Soaring thousands of feet above sea level, Wyoming’s mountains are an unbeatable outdoor playground for the adventurous. You’ll find natural beauty and plenty of fresh air across the state’s mountain ranges, from the thrilling four-season trails of the Snowy Range and the world-class recreation at the Bighorn Mountains, to the roaming wildlife of Grand Teton National Park.
To the east of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, you’ll find a sprawling mountain range, perfect for hiking, horseback riding and snowmobiling. If you have the right vehicle for it, head up Togwotee Pass to drive one of the most scenic routes in the country that takes you over 9,000 feet above sea level. If you want to stay close by for multi-day adventures, Dubois or Cody make the perfect basecamp.
Located in north-central Wyoming, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation in these mountains for all seasons, including hiking, camping, fishing, backpacking and snow sports. Uncover 100 miles of trails and breathtaking scenery, including the range’s highest peak: the 13,171-foot Cloud Peak. Sheridan, Buffalo, Lovell and Ten Sleep are all great access points to the Bighorns.
This mountain range in Southeast Wyoming is home to alpine lakes and forests that are ready to be explored. Camp in the mountains, hike the trails or travel the scenic byways for some incredible views, especially in the fall. In the winter, the area is known for its family-friendly skiing at Snowy Range Ski Area and epic snowmobiling trails. Saratoga, Centennial and Laramie make ideal basecamps to explore the range from.
The peaks from the Tetons seem to come out of nowhere, towering above the Jackson Hole valley in northwestern Wyoming. These mountains are home to all-season adventure, with rock climbing, backpacking and hiking, as well as world-class skiing and riding. Add to that the scenery and wildlife of Grand Teton National Park, and this becomes a bucket list destination.
Spanning much of the west-central part of the state, including the Wind River Indian Reservation, the Wind River Range is truly a sight to behold. Home to Wyoming’s highest peak: the 13,802-foot Gannett Peak and a system of hiking trails through the alpine lakes and forests, this region makes for epic backpacking routes like Titcomb Basin. When the cold weather hits, head to White Pine Ski Area for affordable skiing or stay in Pinedale, Riverton, Lander and Dubois to be close by.
One of southwest Wyoming’s best-kept secrets is home to spectacular alpine scenery, the 70-mile Wyoming Range National Recreation Trail and ample fishing for brown, cutthroat and rainbow trout along the Green River. In the winter, the snow-clogged range is a haven for snowmobilers. The Wyoming Range can be accessed through Pinedale, Big Piney and Kemmerer.
Wyoming has tons of things to do for every age, every interest and every time of year. And with plenty of space to roam, the Cowboy State feels like it’s all your own.
Fresh powder is plentiful in the mountains of Wyoming and you’ll find skiing and snowboarding…
Plan Your Mountain Trip to Wyoming
Anyone can enjoy a trip to Wyoming with just a little bit of planning and a spirit of exploration. Find the answers you need to create an unforgettable itinerary, including where to find the activities you’re interested in, packing lists, sample itineraries and logistical details that will help you make the most of your visit to the Cowboy State here.
Have a burning question?
What national parks are in Wyoming?
Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park are the two national parks located in Wyoming. In addition to these two well-known areas, Wyoming is home to Devils Tower National Monument, Fossil Butte National Monument, Fort Laramie National Historic Site, Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.
What are the must-see attractions at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area?
Must-see attractions at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area include Devil Canyon Overlook, Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark, Ewing-Snell Ranch, Yellowtail Dam, Bighorn River and Lake, the Pryor Mountains wild horse herd and of course, Bighorn Canyon itself. Find information about the park and how to make the most of your visit here.
Is Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area good for families?
Yes! Scenic drives near Bighorn Canyon include Bighorn Scenic Byway, Cloud Peak Skyway and Medicine Wheel Passage.
Is Bighorn Canyon good for fishing?
While visiting Bighorn Canyon, anglers will have the opportunity to fish for numerous species at Bighorn Lake, Afterbay and the renowned Bighorn River.
Where can I go wildlife watching at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area?
Afterbay Lake, Ok-A-Beh Marina, the Bighorn River and Dryhead Creek are a few places where you can watch for wildlife at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.
How big is Grand Teton National Park?
Grand Teton National Park is about 310,000 acres, or 485 square miles. Find all the details you need to know before you visit here.
What (is there) to do in Grand Teton National Park?
Grand Teton National Park offers plenty to do. Hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, scenic drives, wildlife viewing and camping are some options. With six large lakes at the base of the Tetons and over 100 alpine and backcountry lakes, Grand Teton National Park is also a prime location for boating and fishing.
Where is Grand Teton National Park located?
Grand Teton National Park is in the northwest region of Wyoming, just 10-minutes north of Jackson Hole. It sits just below Yellowstone National Park.
What is the best time to visit Grand Teton National Park?
Spring and fall stand out as the best times to visit Grand Teton National Park, offering incredible opportunities to spot wildlife and view vibrant fall colors, all amidst fewer crowds. Before you set off on your outdoor escapades, equip yourself with these essential tips on responsible recreation.
Is the Snowy Range actually snowy all year?
Not quite, but it earns its name. Snow often lingers on the peaks through July, and the Snowy Range Scenic Byway (Hwy 130) usually doesn't open until late May or June due to massive snowdrifts.
What is the highest point of the Snowy Range?
Medicine Bow Peak at 12,013 feet. It offers one of the most accessible "high-altitude" hikes in the state, with a trail that takes you to the summit in just a few miles.
What makes the Absarokas different from the Tetons?
While the Tetons are granite, the Absarokas are primarily volcanic. This results in darker, "crumbly" rock (often called "choss") that is less ideal for technical rock climbing but creates unique, jagged "castle" formations.
Are there grizzly bears in the Absaroka Mountains?
Yes. The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness has one of the highest densities of grizzly bears in the lower 48. Carrying bear spray and traveling in groups is considered mandatory for safety.
What is the "Wind River High Route"?
It is a world-class, mostly off-trail backpacking route that stays near the crest of the range, usually above 10,000 feet. It is intended only for expert navigators.
