Pilot Butte Wild Horse Loop
Wild horse country desert exploration
The Red Desert spreads endlessly around Pilot Butte, a volcanic remnant rising from sagebrush flats where wild mustangs still roam free. This loop follows BLM roads through some of Wyoming’s most desolate country, circling the butte through terrain that looks more like Mars than the American West. The road quality varies from decent gravel to rutted two-track, with several creek crossings and sandy washes that can catch you off guard. Antelope Creek and Separation Creek provide the main challenges, especially after spring runoff or summer storms.
Moderate difficulty suitable for stock high-clearance vehicles with decent tires, though 4WD is recommended for wet conditions. The area sees extreme temperature swings and sudden weather changes year-round. Carry plenty of water and fuel — services are 80+ miles away in any direction. What makes this worth the isolation is the wildlife: wild horses, pronghorn, sage grouse, and absolute silence broken only by wind. Camp anywhere on BLM land and watch stars like you’ve never seen them.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 45 mi / 72.4 km |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7200 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Rock Springs, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| 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
Can a stock Tacoma handle this trail?
Yes, high-clearance 2WD is the minimum requirement, so a stock Tacoma will do fine. The bigger challenge is navigation in this remote desert terrain.
Is this trail accessible in winter?
No, stick to May through October. Winter snow and ice make the trail impassable, and you'll be stranded if weather moves in.
Do I need permits to camp on this BLM loop?
No permits required for dispersed camping on BLM land. Follow Leave No Trace principles and camp at least 200 feet from water sources.
What's the hardest part of this moderate trail?
Navigation through unmarked desert terrain is the biggest challenge. The actual driving is straightforward, but getting lost out here is serious business.
How much gas should I bring for this 45-mile loop?
Carry extra fuel beyond what the 45 miles requires - closest gas is Rock Springs, and if you get turned around in this remote country, you'll burn through more than expected.