Wyoming is a beautiful state, but many of our most famous hikes involve days-long treks into the Wyoming wilderness. For those of us who can’t live without Wi-Fi (or who have other reasons to not hike 50+ miles over a long weekend), there are quite a few low-key day hikes that are easy for anyone to enjoy. The following 12 hikes show off some of Wyoming’s greatest treasures for those who prefer to stick closer to home. These are some of the best hikes in Wyoming.
While it's not the easiest hike on this list, the hike to Island Lake is worth a day trek. You can even camp here if you want before heading back along the 10-mile trail. This spot is truly wild - chances are you won't see many other hikers while you're here. The best way to access the trail is from the Elkhart Park trailhead which is north of Pinedale. Read more about this off-the-grid hike in Wyoming.
This half-mile out and back hike isn't a walk in the park, and it involves some serious scrambling, but most people can pull it off and enjoy a picnic down by the water. Dip your toes in the pool and really cool off! You can also combine this hike with an easy hike to the nearby Bucking Mule Falls. A two-for-one waterfall trip seems like so much fun!
Hike along the middle fork of the Popo Agie River to reach a super cool destination! Seriously - the water is almost always cold. On a hot day, cool off after your hike by using the natural waterslide to dunk yourself in the watering hole.
Pathfinder Dam is a great little spot that offers mild hiking trails with major views of the dam, river and canyon. This is a family-friendly recreation area that's great for all ages of adventurers.
Hiking Medicine Bow Peak is easy when there's no snow! You'll pass so many stunning overlooks on the seven-mile hike to the summit that it will feel like no time has passed at all. The lake water you'll see along the way shimmers in the sunlight.
Hiking Mount Washburn is something that will take you most of the day, but the view from the top is one of the best in the entire state! This is one hike you've got to check off your Wyoming bucket list.
You'll be on an elevated boardwalk for most of this one-mile hike, so pretty much anyone can take in the beautiful views of the Artists Paintpots in Yellowstone National Park.
8. Independence Rock
Independence Rock State Historic Site, WY-220, Alcova, WY 82620, USA
The hike to the top of Independence Rock presents you with a view that once meant a huge triumph for those on the Oregon or Mormon Trail! This historic landmark is truly a piece of living American history. This historic spot in Wyoming is so interesting!
9. Yellowstone's Natural Bridge
Natural Bridge Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA
The three mile out-and-back hike to Yellowstone's Natural Bridge is something that belongs on every Wyomingite's bucket list. This is truly an example of the power that eroded right through the rock over millions of years. This is one of the most underrated hikes in Yellowstone.
Even if you never venture farther than a mile or two from the Gros Ventre Campground, you'll be sure to spot some stunning natural scenery. If you wander out in the early morning light, chances are you'll even see a moose! If you are looking for a remote, quiet hike in Wyoming, this is it.
Hike around Devils Tower to get an up-close look at one of Wyoming's most interesting geologic features. There are several Native American legends regarding how this enormous formation was created, and most involve the rock lifting to save children from an angry group of large bears.
Any and all trails around Jenny Lake are worth the effort. Some are simple and stay by the lakeside, whereas other hikes near Jenny Lake take you farther into the forest and show off beautiful wildflowers and wildlife.
No matter where you hike in Wyoming, or whatever your skill level may be, it’s important to hike smart. Travel in a group if you can, and be sure someone knows your plans. To keep our wilderness pristine for generations to come, be sure to Leave No Trace of your visit. If you’ll be in bear country, carry bear spray!
What’s your favorite day hike in Wyoming? What do you think are the best hikes in Wyoming? Tell us in the comments below!
Address: Pathfinder Dam, Alcova, WY 82620, USA
Address: Island Lake, Wyoming 82925, USA
Address: Porcupine Falls, Wyoming 82431, USA
Address: Popo Agie Falls, Wyoming 82520, USA
Address: Medicine Bow Peak, Wyoming 82055, USA
Address: Mount Washburn, Mt Washburn, Wyoming 82190, USA
Address: Artist's Paint Pots Trail, Wyoming 82190, USA
Address: Independence Rock State Historic Site, WY-220, Alcova, WY 82620, USA
Address: Natural Bridge Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA
Address: Gros Ventre, WY 83012, USA
Address: Devils Tower, WY 82714, USA
Address: Jenny Lake, Wyoming 83414, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Wyoming
May 18, 2022
Kim Magaraci
Which easy trails are among the best hikes in Wyoming?
The best, most popular hikes in Wyoming can be found in our National Parks. Cascade Canyon and Taggart Lake are two trails in Grand Teton National Park that belong on everyone’s bucket list. In Yellowstone, the Norris Geyser Basin trail and the trail down Uncle Tom’s Stairs in the Canyon area are two must-do hikes. Outside of our national parks, the hike to Misty Moon Lake in Bighorn National Forest, Medicine Bow Peak in Medicine Bow – Routt National Forest, and the Turtle Rock Trail in the Vedauwoo are some of the best hikes in Wyoming.
What are the best hikes in Wyoming for experienced hikers and backpackers?
If you’re looking for more of a challenge than the hikes listed above, we’ve got a few suggestions! In the Wind River Range, the hike to Cirque of the Towers is one of the best hikes on Earth. In the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the trek from Belcher Ranger Station to Dunanda Falls is a lightly trafficked, bear-heavy, remote adventure. Of course, the ultimate hike for backpackers in Wyoming is the Teton Crest Trail. If you want to really test your skills, consider hiking the Wyoming portion of the Wild West Trail thru-hike.
Address: Pathfinder Dam, Alcova, WY 82620, USA
Address: Island Lake, Wyoming 82925, USA
Address: Porcupine Falls, Wyoming 82431, USA
Address: Popo Agie Falls, Wyoming 82520, USA
Address: Medicine Bow Peak, Wyoming 82055, USA
Address: Mount Washburn, Mt Washburn, Wyoming 82190, USA
Address: Artist's Paint Pots Trail, Wyoming 82190, USA
Address: Independence Rock State Historic Site, WY-220, Alcova, WY 82620, USA
Address: Natural Bridge Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA
Address: Gros Ventre, WY 83012, USA
Address: Devils Tower, WY 82714, USA
Address: Jenny Lake, Wyoming 83414, USA
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Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
