Salt River Range Backcountry Loop
Wyoming's hidden high country wilderness loop
The Salt River Range Backcountry Loop penetrates Wyoming’s least-traveled high country, where Forest Service Road 062 winds 34 miles through aspen groves and alpine meadows that feel like the world’s best-kept secret. This route connects McDougal Gap with Commissary Ridge via a series of technical creek fords and steep rocky climbs that separate the serious overlanders from weekend warriors. The notorious Deer Creek crossing can run waist-deep during spring runoff, while the climb to Tin Cup Pass challenges traction control systems with loose limestone switchbacks at 9,200 feet elevation.
High-clearance 4WD essential, with recovery gear recommended for the creek crossings and muddy sections that turn into tank traps after rain. Best tackled July through early October when water levels drop and snow clears the high passes. No permits needed, but fuel up in Afton before the 50-mile round trip—nearest gas is hours away. Dispersed camping opportunities abound near pristine alpine lakes where you’ll see more moose than people. This is Wyoming backcountry at its purest: technical enough to earn your turns, remote enough to feel like true wilderness.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 34 mi / 54.7 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9200 ft |
| Best season | July-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Afton, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Bridger-Teton National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| 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 4Runner or Tacoma handle this loop, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle can complete the loop, but the creek crossings and rocky two-track sections will push it to its limits. Skid plates are strongly advised. A lifted rig with all-terrain tires will have a noticeably easier time.
When does the Salt River Range Backcountry Loop actually open, and when should I get out?
July through October is the reliable window — snowpack lingers at 9,200 feet well into June, and early October storms can close access fast. Check with Bridger-Teton National Forest before any late-season run.
Do I need a permit to run this loop or camp in the area?
No permit is required for dispersed camping or vehicle travel on this loop — it's Bridger-Teton National Forest land. Standard Leave No Trace rules apply, and campfires may be restricted during high fire danger periods.
What's the hardest section, and what should I actually expect?
The creek crossings are the crux — water levels vary significantly by season and recent weather, and some crossings can reach axle-deep in early summer. Rocky shelf sections with limited room to maneuver are a close second; recovery gear and a spotter are worth having.
There's zero cell service out there — how far is the nearest gas and how should I plan water on trail?
Afton, Wyoming is your last fuel stop before you head in — don't leave without a full tank and carry extra given the 34-mile loop plus approach miles. Water is available from creek crossings throughout the route but treat everything; a filter or purification tabs are non-negotiable in backcountry Wyoming.
Trail track
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