the Dubois Badlands Trail explores the desert-like terrain adorned with impressive badlands and mesas. Exhibiting a diversity of flora and fauna, this route boasts stimulating scenery every step of the way.
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Temple Lake via Big Sandy Trail Route Guide
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Wind River Mountains crested by the Continental Divide on the Temple Lake via Big Sandy Trail. This epic expedition into the backcountry explores the spellbinding alpine environment laden with crystalline glacial pools.
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Big Sandy Lake, North Lake, and Arrowhead Lake Loop Route Guide
Hiking the Big Sandy Lake, North Lake, and Arrowhead Lake Loop Hike will surely get your heart rate up. This scenic high-country hike boasts spellbinding views of the majestic granite monoliths that hem the crystalline glacial pools.
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Rock Creek Hollow Hike Route Guide
The Rock Creek Hollow Hike explores the historic site where the James Willie Handcart Company took refuge in 1856. Suffering from exhaustion, cold, and hunger, they did their best to set up camp during inclement weather in the Rock Creek Hollow—unfortunately, souls were lost.
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Sacred Rim Hike Route Guide
Indulge yourself in spellbinding views of the Wind River Mountain Range from the Sacred Rim Trail. This short but steep adventure offers some of our favorite panoramas of the granite oasis and its adorning glacial lakes—enjoy!
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Raft Lake Trail Route Guide
The Raft Lake Trail is a lovely adventure in the Wind River Mountain Range that offers a tranquil experience. Exhibiting a diversity of flora and fauna, this gorgeous adventure passes through dense woodlands, luxuriant meadows, and communities of brush before culminating at the alpine lake.
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Elklund Lake Hike Route Guide
Treat yourself to mesmerizing views of the snow-dusted Wind River Mountains along the Elklund Lake Hike. The next time you find yourself in the area make sure to take a detour and attempt this epic hike for yourself, you won’t regret it!
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Lake Ethel Trail Route Guide
The Lake Ethel Trail is a beautiful trail that exemplifies the beauty and diversity of the Wind River Range. Explore lush meadows bisected by meandering creeks, dense woodlands, and a charming lake bound by granite bluffs. Those yearning for a more tranquil experience will enjoy this backcountry expedition.
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New Fork Lake Hike Route Guide
There is something quite special about a shoreline walk, don’t you think? The New Fork Lake Hike is a family-friendly trail that traces the shoreline of a crystalline pool bound by impressive granite bluffs. While the scenery is unrivaled, the possibility of seeing cows is our biggest draw!
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Noon Rocks Hike Route Guide
The Noon Rocks Hike would make an excellent addition to your Wind River adventure itinerary. Explore lush montane meadows blossoming with wildflowers, and granite gardens and revel in the scene of nearby alpine lakes along this hike. Just don’t forget to charge your camera, the scenery is postcard perfect.
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Photographers Point via Pole Creek Trail Route Guide
A magnet for photographers, the Photographers Point via Pole Creek Trail is properly named. Treat yourself to mesmerizing views of the Wind River Range’s granite mountains that command the skyline. We love this hike, and you will too!
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Lower Green River Lakeside Trail Route Guide
The Lower Green River Lakeside Trail is a staple hike in the Wind River Mountain Range. Rewarding the famous view of Squaretop Mountain rising above the lake, this route is popular amongst photographers—and there is no doubt as to why.
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Silas Lakes Trail Route Guide
The Silas Lakes Trail is a wonderful adventure located at the southern end of the Wind River Mountain Range that boasts scenery and tranquility. Explore enchanting woodlands abundant with a variety of flora and fauna before culminating at a beautiful lake.
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Burnt Lake Trail Route Guide
The Burnt Lake Hike is a short but steep adventure that will get your heart pumping. Explore a swathe of wilderness occupied by granite outcrops, lush woodlands, and sagebrush. This route is primitive and secluded, so you will enjoy a truly immersive experience.
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Dad’s Lake Trail Route Guide
The Dad’s Lake Trail is a scenic hike near Boulder, Wyoming, that is popular amongst the backpacking crowd. Used as a gateway into the Cirque of the Towers, this route is well worn! Boasting breathtaking views of the Wind River Range commanding the skyline, this hike packs a punch.
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Miller Lake and Upper Sweeney Lake Loop Hike Route Guide
Discover the beauty of the alpine oasis on the Miller Lake and Upper Sweeney Lake Loop Hike. Traveling into the Wind River Mountain Range, this route boasts spellbinding views of the granite crests that flank the crystalline lakes.
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Little Sandy Lake Trail Route Guide
The Little Sandy Lake Trail is a beautiful hike that yields a variety of flora and fauna, in addition to breathtaking alpine views. Located in the southern portion of the Wind River Range, this charming trek offers a tranquil experience.
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Fayette Lake Hike Route Guide
Yielding isolation and incredible scenery, we are surprised that the Fayette Lake Hike doesn’t see more traffic. This lovely expedition explores a swathe of primitive wilderness occupied with a diversity of flora and fauna before opening to the glittering lake.
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Scab Lake Trail Route Guide
While the name is uninspiring, the Scab Lake Trail is actually a beautiful adventure in the Wind River Mountain Range. More commonly used as a backpacking route, we ventured this lovely trail as a day hike, and we loved it! If you aren’t afraid to break a sweat, you will likely enjoy it too.
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Popo Agie Indian Trail Route Guide
The Popo Agie Indian Trail is a shared route with equestrians and off-roaders. Located in the foothills of the Wind River Range, this route explores the desert-like terrain abundant with sagebrush and juniper while offering wonderful views of the snow-capped crests and flanking green forests.
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Boyd Skinner Trail Route Guide
The Boyd Skinner Trail is the perfect urban escape. Boasting a pleasant and easy experience, this lovely path travels through a vibrant greenspace that exhibits a diversity of flora and fauna within the town’s limits.
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North Slope and Popo Agie Nature Trail Loop Route Guide
The North Slope and Popo Agie Nature Trail Loop is a lovely adventure that exhibits a variety of flora and fauna. Nestled amongst the limestone walls of Sinks Canyon, this route explores marshlands and meadows along the riverbanks of the Popo Agie.
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Dubois Recreation Area Scenic Overlook Hike Route Guide
The Dubois Recreation Area Scenic Overlook Hike is an epic adventure that explores the painted hills. Located just outside the rustic township, this shared route attracts a weekend crowd eager to head out into the great outdoors.
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Section Corner Lake Trail Route Guide
The Section Corner Lake Trail exemplifies the beauty and grandeur of the Wind River Mountain Range. Somewhat of a hidden gem in the Winds, this high-effort, high-reward hike is one of our favorites. If you are afraid of a challenge, then you likely will love this one too.
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Bluff Creek Trail Route Guide
Exhibiting the beauty and grandeur of the Winds without demanding too much sweat, the Bluff Creek Trail is an excellent adventure for intermediate hikers and families with older children. Offering post-card worth scenery, you won’t want to forget your camera!
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Glimpse Lake Trail Route Guide
The Glimpse Lake Trail would make an excellent addition to your hiking itinerary. This gorgeous hike explores aspen groves, alpine lakes, montane meadows, and mountain views that will not disappoint. While there are several adventures in the area, this trek is one of our favorites.
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Snake Lake Trail Route Guide
Hike amongst grazing cattle along the Snake Lake Trail. This incredible day hike nestled amongst the granite Wind River Mountains is ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children seeking a manageable adventure.
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