Hike of the Week: Cirque of the Towers Loop

This weekly series highlights an outstanding day hike or backpacking trip. We want to inspire you to get out and see these places for yourself. For us, seeing amazing photos and reading about a great hike are enough to get us motivated!

This week's hike is the Cirque of the Towers Loop in Wyoming’s Wind River Range.

Featured Photo: Cirque of the Towers Sunrise (photo by Brendan Bombaci)

Why This Hike?

The Cirque of the Towers is one of the most iconic and picturesque backpacking destinations in the Wind River Range, offering jaw-dropping views of granite spires, high alpine passes, pristine lakes, and expansive meadows. The loop combines high adventure with navigational ease and is perfect for intermediate backpackers looking for solitude, scenic variety, and a bit of a challenge in the heart of Wyoming’s wilderness.

Distance: ~24–27 miles (depending on route)
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Elevation Gain: ~3,000–3,500 feet
Best Time to Visit: Late July through mid-September
Duration: 3–4 days
Highlights: Lonesome Lake, Texas Pass, Jackass Pass, Arrowhead Lake, Shadow Lake, high alpine tundra, granite spires

Note: This route traverses grizzly country and crosses two steep, rocky mountain passes—experience and preparation are key.

How Do I Get There?

The hike starts and ends at the Big Sandy Trailhead in the southern Wind River Range, accessible via a long but scenic drive through remote Wyoming wilderness.

Closest Airport: Riverton Regional Airport (RIW) and Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) are the closest regional options. For international travelers, Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the most reliable hub. From SLC, it's about a 5.5-hour drive (285 miles) to the Big Sandy Trailhead.

Driving Directions: From Pinedale, Wyoming, head south on US-191. Turn left onto WY-353 for 27 miles, then right onto BLM Road 5223. Continue following signs for Big Sandy Campground and Trailhead. The final stretch is a rough dirt road—4WD is not required but high clearance is recommended. Parking can be crowded in peak season, so arrive early.

Trailhead Coordinates: 42.6558° N, 109.2181° W

Map of Recommended Route

The following map outlines our recommended route. Click the "Load Interactive Map" button to load the correct map. Once loaded, you can navigate along the route and view recommended campsites.

For even more detailed mapping, including being able to print a copy for yourself, click the "Open in CalTopo" button at the top of the map once it's loaded into view.

The following are our recommended campsites:

Day 1: Big Sandy Trailhead to Dad’s Lake (~8 miles)
Day 2: Dad’s Lake to Lonesome Lake via Texas Pass (~8 miles)
Day 3: Lonesome Lake to Big Sandy Trailhead via Jackass Pass (~9 miles)

Trail Description

Day 1: Big Sandy Trailhead to Dad’s Lake (~8 miles)

The hike begins with a gentle, shaded ascent through lodgepole pine forest along Big Sandy Trail. After a few miles, you’ll reach a junction with the Fremont Trail—turn left here and continue past Mirror Lake and several small tarns. The trail rolls through open meadows and scattered granite outcroppings before arriving at Dad’s Lake, a serene body of water with numerous flat, scenic campsites. Moose are commonly seen here grazing along the shoreline, and the sunset reflections make this a peaceful first night.

Day 2: Dad’s Lake to Lonesome Lake via Texas Pass (~8 miles)

Begin with a climb toward Shadow Lake, passing by North Lake and Barren Lake en route. From Shadow Lake, leave the main trail and head cross-country toward Texas Pass—this is the most difficult section of the loop. The route is steep and involves some rock scrambling, especially near the top. Once you crest Texas Pass, you’re rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the Cirque’s towering granite walls, including Warbonnet, Pingora, and Wolf’s Head. Descend steeply to Lonesome Lake and find a campsite in the designated zones (camp at least ¼ mile from the lake). This is an ideal place to rest and take in the stunning alpine amphitheater.

Day 3: Lonesome Lake to Big Sandy Trailhead via Jackass Pass (~9 miles)

Day three begins with a scenic and often challenging ascent toward Jackass Pass. The trail crosses talus fields and may require hands-on scrambling in sections. Look for views back into the Cirque as you climb, with Arrowhead and North Lakes sparkling below. From the pass, descend past Arrowhead Lake and Big Sandy Lake, a popular but scenic spot with fishing opportunities. The final 6 miles retrace the Big Sandy Trail through pine forest back to the trailhead. It’s a satisfying close to an unforgettable backcountry loop.

What Will I Need?

Given the challenging terrain and unpredictable alpine weather of the Wind River Range, we recommend dialing in your gear for performance, weight, and protection.

The Arches 2P tent offers a slightly roomier and more robust alternative to the Bryce, with excellent weather protection for exposed campsites near Texas Pass.

The larger floor area of the Arches 2P trekking pole tent makes it a lightweight option for two.

Shop Now

If you want maximum versatility in your sleep system, the Thermodown 30 Down Quilt is a great option for those expecting milder nights or who prefer to layer. For added warmth and comfort, pair it with a Recharge XL Sleeping Pad for extra width and insulation. If a quilt is not your thing, the Thermodown 15 Sleeping Bag is a traditional mummy-style bag with down fill for good performance and packability.

On the move, Tri-Fold Alloy UL Trekking Poles provide sturdy support on uneven terrain and rocky descents. If you prefer something lighter, the Tri-Fold Carbon Cork are the better option.

For water filtration, stick with the 2L Squeeze Water Filter System—reliable and efficient with alpine lakes and creeks. For bigger groups, the 6L Gravity Filter is invaluable.

Don’t forget essential extras like bear spray, a bear canister (required), map and compass or GPS, and layers including a down jacket and rain shell to adapt to sudden storms or nighttime cold snaps.

If there's anything else you need to complete your pack, visit our full line of high-quality, affordable backpacking gear.

Shop Backpacking Tents
Shop Ultralight Tarps
Shop Backpacking Quilts
Shop Down Sleeping Bags
Shop Insulated Sleeping Pads
Shop Backpacking Pillow
Shop Folding Trekking Poles
Shop Titanium Cookware
Shop Tent and Tarp Accessories

Finally, to make sure you don't forget something at home, use our Ultimate Backpacker's Packing List. It even includes a convenient printable checklist!

Do I Need a Permit?

Backcountry permits are not required for the Wind River Range, but responsible Leave No Trace practices are expected. However, bear-resistant food storage is mandatory. Rangers regularly patrol the Cirque area, and you may be fined for improper food storage.

Dispersed camping is allowed, but campers must stay at least 200 feet from water sources and ¼ mile from Lonesome Lake. Fires are prohibited above 10,000 feet. Expect rapidly changing weather conditions and plan accordingly.

Resources

Bridger-Teton National Forest Info

Conclusion

The Cirque of the Towers Loop delivers an unforgettable backpacking experience through one of Wyoming’s most dramatic alpine landscapes. With its towering granite spires, crystal lakes, and challenging but rewarding mountain passes, it’s no surprise this hike is on many adventurers’ bucket lists. Come prepared, hike responsibly, and take the time to soak in the grandeur of the Wind River Range. Have you completed this loop or another favorite in the Winds? Let us know in the comments!