Bighorn National Forest
Bighorn National Forest
5
About
Over one million acres of scenic mountains, valleys and alpine tree forests: great for hiking and biking.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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69 within 3 miles
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15 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
487 reviews
Excellent
401
Very good
76
Average
8
Poor
2
Terrible
0
Out This Door
Mesa, AZ128 contributions
Jul 2022
We loved our visit to the Bighorns last July. Weather was perfect, lots of flowers, lots of wildlife. Unfortunately, also lots of empty RVs taking up the boondock camping spots so it was hard to find a vacant spot. We moved our camp two times over the week to be able to see the whole forest. We did find places but we had to hunt for a while each time even during mid week. We have a 27 foot class C with a tow vehicle. Yet, we did find marvelous camp sites where the forest still felt secluded and wild. The roads are in great condition from the paved highways to the level 1 dirt roads (good for RVs) to the off-road vehicle tracks (good for side-by-sides and jeep). Excellent fishing and fly fishing. Excellent hiking. Gorgeous scenery. There are two public dump station, pay donation. Please pay when you use them and keep them clean so that they can continue to be accessible for years to come. Towns leading into the forest provided liquor, gas, and groceries and everyone was friendly. Worth the trip from AZ, would visit again!
Written February 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Carol D
Holderness, NH7 contributions
Jul 2022
I wanted to drive on 14A and see the scenery of Bighorn. It was a great drive, except that there was much road repair going on (due to heavy snow melt ruining the road.) Had to wait about 30 minutes at a temporary red light waiting to go on a temporary one-way section of the road. The stop didn't bother me since the scenery was so beautiful. I also drove the dirt road to Medicine Wheel. Three very knowledgeable national forest employees were working. The short hike to the Medicine Wheel was closed due to a "Special Ceremony" (private) happening. It was a temporary closure, but it happened while I was there. But it was great to imagine the ceremony in such a sacred place.
Written July 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
webbfoot
Philadelphia, TN619 contributions
Sep 2020
We were here on 09-08-20. We were staying in Cody WY, East Entrance to Yellowstone was closed due to snow, so we decided to go to Bighorn . There was 6 to 8 inches of snow on ground and in trees, very Beautiful. Roads were clear of snow. We encountered Thousands of Sheep on road being moved by 1 Cowboy on Horse and 2 Sheep Dogs, did not know how we were going to get thur Sheep, A Sheep Dog got on each side of car, as we drove very slowly the Sheep parted and let us thur, amazing Dogs. We stopped at Shell Falls, a high volume beautiful Waterfall, saw a field full of Pronghorns on way back to Cody.
Written November 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BecksReview2014
Chamberlain, SD22 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
This year we realized that we had actually never been to the Big Horns just to go to the Big Horns. Seems like we traveled through them several times to get other places.
We rented a cute Airbnb in Story, Wyoming for three nights and traveled into the Big Horns both north and south. This is a hikers paradise, given the beautiful views, trails and lack of track traffic on both roads and the trails. We saw moose, elk, coyote, deer, antelope. We also had a great burger up at Meadowlark Lake Lodge.
We lived in Denver for eight years and did a lot of hiking with a lot of traffic both on and off trail. The Big Horns are beautiful and wide open.
We will definitely be back for more adventures.
We rented a cute Airbnb in Story, Wyoming for three nights and traveled into the Big Horns both north and south. This is a hikers paradise, given the beautiful views, trails and lack of track traffic on both roads and the trails. We saw moose, elk, coyote, deer, antelope. We also had a great burger up at Meadowlark Lake Lodge.
We lived in Denver for eight years and did a lot of hiking with a lot of traffic both on and off trail. The Big Horns are beautiful and wide open.
We will definitely be back for more adventures.
Written August 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
TravelingHart
120 contributions
Jan 2021
Both highway 14 and 16 are gorgeous! There are so many lakes and trails to choose from, you can’t go wrong with either drive. Tensleep Canyon is phenomenal to drive through (highway 16) and She’ll Canyon is gorgeous as well (highway 14). Tensleep is a great little stop with a great restaurant, Tensleep Saloon and a fun brewery just beyond. Look for moose, eagles, elk, pronghorn and deer. I’ve never seen a bear but lots of markings. I saw a wolf one winter evening near Powder River Pass. Best of all, NO CROWDS!
Written January 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Alacrout
Los Angeles, CA152 contributions
Sep 2020 • Family
Our trip through Bighorn National Forest was a rare occasion where plans getting spoiled were a blessing in disguise.
We were passing through on a long road trip and picked out a hike near Ten Sleep Lake.
However, a cold front with little snow showers hit the area.
Luckily, the roads were still open—and we’re not intimidated by snowy roads—so we happily drove through.
The fresh snowfall made the landscape breathtaking, about as close to “magical” as a forest can get.
We made it to Ten Sleep Lake, but skipped the hike as we didn’t have the right clothes for the cold temperatures or snowy path. We still got out and enjoyed the snow for a little bit.
Really hope to get back here someday and explore more.
We were passing through on a long road trip and picked out a hike near Ten Sleep Lake.
However, a cold front with little snow showers hit the area.
Luckily, the roads were still open—and we’re not intimidated by snowy roads—so we happily drove through.
The fresh snowfall made the landscape breathtaking, about as close to “magical” as a forest can get.
We made it to Ten Sleep Lake, but skipped the hike as we didn’t have the right clothes for the cold temperatures or snowy path. We still got out and enjoyed the snow for a little bit.
Really hope to get back here someday and explore more.
Written December 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
TalTrent
Edinburg, TX272 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
Big Horn National Forest is a sight to behold. We drove past it on our way to Sheridan WY from Cody. The National Forest has a beautiful landscape and has a lot of camping grounds and fishing grounds. We stopped by a creek near the Big Horn Lake/dam to fish and I caught a cut-throat trout. It was so exciting. I didn’t keep the fish though. I just want to put it back in the creek. As we continued to drive through, we saw a lot of people fly fishing.
Written July 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
MemoryMaker5
Ohio758 contributions
Jun 2021
On our way to Cody, we somehow wound up taking Highway 14. That wasn't the plan, but it turned out to be one of the best highlights of our trip! Several of us aren't fans of heights, including the driver, but wow! the views were phenomenal! I'm SO glad we took this route. Such an adventure on the drive up. We stopped at the top, got out of the vehicle and walked through the snow. We explored rocks and saw two moose. My young adults and teen had a blast! The drive back down was steep. Make sure you use your low gear and know how to use it correctly. Otherwise you might need to use a pull over to let your brakes cool down. Make sure to do that if you notice a burning smell or any brake fade.
Written July 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Amanda W
Linn, MO1,634 contributions
Jun 2021
We took Cloud Peak Skyway and the Bighorn Scenic Byway thru the national forest - some of our favorites sights and views from this big roadtrip we just completed.
Ten Sleep was a cute little town for a visit. The Shell Falls were definitely worth a stop.
Found tons of places that would be perfect for camping in the area if you were able to boondock easy enough especially Middlefork.
Totally worth a trip thru this area and bonus you will see plenty of wildlife!
Ten Sleep was a cute little town for a visit. The Shell Falls were definitely worth a stop.
Found tons of places that would be perfect for camping in the area if you were able to boondock easy enough especially Middlefork.
Totally worth a trip thru this area and bonus you will see plenty of wildlife!
Written June 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Diana R
Birch Run, MI1,981 contributions
Jun 2021
Beautiful drive with some unexpected views. We drove through on the way to Cody from Deadwood. It took us a very long time to get through it because we kept stopping to take pictures. Worthwhile drive, just take your time and enjoy the views.
Written June 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jmortens
Sioux Falls, SD4 contributions
Hello, we have a Minivan Tent (wrap for the car, plus a tent attached to the back). Looking for a campsite recommendation in BHNF this August with the following characteristics:
a) reachable with a minivan [low clearance];
b) avoid 24/7 loud generators nearby; and
c) close to a lake for kids to play in.
Realize all three might not be achievable, but have listed the characteristics in order of importance.
Also, any other recommendations for activities or places to visit with small kids in tow (6, 4, 1) are appreciated. Have hiking packs to carry the 1 and 4 year-olds.
tounsley
devon uk151 contributions
HI.My wife and I are planning to drive from Sheridan to Yellowstone in Sept.I am planning to drive Hwy 14a via Cody.Is this the most scenic way and how long should I allow or should i be stopping at Cody?.Thanks for any helpful advice.Trev from UK.
sujim70
Granbury, TX103 contributions
It is definitely most scenic. We did not go thru Cody because we turned north at Lovell to go to Billings. The drive time estimate from Sheridan to Lovell is about 2 hrs, depending on speed & stops. It would be another hour from Lovell to Cody. So that would get you to Yellowstone in early afternoon. Time enough to start seeing Yellowstone but not enough to see enough. Yellowstone is beautiful. Crowds should be less in September than August. Hope you can stay there a couple of days at least.
Judy C
DeLand, FL1 contribution
Hi, we will be driving a class C motorhome with a car in tow in August, is driving 14 or 14A going to be a problem? I was wondering whether or not to find a campground on either side and using the car for touring.
Thanks. Judy
mollydax
wyoming62 contributions
Try I-90 to Buffalo then HWY 16 over the Big Horns to Ten Sleep,WY. Much easier highway for motor homes...road is wider, more olaces to stop and grade much less than 14.
Hoe zijn jullie precies gereden door Bighorn national forest? Byron- Lovell- Sheridan?
Ik hoor graag, Miranda
Tom R
2 contributions
Is het adres dat vermeld staat wel correct? Vanuit Sheridan zou dit 6 min rijden zijn met de wagen wat volgens ons niet klopt.
nancyzalzalah
Paso Robles, CA48 contributions
No I dont think it is a 6 minute drive
William W
St. Petersburg, FL1,083 contributions
We will be in the area early September and staying in Buffalo, WY for a night and then headed to Cody, WY. We only have time to drive one of the roads through Bighorn, We are thinking of either:
1. Drive Hwy 16 to Ten Sleep and then take Hwy 49 North so we can see Shell Falls and the head West on Hwy 14 into Cody
or
2. Take Hwy 14 all the way through the Forest to Cody in which case we see Shell Falls but miss Ten Sleep.
Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
nancyzalzalah
Paso Robles, CA48 contributions
You will love Cody such a cool little town spend most of your time there. Definatly do a drive through big horn there it is so amazing there I took over 500 pictures just being in that park alone.
c_kirk01
Clinton, TN
Coming in from Cody, Wyoming and have limited amount of time. Destination is I-90 to travel east. Wondering what route might be best for viewing attractions in Big Horn National park. Thanks.
nancyzalzalah
Paso Robles, CA48 contributions
I did a drive through big horn just beautiful. I googled key places before I went it helps a lot .Best to go to these parks really early in the morning beat the traffic any later too many people
Holly G
Chicago, IL5 contributions
Would you do the amazing drive through the Bighorn mountains in a gigantic suburban? How narrow are the roads? Thanks in advance!
nancyzalzalah
Paso Robles, CA48 contributions
Roads are narrow not a lot of room for a over sized vehicle ,some areas are steep and very curvy you basically are not driving any more than 15 miles perhour
Ron G
Silver City, NM
Planning a trip in June through Big Horn. We have a 18 ft hybrid trailer. Thought about camping at Sibley, do you have other suggestions? Ron
Lisa S
11 contributions
If you havent traveled already, dow;load the national forest app and contact the local forest ranger station to where are traveling. They can. Tell you about the road conditions-and if your rig can go there
Bighorn National Forest (Sheridan) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Bighorn National Forest
- We recommend booking Bighorn National Forest tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 1 Bighorn National Forest tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Bighorn National Forest:
- (0.32 mi) Comfort Inn & Suites
- (1.83 mi) Residence Hill Bed & Breakfast
- (0.72 mi) Hampton Inn Sheridan
- (0.77 mi) Peter D's RV Park
- (1.35 mi) Sheridan Inn
- Restaurants near Bighorn National Forest:
- (1.50 mi) Cowboy Cafe
- (1.43 mi) Wyoming's Rib & Chop House
- (1.50 mi) Frackelton's
- (1.45 mi) Silver Spur Cafe
- (1.49 mi) Midtown Cafe
- Attractions near Bighorn National Forest:
- (0.01 mi) Spear-O-Wigwam
- (0.46 mi) Sheridan Information Center
- (1.52 mi) King's Saddlery and Museum
- (1.35 mi) The Historic Sheridan Inn
- (0.67 mi) Museum at the Bighorns