The best walks and hikes around Wyoming

Yes, Wyoming has numerous trails suitable for families and children. For an easy walk with fantastic views, consider the Jenny Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park. Another great option is the Red Beds Trail at Devils Tower National Monument, which is a relatively flat loop around the base of the iconic formation.

Dog-friendly trails are available, but policies vary greatly, especially in National Parks. While most trails in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks are not open to dogs, many trails in National Forests, like the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, are more welcoming. Always check local regulations for the specific trail you plan to hike.

Wyoming has some spectacular waterfall hikes. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone features several powerful falls visible from various trails. For a different experience, Sinks Canyon State Park is home to the Popo Agie Falls. Another option is the Peg Mill Shelter loop from Rockville, which explores woodland areas where you can often find smaller cascades, especially after rainfall.

Loop trails are a great way to see varied scenery without backtracking. The Roaring Brook Pond – Browning Mill Pond loop from Millville is a pleasant, shorter loop through woodland. For a more challenging day out with incredible alpine views, the Medicine Bow Peak Loop in the Snowy Range is a local favorite.

There are plenty of options for beginners. The Taggart Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park is a popular choice, offering stunning Teton views with minimal elevation gain. In the Medicine Bow National Forest, the trails around Lake Marie, starting from the West Lake Marie Trailhead, provide scenic and accessible high-altitude walking.

Wyoming offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. It's common to see bison, elk, pronghorn, and moose, especially in Yellowstone's Lamar and Hayden Valleys or along the Moose-Wilson Road in Grand Teton. Remember to always keep a safe and respectful distance from all wild animals.

Absolutely. The Wind River Range is a world-class backpacking destination, famous for routes like the Cirque of the Towers. For a truly iconic trek, the Teton Crest Trail in Grand Teton National Park offers days of unparalleled high-country scenery. These routes require significant experience and preparation.

The prime hiking season is typically from July to September. During these months, most high-elevation trails are snow-free, and the weather is generally favorable. Spring and fall can also be beautiful, but be prepared for unpredictable weather and potential snow at higher altitudes. Winter hiking is possible at lower elevations but requires specialized gear and experience.

Hikers in Wyoming are drawn to its iconic parks and forests. Grand Teton National Park is a major hub, with trailheads like Jenny Lake and Taggart Lake being extremely popular for their dramatic mountain views. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is another highly-regarded area, offering expansive trail networks and scenic vistas accessible from trailheads like West Lake Marie.

Yes, there are many moderate trails that reward with big views. The Mount Tom – Arcadia Management Area loop from Millville offers a steady climb to a rewarding viewpoint. Another excellent choice is the Cascade Canyon Trail in Grand Teton National Park, which follows a beautiful canyon into the heart of the mountains with a gradual incline.

For popular areas like Grand Teton and Yellowstone, it's best to check the official National Park Service websites for the most current trail conditions, closures, and parking lot status, as lots like Lupine Meadows Trailhead can fill up very early. For trails in National Forests, contacting the local ranger district is recommended.

The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the stunning, large-scale scenery, from the jagged peaks of the Tetons to the unique geology of places like Vedauwoo. The sense of wildness and the opportunities for solitude and wildlife viewing are also frequently mentioned as highlights.