Welcome to Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland! Visitor opportunities abound on almost 2.9 million acres of National Forest System lands. The Medicine Bow and Routt National Forests provide year-round recreation opportunities for you. These activities include hiking, biking, camping
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This Forest Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact {} · r2_mbr_vis@fs.fed.us
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This Forest Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Cadens Lane, Chimney Lamp Road, Riverside Drive. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Do you need a permit to climb?
Rock climbing is available here; some routes or areas may need a permit. Check current climbing regulations first.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
Bamforth National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.