Where to Stay for Togwotee Pass Snowmobiling A Dubois Basecamp Guide

Togwotee Pass, which sits between 30 and 45 minutes west of Dubois in Wyoming, anchors the northern end of the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail. It has been considered the best snowmobiling in the country for years because of nearly 600 miles of groomed trail and 2.5 million acres of backcountry. The summit sits close to 9,660 feet above sea level and takes on about 500 inches of dry powder each year. The season stretches from the middle of December to early April. Dubois is the closest full service town on the eastern side, and The Amoretti Hotel is a riverfront Western basecamp for riders who plan to stay for several days, offering pull through parking for truck and trailer. Reservations can be made directly at theamorettihotel.com.

When is the Togwotee Pass snowmobiling season?

The trails are groomed from the middle of December until 1 April if the conditions allow, with the backcountry season extending a bit longer on both ends. Since the pass sits at a high altitude, the snow stays dry and deep, so the surface holds up while lower areas develop a crust. Early December carries an element of risk, but January and February provide the most reliable snow conditions, and in March that reliable base combines with long, bright days. As grooming and conditions differ from year to year, it is important to check the latest report before deciding on your dates.

What makes Togwotee one of the best rides in the country?

The Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail extends from Lander to West Yellowstone and crosses the divide four times. The northern part, accessed from Dubois, includes almost 600 miles of maintained trail passing through the Wind River and Absaroka areas and covers about 2.5 million acres of open backcountry. For many years, reader polls conducted by SnoWest Magazine placed Togwotee and the entire system at the top of the country. Experienced riders refer to it as the granddaddy of Western snowmobile systems. From the seat you have views of the Grand Teton on the western skyline and the Absaroka and Wind River ranges surrounding you, and on good mornings there is untracked powder just off the groomed trail. Togwotee offers a rare combination of wide open speed and real quiet, which is why people have kept coming back for decades.

How far is Togwotee Pass from Dubois, and where do you start?

The drive is about 30 to 45 minutes, roughly 30 miles west of Dubois on US 26/287, with the pass starting about 15 miles from town. Most riders start from the Togwotee parking areas. From Parking Lot #1 the Continental Divide trail runs past a gate, and after about a mile and a half you reach a Teton overlook worth making your first stop. If you prefer to ride from closer to Dubois, the Union Pass trailheads sit nearer to town. Togwotee Mountain Lodge is located on the pass with direct trail access, while Turpin Meadow Ranch is four miles off the highway as part of the route. Both make good stops for a midday meal and a break.

Rentals, permits, and what to bring

Every snowmobile in Wyoming needs a User Fee Decal ($35); rentals include it. Outfitters on the pass, including Togwotee Mountain Lodge, rent sleds for every level and run guided trips. It is worth reserving ahead of the holidays. Bring more layers than you think you'll need, because the wind bites hard above 9,000 feet. Fuel up before you climb and carry cash for smaller stops.

Every local will tell you the groomed corridors suit any ability, but once you leave them for the trees and bowls, you're in avalanche terrain. Carry a beacon, shovel, and probe, ride with a partner and a sensible plan, and check the regional forecast. For newer riders, a guide is a helpful way to learn the terrain and choose routes suited to your ability.

Beyond the sled, a winter weekend in Dubois

Dubois is known as the Valley of the Warm Winds, and rightly so. It receives roughly 46 inches of snow each year and sees around 235 days of sunshine, which makes it an ideal base when the pass is buried. In town there is the National Bighorn Sheep Center. The Whiskey Basin winter range, just to the southeast, holds the largest wintering herd of Rocky Mountain bighorn in the lower 48 states. The Wind River flows through the area, and there is a wonderful sense of quiet in a small Western town in the evening. Ride the pass, watch the sheep at first light, eat well, then repeat. The trip extends easily to three or four nights.

Where to stay for a Togwotee snowmobiling trip

Dubois is the nearest town on the eastern side of the pass with lodging, food, and fuel, making it a comfortable base for several days of riding. The Amoretti Hotel describes itself as an upscale Western basecamp, with rooms on a property by the river on the outskirts of town, animals on the premises, and an Old West style fee structure. It also has a hot tub by the river and a barrel sauna so you can warm up after a chilly day of exploring.

One crucial point is the custom pull through parking. Instead of reversing and jackknifing at dawn, you leave your truck and trailer hitched and simply drive straight into a spot. Booking directly with the property gives you access to the Basecamp Perks. From Dubois it's about a drive of 30 to 45 minutes to the trailheads each morning versus sleeping on the pass itself, but you have easy access to restaurants, supplies, a hot tub, and better value as your home for the week.

Book direct at theamorettihotel.com.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the drive from Dubois to Togwotee Pass?

Heading west on US 26/287 takes about 30 to 45 minutes, roughly 30 miles. The pass starts about 15 miles out, and the Union Pass trailheads sit nearer to town.

When is snowmobiling season?

The trails are groomed from the middle of December until April 1, if conditions allow. The most reliable months are January, February, and March.

How much snow does Togwotee get?

At elevation, about 500 inches per year, featuring famously dry powder and a summit near 9,660 feet.

Can I rent a snowmobile near the pass?

Certainly. The outfitters at Togwotee, such as Togwotee Mountain Lodge, provide sleds for all ability levels and offer guided trips. Book in advance during the busy weeks.

Do I need a permit?

Yes. A $35 User Fee Decal is required for every snowmobile in Wyoming, and the decal is included in rentals.

Is Togwotee good for beginners?

The groomed trails welcome riders of different abilities. Beyond the trails, you may enter avalanche terrain. Explore with a guide and carry the right equipment, including a beacon, shovel, and probe.

Is the pass road open in winter?

The US 26/287 route over Togwotee is kept in good condition throughout the year, though storms may close it temporarily. Check road conditions before setting out.