Oregon Buttes

The twin Oregon Buttes near South Pass showed travelers on the historic trails to Oregon, Utah and California that they had reached Oregon Territory. That is, they were west of the Continental Divide.

Today, the buttes are part of a wilderness study area on federal land managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. A climb to the top offers a sweeping view of the entire South Pass area, the Wind River Mountains to the north and the Red Desert to the east and south.

The buttes are easily visible from the intersection of Wyoming Highway 28 and Fremont County 445, near South Pass. To approach the buttes, follow the county road south about nine miles, park the vehicle and climb to the top. There are no roads to the top of the buttes. Try this only in good weather; bring plenty of water and a good windbreaker. For more information, call the Lander Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management, 307-332-8400.