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Cloud Peak Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · WY

Cloud Peak Wilderness

Cloud Peak Wilderness, situated within the Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming, offers a stunning landscape of rugged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Area189,0394+ Trails

Designation

Wilderness Area

Total Wilderness Area

189,039

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cloud Peak Wilderness

Cloud Peak Wilderness, situated within the Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming, offers a stunning landscape of rugged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cloud Peak Wilderness, declared a wilderness area in 1984, spans 189,039 acres within the Bighorn National Forest in north-central Wyoming. Dominated by Cloud Peak at 13,167 feet, the highest summit in the Bighorn Range, this area presents a formidable terrain of towering granite peaks, deep valleys, and expansive glacial cirques. The ecological diversity within the wilderness supports an array of wildlife, including moose, elk, mule deer, and various bird species. The wilderness maintains a pristine feel, with over 100 miles of trails facilitating exploration. Visitors can indulge in hiking, backcountry camping, fishing in crystal-clear lakes and streams, and simply admiring the stunning vistas. The solitude offered at higher elevations and less-traveled trails is a significant attraction. Due to the absence of roads and motorized vehicles, an adventure in Cloud Peak Wilderness promises a pure wilderness experience.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cloud Peak Wilderness

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

Bighorn National Forest: A Western Wonder★ 7.8⌖ 15 miHiking
Bighorn National Forest

Bighorn National Forest: A Western Wonder

Explore Bighorn National Forest, a stunning scenic area with hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. Located near Buffalo, WY, this remote forest offers tranquility and wildlife viewing. Best visited in spring and summer for optimal experience.

Shell Falls: Wyoming's Natural Wonder★ 7.8⌖ 26 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→
Hiking to Horseshoe Mountain: Nature's Green Haven★ 8.2⌖ 29 miHiking
Horseshoe Mountain

Hiking to Horseshoe Mountain: Nature's Green Haven

Explore Horseshoe Mountain in Wyoming for hiking adventures with varied trails, stunning views, and historical petroglyphs. Ideal for nature lovers, wildlife observers, and those seeking solitude in spring and fall.

Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite: A Step Back in Time★ 7.0⌖ 32 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⌖ 41 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.

Discover the Mystery of Medicine Wheel★ 8.5⌖ 48 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→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cloud Peak – offering panoramic views from the highest point in the Bighorn Mountains.✦ Paint Rock Creek – known for its striking geological formations and diverse ecosystems.✦ Lost Twin Lakes – a beautiful pair of alpine lakes surrounded by high cliffs.✦ Backcountry solitude – provides a quiet, untouched atmosphere for experienced adventurers.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cloud Peak Wilderness

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cloud Peak Wilderness.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits or fees are required for access.

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 Cloud Peak Wilderness

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

Circle Park Campground

Located near multiple trailheads, offering easy access to wilderness trail networks.

West Tensleep Lake Campground

Nestled by Tensleep Lake, it provides a serene setting ideal for fishing and kayaking.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cloud Peak Wilderness

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

Dayton
⌖ 34.20 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
⌖ 36.21 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
Greybull
⌖ 44.46 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
Worland
⌖ 46.63 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
Arvada
⌖ 54.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Arvada, Wyoming

A small rural town offering peaceful access to open landscapes and quiet outdoor recreation in northeastern Wyoming.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Lovell
⌖ 67.95 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
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cloud Peak Wilderness

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.