The Bighorn mountain range extends 200 miles north from the Rocky Mountains and stands as one of Wyoming’s most stunning natural treasures. Cloud Peak soars to 13,175 feet, while the range’s ancient rock formations date back 3.25 billion years—making them some of Earth’s oldest stones.
These mountains spread across northern Wyoming and reach into southern Montana. The Bighorns give adventurers more than 1,200 miles of trails to explore throughout their 1.12 million acres of national forest. The range stands separate from the Rockies and shows off its own unique geological story and personality. Visitors to Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountain Range can discover the sacred Medicine Wheel at 9,642 feet and watch the powerful Shell Falls, where 3,600 gallons of water thunder down a 120-foot drop each second. Nature lovers can spend their time hiking, fishing, hunting, or take on the grueling 100-mile Bighorn Trail Run that happens every June.
This piece helps newcomers understand the wilderness’s remarkable features. They’ll learn about the area’s geological wonders, cultural importance, and the best spots to explore during any season.
The making of the Bighorn Mountains: A geological wonder
The magnificent Bighorn Mountain range tells an amazing story of Earth’s past, shaped by powerful geological forces over millions of years. These impressive peaks stand out from other mountain formations because they emerged through a unique series of geological events that gave them their distinct character and appearance.
How the Bighorns formed during the Laramide orogeny
The Bighorn Mountains began taking shape about 70 million years ago during a major mountain-building period called the Laramide orogeny. This event lasted until about 40 million years ago and likely happened because of flat-slab subduction—when the oceanic plate moved horizontally beneath the continental plate instead of diving down steeply.
The region experienced tremendous pressure that pushed a massive block of Earth’s crust upward along thrust faults on its southwestern and northeastern sides. This movement created what geologists call the Bighorn Arch—a north-northwest trending anticline with major faults on its flanks. The range now stretches about 150 miles through north-central Wyoming into south-central Montana and reaches about 30 miles at its widest point.
The Bighorn Mountains Wyoming stand out because they contain more than 9,000 feet of sedimentary rock strata that existed long before the mountains formed. These layers, mostly marine and near-shore sedimentary deposits from the Cambrian through Lower Cretaceous periods, were thrust upward during the orogeny. This movement created the breathtaking landscapes we see today.
Ancient rocks and glacial features
North America’s oldest exposed rocks can be found in the Bighorn Mountain range Wyoming. Visitors can see Precambrian formations that date back 3.25 billion years—some of Earth’s oldest rocks. These ancient granite bedrock formations now exposed along the mountain crests give us a rare look into our planet’s earliest geological history.
The mountains changed dramatically during the ice ages of the Pleistocene epoch, after their initial uplift. Thousands of feet of ice covered the entire Bighorn Mountain range about 12,000 years ago, during the last Ice Age. The massive glaciers carved the landscape as they receded and created distinctive features such as:
- Deep U-shaped valleys
- Dramatic cirques (bowl-shaped depressions)
- Numerous alpine lakes
- Steep, sculpted ridgelines
These glacial processes created the stunning landscape that draws visitors today.
Cloud Peak Glacier and alpine lakes
Cloud Peak stands as the highest summit in the Bighorn Mountains. Its northeastern slope features a deep cirque that holds Cloud Peak Glacier—the last active glacier in the range. The glacier has been shrinking at an alarming rate. Its volume dropped from about 500 million cubic feet to just 80 million cubic feet between 1905 and 2005. Scientists believe Cloud Peak Glacier might disappear completely between 2020 and 2034.
The melting glaciers have created beautiful alpine lakes throughout the Bighorn Mountains. Cloud Peak Reservoir sits on the eastern slopes below the peak and shows off the gorgeous glacial formations. The Cloud Peak Wilderness spans 189,000 acres within the 1.1-million-acre Bighorn National Forest. Visitors can see lakes with stunning blue and aqua colors that contrast beautifully with the rugged mountain terrain.
The Bighorn Mountains stand as their own entity, separate from the Rocky Mountain chain despite being close by. These geological wonders let visitors see firsthand how tectonic forces and ice age sculpting have created this remarkable landscape over billions of years.
