For a truly spectacular outdoor experience, look no further than the beautiful Bighorn Mountains! With 1,500 miles of trails and convenient access from Burgess Junction Visitor Center, hikers of all levels can explore Steamboat Point, Porcupine Falls, and the breathtaking Paradise Falls with ease. Whether seeking out a multi-day expedition into the Cloud Peak Wilderness or an accessible afternoon walk, Sheridan County offers an unforgettable adventure for everyone.
The Bighorn Mountains are renowned for offering some of the most remarkable recreational experiences in the nation. With more than 1,500 miles of trails across the entirety of the range, hikers can choose from a variety of options, ranging from a multi-day expedition into the Cloud Peak Wilderness to a leisurely walk just a few miles away from downtown Sheridan County. To make it a bit easier, a list of 10 outstanding day hikes that are sure to impress with their stunning beauty, effortless access, and convenient locations has been compiled. For those looking for further information on hiking in the Bighorn Mountains, there are plenty of great resources to be found at local shops throughout Sheridan County.
Directions to Steamboat Point and Porcupine Falls
Visitors to Burgess Junction Visitor Center can easily find their way to two of the area’s most scenic locations; Steamboat Point and Porcupine Falls. To reach Steamboat Point, simply turn left onto US-14 E and travel 11 miles until you spot the pull-off. Or, for a longer journey, take US-14 E for 23.9 miles until reaching Dayton, then take a left onto Tongue Canyon Road and follow it until the trailhead appears. Finally, Porcupine Falls can be accessed by following Tongue Canyon Road past the Steamboat Point Trailhead. An awe-inspiring destination awaits those who make the journey!
Directions to Paradise Falls
Visitors to Burgess Junction Visitor Center can easily find their way to the Paradise Falls trailhead by turning right onto US-14 W and following for 1.3 miles before taking a slight right onto US-14 Alternative W and continuing for 15.2 miles. Then, turn left onto Forest Service RD 121 until the trailhead is in sight. With these simple directions, adventurers will be proud to have navigated their way to Paradise Falls.
Route to Bucking Mule Falls Trailhead
Starting from the Burgess Junction Visitor Center, take a right onto US-14 W and then take a slight right onto US-14 Alternative after about 1.3 miles. Follow this road for approximately 20.2 miles, then turn onto Forest Rd to travel the next 2 miles. After that, take a left onto Forest Rd 137 and continue for half of a mile. Make the first available right, and then take a left in half of a mile onto Forest Rd 14. Finally, journey 5 miles to the Bucking Mule Falls Trailhead – an awe-inspiring destination worthy of exploration!
Getting to the Trailhead
Embark on an incredible journey to Black Mountain, just off Forest Service Road 222, and experience the breathtaking 360-degree viewpoint of the surrounding area. This hike is not for the faint of heart as it requires a 1,076 ft. elevation gain with a rock scramble near the end. For those up for the challenge, head east on US-14 from Burgess Junction Visitor Center for 7.9 miles then take a right onto Black Mountain RD and follow for 3.5 miles until turning left onto Forest RD 222 and continuing to the Trailhead. Alternatively, those coming from Sheridan should take Fifth ST for 2.8 miles until reaching the Soldier Creek Trailhead sign.
Exploring Sibley Lake Campground and Story Penrose Trail
Exploring the natural wonders of Wyoming has never been easier! Take a left onto US-14 E from the Burgess Junction Visitor Center and continue for 4 miles to Sibley Lake Campground and lake access. For those looking to explore Story Penrose Trail, head East on Fifth St in Sheridan, then merge onto I-90 south for 10 Miles before taking Exit 33 at Meade Creek Rd. Turn right onto WY 342 W/ Meade Creek RD for 1.1 miles, left onto US-87 S for 7.2 miles, and right onto Fish Hatchery Rd for 2.6 miles before finally turning right onto Penrose Ln. to see the trailhead. For an adventure unlike any other, Welch Ranch awaits!
Directions to Welch Ranch from Interstate 90
From Interstate 90, visitors to Welch Ranch will find their destination easily by taking Exit 339 and heading east. Following WY 338 north for 5.5 miles will lead them to two parking areas: the first on the left just before the Tongue River, and the second on the right shortly after the river.
The Bighorn Mountains offer unparalleled hiking experiences suitable for all ages and skill levels, ranging from a short stroll to an intense multi-day trek. With well-maintained trails and straightforward directions to remarkable features like Steamboat Point, Porcupine Falls, and Paradise Falls, aspiring adventurers can be sure to get the most out of this breathtaking destination. No matter where your journey takes you within Sheridan County, treasured memories await those who pursue even the briefest of hikes in the awe-inspiring Bighorn Mountains.
