Day-walk storage
30–35L Hiking Daypack
Carry spare layers and walking supplies; check fit and use a liner for valuables.
Fly & Drive guide
Fly into RIW, drive to Lander
40 min drive31 milesNo entry permit
Trip snapshot
Arrival airport- RIW
Airport drive- 40 min · estimate
Suggested stay- 3–5 days
Reservation demand- Lower · check current rules
Vehicle notes- A high-clearance SUV is recommended for the unpaved portions of the Loop Road; check rental exclusions.
Your route
RIW
Central Wyoming Regional Airport
Lander
About 40 min · 31 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.
Your arrival plan
Step 1Flights to RIW
Compare fares into Central Wyoming Regional Airport.
Find flights
Step 2Standard car at RIW
Pick up at the airport and drive straight to Lander. Compare rental companies in one search. Est. from $45/day · typical rate.
Compare rentals
Step 2SUV at RIW
Select an SUV, pickup location and dates on Airport Rentals. Est. from $55/day · typical rate.
Compare SUVs
Before you goStore extra bags
Early arrival or late flight home? Drop luggage nearby and keep the car light for the park.
Find storage
03 · First night near Lander
Sleep close after the drive so day one starts in the park.
Before you land
Reservations
Securing High-Altitude Stays and Wilderness Permits
Wilderness permits for the Popo Agie are generally self-issue, but organized groups or specific developed sites in Sinks Canyon State Park require advance booking. The International Climbers' Festival in July causes local lodging to fill months ahead. Check the Wyoming State Parks and Shoshone National Forest sites to verify current reservation windows for the summer season.
Official reservation infoBest time to fly in
June – September
Your route
Day 1 · Canyon Wonders
The Sinks and The Rise → Popo Agie Falls Trail
Day 2 · The High Country Loop
Louis Lake → Blue Ridge Overlook
Day 3 · Lander Heritage and Crags
Wild Iris → Museum of the American West
Viator
Tours & experiences near Lander
Explore guided activities around Lander. Check the meeting point, dates and availability on Viator before booking.
Open tour listings separatelyCurated Trip Essentials
Five picks for Lander
Water on walking days
2L Hydration Pack
Carry drinking water on longer walks; refill before leaving services.
Uneven walking trails
Adjustable Trekking Pole
An optional support on uneven walks. Check trail rules, pole length and airline baggage rules.
Eye protection
Polarized Cycling Sunglasses
Wrap-around cycling sunglasses with polarized lenses and a lightweight TR90 frame, according to the listing.
Wildlife & night viewing
WG9801 4K Night Vision Binoculars
3″ HD display · 48MP photo · 8X digital zoom. Check park rules before using lights at night.
$189.99 USD · store price
Shop at WILDGUARDEROptional picks, not a complete packing or safety list. Photos from the ROCKBROS and WILDGUARDER stores. Prices as of 2026-10-19 / 2026-10-20; price, stock and shipping may change.
Quick answers
What is the closest airport to Lander?
Central Wyoming Regional Airport (RIW) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.
How long is the drive from RIW to Lander?
Roughly 40 min (about 31 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.
Do I need a reservation to visit Lander?
Wilderness permits for the Popo Agie are generally self-issue, but organized groups or specific developed sites in Sinks Canyon State Park require advance booking. The International Climbers' Festival in July causes local lodging to fill months ahead. Check the Wyoming State Parks and Shoshone National Forest sites to verify current reservation windows for the summer season.
Keep planning
Full guideStays, 3-day plan and route map for Lander
