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Bighorn Backcountry wilderness guide
National Forest · WY

Bighorn Backcountry

Bighorn Backcountry is a pristine wilderness located in the Bighorn National Forest, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities amidst stunning landscapes.

National Forest1,107,6714+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

1,107,671

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Bighorn Backcountry

Bighorn Backcountry is a pristine wilderness located in the Bighorn National Forest, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities amidst stunning landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Bighorn Backcountry is situated within the expansive Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming, known for its sweeping vistas, diverse ecosystems, and rugged terrain. This area boasts a unique blend of lush alpine meadows, striking granite peaks, and dense coniferous forests. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the backcountry offers endless opportunities for exploration, from challenging hikes and mountain biking to serene fishing spots and wildlife viewing. The area is home to iconic species such as moose, elk, and black bears, which roam freely within this protected land. Visitors can explore historical landmarks like Medicine Wheel, an ancient stone arrangement with cultural significance to Native American tribes, or take scenic drives along the Cloud Peak Skyway for breathtaking views. Bighorn Backcountry is especially appealing for those seeking solitude and connection with nature, thanks to its remote trails and campgrounds.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Bighorn Backcountry

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Shell Falls: Wyoming's Natural Wonder★ 7.8⌖ 9 miSightseeing
Shell Falls

Shell Falls: Wyoming's Natural Wonder

Explore Shell Falls near Greybull, Wyoming. This popular interpretive site features a dramatic waterfall and educational displays. Enjoy easy access to views, wildlife spotting, and a serene atmosphere. Open seasonally from spring to fall.

SightseeingView Details→
Discover the Mystery of Medicine Wheel★ 8.5⌖ 14 miCultural Exploration
Medicine Wheel

Discover the Mystery of Medicine Wheel

Explore the historic Medicine Wheel near Lovell, WY. This cultural site in the Bighorn Mountains offers serene views and is ideal for wildlife photography and cultural exploration.

Cultural ExplorationView Details→
Five Springs Falls Campground: Nature's Retreat in Wyoming★ 8.2⌖ 15 miCamping
Five Springs Falls Campground

Five Springs Falls Campground: Nature's Retreat in Wyoming

Explore Five Springs Falls Campground in Lovell, WY. A serene retreat in Bighorn National Forest, perfect for camping and hiking. Spot wildlife like deer and birds while enjoying the tranquil ambiance. Best visited in spring and fall.

Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite: A Step Back in Time★ 7.0⌖ 17 miFossil Exploration
Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite

Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite: A Step Back in Time

Explore the Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite near Greybull, WY, a historic landmark with easy access for family visitors. Discover fossil tracks and stunning scenery in this serene, quiet area. Best enjoyed in spring and fall for pleasant weather.

Fossil ExplorationView Details→
Captivating Formations of Devil's Kitchen★ 7.2⌖ 18 miHiking
Devil's Kitchen

Captivating Formations of Devil's Kitchen

Visit Devil's Kitchen near Greybull, WY. This moderate hike features stunning rock formations and distinct colors, perfect for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Best explored in spring or fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cloud Peak, the highest point in the Bighorn Mountains offering panoramic views.✦ The Medicine Wheel, a sacred and historic Native American site.✦ Shell Falls, a stunning waterfall that can be viewed from a convenient roadside stop.✦ The Solitude Trail, a lesser-known route providing wilderness seclusion.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Bighorn Backcountry

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Bighorn Backcountry.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; no permits required for day use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Bighorn Backcountry

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Bear Lodge Campground

Located in the northern section, accessible via Highway 14, popular for its amenities and proximity to trails.

Shell Creek Campground

Situated near beautiful Shell Creek, known for its fishing opportunities and quiet ambiance.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Bighorn Backcountry

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Greybull
⌖ 22.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greybull, Wyoming

A quiet prairie town that serves as a gateway to the Big Horn Mountains and offers an unspoiled outdoor experience.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Dayton
⌖ 24.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dayton, Wyoming

A charming gateway town offering rugged outdoor adventure with easy access to Yellowstone’s northern wilderness and vast high plains.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and fishing; Winter for snowmobilingExplore Town
Ranchester
⌖ 30.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ranchester, Wyoming

A quiet gateway town offering easy access to diverse outdoor adventures ranging from hiking and biking to winter sports and paddling within northeast Wyoming's scenic landscapes.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm weather and Winter for snow activitiesExplore Town
Lovell
⌖ 35.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lovell, Wyoming

A charming small town gateway to the rugged beauty of Bighorn Basin and Pryor Mountains, offering outdoor thrills and historical exploration.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Fort Smith
⌖ 43.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Smith, MT

A remote and tranquil haven for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore scenic waterways and rugged landscapes in the heart of Montana.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Worland
⌖ 48.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Worland, Wyoming

A quiet town offering access to diverse natural landscapes perfect for a variety of outdoor adventures.

Spring and SummerExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Bighorn Backcountry

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.