Bridger-Teton Greys River Road
Historic trapper route through pristine river valley
Following the Greys River from Alpine north toward the Bridger-Teton wilderness boundary, this 42-mile dirt road traces an ancient trapper route through one of Wyoming’s most isolated river valleys. The road stays close to the water, crossing tributaries like Murphy Creek and Box Creek multiple times as it winds through dense aspen groves and sage meadows dotted with elk. Mile 28 brings you to the historic Box Y Ranch, where weathered cabins mark an old dude ranch operation from the 1940s.
Moderate difficulty requiring high-clearance vehicles for the creek crossings, though most are rock-bottom and manageable in dry conditions. Spring runoff from May to July can make crossings dicey, so summer through fall offers the best travel window. No permits needed and dispersed camping is excellent anywhere along the river corridor. Carry extra fuel as Alpine is your only supply point, and this route rewards drivers with pristine Wyoming backcountry that feels untouched by modern times.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 42 mi / 67.6 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8400 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD, 4WD recommended |
| Nearest town | Alpine, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Bridger-Teton National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| 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 Tacoma or 4Runner run Greys River Road without any mods?
Yes. A stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner handles this route fine under normal summer conditions. The creek crossings and rutted sections are where a lifted rig earns its keep, but a capable stock truck with a confident driver gets through without issue.
When does Greys River Road actually open in spring, and is it passable by late October?
The road typically opens mid-June after snowmelt and spring mud season, though that shifts year to year — call the Bridger-Teton National Forest at (307) 739-5500 for current conditions. By late October it's a gamble; early snow can close it fast and the Forest Service doesn't maintain it for winter travel.
Do you need a permit or pay any fees to drive Greys River Road?
No permit required and no entry fee — it's a national forest road on Bridger-Teton National Forest land. Dispersed camping is free; just follow the 14-day stay limit and standard Leave No Trace rules.
What's the hardest section of the route and what actually makes it sketchy?
The creek crossings mid-route are the biggest variable — after heavy rain or early-season runoff, water levels rise fast and crossings that were no problem in July can get axle-deep by August after a storm. The road surface also gets badly washboarded in sections, which is more a wear-on-your-gear problem than a 'you're stuck' problem.
Is there any place to resupply or get gas along the 42-mile route, or do I need to top off in Alpine?
There is nothing on this route — no gas, no services, nothing. Top off in Alpine before you head in and plan your fuel accordingly for 42 miles of dirt plus your exit. Cell service is nonexistent the entire length, so sort your maps, downloaded or paper, before you leave pavement.
Trail track
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