The 300,000 acre Gros Ventre Wilderness, on the Bridger-Teton National Forest is composed of high craggy peaks, glacier scoured valleys, and rolling sagebrush foothills.

Explore the Gros Ventre Range

The range is home to elk, moose, deer, black and grizzly bear, and many other species of wildlife. It is considered to be essential calving ground for the Jackson Hole elk herd. There are a variety of trails through the area that offer an exceptional backcountry experience in unspoiled, pristine country. Trails within the wilderness area are for foot travel. Mechanized vehicles, including mountain bikes and snowmobiles, are not allowed. Horses, mules and llamas are permitted. Views from the high country include the Tetons, Absarokas, Wind River Mountains and the Wyoming Range.

The name is from the French word for "big belly", and originated from Indian sign language meant to convey the idea of "always hungry".

Accessing the Gros Ventre Mountains

The Gros Ventre Wilderness area can be accessed from Highway 189/191 in the Hoback Canyon near Granite Hot Springs to the south and from the Upper Green River to the east. Access to the northern portion is via Jackson and the Gros Ventre River Road.

Outfitters & Guides

Licensed outfitters and guides offer summer pack trips, hiking, backpacking, llama tours and full service hunting trips. The area has hunting seasons for elk, mule deer, grouse, mountain goat and bighorn sheep. For more information see wildlife page.

Mountain Conditions

The higher elevations are usually free of snow around mid-July and open until mid-September. Elevations range from 7,000 to over 11,000 feet. Expect summer time temperatures to range from highs in the 70s-80s during the day to lows of around 30 at night. Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning and rain showers are common in the summer. It can snow any day of the year, so visitors should come prepared for a wide variety of weather and temperature conditions.