The Wind River Range in western Wyoming is one of the most spectacular and least-visited wilderness areas in the lower 48 states. More than 1,300 lakes, 40 peaks above 13,000 feet, and hundreds of miles of trails through granite spires and alpine meadows make the Winds a bucket-list destination for serious backpackers.
Why the Wind River Range?
The Winds offer something increasingly rare: real wilderness without a permit lottery. Most areas require no reservation. You earn the solitude — the approaches are long, elevations are high, and help is far away — but the payoff is extraordinary.
Best Access Points
Big Sandy Trailhead
The quickest access to the Cirque of the Towers — arguably the most iconic rock formation in the Wind River Range. From Big Sandy Lake (roughly 6 miles from the trailhead), the Cirque is a further 2-mile approach through Jackass Pass.
Elkhart Park (Pinedale)
Northern access to the Fremont Trail and routes into Titcomb Basin, one of the most photographed areas in the range. Titcomb sits above 10,000 feet, surrounded by peaks over 13,000 feet reflected in chains of turquoise glacial lakes.
Green River Lakes (Kendall)
The northernmost major trailhead. Square-topped Squaretop Mountain framing a perfectly still Green River Lake is one of the signature images of the range.
Key Routes
Cirque of the Towers Loop (5–7 days)
The classic Wind River backpacking route. Takes in Big Sandy Lake, Jackass Pass (11,600 ft), the Cirque's jaw-dropping granite walls, Lonesome Lake, and returns via the Fremont Trail. A free permit from the Pinedale Ranger District is required.
Titcomb Basin Out-and-Back (4–6 days)
A more straightforward route from Elkhart Park into Titcomb Basin. Island Lake is the most popular camp; push to the upper basin for more solitude.
Permits and Regulations
- Cirque of the Towers requires a free permit — book in advance for July and August
- Campfires are prohibited above 10,000 feet in Bridger Wilderness
- Bear canisters are strongly recommended
- Group size is limited to 10 people
Best Time to Visit
Mid-July through early September. Mosquitoes are intense through mid-July. For lighter crowds, target late August or the first week of September.
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