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Dubois (locally pronounced DOO-boys) is a small ranching and outdoor-recreation town in Fremont County, Wyoming, sitting at roughly 6,900 feet elevation along the Wind River in the upper Wind River Valley. With a population under 1,000, it retains a genuine Western character that larger gateway towns have largely lost.
The town is flanked to the west by Togwotee Pass and the Absaroka Range, and to the southeast by the southern Wind River Range — placing it within easy reach of dramatic alpine terrain. The badlands just east of town, with their eroded clay buttes in shades of red and lavender, add an unexpected geological layer to the landscape.
Dubois serves both as a quieter alternative base for visitors heading to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks and as a destination in its own right for those drawn by backcountry access, wildlife watching, and dude ranch culture. The community sustains a small but dedicated arts scene, a handful of independent restaurants, and outfitters who have operated here for generations.
Before You Go
Visas
Dubois is in the United States. For visa and entry requirements, check the TravelerPulse Visas section and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for the most current guidance applicable to your nationality.
When to visit
- Summer (June–September): The most popular window. Wildflowers peak in July. Expect warm days, cool nights, and heavy visitor traffic on the road to Yellowstone/Grand Teton. Book accommodation well in advance.
- Fall (October–November): Elk rut and autumn foliage make this a rewarding but shoulder-season visit. Some businesses reduce hours or close.
- Winter (December–March): Snowmobile trails through Togwotee Pass are among Wyoming's best. Roads can be hazardous; check WYDOT road conditions before travel.
- Spring (April–May): Mud season. Many trails and some services are still closed.
Packing notes
Elevation means UV exposure is high year-round — sunscreen and sunglasses are essential. Summer afternoons bring frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry rain gear on any trail. Layers are advisable in every season.
Getting There
Dubois has no commercial air service. The nearest commercial airports are Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), approximately 85 miles southwest via US-26/89/191, and Riverton Regional Airport (RIW), roughly 75 miles southeast on US-26. Jackson Hole has more frequent connections to major hubs; Riverton has limited regional service. Verify current routes and schedules directly with airlines.
By car, Dubois sits on US Highway 26/287, which connects it to Jackson (west) and Riverton/Lander (east). The drive over Togwotee Pass from Jackson is scenic but steep and winding — trailers and large RVs should check road advisories. There is no scheduled bus or train service to Dubois; a personal vehicle or rental car is effectively required.
Fuel is available in town but prices can be higher than in larger cities. Top up when you can, particularly before backcountry drives.
Getting Around
Dubois's small downtown is walkable in minutes. However, the surrounding region — trailheads, ranches, the badlands, and nearby passes — requires a vehicle. There is no local public transit or ride-share service; verify locally whether any taxi or shuttle options exist at the time of your visit.
A standard passenger car handles most paved routes, but high-clearance or 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended for forest roads leading to backcountry trailheads in the Shoshone National Forest. Some routes require a high-clearance vehicle regardless of conditions. Ask at the Dubois Ranger District office of the Shoshone National Forest for current road status before heading out.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in and around Dubois includes small motels along the main highway, cabin rentals, campgrounds, and the surrounding guest ranches. The Wind River and its tributaries provide several campground options within the Shoshone National Forest; contact the Dubois Ranger District or check Recreation.gov for reservations and availability.
Demand peaks sharply in July and August, particularly as Dubois sits on the primary driving route between Riverton and Jackson/Yellowstone. Booking 2–3 months ahead for summer travel is advisable. Many properties are seasonal and may be closed October through May — confirm before booking.
Things to See & Do
National Bighorn Sheep Center
Dubois sits within one of the largest wintering habitats for Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in the lower 48 states. The National Bighorn Sheep Center on the main street offers interpretive exhibits on bighorn ecology and local wildlife. Verify current hours and any admission fees directly with the center before visiting.
Shoshone National Forest and Wind River Range
The Shoshone National Forest surrounds Dubois and provides access to hundreds of miles of trails ranging from moderate day hikes to multi-day wilderness routes into the Fitzpatrick Wilderness. The Glacier Trail leading toward Gannett Peak — Wyoming's highest point — begins within reach of Dubois for experienced mountaineers.
Dubois Badlands
The colorful clay badlands east of town along US-26 are easily viewed from the road and make for short exploratory walks. The formations are particularly vivid in early morning and evening light.
Togwotee Pass (elevation ~9,658 ft)
The pass west of town on US-26/287 offers sweeping views of the Absaroka Range and access to snowmobile trails in winter and hiking/ATV routes in summer. The meadows below the pass are excellent for wildlife spotting — look for moose, elk, and black bears.
Dude and Guest Ranches
The upper Wind River Valley has a long dude ranch tradition. Several operating ranches near Dubois offer horseback riding, pack trips, and ranch stays, typically as weekly packages. Research and book well in advance; many fill months ahead for summer.
Wind River Historical Center
The local museum documents the history of the region including Shoshone and Arapaho culture, the fur trade era, and the development of ranching in the valley. Verify hours locally.
Food & Drink
Dining options in Dubois are limited but reflect the town's character. Expect a small selection of independently owned restaurants and cafés rather than chains. Menus lean toward American comfort food, burgers, steaks, and Western breakfasts. A few spots serve craft beer alongside standard bar fare.
Grocery options are minimal — there is a small market in town for basics, but visitors planning extended backcountry trips should stock up in Lander, Riverton, or Jackson before arriving. Verify current business hours locally, as seasonal closures and ownership changes are common in small communities of this size.
Practical Information
Emergency services
Call 911 for all emergencies. The nearest hospital with full emergency services is in Riverton or Lander to the southeast, or in Jackson to the west — both roughly 75–85 miles away. Dubois has limited local medical facilities; verify what services are currently available upon arrival.
Connectivity
Cell coverage in Dubois town center is generally adequate with major U.S. carriers, but drops off quickly on forest roads and in river valleys. Download offline maps before heading into the backcountry. Wi-Fi is available at some lodging properties; confirm when booking.
Altitude
At nearly 6,900 feet, some visitors experience mild altitude effects — headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath — especially in the first day or two. Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion on arrival.
Bear safety
Black bears and grizzly bears are present in the surrounding national forest. Carry bear spray when hiking and store food properly. The U.S. Forest Service and Wyoming Game & Fish Department publish current bear awareness guidance.
Safety
Dubois is a quiet, low-crime community. The primary safety considerations here are environmental rather than social.
- Wildlife: Bison, bears, moose, and elk are all present in the region and are dangerous if approached. Keep a safe distance at all times.
- Weather: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Afternoon lightning storms in summer are common and serious above treeline. Check forecasts before hiking.
- Road conditions: Winter driving on Togwotee Pass can be treacherous. Monitor WYDOT (Wyoming Department of Transportation) alerts; the website is available online — verify the URL independently.
- Backcountry preparedness: Cell service is absent in most backcountry areas. File a trip plan with someone reliable, carry a map and compass or GPS device, and ensure you have adequate food, water, and emergency gear.