Sacred lands and ancient stories
The bighorn mountains stand as sacred grounds for indigenous peoples. These peaks and valleys have shaped their rich cultural heritage for thousands of years. Native tribes discovered not just physical sustenance but a deep spiritual connection that remains alive today.
The Medicine Wheel and its cultural meaning
The Medicine Wheel sits on Medicine Mountain’s west ridge at 9,642 feet. This sacred site ranks among North America’s most important Native American locations. The impressive structure measures about 80 feet across. It features 28 stone “spokes” that extend from a central cairn. Nearby artifacts reveal human activity dating back to 4,529 BCE. The wheel itself dates to around 1760 AD.
Many tribes have honored this site through generations. The Arapaho, Bannock, Blackfeet, Cheyenne, Crow, Kootenai-Salish, Plains Cree, Shoshone and Sioux all share deep connections here. Native American records describe the Medicine Wheel as the “altar” of the Medicine Mountain complex. This highlights its essential role in ceremonies. Some tribes call it “The Place Where the Eagle Lands”. Others believe it served as a vision quest site, represented the Sun Dance Lodge, or marked the summer solstice.
Crow and Shoshone tribal history
The Crow people (Absarokee or Apsáalooke, meaning “Children of the Large Beaked Bird”) made this region their home since the early 1700s. They view these mountains as sacred – the place “where the first maker watched his creation”. The Shoshone people share the longest ongoing relationship with the Bighorns. Their connection might stretch back more than 1,000 years.
The Mountain Shoshone or “Sheep Eaters” (Tukudika) mastered mountain living skills. These resourceful people created powerful bows from bighorn sheep horns. They softened the horns in geothermal waters before shaping them. Their hunting methods, obsidian tools, and mountain knowledge helped them thrive in this challenging environment.
This territory became disputed as time passed. The Crow allied with the United States government and kept a large reservation spanning more than 9,300 km² despite losing some lands. Notwithstanding that, government expansion and dam projects disrupted the tribes’ traditional bonds with these sacred lands.
Legends like Big Metal and the naming of the range
Crow oral tradition tells us how the name “Bighorn” emerged from a powerful legend central to their identity. The Legend of Big Metal speaks of a boy. His cruel stepfather abandoned him in the canyon. Seven bighorn sheep rescued him after four days. Big Metal, their leader, had stunning metal horns and hooves.
Big Metal gave the boy special powers and named him Big Iron. The sheep blessed him with wisdom, sharp eyes, keen hearing, great strength, a strong heart, and sure-footedness. They also shared a crucial warning: “The rivers down there in the bottom are the Bighorn River. Whatever you do, do not change the name… If you ever change the name of the river there will be no more Absarokee (Crow)”.
Big Iron returned to his village and shared this warning. He taught his people how to build sweat lodges – a tradition that lives on today. The Crow believe their existence depends on keeping the name “Bighorn” tied to these waters. This belief binds their cultural identity to these majestic mountains forever.
Wildlife and ecosystems of the Bighorn Mountain Range
The Bighorn Mountain Range shows nature’s ability to adapt in tough environments. From grasslands to alpine peaks, this remote ecosystem is home to wildlife communities that elevation, climate, and geological history have shaped.
Common animals: moose, elk, bighorn sheep
The Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming support North American mammals in large numbers. Moose roam the entire range, with numbers between 300-500 animals. These giants weigh up to 1,200 pounds and stand 6.5 feet tall at the shoulder. They move with seasons in the mountains to find the best conditions.
The elk population is strong with about 5,000-7,000 animals across the range. These majestic creatures can run at 40 miles per hour and leap eight feet high. The mountain terrain suits them perfectly. Elk calves come into the world from late May to June, weighing about 30 pounds at birth.
The mountain’s namesake – bighorn sheep – are built for life on steep slopes. Male rams can weigh up to 300 pounds, while female ewes typically reach 150 pounds. Their impressive horns, which can weigh up to 30 pounds, play a vital role in dominance battles during autumn mating season.
