The best walks and hikes in Sublette County

Embark on a challenging hike to Island Lake via Pole Creek, Seneca Lake, and Indian Pass, a difficult route spanning 13.4 miles (21.5 km). You will gain 2320 feet (707 metres) in elevation, taking an estimated 6 hours and 16 minutes to complete. The trail leads you through diverse terrain, starting in dense forests before opening up to meadows and rock outcroppings as you climb towards pristine alpine lakes like Hobbs Lake and Seneca Lake. Eventually, you reach the popular Island Lake, offering expansive views of towering granite summits such as Mount Helen and Fremont Peak.

For this demanding journey, consider making it a two-day trip, with Seneca Lake providing an ideal spot for an overnight camp. Remember that campfires are not allowed at Island Lake, as it sits above the timberline. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, which includes proper food storage and waste disposal, to help protect this popular wilderness area for everyone.

This route offers a rewarding experience within Wyoming's Bridger Wilderness, known for its rugged beauty and high-altitude landscapes. As you progress, you will witness the transition from lush forested areas to more exposed, rocky environments. The panoramic views from Island Lake, especially at sunset, highlight the dramatic natural environment of this region, making it a truly memorable adventure.

Embark on a challenging high-alpine wilderness hike to Island Lake, traversing diverse terrain in Wyoming's Bridger Wilderness. This difficult route covers 12.1 miles (19.5 km), leading you through forested sections, rocky slopes, and high-altitude passes. You will gain 2090 feet (637 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 5 hours and 41 minutes. Along the way, expect stunning panoramas of jagged granite peaks and pristine alpine lakes, including Seneca Lake. The trail offers a true immersion into a rugged mountain landscape.

When planning your visit, be aware that this popular trail, particularly around Island Lake, can experience crowds during peak season; consider an early start or off-peak times. As you are in a wilderness area, proper food storage and responsible human waste disposal are essential practices. If you plan to camp, remember that regulations require sites to be a specific distance from trails and water sources. Additionally, campfires are generally not permitted above the timberline, so plan for alternative cooking methods.

This route is renowned for its spectacular alpine scenery, showcasing the raw beauty of the Bridger Wilderness. You will encounter numerous pristine alpine lakes, with Hobbs Lake being another notable highlight along the path. From Photographer's Point, you can enjoy expansive views of prominent peaks like Fremont Peak and Mount Helen, adding to the grandeur of your journey. The trail provides a deep dive into a high-altitude environment, making it a memorable experience for those seeking a true mountain adventure.

Embark on the Photographers Point via Pole Creek Trail, a moderate 4.7-mile (7.6 km) hike that offers a rewarding journey through Wyoming's Bridger Wilderness. You will ascend 997 feet (304 metres) over an estimated 2 hours and 11 minutes, traversing pine forests and open meadows before reaching high tundra. The highlight is Photographer's Point, where you are greeted with expansive panoramic views of the majestic Wind River Range, including prominent peaks like Fremont Peak and Mount Sacagawea, and the serene lakes below.

To begin your adventure, head to the trailhead at Elkhart Park, conveniently located near Pinedale, Wyoming. This is a popular route, so you can expect to share the trail with other hikers. Be prepared for the challenges of high elevation and sudden weather changes, which are common in this region. If you plan to visit in early summer, be aware that snow packs can still be present, and conditions can also vary significantly in early fall.

This trail is particularly notable for its incredible photographic opportunities and the chance to observe local wildlife. Keep an eye out for moose or even bears as you make your way through the diverse landscape. The route provides a fantastic immersion into the natural beauty of the Bridger Wilderness, making it a memorable experience for those seeking stunning mountain vistas and a connection with nature.

Embark on the Cirque of the Towers to Fremont Trail Loop, a challenging hike spanning 22.7 miles (36.6 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3540 feet (1079 metres). This difficult route typically takes around 11 hours and 26 minutes to complete. As you traverse the rugged alpine terrain, you'll be immersed in dramatic scenery, highlighted by the iconic Cirque of the Towers. Here, towering granite peaks like Pingora and Wolf's Head dominate the skyline, forming a natural amphitheater. The trail also leads you past pristine alpine lakes, such as Big Sandy Lake and Mirror Lake, and through expansive meadows bursting with wildflowers.

Planning your visit requires careful consideration for this demanding loop. The optimal time to hike is generally from mid-July through September, when you can expect drier trails and minimal snow cover. While permits are not typically required for backpacking in the Wind River Range, you should always adhere to standard wilderness regulations. Given its length and difficulty, many hikers choose to complete this loop as a multi-day backpacking trip, allowing more time to appreciate the remote wilderness.

This route offers a deep dive into the Bridger Wilderness and Popo Agie Wilderness, showcasing the raw beauty of the Wind River Range. The Cirque of the Towers is renowned among climbers and hikers alike for its impressive granite formations and remote, high-alpine environment. You will experience a true sense of solitude and wildness, making it a standout adventure for those seeking a profound connection with nature. This trail is a prime example of the rugged, untamed landscapes that define this part of Wyoming.

Embark on the Diamond Lake Trail for a moderate hiking experience that winds through dense pine forests, offering a rewarding journey. You will cover 5.4 miles (8.6 km) and gain 745 feet (227 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 2 hours and 24 minutes to complete. As you hike, expect to navigate sections that can be rocky and rooty, leading you towards the pristine waters of Diamond Lake itself, set against the impressive backdrop of Mount Jasper.

