Crookston Ranch is a short, easy two-track run through the high desert of southern Sweetwater County. The route holds a steady bench with almost no elevation change, making it a good option for a quick out and back or as a connector between other trails in the area.
Trail Summary
- Location: Sweetwater County, Wyoming. Closest town is Superior, about 15 miles north. Closest major road junction is I-80 / US 30 at WY-371 (Exit 122), roughly 16 miles south.
- Distance: 1.6 miles
- Difficulty: Level 1 - Suitable for high clearance 2WD
- Minimum Elevation: 6,847 ft
- Maximum Elevation: 6,980 ft
- Elevation Gain: 132 ft
- Travel Time: 13 minutes (recorded)
Difficulty
Suitable for high clearance 2WD
Stock equipment is sufficient and no special equipment is needed. The road is dirt with a firm, well packed surface and no obstacles of note. Grades are minimal and traction is good throughout. This route is safe for most 4WD and high clearance 2WD vehicles, with room for two vehicles to pass in most sections.
Elevation
The track holds a narrow band between 6,847 and 6,980 feet, with total gain of about 132 feet over the 1.6 mile run and negligible loss. Net elevation change is roughly 124 feet. There are no significant climbs or descents along the way, just a gentle overall rise moving east to west.
Terrain
Crookston Ranch runs through desert and foothill terrain typical of the Red Desert basin country in southern Sweetwater County. Expect open sage flats, packed dirt, and scattered low ridgelines. The road surface is consistent and free of major ruts or loose rock, with sparse vegetation and long sightlines in every direction.
4WD Experience
This is a low key drive. A stock high clearance 4x4 or even a capable 2WD pickup will handle it without issue. There is nothing technical to navigate, so it works well as a warm up run, a scouting trip, or a link between other trails in the area rather than a destination on its own.
Travel Time
The recorded track shows about 13 minutes of moving time to cover the 1.6 miles, averaging a bit over 7 mph. For a high clearance 4WD vehicle driving at a relaxed pace with stops to check the route or take photos, plan on 15 to 20 minutes to complete the trail.
Highlights
The main draw here is the open desert scenery and quiet solitude of the Red Desert basin. Wide views open up across the sage flats, with distant ridgelines visible for miles. It is a good stretch for spotting wildlife such as pronghorn and wild horses, both common in this part of Sweetwater County.
Trail GPS File
Map