Wind River Canyon Backcountry Traverse
Ancient trails through sacred canyon country
This forgotten route follows the old Shoshone and Arapaho hunting trails up Wind River Canyon, away from the paved scenic byway that carries tourists between Thermopolis and Shoshoni. The 4WD track climbs the east rim through red sandstone formations older than the dinosaurs, offering views down into the churning river 800 feet below. You’ll pass petroglyphs at Red Canyon Overlook and navigate the technical descent through Devil’s Kitchen, where the track drops through a slot between towering stone walls.
Moderate to difficult depending on weather conditions—flash floods can wash out creek crossings in minutes during thunderstorms. Stock 4WD with good tires handles dry conditions, but the rocky sections demand careful line choice. Respect tribal sovereignty and stay on designated routes; this is sacred land with restrictions. Best traveled April through October, avoiding hunting seasons. Bring plenty of water and check weather—afternoon storms roll in fast off the Absarokas. The payoff is Wyoming’s best canyon country without the crowds.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 32 mi / 51.5 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6800 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD |
| Nearest town | Thermopolis, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Wind River Indian Reservation |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| 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 4WD handle the Wind River Canyon Traverse, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock 4WD is the stated minimum, but mixed surfaces and water crossings mean high-clearance helps significantly. Skid plates are strongly advised — rocky canyon terrain will find your undercarriage.
When does the trail actually open and close each year?
Best window is April through October. Spring runoff can make water crossings sketchy in April and early May, and winter snow closes access well before November — check conditions before committing to either end of the season.
Do I need a permit to run this trail and who issues it?
Yes, a permit is required — this trail crosses Wind River Indian Reservation land managed by the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. Contact the tribal offices directly before your trip; driving in without authorization is trespassing on sovereign land.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The canyon bottom crossings are where rigs get in trouble — water depth and current vary dramatically with season and recent rain. Add in loose mixed surfaces with limited room to maneuver and this earns its Difficult rating legitimately, not just on paper.
Is there any cell service on the trail if something goes south out there?
Service is spotty at best and effectively zero in the canyon bottom. Bring a satellite communicator — a 32-mile remote backcountry run through reservation land with water crossings is not the place to rely on your phone.
Trail track
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