Continental Divide Togwotee Pass Mining Loop

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.