When planning your visit, be aware that snow can linger on the trail well into the summer, especially on slopes facing northeast. This route is quite popular, particularly on weekends, so consider starting early or visiting on a weekday if you prefer fewer crowds. If you are thinking about camping overnight near Diamond Lake, remember that a permit is required for your stay.

Beyond the main destination, the trail offers glimpses of distant waterfalls and charming trailside cascades, especially along Middle Boulder Creek. In the warmer months, the valley transforms with vibrant wildflowers, while autumn brings a spectacular display of color from the aspens. This trail provides a classic Bridger Wilderness experience, combining forest trekking with stunning alpine lake views.

Embark on a difficult backpacking adventure through Wyoming's Bridger Wilderness on the Titcomb Basin via Pole Creek Trail and Crooks Lakes Loop. This demanding route covers 30.3 miles (48.8 km) with a significant elevation gain of 4443 feet (1354 metres), typically taking around 15 hours and 8 minutes of hiking time. You will traverse diverse landscapes, from initial forested paths to expansive alpine terrain, revealing towering peaks like Fremont Peak and the clear waters of Seneca Lake.

Planning for this strenuous multi-day trip, often spanning 4 days and 3 nights, is crucial. Be ready for the possibility of snow at higher elevations, even during summer months, which might require microspikes. Since you will be in grizzly bear country, always take appropriate safety precautions, and remember that a valid Wyoming fishing license is necessary if you plan to fish in the many lakes along the way.

This loop offers a profound immersion into the rugged, high-alpine environment of the Wind River Range. The trail guides you through a landscape shaped by glaciers, featuring dramatic spire towers and numerous glacial lakes that are popular spots for basecamping. It provides a unique opportunity to experience the remote beauty and challenging conditions characteristic of this iconic wilderness area.

Embark on the Highline Trail for a difficult 11.4-mile (18.3 km) hike that challenges you with 1787 feet (545 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 6 hours and 24 minutes to complete. You will experience high alpine exposure and expansive vistas as you traverse the western side of the Continental Divide, often known as the 'Garden Wall'. The route features gentle ascents and descents through alpine meadows, which burst with wildflowers during early summer. Look out for towering peaks such as Mt. Cannon and Swiftcurrent Mountain, alongside dramatic cliff views overlooking Going-to-the-Sun Road. A notable section near Logan Pass involves a narrow, cliff-side path where a hand cable provides assistance.

Since the Highline Trail is very popular, plan your visit carefully. To secure parking at Logan Pass, you should aim to arrive before 8 AM or consider using the park shuttle service. It is essential to carry ample water, as opportunities for refilling are scarce, particularly later in the hiking season. Be ready for sudden weather changes by bringing protection from sun, wind, and rain. Always carry bear spray due to the presence of wildlife in the area.

This trail offers a unique perspective on the region's natural environment, providing continuous views from its elevated position along the Continental Divide. The 'Garden Wall' section is especially known for its dramatic scenery and geological formations. You will find yourself immersed in a high alpine ecosystem, home to diverse flora and fauna. The route's design allows you to appreciate the vastness of the landscape and the rugged beauty of the mountains.

Embark on the Miller Lake and Upper Sweeney Lake Loop, a moderate hike spanning 7.9 miles (12.7 km) with an elevation gain of 1293 feet (394 metres). This route typically takes around 3 hours and 38 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied landscapes, moving from the shade of lodgepole pine forests into expansive, wildflower-dotted meadows, all while enjoying the pristine alpine scenery. Keep an eye out for the crystalline waters of Miller Lake and the majestic granite crests of the Wind River Range, especially from viewpoints like Photographer's Point.

When planning your hike, remember that this is a true wilderness experience. Be prepared for potential wildlife encounters; carrying bear spray is a good precaution. Bug spray is also essential, particularly between May and October, as mosquitoes can be quite active during the warmer months. Always check local conditions before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

This loop offers a genuine high-country adventure within Wyoming's Bridger Wilderness, providing a deep dive into the region's natural beauty. The trail is known for its diverse terrain and the serene atmosphere of its alpine lakes and rushing creeks, giving you a real sense of the backcountry. It's an excellent choice if you are looking for a substantial day hike that showcases the rugged charm of the Wind River Range.

If you're looking for an easy, rewarding hike in Pinedale, the Boyd Skinner Trail is a top pick. This 2.1-mile (3.4 km) route, with a negligible 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 52 minutes to complete and offers a delightful journey through varied terrain. You'll wander past lush grasslands and pine trees, follow Pine Creek, cross a footbridge, and skirt a tranquil pond, all while enjoying distant views of the Wind River Mountains. It's an accessible and scenic experience, perfect for a quick nature fix.

Planning your visit to this easy trail is straightforward, as it's located right within Boyd Skinner Park. The route is family-friendly and dog-friendly, though your furry friends need to be on a leash. You'll appreciate the convenient amenities like benches and bathroom facilities along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; deer, moose, and a variety of bird species are frequently spotted here, making it a great option for nature observation.

What makes the Boyd Skinner Trail truly stand out is its status as an inviting urban escape, offering a peaceful natural setting despite its proximity to town. It's an excellent choice for beginner hikers or anyone wanting a gentle stroll. For those seeking a longer adventure, the trail seamlessly connects to the American Legion Trail, providing an opportunity to extend your walk through American Legion Park.