7.7
FIETS
24.8 mi
DISTANCE
5,290 ft
GAINED
3.8 %
AVG. GRADE
FULL CLIMB STATS
Page Contributor(s): Ron Hawks, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
INTRO
"The west side of Powder River Pass is a long and shallow climb up to high altitude in the isolated and spectacular Big Horn Mountains of northern Wyoming. The hill begins by following Route 16 east through scenic Ten Sleep Creek Canyon over mostly shallow grade. Soon you ascend a big S curve with increased grade up the ridge that takes you out of the deepest part of the canyon. The climb then gets more shallow over the last 9 miles to finish at the unmarked Powder River Pass (9,666 ft). Its descent is challenging in spots particularly the double switchback..." (This quote is presented with the approval of John Summerson, from his book, The Complete Guide to Climbing (by Bike), 2nd Edition, pg. 235.)
3.8% average grade (4.6% climb only). 46% of the climb is at 0-5% grade and 41% is at 5-10%. The steepest quarter-mile is 7.6% and steepest mile 6.2%.
Roadway: This climb is on two lane US Highway 16, in very good condition, and has a shoulder to ride in nearly all of the climb.
Traffic: Mild.
Parking: On a side service road to the left at the start of the climb (Map; Street View).
Provisions: None on this long climb, but a few options in Ten Sleep four miles west of the climb start (Map).
Before heading out on any cycling adventure check out our Things to Bring on a Cycling Trip and use our interactive check list to ensure you don't forget anything.
This is a fairly remote bike climb without much around - if you like to hike, there are many options in Bighorn National Forest (our climb is at the southern end of the forest). See All Trails Top Hikes in Bighorn National Forest for more information on hikes in the area.
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Skotscott
June 30, 2023
I parked a paved pullout about 5 miles from Ten Sleep. This is a wonderful, moderate climb - a steady grind with no steep sections, on a good road with a wide shoulder and fantastic scenery. Very safe and fun decent. High speed vehicle traffic but felt very safe with the wide shoulder to ride on. Highly recommended. Be prepared : this is a long, high-altitude climb. I departed in the morning with a sunny sky, slight chance for and afternoon shower. Got caught by a midday thunderstorm with freezing rain and sleet at the top. Made for a shaking-cold, soaking wet decent back down to warmth and a dry lower ½ of the road.
