Looking for info on the type of condition of the FS roads in the backcountry, I've hear a basic 4x4 will do. I'm interested in dispersed camping the Sunlight Mesa and the condition of the forest service roads off 10 leading to the mesa. The mesa is on the west side just north of 14. If you're familiar with the area I'm a;so interested in FSR 213 down the west side.
Bighorn mountain backroads - Anyone have experience
- Thread starter iBison
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MountainClimber78
New member
I rode the area on my 1200 GS about ten years ago but it was south of the 16. All the dirt roads I encountered were well maintained and easily ridable on my big motorcycle. I spent some time in Buffalo, Wy, speaking to a woman who's husband guides hunts out there and the impression I got was that many of the forest service roads were well maintained. I realize that this info is a decade old but I would have no problem exploring the area in my 4Runner with the proper self recovery equipment on board. It's a beautiful area, enjoy it out there.
Sorry, I'm familiar with many of other areas N of 14a and east side. FS roads and through roads are usually pretty good - many little trails that can get bad real fast. Contact FS office right there - they can tell you current conditions. Lots of snow up there this year. Stock 4Runner will get you in plenty deep.
the_dude33
New member
Tons of snow currently, I believe 14a is still closed for the season. Getting snow today as a matter of fact, or I would be fishing, lol. There are some great FS roads throughout the Bighorns, conditions vary, but the area is well worth exploring. I hope to spend some more time up there this summer myself.
I emailed the FS and a nice lady sent me good information. She talked to a coworker that told her,
"I spoke to an employee who is very familiar with the roads you asked about. Here's what he said: 4x4s should be fine on 10, 14, 207, and 243. He added that it will be July before the area will be accessible."
She gave me a little dispersed camping info as well. Currently I'm looking at the third week in July so hopefully the snow wont be to bad. Last time I went through there I said I've got to explore at least a little bit of this sometime. I'd like to explore some of the cloud peak area on foot, but not this trip.
"I spoke to an employee who is very familiar with the roads you asked about. Here's what he said: 4x4s should be fine on 10, 14, 207, and 243. He added that it will be July before the area will be accessible."
She gave me a little dispersed camping info as well. Currently I'm looking at the third week in July so hopefully the snow wont be to bad. Last time I went through there I said I've got to explore at least a little bit of this sometime. I'd like to explore some of the cloud peak area on foot, but not this trip.
smallfry
New member
Here's some from my travels up at the end of the Bighorns.
Trips 1-3
Exploring the Northern Bighorn Mtns - Expedition Portal
Trip 4
Exploring the Northern Bighorn Mountains Part 4 Shell Reservoir and Surrounding Area - Expedition Portal
On the west side of the Bighorns
Pryor Mountain Area, Montana - Expedition Portal
Trips 1-3
Exploring the Northern Bighorn Mtns - Expedition Portal
Trip 4
Exploring the Northern Bighorn Mountains Part 4 Shell Reservoir and Surrounding Area - Expedition Portal
On the west side of the Bighorns
Pryor Mountain Area, Montana - Expedition Portal
