Medicine Bow Peak Hike Guide
Medicine Bow Peak is the highest mountain in the Snowy Range Mountains located in Southern Wyoming. The 12,000ft peak seems to pop out of nowhere and has absolutely stunning alpine views for such a short hike. This peak can be done as an out and back or loop hike depending on your starting point. Medicine Bow Peak is a great trail for hikers of all experience levels and a destination worthy mountain.
Medicine Bow Peak Quick Facts
Hike Rating: Medicine Bow Peak ★★★★★ (5/5 Stars)
Virtual Trail Guide: Medicine Bow Peak
Distance: 7.5 Miles RT (can be shorter if doing an out and back)
Elevation Start: 10,500ft
Highest Point: 12,018ft
Total Elevation Gain: 1,900ft
Estimated Time to Complete: 4-6 Hours RT
Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty System Explained
Class: Class 1 What does this mean?
Season: June – October (expect snow outside of this period)
Weather: Check the Weather Forecast
Directions to Medicine Bow Peak
Trailheads: Gaps Lake Trailhead / West Lake Marie Trailhead
Getting Here: If coming from the East, you will hit Gaps Lake Trailhead first and if from the West, West Lake Marie Trailhead. Both trailheads are only about 2-3 miles apart and right off WY-130
West Lake Marie
Gaps Lake
Parking: Both lots have plenty of parking and you will likely not run into an issue with finding a spot. There are non plumbing restrooms at both locations.
Fees: $5 as of 2024. More information about paying fees here but a valid pass must be presented at all trailheads in the area.
Summary
Camping: Generally speaking, there are plenty of areas to find dispersed camping options or snag a spot at a campground. Be sure to only camp off established roads / spots and please ensure that all fires are fully drowned before leaving.
Dogs: Medicine Bow Peak is a dog friendly hike.
Make it a Loop: Although this hike can be completed as an out and back, in my opinion, the best way to experience this hike is by completing a loop of both Medicine Bow Peak and then adding the alpine lakes below. I started at West Marie Lake and went clockwise to tag the summit.
Trail X Factors: Bugs + Snow
The Snowy Mountains, well….get a lot of snow. This means that snow can linger into July and even later. Once the snow melts, bugs will take over for a few weeks before the cooler temperatures kill them off. Although this hike is not technical, traction on your feet may be helpful in the early Summer. If coming prior to June, expect road closures and lots of snow to prevent trailhead access.
Hike Tip(s): I would recommend hiking this summit as a loop and 100% adding the alpine lakes to the East of the summit. Yes, it adds a few miles of hiking but the additional views easily make up for the extra effort required.
Best Views: The hike is one of the most memorable in terms of views in a long time. There really are very few spots on this hike that are not absolutely breathtaking.
Medicine Bow Peak Hike Route
Gear Needed
- Men’s Trail Runners
- Women’s Trail Runners
- La Sportiva Trango Hiking Boots (Men’s)
- La Sportiva Trango Hiking Boots (Women’s)
- Backpack (Summer)
- Food & Water (Lots of water for you and any dogs)
- Optional: Microspikes
- Optional: Water Filter
- Optional: Garmin inReach
- Optional: Hiking Poles – 120CM
- Optional: Headlamp
- Optional: Garmin Fenix Watch
- Optional: GoPro, Joby Tripod, Selfie Stick, GoPro 360, Drone, Insta360
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