Public Lands & Trails
Frame Every Sunset. Explore Wind River Country’s Peaceful Lands.
Public land defines much of Wind River Country. More than five million acres of mountains, forests, desert and open terrain provide space to explore without crowds. These lands support hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, scenic drives and travel along historic routes. With a mix of access points and conditions that change with the seasons, they offer a wide range of ways to spend time outside.
Adventures in the Wild
Across forests, mountains, lakes and desert terrain, public lands support a wide range of outdoor activity. Wildlife is commonly seen in open areas and along water, while backcountry routes lead into higher elevations and more remote terrain.
Day trips and longer routes are both possible, depending on the area and season. Conditions can vary, so planning ahead helps ensure safe travel.
Bring On Wild Exploration
Explore at your own pace, whether that means hiking to alpine lakes, climbing on canyon walls or fishing along rivers and streams. The Wind River Range offers access to both well-known routes and quieter spaces.
Road Wonders
Roads across Wind River Country connect towns, trailheads and remote areas. Scenic drives follow river canyons, cross mountain passes and provide access to climbing areas, trail systems and public lands.
These routes are used by cyclists, drivers and off-road travelers, depending on conditions and access.
Historic Awe & Tranquility
Historic trails and routes cross this region, including segments of the Oregon Trail, Pony Express and Continental Divide Trail. These paths reflect travel routes used for generations.
Today, they also provide access to open landscapes, quiet conditions and dark night skies. Many areas offer space to walk, observe and spend time without heavy traffic or development.
The Parks & Marvels You Can’t Wait to Discover
State parks, canyons and mountain areas offer accessible ways to explore the landscape. Places like Sinks Canyon State Park and Boysen State Park provide trails, water access and opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Winter in Wind River Country — Powder Days Done Right
Winter conditions open up different routes across public lands. Snow supports backcountry and Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, fat biking and snowshoeing. Higher elevations and forested areas offer deeper snow, while open terrain provides accessible routes. Travel conditions vary, so checking weather and access points is important.
Quick Tips
Public land in Wind River Country includes areas managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, State of Wyoming and the Wind River Indian Reservation.
Some areas require permits, including recreation on the Wind River Indian Reservation and certain group or livestock trips. Check with the appropriate agency before your visit.
Did You Know?
Shoshone National Forest is the nation’s first national forest and supports a wide range of recreation, including climbing, backpacking and horse packing.
Parts of Bridger-Teton National Forest are also accessible near Dubois via Union Pass.
Designated Wilderness areas are limited to travel by foot or horse. Motorized use and bikes are not permitted.
Regional Offices
U.S. Forest Service – Shoshone National Forest
- Washakie District Ranger’s Office, Lander: (307) 332‑5460
- Wind River District Ranger’s Office, Dubois: (307) 455‑2466
Bureau of Land Management
- Lander Resource Area: (307) 332‑8400
Wyoming Game & Fish Department
- (307) 332‑2688
Shoshone & Arapaho Fish & Game Department
- (307) 332‑7207
Explore More in Wind River Country
Pine Marten Outdoors
Fort Washakie, WY
WYLD Outdoors
Riverton, WY 82501
The Rise at Sinks Canyon State Park
Lander, WY 82520
Union Pass Rentals
Dubois, WY 82513
Soda Peak Outfitters
Dubois, WY 82513
Wind River Basin Campground
Fort Washakie, WY 82514
Wind River Country:
Yellowstone’s Unique Neighbor
Listen in for stories and perspectives on outdoor recreation, public lands and the people who know this region best.
Follow the Moments That Make Wind River Country
See Wind River Country as it happens, on the trail, in town and out on the land. Follow along for real moments from real people, and share your own journey by tagging @windrivercountry.
Spring storms and lush landscapes.
Start planning your visit at the link in our bio.
Photo: Scott Copeland
#WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY #CowboyState
Jun 4
June has arrived! Take a peek at the events around Wind River Country including Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow, Dubois Friday Night Rodeos, Lander Brewfest and 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous!
#CowboyState #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Jun 1
One of the best ways to experience Wind River Country this summer is on the water. You can enjoy over 2,000 miles of rivers and streams and 262 lakes and reservoirs.
Photo: Jared Steinman
May 29
Welcome to the Cowboy State, a place that`s made for riding horses and enjoying the great outdoors. Book a stay at a guest ranch and experience Wyoming like a true cowboy.
Book your adventure at the link in our bio.
Photos: Wyoming Office of Tourism, Davis Clem, Gary Kunis
#WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY #CowboyState
May 27
Say hello to a summer in Wyoming filled with wide open spaces and some of the best events around.
Photo: Wind River Country/Preston Ackerman
#CowboyState #ThatsWY #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming
May 24
Planning a summer road trip? Hit the road on a scenic driving tour around Wind River Country.
Learn all about the area`s driving tours in our bio.
Photos: Wind River Country, David Rule
#CowboyState #Wyoming #ThatsWY #WindRiverCountry
May 22
Ready for the ultimate Wild West getaway? Discover history in Lander at the Fremont County Pioneer Museum.
Photo: Wind River Country/Suite 1491
May 20
If you`re ready for a unique Wyoming stay, we`ve got the perfect place for you. Just outside of Lander in Sinks Canyon State Park you`ll find a cozy yurt stay.
Photos: Wind River Country & Brady McLean
#ThatsWY #Wyoming #CowboyState #WindRiverCountry
May 18
Our region is home to eight unforgettable stops you won’t want to miss. From quiet, historic towns with small populations to lively small cities, Wind River Country offers something for everyone.
Start planning your trip at the link in our bio.
Photos: Wyoming Office of Tourism & Wind River Country
#WindRiverCountry #CowboyState #Wyoming
May 15
Looking for epic mountain biking? You’ll find it in Wind River Country 🚵♂️
From rugged trails to scenic rides, adventure is waiting around every turn. Start planning: https://windriver.org/experience/mountain-road-biking/
Photos : DART Trails & Wind River Country
#Beautiful #Wyoming #WindRiverCountry #CowboyState
May 14
Happy Mother’s Day from Wyoming`s Wind River Country. 💐
Photo: Brad Christensen
#Wyoming #Beautiful #WindRiverCountry #MothersDay
May 10
Community Cocktail Tasting tonight in Riverton!
Be sure to head to Bar 10 and taste Wyoming inspired cocktails at 6:30 p.m. TONIGHT! What a great pre Mother`s Day activity!
#WindRiverCountry #CowboyState #ThatsWY #Wyoming
May 9