Hoback Rim Road
Limestone rim drive with massive Teton views
Hoback Rim Road climbs out of the Hoback River valley onto a spectacular limestone plateau 2,000 feet above Jackson Hole, delivering unobstructed views of the entire Teton Range. The route follows ancient Native American hunting trails along exposed ridgelines, passing through aspen groves and crossing several technical rock ledge sections that demand precise wheel placement. Dell Creek crossing marks the halfway point before the final technical descent back to Highway 191 near Hoback Junction.
Moderate to difficult route requiring high-clearance 4WD with good ground clearance for rock ledges and one technical water crossing. Best accessed May through October, though early season can be muddy. No permits required, but this crosses mix of Forest Service and private land. Multiple dispersed camping opportunities with incredible sunset views over the Tetons. Pack extra water and be weather-aware as afternoon thunderstorms can make limestone sections extremely slick.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 26 mi / 41.8 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8400 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Jackson, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Bridger-Teton National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| 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 Hoback Rim Road without modifications?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner is the minimum you want here. The limestone ledges and rocky sections can catch low-clearance rigs, so lifted trucks and true 4WD are strongly preferred — don't attempt this in a crossover or 2WD truck.
When does Hoback Rim Road typically open after winter, and is snow a real concern?
The trail is generally accessible May through October, but snow can linger on the rim well into late May at 8,400 feet. Check with Bridger-Teton National Forest before heading out in early spring — wet limestone gets slick fast.
Do I need a permit to drive or camp on Hoback Rim Road?
No permit is required to drive the trail. Dispersed camping is allowed under standard Bridger-Teton National Forest rules — 14-night stay limit, 200 feet from water sources, pack out everything.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The limestone ledge sections are where the trail gets honest — shelf road exposure with loose rock that can bounce tires unpredictably. Nothing extreme, but one bad line on a loose ledge can put a wheel over the edge, so don't rush it and keep momentum controlled.
How far is the nearest gas from the trailhead, and is cell service reliable enough for emergencies?
Jackson is the closest fuel stop, roughly 20-30 miles depending on your start point — fill up before you leave town. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent on the rim, so bring a satellite communicator if you're running this solo.
Trail track
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