Tools & Resources for Safe Recreation
Recreating safely begins with good planning. Always leave a detailed itinerary with a reliable emergency contact before leaving cell service. Include your trailhead, planned route, vehicle description, and expected return time.
Emergency & Travel Alerts
Sublette County Alerts
View alerts and emergencies in Sublette County.
USFS Bridger-Teton Alerts
Official USFS trail closures, fire danger, and emergency forest orders.
WYDOT Travel Information
Statewide road conditions, closures, and highway webcams.
Weather & Backcountry Conditions
National Weather Service
Localized point forecasts for the Wind River Range and Wyoming Range.
Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
Daily winter avalanche forecasts and advisory hazard ratings.
Trail Conditions Reports
Local, frequently updated trail, pass, and snow-level reports.
The 10 Essentials
Carry the Ten Essentials on every trip. Be Bear Aware—keep bear spray immediately accessible and store food properly.
Map / Compass / GPS
Technology fails—batteries die, and screens crack. A physical topographic map and compass don’t require a signal. Only use backcountry-capable apps and download offline maps before leaving the trailhead.
Sunscreen / SPF Lip Balm / Sunglasses / Wide-Brimmed Hat
Sunburn and snow blindness can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and disorientation. In alpine environments, the UV rays are significantly stronger due to elevation and reflection off snow or rock.
Extra Clothing (No Cotton)
Pack synthetic or wool layers. Weather changes quickly in the backcountry, and staying dry is your best defense against hypothermia.
Headlamp & Extra Batteries
Phone lights aren’t powerful enough for trail navigation. A headlamp keeps your hands free and preserves your phone battery for emergency calls.
Kit & Personal Meds
Treat blisters and minor injuries early to prevent them from becoming debilitating. Always include personal prescriptions and a basic first-aid manual.
Lighter & Fire Starter
Crucial for warmth and signaling. Carry waterproof matches or a lighter and practice starting a fire in damp conditions before you need to.
Multi-tool & Duct Tape
Small gear failures, like a broken boot lace or a torn pack strap, can end a trip. A basic kit allows for quick, field-expedient repairs.
Extra Food
Pack high-calorie, no-cook snacks. Calories provide the energy your body needs to generate heat, stay alert, and keep moving.
Extra Water & Filter
Carry more water than you expect to need. Always have a backup filter or chemical tablets to treat water from natural sources.
Tents & Bivies
Your primary protection from wind and rain. A lightweight emergency blanket or bivy can save your life if you are forced to spend an unexpected night out.