Snowmobiling in Wyoming: 8 Destinations to Fuel Your Winter Fun
It’s easy to imagine winter in Wyoming as a quiet, cozy season. And while there are plenty of ways to relax in the Cowboy State once the temperature drops, it’s also a time when the fun and adventure really heat up. Winter in Wyoming is a season of powder-filled paths, jaw-dropping scenery and wide-open landscapes made for carving. And with more than 2,500 miles of trails, including nationally ranked routes, snowmobiling in Wyoming is an adventure of a lifetime.
If you're a seasoned backcountry explorer or a first-time rider looking to soak in the winter wonder of the West, here's your guide to some of the best Wyoming snowmobile trails.
Bear Lodge Mountains
Fast Facts:
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Location: Northeast Wyoming, near Sundance
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Total Miles: 65 (mix of groomed trails and deep powder)
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Grooming Season: Mid-December through mid-March
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Elevation: 5,000–7,000 ft
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Why Riders Love It: Rolling trails through snow-kissed pines
In the northeast corner of Wyoming, sledders will find the Bear Lodge Mountains. Offering 65 miles of groomed trails looping through rolling hills and snow-drifted valleys, with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet, this is the kind of place where you can spend the day in the backcountry and still be back at your cabin by nightfall. Trailheads are well-equipped with restrooms and safety shelters, and wildlife sightings are common, with mule deer and elk often appearing as frequent companions on the trail.
Where to Ride: With expansive terrain and far fewer crowds, this part of the state delivers a refreshing sense of space. One standout? Mallo Trail outside of Newcastle. This moderately challenging loop takes about 2 hours and covers 4.5 miles.
Where to Stay: Look for snowmobiler-friendly lodging in Sundance or Hulett, such as Bearlodge Mountain Resort, known for its warm hospitality and sledder-specific perks.
Black Hills Snowmobile System
Fast Facts:
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Total Miles: 40 groomed, connects to South Dakota’s 295-mile system
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Grooming Season: Mid-December through mid-March
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Elevation: 5,000–7,000 ft
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Why Riders Love It: Linked trails and plenty of powder
Bordering the iconic Black Hills of South Dakota, this 40-mile network in Wyoming is your entry point to one of the largest connected snowmobile systems in the region. Ride through dense pine stands, past towering rock formations and into wide meadows made for carving. This area offers a sense of space that’s rare, making it ideal for snowmobilers chasing solitude. Expect well-groomed trails, expansive views and a landscape that shifts from forest to open field in just a few miles.
Where to Ride: Start near Newcastle and head east to connect with South Dakota’s expansive system, or loop back through Wyoming for a day ride with big scenery and smaller crowds.
Where to Stay: Newcastle offers convenient lodging, while nearby Hulett provides cozy cabins and local charm just a short drive from the trails.
Bighorn Mountains
Fast Facts:
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Location: North-central Wyoming, near Sheridan, Lovell and Greybull
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Total Miles: 377 (285 groomed, 92 ungroomed)
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Grooming Season: Mid-December through mid-April
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Elevation: 6,000–10,000 ft
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Annual Snowfall: Up to 250 inches
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Why Riders Love It: Rugged terrain and backcountry thrills
Framed by the dramatic peaks of the Bighorn Mountains, this snowmobiling playground rolls over steep hills, winds through lodgepole pines and opens into unspoiled glades of powder. With hundreds of miles of trails to choose from, you can customize your ride. Beginners will find plenty of forgiving glides, while those in search of challenging backcountry climbs can enjoy one of Wyoming's most rugged winter landscapes.
Where to Ride: Newer riders will love Red Grade for its lower elevation and gentle terrain, while experienced sledders in search of a challenge will want to head to Shell Canyon, home of the steepest, longest pulls in the Bighorns.
Where to Stay: After a day of carving on your sled, you'll find warm hospitality and hearty meals at the Historic Sheridan Inn. Plus, Sheridan serves as a perfect base for your adventure, offering quick access to trails.
