Taking Care of Each Other and the Places That Define Pinedale
Pinedale sits at the gateway to some of Wyoming’s most remarkable public lands, from the Wind River Range and Bridger-Teton National Forest to the Upper Green River, Fremont Lake, and miles of high desert, sagebrush, and alpine terrain. These landscapes shape our way of life, our economy, and our connection to the outdoors.
Whether you’re hiking into the Winds, floating the Green, riding trails, snowmobiling, fishing, or simply exploring town, recreating responsibly helps protect the land, water, wildlife, and people who call this place home, now and for generations to come.
With more people discovering Pinedale and the surrounding public lands each year, it’s more important than ever to reduce our impact, respect local communities, and recreate with care.
Know Before You Go
The landscapes around Pinedale are vast, remote, and often unpredictable. Preparation is essential.
Before heading out:
- Check current conditions for weather, roads, trail access, fire restrictions, avalanche danger, and river flows
- Understand permits and regulations, including wilderness permits for the Wind River Range and seasonal closures on public lands
- Carry appropriate gear, including layers, navigation tools, food, water, and emergency supplies
- Know your limits and plan trips that match your experience level, many areas have little to no cell service
- Local ranger districts, outfitters, and visitor services are great resources for up-to-date information.
Be Kind to People and Place
Pinedale’s trails, rivers, and public lands are shared by hikers, anglers, hunters, bikers, equestrians, snowmobilers, ranchers, and locals going about their daily lives.
Please:
- Follow trail etiquette, including yielding appropriately and sharing the trail
- Be patient and courteous with other users
- Keep noise levels low to preserve the natural experience
- Leash dogs in busy areas and anywhere required, especially near wildlife and livestock
Respect private property and posted signs
A little courtesy goes a long way in keeping these places welcoming for everyone.
Prevent Wildfires
Wildfire risk is a serious concern in Sublette County, especially during dry summer and fall months.
The most effective way to prevent wildfires is not to build a campfire. If campfires are allowed:
- Check current fire restrictions before your trip
- Use designated fire rings only
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Fully extinguish fires by drowning with water, stirring, and feeling for heat, repeat until cold to the touch
One careless spark can permanently change the landscape.
Respect Wildlife
Pinedale is surrounded by critical wildlife habitat, including migration corridors and seasonal ranges for elk, mule deer, moose, pronghorn, bears, wolves, and many other species.
Help protect wildlife by:
- Giving animals plenty of space, at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from moose and other wildlife
- Properly storing all food, trash, and scented items
- Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it
- Obeying seasonal closures that protect wildlife during sensitive times
- Never feeding wildlife, not even small animals at trailheads
Wild animals that become habituated to people often don’t survive.
Tread Lightly & Leave No Trace
The lands around Pinedale are resilient, but not invincible. Practicing Leave No Trace helps ensure future visitors experience the same wild character.
Key principles include:
- Pack out all trash, food scraps, and toilet paper
- Stay on established trails and campsites to prevent erosion
- Clean boots, boats, and gear to prevent the spread of invasive species
- Use motorized vehicles only on designated routes and avoid muddy roads and trails
The 7 Leave No Trace Principles
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Others
