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Recreation Opportunities

Rising between the Powder River and Bighorn Basins, this scenic Forest offers year-round recreation connecting visitors to a land rich in history and solitude. For centuries, the mountain landscape has provided for Native Americans, homesteaders and modern day explorers creating a human connection with this spectacular place. Today there is a bond with "the mountain" for local residents, which contributes to the quality of life in local communities. Viewing scenery and wildlife, while incorporating a rich history, connects locals and travelers to this accessible landscape.

Woman riding a mountain bike on a trail
There are many opportunities for bicycling in the Bighorn National Forest. Many trails are multi-use, so expect to share the trail. Be sure to have a…
A man crawling through a cave
Rock climbers from around the world visit to climb the dolomite cliffs and granite spires of the Bighorns. The vertical to overhanging pocketed faces…
A trail through a forest
Hiking opportunities abound in the Bighorn National Forest. Grab your pack, water bottle, and hiking shoes and enjoy all of the wonders the Forest…
Image of horses in a pen at a mountain campground
The Bighorn National Forest has numerous horse friendly trails available to enjoy from the saddle. Please call ahead for current road conditions.…
A small boy fishing in a high mountain lake.
For hunting and fishing license information, please visit Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
An all-terrain vehicle navigates a steep trail
Motorized vehicle travel is allowed on designated roads and trails throughout the Bighorn National Forest.  OHVs are restricted to 50" at the widest…
An image of a recreational vehicle in a Forest Service dump station
The Bighorn National Forest dump stations are open during the warmer months of the year.  They are weather dependent and close before the first hard…
A Forest Service employee teaches kids map skills
The Forest Service has a long and proud tradition of reaching out to Americans on behalf of conservation. From Smokey Bear, to Nature Watch, to…
Clouds shad distant peaks in a forest
The Bighorn National Forest offers a great variety of picnicking and group picnicking locations. 
A geology sign along a forest road
The most popular form of outdoor recreation in America is scenic driving.  Three scenic byways traverse the Bighorn National Forest - the Bighorn…
A mountain lake sparkles in the sun with snowy peaks in the back
Opportunities for boating in the Bighorn National Forest are plentiful. Grab your boat and enjoy a summer day on one of the many lakes the Forest…
A snowmobile circles a mountain meadow
Before you go, check out snow depth at the Snotel Information site and the local weather. It's also important to know the avalanche conditions, vist…