Atlantic City Road (South Pass)
Oregon Trail crossing to a living ghost town
Atlantic City Road cuts through the heart of South Pass, following wagon ruts where 400,000 pioneers crossed the Continental Divide on the Oregon Trail. The 28-mile route climbs from Highway 28 through sagebrush flats and granite outcrops to the weathered buildings of Atlantic City, a gold rush town that hung on longer than most. You’ll pass the actual Oregon Trail crossing at South Pass—a broad, gentle saddle that doesn’t feel like crossing the spine of a continent until you realize you’re standing at 7,550 feet.
This is an easy high-clearance route suitable for any SUV or truck, though spring mud and winter snow close it seasonally. The gravel road has some washboard sections but nothing technical. Best tackled May through October when Atlantic City’s few year-round residents might wave from their porches. Bring your own water and plan for dispersed camping along the route. You’re driving through the crossroads of American westward expansion—that’s worth the dust and washboard any day.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7550 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Lander, 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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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock pickup truck handle Atlantic City Road?
Yes, any high-clearance 2WD vehicle can make this drive. The graded gravel road is well-maintained and doesn't require 4WD or serious modifications.
Is Atlantic City Road accessible in winter?
No, the road is typically snowed in from November through April. Best access is May through October when snow has cleared at the 7,550-foot elevation.
Do I need permits or pay fees to drive Atlantic City Road?
No permits or fees required. This BLM road is free to access and camp along.
What's the most challenging part of this trail?
There really isn't one - it's an easy graded road the whole way. The biggest challenge might be navigating around other tourists at the ghost town.
Can I camp anywhere along the road?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed throughout the BLM area. Just follow Leave No Trace principles and camp at least 200 feet from water sources.