Top 20 Outdoor Adventures in Wyoming
A journey through Wyoming’s outdoors begins naturally in Grand Teton National Park, just a short 10-mile drive south of Jackson. Hiking the Cascade Canyon Trail offers an exhilarating introduction, with a moderate 9.1-mile round trip that climbs past glacial lakes and jagged granite peaks. What makes this trail stand out is the dramatic backdrop of the Teton Range, where towering summits like Mount Owen and Teewinot loom overhead, creating postcard-perfect vistas at every turn. Early summer is prime time here, when wildflowers bloom and the snowmelt swells the cascading streams, making the landscape vibrantly alive.
Head northeast for a different kind of adventure at Devils Tower National Monument, located about 40 miles north of Sundance. The iconic, towering monolith rises nearly 1,267 feet above the surrounding plains, captivating climbers and photographers alike. The Tower Trail—a 1.3-mile loop around the base—offers a close-up view of its unique columnar basalt formations. This area is steeped in Native American lore, and the rising mound is especially atmospheric at dawn when the first light illuminates its sheer faces. The late spring and early fall seasons bring pleasant weather and fewer crowds, ideal for exploring.
Not far from the Montana border and about a two-hour drive north of Cody lies the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. The Bighorn Canyon Rim Trail near the town of Lovell provides an adventurous 9-mile loop with breathtaking overlooks of the canyon’s rugged cliffs and the winding Bighorn River below. Anglers and kayakers are drawn here for the pristine waters teeming with trout, but hikers relish the mix of desert terrain and forested ridges. Fall offers a spectacular show of golden aspens contrasting with the red rock cliffs, making it a picturesque time to visit.
In western Wyoming, the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, about 35 miles east of Laramie, is a road trip and hiking haven during the summer months. The Libby Creek Trail climbs steadily through subalpine meadows and forests, culminating near Libby Lake at over 10,900 feet elevation. The alpine environment here is a playground for wildflowers, marmots, and mountain goats, and the panoramic views of the Snowy Range’s granite peaks are unmatched in southern Wyoming. Late July and August, when access roads open fully, bring the best conditions for exploring this high-altitude wilderness.
About an hour east of Casper, the Pathfinder Reservoir offers a different kind of outdoor engagement centered on water recreation. Visitors can fish for walleye and trout or launch a boat for a peaceful day on the reservoir’s shimmering surface framed by rolling prairie hills. The Pathfinder Dam itself, a feat of early 20th-century engineering, provides an interesting historical stop alongside the natural appeal. Summer evenings here are magical, with fiery sunsets reflecting off the water and ample chances to spot eagles and herons nesting along the shore.
In the southern part of the state near Rawlins, the Medicine Bow National Forest provides a sprawling forested escape about 75 miles west of Cheyenne. The Battle Pass Trail is a favorite for mountain bikers and hikers alike, weaving through dense lodgepole pine and aspen groves. The trail’s moderate 12-mile length rewards visitors with serene lake views and, if timed right in early autumn, stunning fall foliage. The forest’s remoteness and varied terrain make it a perfect spot to disconnect and enjoy Wyoming’s quieter side.
Further south, about 15 miles west of Laramie, Vedauwoo Recreation Area offers a playground for rock climbers and hikers among massive granite rock formations scattered across a high plains landscape. The Vedauwoo Loop Trail is an accessible 2.5-mile hike that meanders through these striking boulders, some of which tower impressively and create natural arches. The area’s unique geology dates back over a billion years, providing a dramatic contrast to the surrounding prairie. Spring and fall bring comfortable temperatures for scrambling over the rocks without the summer heat.
A little over two hours west of Cheyenne, the Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis invites visitors to soak in naturally heated mineral waters after a day of hiking. The park’s developed bathhouse and trails offer a restorative experience centered on the world’s largest mineral hot spring. The Wind River Canyon nearby adds to the outdoor appeal with scenic drives and fishing opportunities. Winter, when the steaming pools contrast with snowy surroundings, offers a surreal and rejuvenating atmosphere.
Northwest of Cody, the Shoshone National Forest encompasses some of the most rugged wilderness in the state. The popular Buffalo Bill Trail leads from the town of Cody into the heart of the forest, offering a moderate trek with sweeping views of the Absaroka Range. Wildlife sightings are common, including elk and black bears, making this a rewarding experience for nature lovers. Summer and early fall are best for trail access, as heavy snow closes many paths during the winter months.
Lastly, about 90 minutes south of Jackson, the Bridger-Teton National Forest provides endless backcountry adventures. The Paintbrush Canyon Trail is a challenging but spectacular 19-mile route that loops through alpine lakes, waterfalls, and wildflower meadows. It’s a favorite among backpackers for its dramatic scenery and diverse terrain, culminating with views of the Grand Teton peaks. Mid-summer ensures that snow has melted enough to cross high passes safely, while fall colors paint the valley with brilliant hues. This area represents the wild, untamed spirit that defines Wyoming’s outdoor allure.