This Is the Most Claustrophobic Hike in Wyoming—Would You Try It?

Wyoming, the land of dramatic geological features, is where the wide-open, wind-brushed plains of the central landscape meet a stunning skyline. Here lies Devil’s Gate, close to the Martin Cove Trail, a geological feature that history lovers and hikers tend to overlook. This abrupt, narrow passage slices through granite, carved by the persistent flow of the Sweetwater River. This accessible, short hike tells a story far larger than its size, making it a perfect stop for a stretch and a step back into Western history.

A Canyon That Shouldn’t Exist, but Does

Through the gentle meandering of the Sweetwater River across the prairie, the Devil’s Gate seemingly appears out of nowhere. Roughly 1,500 feet long and only about 40-50 feet wide, this tall granite ridge is excellent for hikers who desire the feeling of being surrounded, yet not entirely enclosed by nature. 

The hike is more of a walk than a trek, but that is half of the charm. A maintained feeling of claustrophobia takes hikers close to the cleft, offering various vantage points of the split. Walking through this narrow canyon showcases the same geological improbability and makes you feel how small you are beneath the towering rock walls.

A Crossing Point in Pioneer History

Steeped in the history of the American West, Devil’s Gate was a place of pause for settlers on the California and Oregon Trails in the mid-1800s due to a quality water source, safe lodging, and the fascination of the oddity of the river’s path.

Today, visitors can explore the Mormon Handcart Historic Site, where exhibits tell the tales of the grueling journeys of handcart pioneers. Many immigrants preserved their names in the surrounding rocks, took up camp in sheltered enclaves, or took a moment to enjoy the landmark, as most do now. The mixture of natural and cultural history gives the entire area a sense of weight, and walking the trail feels like tracing the footsteps of thousands who came before.

What the Hike Is Like

Causal hikers, families, and road-trippers alike find this excellent, well-maintained trail suitable for all needs. Expect about a 1-mile hike, depending on how long and far you wander. The trail has multiple viewpoints, and from above, visitors can gaze down into the crevice where the Sweetwater River churns through the passage before expanding into the prairie again.

The variety is easy to see here as well—a rushing river, high desert vegetation, rugged granite cliffs, and broad views of the plains leave a lasting and vivid impression.

Why Devils Gate Belongs on Your Wyoming Itinerary

Wyoming is a state of vast landscapes, but Devil’s Gate offers a delightful contrast where history and geology collide. For travelers seeking something more to explore in Wyoming, be sure to use the Only In Your State AI-powered itinerary planner to receive customized local restaurant, activity, and event suggestions. And for a two-in-one experience, Independence Rock is a short 7-mile drive away. As always, when exploring the outdoors, be sure to pack sturdy hiking boots or sneakers and plenty of sunscreen and water. 

Devil’s Gate offers a view of the wind-swept prairie that suddenly becomes a dramatic corridor cut through ancient stone, leaving an impression that lasts forever.