Continental Divide Togwotee Pass Mining Loop
Double Continental Divide crossing through mining history
This loop starts at Togwotee Pass on Highway 26 and immediately climbs into country where gold fever once drove men to madness at 9,000 feet elevation. The route follows old mining roads that connected camps scattered across the Wind River Range, crossing the Continental Divide twice as it circles through aspen groves and granite peaks. At Union Peak, you’ll find rusted machinery and collapsed cabins from the 1890s boom that went bust when winter killed more miners than gold enriched.
Moderate difficulty requires high-clearance vehicles and decent ground clearance for rocky sections, but most stock SUVs can handle it. July through September offers the best weather, though afternoon thunderstorms roll in fast above treeline. Expect spectacular views of the Tetons to the west and Wind River Peaks to the south, plus excellent dispersed camping in alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. The 35-mile loop takes a full day at a reasonable pace, with photo stops at every turn.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 35 mi / 56.3 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9658 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Dubois, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Bridger-Teton National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle this trail, or do I need a lift?
Stock high-clearance trucks handle it fine in dry conditions — a lifted rig isn't required. The gravel surface is the main challenge, not rock obstacles, but you'll want decent all-terrain tires and at least factory high-clearance to clear the rougher sections near the divide crossings.
When does this trail typically open, and can I run it in early June?
Best season is July through September — at nearly 9,700 feet max elevation, snow lingers well into June and can return by October. Early June access is a gamble; check current conditions with Bridger-Teton National Forest before committing.
Do I need a permit to run this trail or camp along it?
No permit required to drive the trail. Dispersed camping is allowed within Bridger-Teton National Forest under standard 14-day limits — no fee, no reservation, just follow Leave No Trace and check for any active fire restrictions before you go.
What's the hardest section of the loop and what makes it technical?
The climbs approaching each Continental Divide crossing are the most demanding — loose gravel, steeper grades, and exposed shelf road with limited pullouts. Nothing that'll require a spotter, but wet or muddy conditions after rain can turn those grades sketchy fast.
How far is it to the nearest gas from the trailhead, and should I top off before I leave Dubois?
Yes, top off in Dubois — it's the closest fuel and sits about 30 miles from the start of the loop. The trail itself is 35 miles with no services, and cell service is spotty throughout, so don't count on finding help if you run dry.
Trail track
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