CDT: South Pass City (WY-28) to Green River Lakes CG
Hiking Trail
Details
113.25 mi
18,195 ft
A long and incredibly scenic passage through the Wind River Range.
This is perhaps the most stunning and beautiful section of the Continental Divide Trail, at least in Wyoming. Considered by many as the wildest and most rugged mountain range in the lower 48, the *Winds* are by far one of the most coveted sections of the entire CDT. Several of the range's best hikes, including the infamous [High Route]( are documented in [this guidebook]( or you could set off for a section hike between South Pass City and the Green Lakes Campground seen here. To the south, this segment begins in South Pass City, one of Wyoming's most well-known ghost towns. According to [this source]( "you can tour the historic site's 24 restored buildings, pan for gold in Willow Creek and [even] shop at the local General Store." If you want to "get in touch with your inner cowboy," they continue, you could also enjoy a game of pool with a cold glass of sarsaparilla in a saloon built during the 1800s gold rush. For thru-hikers heading north, there are several trailheads along the way, beginning with the Sweetwater Guard Station about 20-miles in. The Big Sandy Campground is about 45-miles and near the halfway point for those hiking the entire section. Access points are limited as you continue further north, though several intersecting trails can lead you off the mountain. Water is also abundant thanks to the many glacial lakes you'll pass along the way, just remember to treat or filter it before you drink it. For those who enjoy visiting the trail's many *Gateway Communities*, Pinedale rests along the western slopes of the range about halfway through the segment. "Home to one of the nation's oldest and longest cattle drives," the small ranching town is a place where "wildlife outnumber residents tenfold," the [CDT Coalition]( notes. Visiting town does require a detour to the Trails End Campground followed by a road walk or hitchhike, but the stop is absolutely worth the time! [CDT Coalition]( Written by Brendon Voelker
This is perhaps the most stunning and beautiful section of the Continental Divide Trail, at least in Wyoming. Considered by many as the wildest and most rugged mountain range in the lower 48, the *Winds* are by far one of the most coveted sections of the entire CDT. Several of the range's best hikes, including the infamous [High Route]( are documented in [this guidebook]( or you could set off for a section hike between South Pass City and the Green Lakes Campground seen here. To the south, this segment begins in South Pass City, one of Wyoming's most well-known ghost towns. According to [this source]( "you can tour the historic site's 24 restored buildings, pan for gold in Willow Creek and [even] shop at the local General Store." If you want to "get in touch with your inner cowboy," they continue, you could also enjoy a game of pool with a cold glass of sarsaparilla in a saloon built during the 1800s gold rush. For thru-hikers heading north, there are several trailheads along the way, beginning with the Sweetwater Guard Station about 20-miles in. The Big Sandy Campground is about 45-miles and near the halfway point for those hiking the entire section. Access points are limited as you continue further north, though several intersecting trails can lead you off the mountain. Water is also abundant thanks to the many glacial lakes you'll pass along the way, just remember to treat or filter it before you drink it. For those who enjoy visiting the trail's many *Gateway Communities*, Pinedale rests along the western slopes of the range about halfway through the segment. "Home to one of the nation's oldest and longest cattle drives," the small ranching town is a place where "wildlife outnumber residents tenfold," the [CDT Coalition]( notes. Visiting town does require a detour to the Trails End Campground followed by a road walk or hitchhike, but the stop is absolutely worth the time! [CDT Coalition]( Written by Brendon Voelker
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continental Divide Trail Climb | 0.47 mi | 174 ft | 7.0% |
| Continental Divide Trail Climb | 0.50 mi | 157 ft | 5.4% |
| Continental Divide Trail Climb | 0.95 mi | 574 ft | 11.3% |
| Indian Pass Climb | 0.40 mi | 161 ft | 7.6% |