The best walks and hikes around Sheridan

Sheridan offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from the majestic alpine scenery of the Bighorn Mountains to the limestone-walled paths of the Tongue River Canyon and expansive prairies. You'll find everything from lush grasslands and alpine meadows to clear lakes and glacially carved valleys, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, there are several easy options suitable for families. For instance, the Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island route is an easy 2.9-mile trail, and Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle is another easy 3.2-mile path winding through woodlands. These provide gentle walks with scenic views.

The hiking routes around Sheridan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 4 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from the serene woodlands to the more challenging mountain paths, and the opportunities to explore historical features and natural beauty.

For those seeking a longer adventure, the Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop from Lisnarrick is a moderate 7.5-mile trail that typically takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes to complete, leading through varied terrain. The Bighorn Mountains also offer extensive, more challenging backcountry options, particularly within the Cloud Peak Wilderness.

Absolutely. The Bighorn Mountains are home to pristine alpine lakes like Sibley Lake, which is popular for fishing and offers a picturesque setting. Notable waterfalls include Porcupine Falls and Shell Falls, both dramatic cascades within the Bighorn National Forest, providing stunning natural sights for hikers.

Yes, several circular routes are available. The Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop from Lisnarrick is a popular 7.5-mile loop. Another option is the Necarne Castle (Castle Irvine) – Necarne Castle loop from Irvinestown, a shorter 2.2-mile easy loop.

The region offers several historical points of interest. You can visit Old Castle Archdale, explore the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, or see the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings. Further afield, the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark offers significant ancient Native American history.

The best time to hike in the Bighorn Mountains generally depends on the elevation. Lower elevation trails are accessible earlier in spring and later into fall. Higher elevations, especially in the Cloud Peak Wilderness, are often snow-covered for much of the year, with bare ground typically appearing around July, making summer and early fall ideal for alpine exploration.

Yes, the Soldier Ridge Trail System, just minutes from downtown Sheridan, provides over 10 miles of trails with 360-degree views of the Bighorn Mountains and surrounding open spaces. The Red Grade Trail System also offers sweeping mountain views as it winds through mixed conifer and aspen forests.

There are at least 5 hiking routes detailed in this guide, with many more available throughout the broader Sheridan area and the Bighorn Mountains, offering a wide variety of choices for hikers.

Yes, the Tongue River Canyon is a notable feature, offering scenic trails that follow the Tongue River through sheer, limestone-walled paths. Hikers can enjoy views of tributary canyons and opportunities for fishing.