Mosquito Creek Road
Absaroka wilderness access to mining ghost camps
Mosquito Creek Road heads deep into Wyoming’s Absaroka Wilderness boundary, following an old pack trail that miners used to reach high-altitude gold claims in the early 1900s. The 28-mile route starts near Dubois and climbs through sagebrush country before entering thick timber and crossing multiple creek fords. The road ends at a trailhead near Mosquito Lake, with remnants of the old Kirwin mining camp visible across the valley where ore wagons once hauled silver down treacherous mountain grades.
This moderate route needs high-clearance 4WD for creek crossings and rocky sections in the upper reaches. July through early October provides the best access before snow closes the high country. Stock up on fuel and water in Dubois – it’s a long way to anywhere once you’re committed. Excellent dispersed camping opportunities throughout, especially near the creek crossings where old mining camps once stood. The payoff is genuine backcountry solitude and some of the best elk country in Wyoming.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8900 ft |
| Best season | July-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Dubois, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Shoshone National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner run Mosquito Creek Road, or does it need a lift?
A stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner can handle it, but low-range capability is required. Lifted rigs will have more margin on the rougher sections and water crossings, but factory ground clearance is workable if you're not overloaded.
When does Mosquito Creek Road actually open, and is snow a real concern?
July through October is the reliable window — snow can close or seriously deteriorate the trail before and after those months at 8,900 feet. Even in July, check recent conditions with the Shoshone National Forest Dubois Ranger District before heading out.
Do I need a permit to drive or camp on Mosquito Creek Road?
No permit is required to drive the trail. Dispersed camping is allowed under Shoshone National Forest rules — 14-day stay limit, 300 feet from water sources, pack out everything.
What's the hardest part of the trail and what should I actually expect?
The water crossings are the most variable hazard — creek levels can be significant in early July during snowmelt and drop to nothing by September. The trail surface is rough dirt with exposed rocks and rutted sections, but nothing on this route should stop a competent driver in a proper 4WD rig.
There's no cell service out here — how far is the nearest gas from the trailhead, and should I carry extra fuel?
Dubois is the last fuel stop before the trail, roughly 10-15 miles from the start depending on your approach. For a 28-mile trail with return, carry extra fuel — a 5-gallon jerry can is smart given the remoteness and the fact that there's zero help if you run dry.
Trail track
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