Green River Lakes Road
Gateway to the Wind Rivers
Green River Lakes Road penetrates 52 miles into the Wind River wilderness, dead-ending at glacial lakes that mirror Squaretop Mountain’s sheer walls. This forest service road follows the Green River drainage through sage flats and aspen groves before climbing into subalpine forest where elk and moose outnumber people. The road deteriorates progressively, with the final 15 miles testing suspension and patience through boulder fields and creek crossings.
Moderate difficulty requiring high-clearance 4WD for the full route, though passenger cars can reach the first 20 miles. Best attempted June through October when snow releases its grip on the high country. No permits needed, but Pinedale is your last fuel stop — pack accordingly. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout, and the lakes offer some of Wyoming’s finest backcountry fishing. This is classic overland territory: remote, pristine, and utterly unforgiving if you’re not prepared.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 52 mi / 83.7 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8400 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Pinedale, Wyoming |
| 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 Tacoma or 4Runner handle Green River Lakes Road?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD is the minimum and handles it fine in dry conditions. Lifted rigs aren't required, but low-range helps on soft sections and the rougher stretches near the upper trailhead.
When does the road typically open and close each year?
Expect access from mid-June through October, depending on snowpack. The upper sections near Green River Lakes can stay snowed in well into June — call the Pinedale Ranger District before heading out early or late in the season.
Do I need a permit to drive or camp here?
No permit is required to drive the road or use dispersed campsites within Bridger-Teton National Forest. Standard Leave No Trace rules apply — no fee, no reservation.
What's the hardest section of the route?
The roughest terrain is on the upper end approaching Green River Lakes, where the road narrows, gets rutted, and can hold standing water or mud after rain. Nothing technically extreme, but it's slow going and you won't want to rush it.
Is there any cell service, and how far is the nearest gas from the trailhead?
Cell service is essentially nonexistent for the entire route — plan accordingly and download offline maps before you leave. Pinedale is the last stop for fuel, roughly 50 miles from the upper trailhead, so top off there.
Trail track
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