1.4 miles

Darwin Ranch Nordic Groomed Loop

Gros Ventre & Wyoming Ranges

Fee: $25.00

Access:

Drive south on Hwy 191, left at Hoback Junction, past Bondurant, across the Green River. Just before Daniel, turn left (east) on Forty Rods Road. Drive 6 miles east to Hwy 352. Turn left (north) and drive north for 20 miles. At the end of the pavement, park in the plowed area to meet the Darwin Ranch snowcat.

Description:

The Darwin Ranch is a rustic, historic guest ranch set on 160 acres in the headwater valley of the Gros Ventre River, surrounded by the vast Gros Ventre Wilderness. In winter, the ranch offers groomed and backcountry Nordic ski trails and Alpine touring for small groups of guests by reservation. The Darwin Ranch Nordic Groomed Loop starts from the Elk Cabin and circles the perimeter of the large horse pasture to the east of the main ranch area. The trail then follows the Gros Ventre River canyon, contouring between sagebrush meadows and willows, most of which are under winter snow.

Parking: Park in the designated plowed area at the end of Hwy 352 to meet the Darwin Ranch snowcat.

Skiing Experience: The trail offers an easy level of difficulty, suitable for all skill levels, and provides a serene skiing experience through picturesque landscapes.

Winter Grooming: The trail is groomed and maintained by the Darwin Ranch for winter skiing. Winter access is limited to small groups by reservation only. For more information on trail conditions and reservations, contact the Darwin Ranch.

Summer Access: The Darwin Ranch offers lodging and trail access for hiking during the summer and fall months and primarily operates during this season.

Directions:

Beginnings: Access the trail from the Elk Cabin at the Darwin Ranch.

Views: Enjoy scenic views of red sandstone cliffs, wide open meadows, and distant views of Darwin and Black Peak.

Trail Options: Additional skiing opportunities include the nearby Gros Ventre snowmobile groomed trail, which runs from Slide Lake along the Gros Ventre River to Pinedale, as well as non-groomed trails leading up Bacon Ridge or into the Gros Ventre backcountry.

Return: Retrace your tracks back to the Elk Cabin at the Darwin Ranch.