Planning a Hike into the deep Bighorn National Forest?

Bighorn National Forest is a haven for hikers looking for an adventure in the great outdoors. The forest boasts miles of scenic trails that wind through rugged mountain terrain, breathtaking alpine lakes, and panoramic views. Here’s why Bighorn National Forest is a great hiking destination and why you should visit.

What makes Bighorn National Forest a great hiking destination?

Bighorn National Forest is a unique hiking destination due to its varied terrain, including towering peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes. The trails in the forest are well-maintained and offer a range of hiking experiences, from challenging summit hikes to leisurely strolls through stunning landscapes. Additionally, the forest is relatively unpopulated, allowing hikers to enjoy a peaceful and remote wilderness experience.

Why you should visit Bighorn National Forest?

Bighorn National Forest is a must-visit destination for any hiking enthusiast. The forest offers an abundance of hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge or a beginner seeking an easy hike, the forest has something for everyone. Additionally, the forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears, providing hikers with the opportunity to observe nature up close and best hikes right here in Bighorn National Forest.

Planning Your Trip

When to visit Bighorn National Forest

The best time to visit Bighorn National Forest is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is mild, and the trails are free from snow, making the hike more comfortable and accessible for travel. However, be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms during this time.

How to get to Bighorn National Forest

Bighorn National Forest is located in northern Wyoming, and the nearest airport is in Billings, Montana. From Billings, it’s a scenic three-hour drive to the forest. The forest can also be accessed via the nearby town of Sheridan, Wyoming, which has a small airport and rental car services.

Entrance fees and permits

Entrance to Bighorn National Forest is free, but a daily or annual permit is required for certain activities, including camping and fishing. Permits can be obtained at ranger stations located throughout the forest.

Safety tips for hiking in Bighorn National Forest

Hiking in Bighorn National Forest requires preparation and caution. Hikers should be aware of the weather conditions, carry plenty of water, and wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Hikers should also be aware of wildlife and follow proper bear safety protocols.

Best Hikes in Bighorn National Forest

Cloud Peak via West Tensleep Trail: A Challenging Hike to the Summit The Cloud Peak via West Tensleep Trail is a challenging 20-mile round-trip hike that leads to the summit of Cloud Peak, the highest peak in the Bighorn Mountains. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and passes through alpine meadows and glacial lakes.

Black Mountain Lookout Trail: A Scenic Hike with Panoramic Views The Black Mountain Lookout Trail is a 4-mile round-trip hike that leads to a historic fire lookout tower with panoramic views of the surrounding forest. The trail winds through dense forests and rocky terrain and offers stunning views of Black Mountain and the surrounding area.

Medicine Wheel Trail: A Cultural and Historical Hike The Medicine Wheel Trail is a 1.5-mile round-trip hike that leads to a historic Native American medicine wheel. The trail is steep and rocky and winds through a forested area. The medicine wheel is a sacred site and visitors are asked to respect the area.

Lake Solitude Trail: A Scenic Hike to a High Alpine Lake The Lake Solitude Trail is a 6-mile round-trip hike that leads to Lake Solitude, a high alpine lake surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests, valleys, and peaks and is rated as moderate in difficulty.

Porcupine Falls Trail: A Short Hike with Stunning Waterfall Views The Porcupine Falls Trail is a short 0.4-mile round-trip hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is easy and suitable for all levels of hikers and offers stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding cliffs.

Shell Falls Trail: A Short Hike with Beautiful Scenery The Shell Falls Trail is a short 0.5-mile round-trip hike that leads to a stunning waterfall. The trail is easy and suitable for all levels of hikers and offers beautiful views of the surrounding cliffs and forests.

Mistymoon Trail: A Hike to Stunning Rock Formations The Mistymoon Trail is a 3.8-mile round-trip hike that leads to stunning rock formations in the Bighorn Mountains. The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and peaks.

North Fork Trail: A Hike to a Secluded Canyon The North Fork Trail is a 10-mile round-trip hike that leads to a secluded canyon in the Bighorn Mountains. The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and peaks.

Lost Twin Lakes Trail: A Hike to a High Alpine Lake The Lost Twin Lakes Trail is a 6-mile round-trip hike that leads to two high alpine lakes in the Bighorn Mountains. The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and peaks.

Red Grade Trail: A Hike with Panoramic Views The Red Grade Trail is a 6-mile round-trip hike that offers panoramic views of the Bighorn Mountains. The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty and winds through dense forests and rocky terrain.

Other Activities in Bighorn National Forest

Camping in Bighorn National Forest

Bighorn National Forest offers numerous campsites for visitors, ranging from primitive sites to fully-equipped RV sites. Camping is a great way to experience the beauty of the forest and access some of the more remote hiking trails.

Fishing in Bighorn National Forest

Bighorn National Forest is home to several pristine lakes and streams that offer excellent fishing opportunities. Visitors can catch trout, bass, and other species in the crystal-clear waters of the forest.

Wildlife Watching in Bighorn National Forest

Bighorn National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears. Wildlife watching is a popular activity in the forest, and visitors are encouraged to observe animals from a safe distance.

Exploring Nearby Areas Hiking in the Big Horn Mountains

The Big Horn Mountains offer miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through rugged mountain terrain and alpine lakes. The mountains are located adjacent to Bighorn National Forest and are accessible via several trailheads.

Hiking in the Cloud Peak Wilderness Area

The Cloud Peak Wilderness Area is a stunning wilderness area located in the Bighorn Mountains. The area offers miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and wildflower meadows.

Hiking in the Tongue River Canyon

The Tongue River Canyon is a beautiful canyon located near Bighorn National Forest. The canyon offers miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through towering cliffs, dense forests, and sparkling streams.

Conclusion

Bighorn National Forest is a must-visit destination for any hiking enthusiast. With its varied terrain, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife, the forest offers a truly unique wilderness experience. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just starting out, Bighorn National Forest has something for everyone. So, pack your hiking boots and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the United States!