Teton Pass Back Road
Historic wagon road over the Tetons
Before Highway 22 carved its modern path over Teton Pass, emigrants and freight wagons struggled up this steep, winding route that gains 2,400 feet in just 8 miles from the Wyoming side. The old road parallels the modern highway but stays in the trees, winding through thick aspen groves that explode with gold each September. Pioneer Creek crossing marks the steepest section where many wagons had to be winched up by teams of oxen, and you’ll understand why when your truck starts working hard in the thin air at 8,431 feet.
This moderate route requires high-clearance but stays manageable for most stock 4WDs, though the steep grades and loose gravel demand respect. Snow closes access October through May, making late summer the sweet spot for both accessibility and fall colors. Bring layers because temperatures drop fast at elevation, and expect afternoon thunderstorms in July and August. The payoff is experiencing the same views and challenges that tested westward-bound pioneers, plus escape from the tourist traffic jamming the main pass below.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8431 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Jackson, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Bridger-Teton National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle this trail without modifications?
Yes. The minimum is high-clearance 2WD, so a stock Tacoma, 4Runner, or similar rig handles it fine. Lifted rigs aren't required, but a low-clearance crossover or sedan will have problems.
When does the trail actually open after winter, and is it accessible in early June?
Best season is June through October, but early June access depends on snowmelt at elevation — the trail tops out at 8,431 feet. Check with Bridger-Teton National Forest before heading out in late May or early June, as snow can linger and turn the dirt sections into a muddy mess.
Do I need a permit to drive or camp here?
No permit required to drive the trail. Dispersed camping is allowed under Bridger-Teton National Forest rules — no fee, but standard Leave No Trace rules apply and you'll need to camp 200 feet from water sources and roads.
What's the hardest section and what makes it gnarly?
The steepest pitches on the climb toward the pass are where most rigs feel it — loose gravel, narrow shelf road sections, and 2,400 feet of elevation gain packed into 12 miles. It's rated moderate, but wet or muddy conditions after rain can make the descent sketchy, especially without lockers.
How deep are the water crossings and do they cause issues later in the season?
The crossings are typically shallow and manageable for high-clearance vehicles, but runoff from snowmelt in June can push depths up noticeably. By August they're usually minimal — if you're running it early season, scout on foot before committing.
Trail track
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