Friends of the Wild, imagine standing where jagged peaks kiss the sky, where wildflowers blanket valleys, and where silence reigns supreme. Wyoming's trails aren't just paths—they're portals to raw, untamed beauty.
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a curious family, these routes promise stories etched in stone, snow, and solitude. Let's dive into the trails that define the Equality State's soul.
Teton's Ultimate Test
The Teton Crest Trail isn't for the faint-hearted. Spanning 40 miles across Wyoming's iconic Teton Range, this 4–7-day odyssey demands grit. Start at Grand Teton National Park, where elevation gains of 3,775 feet reward hikers with alpine lakes like Delta and Paintbrush. But beware of sudden storms. Secure a backcountry permit and pack layers and a GPS.
Pro tip: Tackle it late July to early September when snow retreats.
Family Fun Near a Monument
Seeking a hike the kids won't whine about? Red Beds Trail near Devil's Tower delivers. This 2.8-mile loop weaves through rust-colored sandstone and juniper scrub, offering close-up views of the tower's volcanic columns. No steep climbs, just flat stretches perfect for strollers. Arrive at dawn to catch the tower glowing amber. Entry to the monument costs $25/vehicle; sunrise is free if you hike before gates open.
Lost Lakes, Found Serenity
The 13.4-mile trek to Lost Twin Lakes in the Wind River Range is a pilgrimage for solitude seekers. Starting from Elk Creek Trailhead, navigate switchbacks past meadows buzzing with pika and marmots. The payoff? Turquoise lakes framed by granite walls. Camp overnight under the Milky Way—permits are free but limited. Pack a filter; the streams are glacial and icy.
Yellowstone's Secret Lake
Most flock to Old Faithful, but Shoshone Lake in Yellowstone's backcountry is the ultimate escape. This 6.1-mile out-and-back starts at DeLacy Creek, winding through pine forests to North America's largest backcountry lake. Paddle a kayak (carry-in only) or fish for cutthroat trout. No motorized boats allowed—just pure, undisturbed wilderness. Check road conditions: Spring runoff often floods the trailhead.
Wildlife Watching at Bunsen
For a shorter thrill, Bunsen Peak near Gardiner offers 4.6 miles of panoramic drama. Climb 1,300 feet to summit views of the Yellowstone River valley. Dawn hikes reveal elk herds grazing below. Watch for coyotes darting through sagebrush. No permits needed, but keep distance from wildlife. Pair this with a visit to Mammoth Hot Springs afterward.
Desert Dreams in Dubois
The Dubois Badlands Trail feels like Mars on Earth. This 3.8-mile loop carves through crimson canyons and hoodoos, with snow-capped Wind Rivers as a backdrop. Visit October–April to avoid 100°F summer heat. Keep eyes peeled for bighorn sheep scaling cliffs.
Free to access; park at the Red Hills Recreation Area sign.
Waterfalls for All Ages
Families craving a splash should hit Crow Creek Trail to Hidden Falls. Near Jackson Hole, this 3.6-mile round-trip follows a creek to two cascades. Stroller-friendly until the final half-mile. Let kids dip toes in the icy pools.
Open May–October; summer crowds thin after 3 PM.
Final Steps
Wyoming's trails are more than exercise—they're chapters in a story written by wind and time. From the Teton Crest's grandeur to Shoshone Lake's silence, each hike offers a chance to disconnect and rediscover wonder. So, lace up, grab a map, and let the wild write your next adventure!
