Wind River High Route Permit: Route
Wind River High Route permits are walk-up only in Bridger-Teton National Forest / Wind River Range. The route covers 80 miles.
Free
Permit Cost
6-8 days
Duration
80 miles
Distance
20,000'
Elevation Gain
expert
Difficulty
About Wind River High Route
America's premier off-trail alpine traverse—80 miles of glacier crossings, 12,000-foot passes, and route-finding through the largest wilderness in the Lower 48.
The Wind River High Route
- Distance
- 80 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Elevation gain
- 20,000 ft
- High point
- 12,500 ft
- Low point
- 8,000 ft
- Trip length
- 6-8 days
- Difficulty
- expert
Entry points: Green River Lakes Trailhead, Big Sandy Trailhead
Wind River Range. Nearest town: Pinedale
Points along the route
- Green River Lakes TrailheadMile 0, 8,058 ft
- Vista PassMile 8, 10,129 ft
- Knapsack ColMile 16, 12,251 ft
- Titcomb BasinMile 18, 10,590 ft
- Indian PassMile 35, 12,133 ft
- Bonneville LakesMile 45, 10,836 ft
- Texas PassMile 55, 11,429 ft
- Cirque of the TowersMile 60, 10,160 ft
- Jackass PassMile 70, 10,790 ft
- Big Sandy TrailheadMile 80, 9,096 ft
Wind River High Route permit detailsandAll Bridger-Teton National Forest / Wind River Range permits
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100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Wind River High Route?
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Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
When is the best time to visit Wind River High Route?
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Late July through early September. Before mid-July, passes may be snow-choked requiring technical mountaineering. After mid-September, winter storms begin. August offers the best balance of conditions and reduced mosquitoes.
How long is the Wind River High Route route?
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The route is 80 miles, as a point-to-point. Plan on 6-8 days.
How difficult is the Wind River High Route route?
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Expert mountaineers with extensive off-trail experience and strong navigation skills.
Where does the Wind River High Route route start?
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The permit covers 2 entry points: Green River Lakes Trailhead, Big Sandy Trailhead.
What gear do I need for the Wind River High Route route?
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Essential gear includes: Detailed topographic maps (7.5-minute USGS), Compass and GPS with pre-loaded waypoints, Crampons and ice axe (for glacier crossings, even in late season), Sturdy mountaineering boots (talus travel demands ankle support), Bear canister (highly recommended).
Don't Miss Your Wind River High Route Permit
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