Steep-sided canyons rest at the lower elevations (around 8,000 feet) of Savage Run Wilderness, which covers about 23 square miles on the west side of the Medicine Bow Range. The United States Congress designated the Savage Run Wilderness in 1978 and it now has a total of 14,927 acres. All of this wilderness is located in Wyoming and is managed by the Forest Service.
Savage Run Wilderness Area
The land rises to about 10,000 feet and rolling plateau-like terrain. At the tree line you’ll find Engelmann spruce, ponderosa pine, limber pine, Douglas fir, subalpine fir, cottonwood, and quaking aspen. Anglers come for the creek’s brook trout, while a resident elk population attracts hunters.
Savage Run Creek tumbles through the heart of the area in roughly an east-west direction. The “more difficult” Savage Run Trail follows the creek for about nine miles, with an elevation change of 2,400 feet. Along the way you’ll pass through stands of virgin timber.
The strenuous Cottonwood Trail enters from the southern boundary and travels two miles to join the Savage Run Trail.
Elk in Savage Run Wilderness
Photo courtesy of US Forest Service -USDA.
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Restrictions in this wilderness area:
ALL VISITORS
Camping is prohibited within one hundred (100) feet of trails, lakes or streams.
Human waste must be deposited at least one hundred (100) feet from lakes, streams, trails or campsites. Use a shovel or trowel and bury waste at least 6 inches below ground.
Maximum group size allowed is twenty-five (25) heartbeats, with a maximum combined fifteen (15) persons and ten (10) horses/mules/lamas, etc. The maximum number of people allowed in any group is fifteen (15).
Dogs and other pets or animals must be under control at all times to prevent harassment or disturbance to wildlife, people, personal property and livestock.
Wagons, carts (including game carts and wheelbarrows), bicycles, and other motorized, mechanized, or wheeled vehicles are prohibited.
Savage Run Wilderness in Wyoming
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STOCK USERS
Only certified weed-free hay or supplemental feed (such as alfalfa pellets or treated grain) may used for feed or bedding. Note: Certified hay is required for all Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests lands.
OVERNIGHT VISITORS
Camping is limited to 21 consecutive days. After 21 days visitors must move themselves and all camping equipment, supplies and personal belongings off National Forest system lands for a period of three (3) consecutive days.
It is illegal to store or leave unattended any equipment, personal property, or supplies for more than 24 hours.
It is illegal to construct permanent camping structures. All temporary camp structures (e.g. Tent frames, meat poles, etc.) and camps must be completely dismantled after use and before leaving a campsite.
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