Red Canyon Rim Road
Wild horse country and red rock rims
Red Canyon Rim Road cuts a lonely track across southwestern Wyoming’s high desert, following the edge of dramatic red sandstone cliffs that drop hundreds of feet into hidden gorges. Starting near Manila, Utah, this route heads northeast through BLM land where wild mustang herds still run free, and the views stretch clear to the Uinta Mountains. The road passes several unmarked spurs that lead to rim overlooks, including the spectacular viewpoint above Sheep Creek Canyon where bighorn sheep navigate impossible cliff faces.
Easy to moderate difficulty for any high-clearance vehicle, though washouts after spring snowmelt can create deeper ruts. Best driven May through October when snow doesn’t block the higher elevations around 7,500 feet. No permits needed and dispersed camping is allowed throughout, though water sources are nonexistent — pack everything you need. This route delivers classic Wyoming solitude and big sky country views that remind you why the state’s called “Forever West.” Watch for afternoon winds that can kick up dust storms across the exposed plateaus.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7600 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Rock Springs, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can my high-clearance 2WD pickup handle Red Canyon Rim Road?
Yes, this is rated for high-clearance 2WD vehicles. The dirt surface is generally well-maintained with some rocky sections that require decent ground clearance.
Is Red Canyon Rim Road accessible in winter?
No, winter access is not recommended due to snow and ice at 7,600 feet elevation. Best season is May through October when conditions are dry and stable.
Do I need any permits or pay fees for Red Canyon Rim Road?
No permits or fees required. This BLM road is free to access and camp on with standard dispersed camping rules applying.
What's the most challenging part of this trail?
The rocky sections along the rim can be jarring for low vehicles, and some steep grades require steady throttle control. Nothing technical, just requires attention to wheel placement.
Are there good dispersed camping spots with views along Red Canyon Rim Road?
Yes, multiple rim-side camping spots offer epic canyon views, especially near the midpoint. No water available so bring everything you need for dry camping.