Ride Wyoming’s expansive Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail system

Wyoming’s Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail (CDST) system spans nearly 800 miles through the mountains and forests surrounding the Wyoming section of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDNST). The CDNST—a trail primarily used by hikers and horseback riders—crosses five states, connecting the northern and southern borders of the United States through protected wilderness.

Once the snow falls, the area becomes a major destination for winter sports. You can access the system of groomed trails and—for advanced riders or professionally led tours—thousands of acres of fresh powder.

The CDST is commonly broken into northern and southern sections, separated by protected wilderness areas where snowmobiling isn’t permitted. If you’re looking to conquer both sections, you’ll need to trailer your sled between them. However, you can find base camps between the two in places like Pinedale or Jackson.

The northern section is composed of around 600 miles of trails following the Wind River Mountain range. Trails weave through Toton and Shoshone National Forests, passing through Togwotee Pass to Dubois, and continuing south to the Upper Green River area.

The southern section covers about 200 miles of trails further to the southeast, most easily accessed from the towns of Lander or Atlantic City. The area is known for its high elevation—climbing to 9,800 feet above sea level—and spectacular vistas where you can see for miles on a clear day.

All snowmobiles in Wyoming require a permit. As of 2025, permits cost $35* for both residents and non-residents. Check current permit fees and purchase your permit through Wyoming State Parks.

No additional permits or fees are required for the CDST, but if you venture into Yellowstone, you’ll need a non-commercially guided permit on top of the entrance fee.

Plan each day’s ride before heading out. With hundreds of miles of trails through remote backcountry, getting lost is a real risk. Always carry a map you can access without the internet or a phone signal—like a paper map and compass or this PDF download of the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail pocket map—and familiarize yourself with the trail marking system where you’ll be riding.

Snowmobile season on the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail typically runs from mid-December to April. At lower elevations, you can expect three to six feet of snow depth while up in the mountains you could see around 25 feet. Check snow depth, trail conditions, and avalanche conditions and forecast before you ride.

Here are the average monthly temperatures and snowfall for the season in centrally located Pinedale.

The deep snow and remote nature of the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail system call for a heightened level of safety preparedness. Follow all trail rules and guidelines, wear appropriate safety gear, and keep these tips in mind as you start your adventure:

• Ride with a friend: Snowmobiling is safer and more fun with others.

• Know how to repair your machine: Understand the basic ways your snowmobile could malfunction and how to repair it so you can get back to the trailhead.

• Manage your fuel: Refueling opportunities are limited, so always start the day with a full tank. Turn back when you reach half a tank.

• Prepare for avalanches: On groomed trails, the risk of avalanches is low, but if you’re riding off-trail or in avalanche-prone areas, make sure you’re prepared. Include a collapsible probing pole and a plastic shovel in your safety kit.

• Dress in layers: Layering allows you to regulate your body temperature as exertion levels, weather conditions, and time of day change. Dress for the coldest temperature and adjust your layers as needed. Be aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbite.

If you’re used to riding flatter trails with shallow snow, take time to review training materials from the International Association of Snowmobile Administrators (IASA). Or take advantage of the many experienced local guides who know the terrain and can help you explore the area. Many of the lodges have guides on staff or you can find specialized instructors in trailhead communities.

With so much to explore, you may want to spend several days in beautiful Wyoming. If you're coming to the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail system for an adventurous vacation, here are some top places to stay, play, and eat.

You’ll find lodging options in Dubois, Jackson, Lander, Pinedale, Riverton, Atlantic City, and more. Following are a few highlights:

• Union Pass lodging near Dubois offers cabin rentals with direct access to sled trails, on-site restaurants, and a store with snowmobile rentals.

• Crooked Creek Guest Ranch in the Dubois area has cabins for groups up to 10. At the central lodge you’ll find a lounge and restaurant, general store, and heated garage where you can park your sled.

• Louis Lake Lodge in Lander is a real frontier experience with log cabins and no electricity. In the winter, it’s only accessible by snowmobile.

• Heart Six Guest Ranch in Moran is a great place to stay and play on the western side of the Continental Divide Trail System. Enjoy everything the wilderness has to offer, from dog sledding to snowmobiling.

Discover nearby natural wonders, including the iconic national parks Yellowstone and Grand Teton.

Here are some suggestions:

• Wildlife viewing in the shadow of the Tetons: Explore the Wind River and Absaroka ranges, with stunning views of the Teton Range, for exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities along snowmobile trails.

• Discover the Gros Ventre Wilderness by snowmobile: Discover the remote beauty and unique geological formations near Horse Creek, Irish Canyon, and Big Piney within the expansive Gros Ventre Wilderness, accessible by designated snowmobile routes.

• Winter recreation near Grand Teton National Park: Take a break from the trails to enjoy cross-country skiing, a wildlife tour, or ice fishing in many of the trailhead communities around the CDST.

Lodges along the trail have in-house cafes and restaurants. Plan your route so you know where you can access food and supplies while you’re riding. You can find great local fare in any of the trailhead communities.

• Cowboy Cafe in Dubois is known for its buffalo burgers, breakfast skillets, salads, homemade soups, and pies. It's a must-try.

• The Moose Outpost has some of the best burgers, hand-cut fries, and milkshakes. This place is known for its affordable combo meals.

• Togwotee Mountain Lodge in Moran serves up hearty meals that can help restore you after a long day on the trail. Stop by the Red Fox Saloon to play pool and relax for the evening.

• Wind River Brewing Company in Pinedale is a microbrewery with a well-reviewed restaurant that has a little something for everyone.

Looking for snowmobile insurance coverage you can trust while out on the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail? The expert team at Dairyland®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, can help you build a custom policy so you’re always ready to hit the trail with confidence, whether you're traveling to Wyoming or live in the state. Call for a free quote today!