Cirque of the Towers via Big Sandy Trail
~2 days · 7.2 mi · easy · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the Cirque of the Towers via Big Sandy Trail is known for
A classic out-and-back of about 7 miles one way from Big Sandy Trailhead to Big Sandy Lake and the base of the Cirque of the Towers in Wyoming's Wind River Range. The Big Sandy Trail climbs gently through lodgepole pine and subalpine meadows before reaching the stunning granite amphitheater of the Cirque, ringed by towers including Pingora and Wolf's Head; the lake and surrounding campsites make for an ideal 2-night basecamp for climbers and backpackers. Wilderness permit required; self-issued at the trailhead.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 30,108 ft to 35,423 ft over 7.2 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 6.0 mi · 83%
- Downhill 1.0 mi · 14%
- Flat 0.2 mi · 3%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Cirque of the Towers via Big Sandy Trail?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Cirque of the Towers via Big Sandy Trail scores 24/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Cirque of the Towers via Big Sandy Trail take?
Most backpackers hike the Cirque of the Towers via Big Sandy Trail in about 2 days (1 nights out) over its 7.2 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Cirque of the Towers via Big Sandy Trail?
The Cirque of the Towers via Big Sandy Trail climbs roughly 1,985 ft total — about 276 ft per mile, topping out near 10,807 ft.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.