Big Sandy Trailhead Location Map: See below for detailed trailhead information.
Big Sandy Trailhead
Wind River Range Trailhead Details
Big Sandy is the southernmost trailhead in the Wind River Range and accesses the Cirque of the Towers, Pyramid Lake, and the Continental Divide Trail.
Big Sandy Trailhead Description
Big Sandy is the southernmost trailhead/campground in the Wind River Range, yet still boasts high-use because the trailhead provides access to areas such as the Cirque of the Towers and Pyramid Lake, as well as the Continental Divide Trail.
The 54-mile trip from Pinedale is partially paved, but has about 27 miles of gravel and dirt. The last 10 miles of the road are very rough and narrow and are not recommended for RV travel, although not prohibitive.
The campground offers 12 sites surrounding the parking area for Big Sandy Trailhead. The campground and trailhead are at an elevation of 9,100 feet. Corrals are available. There is moderate parking at the trailhead with toilets and corrals. No drinking water available.
Trailhead Provides Access To
Provides access to the southern Wind River Range of the Bridger Wilderness.
- Popular Destinations Accessed:
- Cirque of the Towers
- Popular Lakes Accessed:
- Big Sandy Lake
- Deep Lake
- Clear Lake
- Popular Peaks Accessed:
- Temple Peak
- Pyramid Lake
- Shadow Lake
- Southern section of the Continental Divide Scenic Trail.
Trailhead Restrictions
Due to high traffic, certain areas are subject to animal and camping restrictions to protect land and water quality.
Trailhead Precautions
Be aware of the effects of altitude sickness and how to treat it. Big Sandy is one of the highest trailheads in the Wind River Range and many of the peaks and passes are very elevated. Allow for time to acclimate whenever possible to ensure personal health and safety.Bridger-Teton National Forest Reminders
- Practice good campfire safety and make sure the fire is completely out before leaving your camping site.
- Be familiar with food storage requirements when camping.
- Organized groups and recreational livestock users are required to have a Bridger Wilderness Permit.
- Come prepared with mosquito face nets, repellent, bear spray, and first aid kit.
- Mountain Range
- Location
Southern Wind River Range 54 miles south of Pinedale, Wyoming.
- Elevation
9,080 Feet
- Season
Mid-June thru mid-September
- Traffic Usage
High-use Trailhead
- Official Forest Service Link
- Managing Ranger District