Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route (WYBDR)
500 miles of Wyoming's wildest backcountry
The WYBDR is Wyoming’s answer to long-distance adventure riding, stretching from the Colorado border to Montana through the state’s most isolated terrain. The route threads through the Sierra Madre Mountains, crosses the Great Divide Basin, and tackles sections of the original Oregon Trail before finishing in the Absaroka Range. Key waypoints include the ghost town of Encampment, the geothermal features near Saratoga Hot Springs, and a challenging climb over Togwotee Pass. Expect everything from high desert sage flats to alpine meadows above 10,000 feet.
This is a serious commitment requiring expedition-level preparation—some sections go 100+ miles without services or cell coverage. A capable 4WD with auxiliary fuel, recovery gear, and camping supplies is mandatory. The northern sections are snow-free from late June through September, but southern desert portions can run year-round. Plan for 4-7 days depending on your pace and weather delays. This isn’t just a drive; it’s a complete immersion in Wyoming’s backcountry culture and landscape.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 500 mi / 804.7 km |
| Duration | 4-7 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 11200 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Capable 4WD |
| Nearest town | Baggs, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Multiple agencies |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum vehicle requirement for the full WYBDR?
You need a capable 4WD with good ground clearance, skid plates, and all-terrain tires minimum. Stock vehicles will struggle with the rocky sections and water crossings.
When is the WYBDR actually passable?
June through September only due to high elevation snow. Even in summer, weather can change fast at 11,200 feet, so pack layers and check conditions.
Do I need any permits or pay fees for the WYBDR?
No permits required, but you'll cross multiple land management areas with different rules. Stay on designated routes and follow Leave No Trace principles.
What's the hardest section of the route?
The high alpine sections above 10,000 feet get technical with loose rock, steep grades, and potential snow even in summer. Weather exposure is your biggest enemy up there.
How much fuel range do I need for the WYBDR?
Plan for 300+ mile range minimum between reliable fuel stops. Carry extra jerry cans - remote Wyoming doesn't mess around with gas station availability.