Horse Riding and Camping
Equestrians can ride through scenic wilderness areas and camp under the stars in designated sites surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding on the Bridger-Teton National Forest is an unbeatable way to experience its sweeping vistas and untamed trails! With paths stretching through forests, across rivers, and up mountain slopes, it’s a rider’s playground. Here’s what you need to know to enjoy the ride:
- Where You Can Ride: Trails are ready for you—snag a map at ranger offices or online to choose your adventure. Spots like the Wyoming Range or trails near Teton Pass mix easy trots with breathtaking lookouts, perfect for a day on horseback. Wilderness areas like the Gros Ventre or Bridger are open too—no motors allowed, just the clip-clop of hooves. Watch for trail signs and avoid muddy patches after rain.
- What’s Special: Picture cantering past snow-capped peaks or through wildflower fields—it’s the Old West come alive. You might spot deer or hear an elk bugle while riding along streams or ridgelines. Summer offers long, sunny days, and fall paints the forest in reds and yellows. It’s a slow, steady way to take in the forest’s magic with your horse.
- Tips to Be Prepared: Pack water and a snack for you and your horse—some trails lack streams. Grab bear spray (and know how to use it)—bears are part of the scenery, so sing or talk to keep them at bay. A map or Avenza app keeps you headed right, and give hikers the right-of-way while keeping your horse calm. Check your saddle and wear boots for a solid grip.
Horseback riding here is pure freedom and frontier vibes—mount up, find a trail, and let the Bridger-Teton carry you away!
Horse Camping
Horse camping on the Bridger-Teton National Forest is a perfect way to combine riding and overnight adventure in its wild landscapes! With trails leading to serene campsites, you and your horse can settle in for a night under the stars. Here’s what you need to know for a great trip:
- Where You Can Camp: Plenty of spots welcome horses—pick up a map at ranger offices or online to plan your stay. Areas like the trails near Greys River or the Gros Ventre have dispersed sites with room for corrals or pickets, plus water nearby for your horse. Wilderness zones like the Bridger or Teton are open too—just no motorized access, so you’ll ride or pack in. Look for established horse camps like those near Turpin Meadows for trailhead convenience.
- What’s Special: You’ll ride through meadows and forests by day, then camp with your horse in quiet, wide-open country—think crackling fires and mountain views. Summer nights are warm and starry, while fall brings golden leaves and cool air. It’s a rare chance to bond with your horse and nature, far from the bustle, with trails leading right from your tent flap.
- Tips to Be Prepared: Bring feed (certified weed-free hay’s required), water buckets, and a highline or portable corral—grazing’s okay but keep it light. Pack bear spray (and know how to use it)—grizzlies roam here, so store food and trash away from camp. Use a map or Avenza app to find sites, and camp 200 feet from water to protect streams. Tie horses securely, pack out all waste, and check weather—mountain nights can get chilly.
Horse camping here is all about the trail and the tranquility—saddle up, pick a spot, and enjoy the Bridger-Teton’s wild, starry nights!