4.8
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5.46km
150m
Hiking
The Soldier Ridge Trail offers an easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hike near Sheridan, delivering expansive 360-degree views of the Bighorn Mountains and the valley below. With 476 feet (145 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes, this route winds through diverse landscapes, from patchy forests and aspen groves to open bluffs and prairie meadows, providing a dynamic and rewarding outdoor experience. You'll encounter natural surfaces, some uphill sections, and the chance to spot local wildlife like deer and eagles.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is just a 5-minute drive from downtown Sheridan. The trail is multi-use, popular with hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, and dogs are welcome but must be leashed near livestock. Be aware that the exposed ridge can be windy, and the trail may become muddy after significant precipitation; checking conditions before you go is always a good idea.
This trail is part of a larger system, including routes like Hidden Hoot and Kicking Horse, offering options for extended exploration. The Soldier Ridge Trail also boasts historical significance, with an audio tour available that delves into the history of Plains Indian Tribes and early European settlement, adding a rich cultural layer to your natural adventure.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
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Parking
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5.46 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.08 km
374 m
Surfaces
5.46 km
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Wednesday 8 July
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62 %
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Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail system is easily accessible and located about a five-minute drive from downtown Sheridan. It also connects to the Sheridan Pathways system, allowing for direct access from town.
Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail. However, they must be leashed, especially when livestock or wildlife are present. The Sheridan Community Land Trust even offers a "Loan-A-Leash" program at trail entrances.
The trail offers beautiful views year-round, but it's best to check weather conditions. Given its open ridges, be prepared for sun exposure and wind. After significant precipitation, the natural surfaces can be challenging, so it's best to avoid it then.
No, there is no mention of permits or entrance fees required to access the Soldier Ridge Trail system. It exists thanks to the generosity of private landowners and is maintained by the Sheridan Community Land Trust.
Yes, the trail system is generally considered easy to moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for various activity levels, including beginners and families. While there are some hills and uphill stretches, many sections offer a good balance of flat areas and slopes.
The main Soldier Ridge Trail is about 3.4 miles (5.45 km) long. Based on an average hiking pace, it typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete the route.
The terrain consists mostly of natural surfaces. You'll encounter open ridges, some hills, and uphill stretches. The system also includes trails with shaded draws and wetlands. It's advisable to avoid the trail after heavy rain.
Hikers are treated to beautiful 360-degree views, including sweeping vistas of the Bighorn Mountains and the valley below. The trail traverses open ridges, offering panoramic mountain views, though fog can occasionally obscure them.
Along the trails, visitors might encounter various wildlife such as racer snakes, meadowlarks, hawks, and bunnies. The presence of wetlands also contributes to diverse habitats.
Yes, the Soldier Ridge Trail system includes various interconnected trails. For example, the 3-mile lollipop-shaped Hidden Hoot Trail features shaded draws and wetlands. Other trails like The Link (1.2 miles) and Kicking Horse Trail (1.5 miles) also offer additional options.
The trails are non-motorized and accommodate a variety of activities, including hiking, running, mountain biking, and horseback riding. This fosters a shared outdoor experience for different users.
Yes, the trail offers a unique opportunity to engage with local history. A "History on the Soldier Ridge Trail – A Walking Tour" uses the TravelStorys GPS app to narrate stories of Plains Indian Tribes, early European settlement, the Bozeman Trail conflict, and local development and agriculture over about 2 miles of gentle to moderate inclines.
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