Snowy Range Medicine Bow Backcountry Loop
Historic mining loop in pristine alpine country
The old copper mining roads above Centennial wind through some of Wyoming’s most remote high country, connecting abandoned camps like Battle Creek and the remnants of Rambler Mine. This loop climbs past Mirror Lake into alpine tundra where mining relics rust beside crystal-clear tarns. The descent through Gap Lakes requires careful navigation – the primitive roads fade in and out, marked only by cairns and old mining stakes driven into granite outcrops.
High-clearance 4WD minimum, though the rock gardens near Brooklyn Lake demand good approach angles. July through September only – snow lingers until late June and returns early October. No permits needed, but register at the Centennial Visitor Center. Fuel in Laramie before heading out; it’s 60+ miles to the nearest gas once you’re up there. Multiple primitive camping spots exist around the lakes, but water sources dry up by late August. The payoff is solitude in country that feels like it’s never been touched.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 42 mi / 67.6 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 10847 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Centennial, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Medicine Bow-Routt 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 without modifications?
Yes — a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle is the minimum and will get through under normal summer conditions. Lifted rigs aren't required, but skid plates are smart given the rocky two-track sections above 10,000 feet.
When does the Snowy Range loop actually open after winter, and when does it close?
July through September is the reliable window — snow can linger into late June at elevation and early storms hit in October. Don't push it on either end; passes above 10,000 feet close fast and without much warning.
Do I need a permit or pay any fees to run this loop?
No permit is required for the route itself through Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Dispersed camping is free; just follow the 14-day stay limit and standard forest rules — no fire restrictions beyond what's posted during dry spells.
What's the hardest section of the loop and what makes it technical?
The exposed rocky two-track sections near the upper mining camp areas are the roughest — loose shale, off-camber shelf road, and some embedded boulders that'll test your line choice. Nothing that requires lockers under normal dry conditions, but it demands attention and a slow pace.
Is there any cell service on the loop, and where's the nearest gas before I head out?
Cell service is effectively zero for the entire 42-mile loop — plan for that, not around it. Fuel up in Laramie before heading out; Centennial is the closest town but has extremely limited services and you cannot count on gas there.
Trail track
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