Wyoming Range Backcountry Discovery Route
High-alpine adventure through Wyoming's backbone
The Wyoming BDR’s central section winds through the Wyoming Range from Kemmerer to Pinedale, serving up 200 miles of high-alpine touring through aspen forests and wildflower meadows. The route climbs past abandoned mines near Commissary Ridge and drops into the historic South Pass area where Oregon Trail ruts are still visible. Technical sections around Salt River Pass demand attention, with loose shale and exposure that’ll pucker your seat.
Moderate difficulty requiring stock high-clearance 4WD and basic recovery gear. Best season runs June through October, though snow can surprise you at elevation. Fuel up in Kemmerer and top off in Big Piney. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent. What makes this worthwhile is the diversity – desert sage to alpine tundra, pioneer history, and some of Wyoming’s best dispersed camping in roadless country most folks never see.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 200 mi / 321.9 km |
| Duration | 3-4 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9200 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Kemmerer, Wyoming |
| Land manager | US Forest Service, BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | ridebdr.com |
| 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
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle the Wyoming Range BDR without modifications?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner is the baseline minimum. Skid plates are worth having given the rocky sections, but lifted rigs aren't required — just don't attempt it in a 2WD or low-clearance SUV.
When does the Wyoming Range BDR typically open and close for the season?
June through October is the reliable window, but higher sections near 9,200 ft can hold snow into late June and get hit with early October storms. Check with the Bridger-Teton National Forest before heading out in shoulder months.
Do you need a permit to run the Wyoming Range BDR?
No permit required for the route itself — it crosses USFS and BLM land, both of which allow free dispersed camping. Campfire restrictions can apply during dry spells, so check current conditions with the local ranger district before you go.
What's the hardest section of the Wyoming Range BDR and what makes it technical?
The most demanding stretches involve loose rocky climbs and rutted two-track through high alpine terrain above 9,000 ft. Nothing here requires extreme rock-crawling skill, but soft ground after rain turns sections greasy fast — airing down to 20-25 psi makes a real difference.
Are there reliable water sources along the route, and how far is the nearest gas from the trail?
Water crossings exist on the route but treat or filter everything — don't count on it as your only strategy. Kemmerer is the nearest town for fuel and supplies; top off there before starting because 200 miles of backcountry with spotty cell service leaves zero room for fuel miscalculation.
Trail track
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