Two-Night Backcountry Trek from Rock Creek to Medicine Bow Peak
Two-Night Backcountry Trek from Rock Creek to Medicine Bow Peak
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Overview
Overview
Snowy Range 3-Day Traverse: Rock Creek to Medicine Bow Peak
A unique three-day mountain traverse across the heart of the Snowy Range, designed for hikers ready to push their limits and experience Wyoming’s alpine wilderness in depth.
This journey crosses dramatically different landscapes — forested valleys, granite basins, high tundra, remote lakes, and exposed ridgelines — combining endurance, navigation, and high-elevation travel into one cohesive expedition.
Over two nights in the backcountry, you’ll move camp-to-camp through some of the most scenic terrain in Medicine Bow National Forest, culminating with an optional summit of Medicine Bow Peak (12,013 ft).
Trip Profile:
2 Nights | Point-to-Point Traverse | Moderate to Challenging
Ideal for strong hikers seeking a multi-day alpine experience
Location
Location
This traverse begins at Rock Creek Trailhead and travels north through alpine basins and lake systems toward Medicine Bow Peak, finishing near Lewis Lake in the Snowy Range, outside Laramie.
The route links multiple high-country landmarks, including:
Crater Lake
Sand Lake
Sheep Lake
Gap Lake area
Medicine Bow Peak
Lewis Lake / Libby Lake
Camping is remote, scenic, and well spaced. The first night is typically spent near Crater Lake, and the second near Sheep Lake or surrounding basins, depending on group pace and conditions.
The Day Plan
The Day Plan
Day 1 – Rock Creek to Crater Lake (Approx. 8 Miles)
Day 1 – Rock Creek to Crater Lake (Approx. 8 Miles)
Morning transfer from Laramie to Rock Creek Trailhead. We begin hiking through forested terrain before gradually entering higher alpine zones. After approximately 8 miles, we establish camp near Crater Lake.
Focus of the day:
Backpack pacing and load management
Water sourcing and filtration
Backcountry camp setup
Day 2 – Traverse to Sheep Lake via Sand Lake
Day 2 – Traverse to Sheep Lake via Sand Lake
We continue deeper into the alpine basin, passing Sand Lake and navigating rolling tundra and granite terrain. This section highlights the wild, open character of the Snowy Range.
Camp is established near Sheep Lake, offering wide views and a true high-alpine atmosphere.
Focus of the day:
Route finding across mixed terrain
High-elevation travel strategy
Weather awareness and terrain reading
Day 3 – Medicine Bow Peak & Exit to Gap Lake Trailhead
Day 3 – Medicine Bow Peak & Exit to Gap Lake Trailhead
On the final day, we hike toward Gap Lake Trailhead, with an optional ascent of Medicine Bow Peak depending on weather, group energy, and conditions.
After completing the traverse, we transfer back to Laramie.
If time, group energy, and weather allow, we may finish the experience with an optional paddleboard or kayak session at Lewis Lake or Libby Lake — a refreshing and memorable way to close the expedition.
Guides carry satellite communication (Garmin inReach), emergency equipment, and contingency plans for rapidly changing alpine weather. Campsites are selected based on spacing, environmental impact, and group needs.
This is not just a backpacking trip — it’s a true alpine traverse across one of Wyoming’s most beautiful high-mountain landscapes.
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