Encampment River Trail

The Encampment River Trail is located near Encampment, Wyoming, within the Medicine Bow National Forest. The primary access point is often from the Encampment River Campground. Parking is typically available at designated trailheads within the forest, but it's always a good idea to check local forest service resources for current conditions and specific parking instructions.

Generally, trails in the Medicine Bow National Forest, including those within the Encampment River Wilderness, allow dogs. However, they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste.

The best time to hike the Encampment River Trail is typically from late spring through early fall. During spring and summer, you'll see diverse wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Winter hiking is possible but requires specialized gear and experience due to snow and ice conditions. Always check current weather and trail conditions before heading out.

No specific permits are generally required for day hiking the Encampment River Trail itself, nor are there entrance fees for accessing the Medicine Bow National Forest or the Encampment River Wilderness. However, if you plan to camp overnight, especially in the wilderness area, check with the Forest Service for any current regulations or permits that might be needed.

The trail is considered to be of moderate difficulty overall. The first five miles are relatively easy, but the remaining upper 10 miles become increasingly challenging with rocky sections, steeper climbs, and an elevation gain of around 900 meters (2,950 feet) for the full point-to-point route. Hikers should be moderately experienced and prepared for varied terrain and potential creek crossings.

The full point-to-point trail is approximately 26 kilometers (16 miles) long. A shorter section, like the one highlighted on komoot, is about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and typically takes around 2 hours and 48 minutes to complete as a hike. For the entire 16-mile route, plan for a full day or an overnight backpacking trip, depending on your pace and experience.

You can expect stunning and diverse scenery. The trail follows the pristine Encampment River, offering views of rapids and placid stretches. The terrain transitions from lush river valleys to rugged mountain landscapes, including deep canyon walls, evergreen forests, and open hillsides with sage and wildflowers. Rocky sections and steeper climbs are present, especially in the upper portions.

The trail is a haven for diverse wildlife. You might spot deer, elk, black bears, mountain lions, moose, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, and river otters. Birdwatchers can look for eagles, falcons, western tanagers, and hummingbirds. The river is also known for excellent trout fishing.

Yes, the region has a rich history. You can find remnants of old cabins, mining equipment, and small mine ruins along the trail, offering a glimpse into its past as a bustling area for mining and logging. A significant portion of the route also passes through the Encampment River Trail, which is part of the Encampment River Wilderness, Wyoming's smallest wilderness area.

The Encampment River Trail is primarily a point-to-point trail, stretching approximately 26 kilometers (16 miles). While you can hike sections as out-and-back routes, completing the entire length requires arranging a shuttle or a return trip.

Bikes are not allowed on the Encampment River Trail. While horses may be permitted in some parts of the Medicine Bow National Forest, the narrow tread and overhanging boughs of this specific trail make it generally unsuitable for equestrian use, making it primarily a hiker's trail.

Given that the first five miles are relatively easy and the upper 10 miles become significantly more challenging, consider starting early to allow ample time, especially if you plan to cover a longer distance. If you're less experienced or not acclimated to higher altitudes, you might focus on the easier lower sections as an out-and-back, or plan for a shorter day to conserve energy for the more strenuous parts.