Wyoming is a landscape of vast expanses and endless opportunities for getting out into the “real Wild West.” At the same time, our state has also become synonymous with its rugged, towering peaks – and for many, summiting them all is a bucket list endeavor. But Wyoming is also home to a wealth of phenomenal sights that, while they don’t tower at 14,000 feet, definitely offer plenty of challenges, bountiful beauty, and spectacular, crowds-free enjoyment. Treasured by locals but unknown to many, Steamboat Point near Dayton offers gorgeous high-point rewards, plus plenty of geological and colorful sights to admire every step of the way.
Wyoming's most iconic peaks tower above the rest of the landscape. From the 10,000-foot face of Saddle Mountain to nearly the soaring heights of 14ers like Grand Teton, Gannett, and Fremont. But the Cowboy State is also home to a number of equally spectacular natural wonders that don't have quite the prominence to earn a "peak" moniker.
In fact, this epic natural wonder in Sheridan County is a fantastic spot for climbers as well.
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As the name implies, Steamboat has a highly recognizable shape - like the bow of a ship or a steamboat, barreling through the wildflower meadow "waves" below.
This beloved Bighorn Mountains icon takes a moderate climb to the summit, but rewards winded hikers with sweeping views of the entirety of Sheridan County, as well as the Cloud Peak Wilderness. From here, it feels like you're on top of the world.
Along the sub-two-mile trail (round trip), you might get lucky and catch a glimpse of local fauna, which includes chipmunks, deer, moose, elk, black bears, and even mountain lions.
At the top, you'll find a number of wood posts and a concrete footer, standing as a reminder that this spot was once home to the Steamboat Point Fire Lookout, which oversaw the panoramic stretches of Bighorn National Forest.
Enjoy the views, but take caution and mind the fence along the edge. Steamboat Point is known for its loose rock, and a number of tragedies have occurred here.
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Finally, time your ascent or descent just right, and you might just catch a mesmerizing sunset (or sunrise) display.
Ready to take on the challenge? While the initial ascent at Steamboat Point is steep, this easy trail in Wyoming is open the majority of the year. Be sure to check online for seasonal road closures before your visit, and keep in mind that this easy trail is mostly unprotected. Plan ahead!
Need more Wyoming travel inspo? Get out and explore this beautiful and historic railroad town in Southwest WY.
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