The best walks and hikes in Big Horn County

Big Horn County offers a diverse network of over 10 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from easy interpretive walks to challenging multi-day backpacking trips through the Bighorn Mountains.

Yes, Big Horn County has several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Medicine Wheel — Bighorn National Forest is an easy 2.7-mile path that combines natural beauty with a visit to a historic landmark. Another great option is Porcupine Falls — Bighorn National Forest, a shorter, easy hike. The Shell Falls Interpretive Trail is also a paved, accessible option offering stunning waterfall views.

Absolutely. Big Horn County is home to several beautiful waterfalls. Shell Falls is a prominent natural attraction where Shell Creek cascades 120 feet into a granite canyon, accessible via an interpretive trail. You can also explore Porcupine Falls — Bighorn National Forest, which offers a rewarding hike to a scenic waterfall. The Tongue River Canyon also features cascading waterfalls.

Yes, there are circular routes available. The Lake Solitude loop — Bighorn National Forest is a challenging 16.4-mile loop that takes you through spectacular alpine scenery. Another moderate option is the Middle Tensleep Creek – Mirror Lake loop from West Tensleep Lake.

Hikers in Big Horn County frequently encounter a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, marmots, eagles, moose, elk, black bears, bighorn sheep, and mule deer. The region's diverse habitats, from alpine to prairie, support a rich array of animal life.

Yes, Big Horn County offers several notable landmarks and attractions. The Medicine Wheel — Bighorn National Forest trail leads directly to the sacred Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark. The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area features the dramatic Devil's Canyon Overlook, offering unparalleled panoramic views. You can also explore the stunning Shell Falls, a prominent natural attraction.

The best time for hiking in Big Horn County is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, trails are typically clear of snow, and the weather is more favorable. Summer offers lush meadows and wildflowers, while fall brings vibrant autumn colors. Always check local conditions, especially for higher elevation trails, as snow can persist into early summer.

Big Horn County provides numerous challenging options for experienced hikers. The Mirror Lake & Lost Twin Lakes from West Tensleep Lake — Bighorn National Forest is a difficult 11.4-mile path leading through alpine terrain. Another strenuous option is the Misty Moon Trail — Bighorn National Forest, a 13.5-mile difficult route. The Cloud Peak Wilderness also offers challenging alpine ascents, including the strenuous 22-mile round trip to Cloud Peak Summit.

Most trailheads in Big Horn County, especially within the Bighorn National Forest and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, offer designated parking areas. These are typically well-marked and provide access to the trails. It's always advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot, particularly for popular routes.

Public transport options directly to hiking trailheads in Big Horn County are generally limited. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles to access the various trailheads throughout the Bighorn Mountains and surrounding areas. Planning for private transportation is recommended for flexibility and access to remote trails.

For most day hikes in Big Horn County, particularly within the Bighorn National Forest, permits are not typically required. However, if you plan on multi-day backpacking trips, especially into designated wilderness areas like the Cloud Peak Wilderness, you may need to register or obtain a wilderness permit. Always check with the local Forest Service office or park ranger station for the most current regulations before your trip.

The trails in Big Horn County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 4 reviews. Hikers often praise the majestic mountain ranges, pristine alpine lakes, and deep canyons, highlighting the diverse and striking landscapes. Many appreciate the variety of trails suitable for all abilities and the opportunities for wildlife encounters.

Many trails in Big Horn County, especially within the Bighorn National Forest, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash and you practice Leave No Trace principles. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, as some sensitive wilderness areas or protected wildlife habitats may have restrictions. For example, the East Tensleep Lake Trail from Willow Park — Bighorn National Forest is a popular dog-friendly option.

Big Horn County is renowned for its stunning vistas. The Bighorn Scenic Byway and Cloud Peak Skyway offer dramatic views of the mountains and wilderness, with numerous trailheads along the way. For specific trails, the Story Penrose Trail offers amazing views of peaks like Grandma's Mountain. The Devil's Canyon Overlook in the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area provides unparalleled panoramic views, and the Cloud Peak Summit Trail rewards experienced hikers with expansive alpine panoramas.