Snowmobile Rentals: No sled? No problem. Outfitters like Bear Lodge Resort in Dayton offer rentals and guided tours to help you make the most of your time in the mountains.
Casper Mountain
Fast Facts:
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Location: Central Wyoming, near Casper
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Total Miles: 150 (50 groomed, 100 ungroomed) + extensive play areas
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Grooming Season: Mid-December through mid-March
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Elevation: 7,000 ft–10,000 ft
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Why Riders Love It: Easy access, big views, quick laps
Towering above the town of Casper on the northern edge of the Laramie Range, Casper Mountain delivers high-elevation thrills just minutes from downtown. Miles of well-marked trails and plenty of ungroomed areas to explore make Casper Mountain a favorite for local and visiting sledders alike. And if you’re looking beyond the sled, the Casper Mountain Trails Center offers Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, ideal for adding a little variety to your snow-filled getaway.
Where to Ride: Kick things off in Beartrap Meadow, where trails head toward Muddy Mountain and drop into rolling terrain full of hidden glades and backcountry surprises. The area features plenty of groomed trails and expansive snowfields, perfect for both casual cruising and more technical riding.
Where to Stay: The city of Casper offers a range of accommodations, from national hotels to locally owned stays, all with easy access to the mountain. After a day on the trails, you'll find plenty of places to refuel, relax and warm up.
Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail (CDST)
Fast Facts:
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Location: Western Wyoming, from Lander to Yellowstone
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Total Miles: 805 including Yellowstone (675 groomed, 130 ungroomed)
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Grooming Season: Mid-December through mid-March
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Elevation: Varies widely; includes alpine and high-desert terrain
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Average Snowfall: 46 inches
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Why Riders Love It: Deep powder and long seasons, with over 200 days of sunshine annually
Stretching from Lander to the south gate of Yellowstone, the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail offers one of winter's most iconic rides. Named the #1 trail in the U.S. by SnoWest Magazine, this trail weaves through alpine forests, windswept ridges and some of the most stunning scenery in the Rocky Mountains. Wildlife sightings, pristine powder fields and a mix of terrains make this one of the best experiences for snowmobiling in Wyoming, whether you're in it for the whole route or just tackling a section.
Where to Ride: As the name suggests, this route is divided into two sections. In the south, explore groomed trails through the Wind River Range and Red Desert, where big views and remote serenity rule the ride. In the north, ride beneath the towering Tetons and Absarokas near Togwotee Pass.
Where to Stay: Base yourself in Dubois or Lander for southern access, or plan a northern stay at Line Shack Lodge on Union Pass or Togwotee Mountain Lodge just outside Moran.
Snowmobile Rentals & Tours: Whether you need rentals, guides or extra gear, you have options along the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail. You can choose from a modern fleet of well-maintained snowmobiles at Union Pass Rentals, as well as avalanche beacons and backpacks with probes and shovels for rent. Guided tours are a fun way to explore the snow-covered landscape on snowmobiles, with day and overnight options available through Jackson Hole Snowmobile Tours and Old Faithful Snowmobile Tours.
Snowy Range
Fast Facts:
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Location: Southeast Wyoming, Medicine Bow National Forest near Laramie and Centennial
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Total Miles: 328 (183 groomed, 145 ungroomed)
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Grooming Season: Mid-December through mid-March
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Elevation: 7,000 ft–11,000 ft
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Annual Snowfall: Up to 25 ft
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Why Riders Love It: Untouched snow and scenic vistas
With a name like Snowy Range, you can expect the riding here to be legendary. This southeast Wyoming favorite offers high-alpine terrain, endless meadows and a mix of groomed routes and powder — all tucked inside Medicine Bow National Forest. It's a go-to spot for snowmobiling in Wyoming, especially for riders with a nose for backcountry boondocking.
Where to Ride: Trailheads at Chains End (Highway 130 terminus) and Ryan Park offer direct access to top routes like Trail U (the must-ride route to Lake Marie and Medicine Bow Peak), Trails N and NO (backside loops with terrain for all skill levels) and Trails Q and V (great for connecting rides from Ryan Park).
