Copper Mountain Loop
Where mining dreams meet alpine nightmares
The Copper Mountain Loop winds through the heart of Wyoming’s Sierra Madre range, where turn-of-the-century copper prospectors carved roads into impossibly steep terrain that today challenge even the most capable rigs. Starting from Forest Road 801 near Battle Creek, the route climbs through aspen groves to the remnants of the Copper Mountain Mining District, where rusted machinery and collapsed headframes mark sites where fortunes were won and lost. The notorious “Widow Maker” climb—a near-vertical pitch around mile 8—separates the wannabes from the real wheelers.
Expert-level difficulty demands lockers, low gears, and experience reading loose shale and granite ledges. July through September only, as snow lingers at 10,000+ feet well into summer. No permits required but fuel up in Encampment—it’s your last chance for 100 miles. This loop rewards skilled drivers with pristine alpine scenery, genuine ghost town remnants, and the satisfaction of conquering terrain that breaks lesser rigs. Pack recovery gear and a skilled spotter; the Sierra Madre doesn’t forgive mistakes.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 10400 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with lockers |
| Nearest town | Encampment, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Medicine Bow 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
What kind of vehicle modifications do I need for Copper Mountain Loop?
You need lockers front and rear, aggressive tires, rock sliders, and skid plates minimum. Stock vehicles will get destroyed on the technical rock sections.
Is the trail accessible in early June or late October?
No, snow blocks access until July and returns by October. The narrow window is July through September only due to 10,400-foot elevation.
Do I need permits to run Copper Mountain Loop?
No permits required since it's on Medicine Bow National Forest land. Standard forest rules apply for camping and fire restrictions.
What's the hardest obstacle on this trail?
The final ascent to the mining ruins involves near-vertical rock ledges with serious exposure. Many turn around here rather than risk body damage.
How much fuel should I carry for this loop?
Fill up in Encampment and carry extra fuel - the nearest gas is 50+ miles away and the technical terrain burns fuel fast. Plan for worst-case scenarios.