Centennial Road — Pinedale to Big Sandy Lodge via the Wind River High Desert Bench
Wyoming's backdoor to the Winds.
Most people never get past Pinedale when they’re chasing the Wind River Range. That’s a mistake, and Big Sandy Lodge road is proof. Starting off US-191 south of Pinedale, the route pushes east across open sagebrush flats and into the foothills of the Bridger Wilderness, climbing steadily past Eden Valley ranches and through stands of lodgepole pine before dropping into the Big Sandy drainage. The last several miles into Big Sandy Lodge are the real test — loose rock, tight shelf sections above the creek, and a few water crossings that will sort out the weekend warriors from the real deal. The lodge itself has been operating since the 1920s and sits at the edge of one of the most spectacular alpine wilderness areas in the lower 48.
This route is manageable for a capable stock 4WD with decent clearance, but low-range and a skid plate are strongly recommended — the rocky descent to Big Sandy Creek punishes anything fragile underneath. High-clearance is mandatory. Best season is July through September; snow can close the upper sections well into June and return in early October. Fuel in Pinedale before you roll — there’s nothing past town. No permits required to drive the road, though wilderness permits apply if you’re hiking in. Cell service drops to nothing past the pavement. Dispersed camping is available on BLM and Bridger-Teton National Forest land along the route.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry, High Clearance, Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 38 mi / 61.2 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9100 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Pinedale, WY |
| 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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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Tacoma handle this trail without modifications?
Yes — a stock 4WD high-clearance rig like a 4Runner or Tacoma is the minimum you want here. The rocky sections and potential water crossings won't punish a stock truck, but a 2WD crossover or car-based SUV will get into trouble.
When does this route actually open in spring and when does it close in fall?
July through September is your window. Snow lingers on the high desert bench well into June, and early fall storms can make the dirt sections impassable fast. Don't push it before July 4th without checking current conditions with Bridger-Teton National Forest.
Do I need a permit to drive this route or camp along it?
No permit is required for the drive itself or for dispersed camping along the route — it's Bridger-Teton National Forest land. Campfire restrictions can kick in during dry spells, so check active fire restrictions at fs.usda.gov/btnf before you roll.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The roughest stretch is the rocky two-track as you gain elevation onto the bench — loose rock, embedded boulders, and off-camber shelf road sections demand your full attention. It's rated moderate, but moderate in Wyoming high desert means slow, deliberate driving, not a casual cruise.
Are there any water crossings and can I count on finding water for camp along the route?
Yes, there are water crossings — depths vary significantly by season and snowmelt, so hitting this in peak July can mean more flow than late September. Natural water sources exist along the route, but filter everything; bring enough in reserve to not depend on finding a crossing to fill up.
Trail track
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