Whiskey Mountain Road
Wind River Range mining road with bighorn country views
The old mining road to Whiskey Mountain cuts a rough line through some of Wyoming’s most unforgiving high country, climbing past abandoned prospect holes and rusted equipment left by optimistic miners a century ago. This rocky, loose-surface track demands respect as it winds through critical bighorn sheep habitat in the Wind River Range, with the final miles requiring careful navigation around loose talus and exposed sections that’ll test your nerve and your rig’s ground clearance.
This is strictly high-clearance 4WD territory—stock trucks with good tires can make it, but low-hanging differentials will kiss rock. The road is typically open July through September, with early season snowpack lingering well into summer at elevation. No permits required, but respect wildlife closures during lambing season. Cell service vanishes after the first few miles. The payoff is legitimate wilderness solitude and some of the best mountain views in Wyoming, plus decent dispersed camping spots if you can find level ground.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9200 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Dubois, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Shoshone National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| 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 Jeep Wrangler handle Whiskey Mountain Road?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with decent tires should manage this trail. The rock surfaces require careful line choice and steady throttle control, but the clearance and approach angles are adequate.
Is Whiskey Mountain Road passable in early June?
No, snow typically blocks the upper sections until mid-July. Even in July, expect possible snow patches above 8,500 feet and muddy conditions from snowmelt.
Do I need permits to camp on Whiskey Mountain Road?
No permits required for dispersed camping in Shoshone National Forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles and camp in previously disturbed areas only.
What's the gnarliest part of this trail?
The final 3 miles to the summit involve loose rock shelves and off-camber sections with significant exposure. Take your time and consider spotting on the steeper pitches.
How much fuel should I carry for Whiskey Mountain Road?
The 24-mile round trip plus driving from Dubois (45 minutes each way) shouldn't require extra fuel for most vehicles. Nearest gas is back in Dubois, so top off there.