Wind River Indian Reservation wilderness guide
Indian Reservation · WY

Wind River Indian Reservation

Wind River Indian Reservation, located in western Wyoming, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore expansive landscapes and learn about the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes.

Indian Reservation2,268,0082+ Trails
DesignationIndian Reservation
Total Wilderness Area2,268,008
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Wind River Indian Reservation

Wind River Indian Reservation, located in western Wyoming, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore expansive landscapes and learn about the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Wind River Indian Reservation is the seventh-largest Indian reservation in the United States, spanning over 2.2 million acres. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, it is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. The area is characterized by diverse ecosystems ranging from alpine zones to high desert, providing habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors have opportunities to engage with the local culture, including powwows and cultural exhibits at the Southern Wind River Museum. Recreational activities abound, such as hiking in the Wind River Range, which offers breathtaking views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Other popular activities include fishing in the crystalline streams and rivers and exploring the reservation's rich archaeological sites. The reservation is a secluded area perfect for those seeking solitude, adventure, and a deep connection to Native American history.

Field Guide · Indian Reservation
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Wind River Indian Reservation

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Wind River Range, known for its rugged beauty and hiking opportunities.✦ Cultural events like the Eastern Shoshone Powwow held annually in Fort Washakie.✦ St. Stephen's Mission—a historic site founded in 1884.✦ Boysen Reservoir offers outstanding fishing and water recreation.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Wind River Indian Reservation

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Wind River Indian Reservation
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Wind River Indian Reservation
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Wind River Indian Reservation
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Wind River Indian Reservation
Park Recreation

Cultural Tours

Available in Wind River Indian Reservation
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Wind River Indian Reservation
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Wind River Indian Reservation.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee, but permission may be required for certain areas.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Wind River Indian Reservation

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Boysen State Park Campground

Located near Boysen Reservoir with easy access to water activities and mountain views.

Sinks Canyon Campground

Offers stunning views of the canyon and opportunities to explore the nearby Sinks Canyon State Park.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Wind River Indian Reservation

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Riverton, Wyoming
⌖ 19.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Riverton, Wyoming

Riverton, WY, offers outdoorsy souls a chance to hike, fish, and ride through the scenic Wind River Basin. Experience the authentic American West amidst stunning landscapes, wildlife, and exciting paths.

Summer to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Wind River Indian Reservation

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Museum Admission (Riverton)
ADVEXPEDITION
Riverton, Wyoming
History TourADV Bookable

Museum Admission (Riverton)

Discover Wyoming's storied past through engaging exhibits at Fremont County Museums in Riverton. Perfect for history buffs and families alike, this cultural outing offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich heritage.

History TourAll Ages! • 9:00AM - 5:00PM • Starting at $6Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Nightfall in Riverton: Alma Law’s Haunted Downtown Walk
ADVEXPEDITION
Riverton, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Nightfall in Riverton: Alma Law’s Haunted Downtown Walk

A two-hour, after-dark guided walk of downtown Riverton led by local storyteller Alma Law that pairs building histories with eerie local tales—this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Snowshoes - Kids
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Snowshoes - Kids

Discover family-friendly snowshoeing adventures in Wyoming’s Wind River Mountains with Wild Iris Mountain Sports. Perfect for kids, these guided trips introduce young explorers to winter’s wonders in a safe and engaging way.

Guided Tour1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Climbing Shoes
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
ClimbingADV Bookable

Climbing Shoes

Gear up for Wyoming’s legendary climbs with expert gear and advice from Wild Iris Mountain Sports in Lander. Discover what makes this shop a climbing haven in the Wind River Mountains.

Climbing1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Stick Clip
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Stick Clip

Wild Iris Mountain Sports in Lander offers expert climbing gear, apparel, and local insights—your gateway to the Wind River Mountains' rugged beauty. Discover top-quality equipment and community support for your Wyoming adventure.

Guided Tour1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Snowshoes - Adult
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
HikingADV Bookable

Snowshoes - Adult

Discover winter magic with snowshoeing adventures in the Wind River Mountains, guided by Wild Iris Mountain Sports in Lander, WY. Rugged terrain and expert gear make this a must-try season for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Trekking Poles
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
HikingADV Bookable

Trekking Poles

Wild Iris Mountain Sports in Lander, Wyoming, equips hikers and trekkers for the rugged Wind River Mountains with expert guidance and top-tier gear. Discover how their trekking poles and clothing help you tackle this dynamic alpine terrain safely and confidently.

Hiking1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Teepee Yoga on a Gentle Float Through Wind River Canyon
ADVEXPEDITION
Thermopolis, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Teepee Yoga on a Gentle Float Through Wind River Canyon

A two‑hour guided float from Wind River Canyon Whitewater & Fly Fishing that pairs a scenic river trip with a yoga stop in a teepee — ideal for beginners and families (Ages 6+; 8am departure).

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip