Gros Ventre Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · WY

Gros Ventre Wilderness

Gros Ventre Wilderness offers stunning mountainous landscapes, rich wildlife, and serene solitude for outdoor enthusiasts in Wyoming.

Wilderness Area317,8744+ Trails

Designation

Wilderness Area

Total Wilderness Area

317,874

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Gros Ventre Wilderness

Gros Ventre Wilderness offers stunning mountainous landscapes, rich wildlife, and serene solitude for outdoor enthusiasts in Wyoming.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Gros Ventre Wilderness is an expansive protected area located within the Bridger-Teton National Forest in western Wyoming. Known for its rugged and dramatic landscapes, this wilderness encompasses towering peaks, rolling hills, and deep valleys. The area is characterized by the impressive Gros Ventre Range, which provides a formidable backdrop for outdoor activities. The wilderness is home to diverse ecosystems, ranging from subalpine meadows blanketed with wildflowers to lush forests of spruce, fir, and pine. Wildlife in the area includes elk, moose, black bears, and the occasional grizzly, offering ample wildlife viewing opportunities. Historically, the area has been a traditional hunting ground for indigenous tribes and was designated as a wilderness in 1964 to preserve its wild nature. Visitors to Gros Ventre Wilderness can indulge in a variety of recreational activities, from hiking on its many trails to backcountry camping, fishing, and photography. The absence of motorized vehicles and development ensures a tranquil experience for visitors seeking an escape into nature.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Gros Ventre Wilderness

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Granite Hot Springs✦ Unique wildlife habitat for elk and moose✦ Bridger Peak for panoramic views✦ Remote camping spots for solitude seekers
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Gros Ventre Wilderness

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

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Gros Ventre Wilderness.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits or fees are required for entry.

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 Gros Ventre Wilderness

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

Crystal Creek Campground

Located along the creek, ideal for fishing and quiet, far from any road noise.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Gros Ventre Wilderness

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

Kelly, Wyoming
⌖ 8.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kelly, Wyoming

Kelly, Wyoming offers a quiet alpine escape near the Tetons with hiking, backpacking, and cross-country skiing. This small town is a perfect base to connect with wild landscapes and abundant wildlife away from the crowds.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for Cross-Country Skiing
Explore Town
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
⌖ 13.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is a premier destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. From intense skiing to scenic hiking and river rafting, its wild landscapes promise unforgettable adventure year-round.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and rafting, Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Jackson, Wyoming
⌖ 13.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson, WY is an adventure hub where top-tier trails, wildlife encounters, and alpine sports await. From hiking to skiing, it's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Moose, Wyoming
⌖ 13.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Moose, Wyoming

Moose, WY provides access to breathtaking adventures in the Grand Teton National Park. Discover the pristine beauty of its trails, fish the Snake River, and watch wildlife against a stunning mountain backdrop.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Teton Village, Wyoming
⌖ 16.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Teton Village, Wyoming

Teton Village, a hub of mountain adventure, is perfect for thrill-seekers. Ski the famous Jackson Hole Resort in winter, or hike and bike stunning summer trails in the Tetons.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Wilson, Wyoming
⌖ 18.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wilson, Wyoming

Wilson, Wyoming, offers robust outdoor adventures from hiking and mountain biking in summer to backcountry skiing in winter, all framed by the dramatic Tetons. This friendly town serves as the perfect base camp for immersing yourself in Wyoming’s wild landscapes.

Summer through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing and snow adventures
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Gros Ventre Wilderness

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

Private Upper Loop: A Long Day Through Lamar Valley, Geysers and Canyon Vistas
ADVEXPEDITION
Jackson, Wyoming
HikingADV Bookable

Private Upper Loop: A Long Day Through Lamar Valley, Geysers and Canyon Vistas

A full-day private drive of Yellowstone’s Upper Loop that prioritizes wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley and close-up encounters with Norris and Mammoth’s geothermal features—this guide helps plan gear, timing, and expectations for the 9–12 hour outing.

HikingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip