Bucking Horse Ridge Road
High country challenge in the Absarokas
The Bucking Horse Ridge Road cuts a demanding line through some of Wyoming’s most remote backcountry, climbing from the Shoshone River drainage to over 9,000 feet along the spine of the Absaroka Range. This seldom-traveled Forest Service route serves as a vital link between hunting camps and fire lookouts, crossing Bucking Horse Creek multiple times before ascending the ridge proper. The road deteriorates significantly after the first five miles, transitioning from rough gravel to loose rock and exposed ledges with dramatic drop-offs into timber-choked valleys below.
This is legitimate difficult terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD with skid plates and recovery gear — multiple creek crossings can become impassable during spring runoff or after heavy rains. Best tackled July through September when snow clears the high passes, though afternoon thunderstorms create their own hazards on exposed ridgelines. No fuel, water, or services exist along the route, and cell coverage is nonexistent. The payoff is complete solitude and some of the finest wilderness views in the Greater Yellowstone area, with established dispersed camping at several meadow locations.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Mixed, Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9400 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Cody, 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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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Bucking Horse Ridge Road?
Yes, but you'll need skid plates and recovery gear. The rock gardens and creek crossings will test your undercarriage, and articulation helps on the technical sections.
Is the trail passable in early June?
No, snow blocks the high country until mid-July most years. Even late June can have snow drifts above 8,500 feet that make the trail impassable.
Do I need permits to drive Bucking Horse Ridge Road?
No permits required for driving the trail. It's all Shoshone National Forest land with standard forest service rules - just pack out your trash and follow fire restrictions.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The creek crossings around mile 12-15 get sketchy in high water, with loose rocks that can shift under your tires. Take your time and pick your line carefully.
How many days of food and fuel should I bring?
Plan for 2-3 days minimum since you're 50+ miles from Cody with no services. Bring extra fuel - the technical driving and elevation will hurt your MPG significantly.