Guide to Cross-Country Ski and Snowshoe Trails
Explore Wintry Landscapes
Rock Springs and Green River, Wyoming offer plenty of winter recreation during the snow-filled winter months. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are great ways to explore our wintry landscapes. Choose from a variety of Bureau of Land Management lands or recreation areas as you take advantage of the thinner crowds and peaceful surroundings. Here’s a guide to get you started on your cross-country ski and snowshoe trip to Sweetwater County.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Explore miles of groomed trails in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Cross-country ski or snowshoe on a trail suited for your skills. This area has many breathtaking views, along with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Red Canyon Rim Trail
The popular Red Canyon Rim trail has minimal elevation gain and ranges from 4 to 9 miles. There are many scenic overlooks to view the winter landscape. For a longer, more strenuous adventure, continue on to the Swett Ranch Loop trail. The Red Canyon Rim trailhead begins at the Red Canyon Visitor Center. The visitor center is located on a turnoff between mileposts 3 and 4 on UT-44.
Bear Canyon Bootleg Trail
The Bear Canyon Bootleg trail is a great beginner trail. It is three miles round trip and passes the amphitheater and various winter landscapes. The trail features views of Lake Flaming Gorge and Bear Canyon. From Rock Springs, the marked trailhead is located along US Highway 191, just before the Flaming Gorge Resort.
For more cross-country and snowshoe trails in the area, see the Flaming Gorge County Winter Recreation Guide or the Forest Service’s list of trails. Cross-country ski rentals are available at Flaming Gorge Resort, and snowshoe rentals are available at Red Canyon Lodge.
South Pass Historic Mining Area
The South Pass Historic Mining Area is located in Shoshone National Forest and is managed by the BLM. The area features many miles of nature trails and two historic towns that boomed during the Gold Rush – South Pass and Atlantic City. The Continental Divide, Oregon Trail and other historic trails run through this area. The three-mile Volksmarch trail also passes through the town. During the winter, these trails are accessible by snowshoe. The South Pass Historic Mining area is located 25 miles south of Lander and 90 miles north of Rock Springs. Access the area from US-28 via county roads 515 and 516.
Start planning your cross-country ski and snowshoe adventure today. Experience Sweetwater County's historic trails, vast lands and scenic recreation areas this winter!
Disclaimer: This is a true “off the grid experience,” and cell service is limited! Prepare for your winter adventure ahead of time by making sure you have extra water, and a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle with thick tires (and a spare tire) to traverse the snowy dirt roads. Let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return.