Best Hikes in Wyoming
Written By: Sarah Reish
Most of our trips around Wyoming include hiking and exploring. We have so many adventures from 2021 to choose from, so it is hard to narrow it down to our favorite; however, we need to, so here are a few of our top hikes and outdoor exploring adventures from this past year.
Winter Hikes in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park
The gates are closed, but access is open for those willing to go in on foot. Whether you are in snow boots, snow shoes, or cross country skis you can make your way into the winter wonderland that is our National Parks. In 2021 we hiked into Grand Tetons National Park.
Season:
November 1 - May 1
Safety:
Your safety is your responsibility, according to Grand Tetons National Park. Use common sense, dress for the weather, and stay observant of the wildlife in the area.
Why it’s on the list for the Best of Wyoming: Nothing is more stunning than hiking into a sparkling white snow covered National Park. The fresh air, incredible mountain views, and the tranquility of nature are exactly what we needed to unplug and rejuvenate.
Sinks Canyon State Park
Sinks Canyon is a treasure and absolutely stunning. We hiked the trail past the suspension bridge and also hiked down over the frozen water in the cavern. It was impressive and beautiful and we absolutely enjoyed exploring this area.
Season:
Open year round.
Safety:
Watch your footing, this is a river area with limestone and it could be slippery in any season. Stay hydrated and use common sense when exploring in nature.
Why it’s on the list for the Best of Wyoming: The abundance of recreation, the hiking, rock climbing, biking, and fishing. This area was made for those who love the outdoors. It is a beautiful part of our state and if you haven’t been here, you need to add it to you list.
Turtle Rock Trail - Vedauwoo, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests & Thunder Basin National Grassland - Wyoming
A big name for this amazing hiking trail. Hiking Turtle Rock is amazing. Our hike was in the fall and the Aspen trees and fall colors were at the peak of their beauty. The trail circles the impressive granite rock formations and wildlife is abundant.
Season:
Late spring - Early fall
Safety:
Use common sense and be aware of your surroundings and the wildlife in your area. Common wildlife include deer, moose and beaver.
Why it’s on the list for the Best of Wyoming: Vedauwoo is one of the most beautiful areas in the state. The rock formations, nature and wildlife are absolutely incredible to explore. From camping to hiking this is a must see area for those looking to experience Wyoming in all its wonder.
Elks Fork Trail & Campground
Located in the Shoshone National Forest, Elks Fork Trailhead & Campground can be your base camp for hiking and fishing or the starting point for backpacking into the wilderness. This is a favorite hike of Katelyn’s because of the scenery and wildlife you can observe when immersing yourself into the area.
Season:
Open year round
Safety:
Use common sense, this is bear country so stay aware of the wildlife in your surroundings, watch for bear signs, and carry bear spray with you and keep it easily accessible.
Why it’s on the list for the Best of Wyoming: The absolute beauty of the area. This hike is in the very first National Forest and located right on the edge of Yellowstone National Park, placing it in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.
Lake Helen - Cloud Peak Wilderness
One of Laurel and Sam’s epic summer adventures included hiking up to Lake Helen for the weekend. The beauty, cooler summer temps and ample fishing made this an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether hiking or packing in on horseback, the Cloud Peak Wilderness has more than 100 miles of trails and the Bighorn National Forest is home to over 1,200 miles of trails - you can bet this a top Wyoming hiking destination.
Open:
Year round
Safety:
Use common sense and stay safe. Rivers can flood and there is wildlife. Stay bear aware and ensure your bear spray is easily accessible.
Why it’s on the list for the Best of Wyoming: This is an Alpine Haven, having long been recognized as some of the most magnificent alpine scenery in the lower 48 attributed by its sharp peaks and soaring sheer rock faces atop glacier-carved valleys, this is an amazingly beautiful and remote haven to explore.
Hit the road!
Grab your hiking gear and hit the trails. We love getting out and exploring Wyoming. Let us know your favorite hiking trails in the comments or on social media - tag us in your posts, @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld