Hell’s Half Acre - We went there!
By: Sarah Reish
Part of what we do in curating content for you, our readers, includes and is not limited to driving and randomly stopping along the way to check out planned and un-planned locations. Some we have seen and some we have not yet explored or experienced. This outdoor adventure is the latter.
Where is Hell’s Half Acre?
It’s 44 miles west of Casper, Wyoming. We literally ran into it while driving. We saw a sign and decided we should turn off to check out Hell’s Half Acre… which is literally in the middle of nowhere. This stop was totally worth it.
Tip: From the highway you cannot see the site. You are only able to see the parking area, which makes it easy to miss.
The name is deceiving, the history is cool.
First off, its not a half acre, its 320 acres. The geography is rocky ravines, spires, and probably hundreds of caves. The information provided shared that the site was traditionally used by Native Americans, in that they drove herds of buffalo into the ravines for slaughter. Archeologists have even found arrowheads and bones within the site. In 1924 the federal government dedicated the geological site to Natrona County, as part of a 960 acre grant.
Fun fact: In 1997 the site was used as a film location for the Blockbuster hit, Starship Troopers.
Is it worth the visit?
Yes! Now that the history is taken care of, let’s take in this view together. It really feels like part of Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone was spilled in middle of this prairie. We aren’t complaining. We needed a change of scenery on our drive. The rock formations and spires are stunning and the landscape is jaw dropping. The fresh snow made the details all the more magnificent. It is not overly crowded so outdoor adventurers can explore without weaving between people.
Who will love visiting Hell’s Half Acre?
Anyone really. If you are looking for an obscure and random adventure on your road trip (who isn’t?) stop by Hell’s Half Acre and look around. The view alone is well worth it.
There is no set trail, per se. In fact, during the winter the site is fenced off for safety. In the summer, access should be allowed. There is a picnic area that should be open, and I say “should” because with Covid all the rules have changed. It is an easy site to wander around, so kids would enjoy it as well.
The clay formations around the site can damage quite easily. That said, the site is pristine and we thank all those who have visited before us who have experienced it with respect and we urge future visitors to take only memories and leave no trace.
The details:
Open year round
No pets
Hit the road
It’s 44 miles west of Casper, so hit the road and come check it out. Be sure to post your photos on social media and tag us @LiveWYldMag and use #liveWYld