This itinerary takes you through the heart of the Bighorn National Forest, balancing high-altitude adventure with scenic relaxation. Most visitors arrive via Sheridan County Airport (SHR) and make the short drive into the mountains. This plan assumes a summer visit when all roads and high-country trails are open, allowing you to experience the full breadth of Northern Wyoming's rugged beauty.
Day 1: Ascent and Ancient History
Start your journey in Sheridan and head west on Highway 14. As you climb, make your first stop at Steamboat Point. A short but steep hike to the top of this limestone outcrop provides an incredible vantage point of the Bighorn Basin and the winding road below. It is a perfect way to stretch your legs and acclimate to the rising elevation. Continue your drive toward Burgess Junction, where the landscape opens into wide, rolling meadows.
In the afternoon, head toward the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark. Spend a few hours walking the gravel path and absorbing the quiet power of this ancient site. Be mindful of the wind, which can be fierce at this altitude. After visiting the wheel, head back toward a mountain lodge or your pre-booked campsite in the northern Bighorns. Watching the sunset over the western peaks is the perfect conclusion to your first day in the high country. Make sure you have plenty of fuel and supplies, as services are limited once you leave the gateway cities.
Day 2: The Heart of the Wilderness
Devote your second day to the Cloud Peak Wilderness. Enter through the Hunter Corridor or the West Tensleep Trailhead. If you are a strong hiker, aim for the Mistymoon Lake trail. This route takes you through classic alpine scenery, past crystal-clear streams and through boulder fields. The sight of Cloud Peak towering over the lake is one of the most iconic images of the range.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace, spend the morning fishing at Sibley Lake or exploring the shorter trails around the Prune Creek area. In the afternoon, drive toward Shell Canyon to witness the power of Shell Falls. The interpretive site there explains the fascinating geology of the 'Great Unconformity,' where billion-year-old granite meets much younger sedimentary rock. This area is also excellent for spotting bighorn sheep on the steep canyon walls. For dinner, consider a picnic at one of the many roadside stops, where the only sounds are the rustling pines and the distant call of a hawk.
Day 3: Canyons and High Plateaus
On your third day, travel south via Highway 16, also known as the Cloud Peak Skyway. This route offers a different perspective of the mountains, characterized by massive plateaus and deep, red-walled canyons. Stop at the Powder River Pass, the highest point on the highway, for a photo op at the 9,666-foot marker. From here, the road descends dramatically into Tensleep Canyon.
The limestone walls of Tensleep are a marvel to behold, even if you aren't a rock climber. Take the time to pull over and look up at the intricate folds in the rock. As you reach the town of Ten Sleep at the base of the mountains, you can stop at a local spot for a treat before deciding whether to head back toward Buffalo or continue your Wyoming road trip. If you have extra days, consider spending more time in the southern Bighorns exploring the backroads that lead to the out-of-the-way fishing holes and hidden meadows that make this region so special.
Extending Your Stay: Days 4 and 5
If you have the luxury of 4 or 5 days, use this time to go deeper into the backcountry. Day 4 could be spent exploring the southern 'Red Gulch' area or the Alkali Basin if you have a high-clearance vehicle. These lower-elevation spots offer a stark contrast to the alpine peaks, with badland formations and opportunities to see dinosaur tracks preserved in the stone. It is a rugged, sun-drenched landscape that requires extra water and sun protection.
On Day 5, consider a dedicated wildlife photography day. Head to the areas around the Tongue River Canyon early in the morning when the light is soft and animals are moving between water sources. Alternatively, spend your final day in the gateway cities of Buffalo or Sheridan. These towns are rich in Western history, with historic hotels, local craft shops, and museums that tell the stories of the Johnson County War and the early pioneers. Ending your trip with a slow stroll through a historic downtown provides a nice transition from the wild silence of the mountains back to civilization.
Logistics and Travel Tips
When following this itinerary, keep in mind that travel times in the mountains are longer than a map might suggest. Steep grades and sharp switchbacks require focused driving and can put a strain on your vehicle's brakes; use lower gears when descending. Sheridan County Airport is the most convenient fly-in point, but many travelers also incorporate the Bighorns into a larger loop including the Black Hills or Yellowstone.
Cellular service is extremely spotty once you enter the forest boundaries. Download offline maps and keep a paper atlas in your car. Fuel up in Sheridan, Buffalo, or Greybull before heading into the mountains, as there are very few places to get gas once you are on the scenic byways. Lastly, always check the official Bighorn National Forest website before you head out. Road construction, fire closures, or unexpected snow can change your plans, and the rangers provide the most reliable up-to-date information for a safe and successful trip through Wyoming's high country.
More ways to book Bighorn Mountains
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare