Wyoming's Best Hiking Trails: From Easy Strolls to Challenging Summits

Wyoming's Best Hiking Trails: From Easy Strolls to Challenging Summits

I live for hiking season in Wyoming. Between May-September, I spend most of my weekends in the backcountry of this state, whether hiking and climbing in the Tetons, the Wind River Range, or The Big Horns. 

Many visitors come here for our two national parks: Yellowstone and Grand Teton. But those destinations only scratch the surface when it comes to Wyoming's best hiking trails.

Coming from a local, here are Wyoming's best hiking trails for every hiking level:

1. Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail (Easy)

Distance: 1.5 miles

Elevation gain: 150 feet

Located in Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail is an easy hike that offers breathtaking views of the park's largest hot spring. Parking for the main boardwalk around the spring is difficult any time of day, and this hike offers a better bird's eye view of the spring and all its colors. It's perfect for families or those looking to enjoy an easy hike with great views. 

2. Cirque of the Towers (Difficult)

Distance: 17 miles

Elevation gain: 2,300 feet

For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Cirque of the Towers is a must-visit destination in the Wind River Range. The Winds are challenging to access and require long mileage to see, but the views are entirely worth it. They are the best mountain range in Wyoming. This specific hike requires 17 miles round trip and is best done on an overnight backpacking excursion.

3. Green River Lakes (Moderate)

Distance: 16 miles

Elevation gain: 750 feet

When it comes to Wyoming's best hiking trails, this one is often overlooked due to its remote location. Squaretop Mountain and Green River Lakes is located at the end of a long dirt road outside Pinedale, Wyoming, in the Wind River Range. The above viewpoint requires 16 miles of round-trip hiking. The hike is relatively easy and flat, just long. There are plenty of camping spots along this section to accommodate overnight trips. 

4. Leigh Lake (Easy)

Distance: 2 - 7 miles

Elevation gain: 111 feet

Most tourists in Grand Teton National Park hike around Jenny Lake. Leigh Lake is a great alternative that breaks away from the heavy crowds and offers stunning views of the Teton range. The entire trail around Leigh Lake is 7 miles, but those looking for a shorter hike can do anywhere from 2-4 miles.

5. Delta Lake (Moderate)

Distance: 7.4 miles

Elevation gain: 2,500 feet

A more challenging hike located in Grand Teton National Park is Delta Lake. This spot became famous through Instagram posts and is now a very popular hike for visitors. Start your hike from the Lupine Meadows Trailhead before dawn to avoid crowds. The National Park Service does not maintain this trail, so download maps and study where you will branch off from the main path before you head out. 

6. Cloud Peak (Difficult)

Distance: 23.4 miles

Elevation gain: 5,400 feet

Here's a fun fact: every Wyoming 13er is more difficult than nearly all Colorado 14ers. So if you're into peak bagging and summits, you should absolutely have climbing a Wyoming 13er on your list. Cloud Peak is a great option for this. The hike is 23.4 miles and requires sections of class III scrambles, but is not overly difficult. Most opt to complete this mountain in two days.

Wyoming's Best Hiking Trails From a Local

Wyoming is a true hiker's paradise. There are hiking trails in every direction, but crowds are always limited. There's something for everyone, from easy strolls like the Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail to challenging summits like Cloud Peak. Our four major mountain ranges consist of the Teton Mountains, Beartooth Mountains, Big Horn Mountains, and Wind River Mountains. Each of these ranges has its own unique aspects and are perfect for getting out and exploring.