Where to Stay: After a long day in the snow, you'll find plenty of friendly spots to stop for the night. Ten Mile Inn in Saratoga offers plenty of cozy comforts, as well as access to a saloon where legends like Hank Williams have performed, while WyColo Lodge near Laramie offers good eats, weekly specials and warm hospitality.
Wyoming Range
Fast Facts:
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Location: Western Wyoming, Star Valley region
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Total Miles: 361 (216 groomed, 145 ungroomed) + extensive off-piste riding
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Grooming Season: Mid-December through mid-March
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Elevation: 6,000 ft–10,000 ft
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Why Riders Love It: High elevations and big adventure
With sky-high trails and rugged beauty around every corner, the Wyoming Range delivers some of the most breathtaking snowmobiling in Wyoming. Ranked #7 by SnoWest Magazine, this region is a bucket-list destination for riders looking to climb, carve and explore miles of alpine backcountry.
Where to Ride: The Wyoming Range delivers some of the state’s best high-elevation snowmobiling. Start on the 14-mile Blind Bull/Horse Creek Trail, stretching from the North Horse Creek Winter Trailhead to Blind Bull Cabin. From the Middle Piney Entrance Trailhead, you can access endless powder and big mountain views. If you’re chasing deep snow and steep climbs, the North Horse Creek area is a backcountry favorite.
Where to Stay: Star Valley can feel remote, and that’s a good thing, but you’re never too far from food, fuel and lodging. Towns such as Afton offer warm meals and a place to rest your head.
Yellowstone National Park
Fast Facts:
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Location: Northwest Wyoming
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Total Miles: 200 (groomed, guided access only)
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Grooming Season: Mid-December through mid-March
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Why Riders Love It: Bucket-list snowmobile tours
There's nothing quite like winter in Yellowstone National Park. Snowmobiling here means quiet geysers, steaming hot springs and herds of bison moving through snow-covered valleys. It's a surreal experience, and one of the most memorable things to do in Wyoming during winter.
Where to Ride: Access is strictly regulated, but guided tours give you front-row seats to Yellowstone's most iconic winter sights. Popular departure points include Jackson and Cody, depending on the route and outfitter.
Access & Permits: To snowmobile in Yellowstone, you must either book a guided tour with a commercial operator, such as Gary Fales Outfitting Snowmobile Tours or Old Faithful Snowmobile Tours. You can also apply for a daily permit through the non-commercially guided access program. Availability is extremely limited, so book early.
Know Before You Go: Wyoming Snowmobiling Tips
Before you hit the throttle, take a moment to plan ahead. Wyoming’s snowmobile trails stretch across mountain passes, open meadows and backcountry terrain — and conditions can change fast. Always check local trail and weather reports before heading out, ride with a buddy and carry avalanche safety gear if you’re venturing off-trail. Dress in warm, moisture-wicking layers, pack extra gloves and goggles and make sure your sled is registered with the required Wyoming user fee decal. Trail grooming typically runs from mid-December to mid-March, but timing can vary by region. Whether you’re riding near the tree line or in high-alpine powder, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your adventure safe, scenic and unforgettable.
Permits & Planning: A little prep and the right permit go a long way. All snowmobiles in the state of Wyoming are required to have a user fee decal. Each resident permit is $50 per sled, while each nonresident permit is $75 per sled. You can purchase permits through Wyoming State Parks or by calling 1-877-996-7275.
Plan Your Wyoming Snowmobile Adventure
From short, scenic rides to multi-day mountain journeys, snowmobiling in Wyoming delivers winter thrills for every rider. If you're chasing fresh tracks, postcard-worthy views or both, your next great adventure begins right here in the Cowboy State.
Ready to ride? From powder-packed peaks to scenic glades, Wyoming's trails are calling. Grab your permit, fuel up the sled and find your next winter escape.