Forests, tundra, and river valleys
Forests cover 66 percent of the Bighorn National Forest’s 1,107,671 acres. Lodgepole pine makes up the largest forest type (49 percent), with Engelmann spruce/subalpine fir mix following at 20 percent. The forest also includes:
- Douglas-fir (10 percent)
- Ponderosa pine (3 percent)
- Juniper (2 percent)
- Limber pine (just under 2 percent)
- Aspen (1 percent)
The highest elevations feature alpine tundra where trees can’t grow. This delicate ecosystem has plants with special features like taproots and protective hairs.
How elevation shapes biodiversity
The Bighorn Mountain Range’s elevation determines which species thrive. Higher elevations bring more precipitation and lower temperatures, creating distinct zones for life. Subalpine fir and Engelmann spruce grow at the highest points, lodgepole pine does well in middle to high areas, and Douglas-fir rules the lower regions.
These different zones create unique habitats for specific wildlife. Mule deer, elk, moose, black bear, and mountain lions live at various heights. They move with seasons to find food and shelter. The mountains act like a highland oasis above the dry plains, collecting snow that feeds rivers through summer.
The Bighorn Mountains give life to several major waterways, including the Little Bighorn, Tongue, and Powder rivers. These rivers support ecosystems that wildlife depends on across the broader region.
Exploring the Bighorns today: Trails, lakes, and scenic drives
The Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming are a recreational paradise. Visitors will find three scenic byways, over 1,200 miles of trails, and countless alpine lakes ready to explore. This magnificent range welcomes outdoor enthusiasts year-round, from casual day-trippers to experienced backcountry adventurers.
Top hiking trails and viewpoints
Wyoming’s most spectacular hiking experiences await in the Bighorn Mountain range. Tongue River Canyon trail is a visitor favorite that earned a 4.8-star rating from hundreds of hikers. This moderate 4.7-mile route shows off the forest’s natural beauty with stunning canyon views. The Mirror Lake and Lost Twin Lakes Trail leads hikers on a challenging yet rewarding 11-mile experience through beautiful high-country terrain.
Porcupine Falls Trail is perfect for families and casual hikers. This short 0.8-mile moderate hike leads to a dramatic waterfall with a swimming hole. Shell Falls interpretive trail is another easy option where visitors can see 3,600 gallons of water per second plunge 120 feet down a spectacular granite face.
Bighorn Scenic Byway and Ten Sleep Canyon
The 58-mile Bighorn Scenic Byway (US-14) links Shell to Dayton. The route winds past thick forests, lush meadows, waterfalls, and deep canyons. Shell Canyon and Shell Falls create breathtaking scenery along this route. Interpretive signs and nature trails welcome visitors daily from mid-May through mid-September.
The Cloud Peak Skyway (US-16) cuts through the range’s southern portion. Locals call it “The Sweet 16,” and it takes drivers through the stunning Ten Sleep Canyon with its limestone and dolomite walls. Rock climbers from across the country have made Ten Sleep Canyon their favorite spot.
Medicine Wheel Passage (US-14A) rises from the Bighorn Basin near Lovell. This route offers dramatic mountain views and leads to the sacred Medicine Wheel site.
Fishing, camping, and outdoor fun
The Bighorn Mountains’ alpine lakes and rushing streams are a fisher’s dream. Anglers often catch trout in natural lakes like Upper and Lower Medicine Lodge Lake and reservoirs such as Sibley Lake. The Cloud Peak Wilderness, with over 100 miles of trails, offers some of the region’s best fishing spots.
Campers have plenty of room in the Bighorn National Forest’s million-plus acres. Visitors can boat on mountain lakes, watch wildlife along forest roads, and enjoy winter activities. Meadowlark Ski Lodge offers snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
The Bighorn Mountain range delivers endless recreational possibilities in every season. First-time visitors seeking authentic Wyoming wilderness experiences will feel right at home here.
Preservation, recreation, and modern use
The natural beauty of the bighorn mountain range demands careful balance between preservation and human activities. Land managers work continuously to ensure that conservation efforts and recreational use shape these mountains’ visitor experience today.
National Forest and Wilderness protections
The Bighorn National Forest includes over 1.1 million acres, with nearly 192,000 acres designated as wilderness. The Cloud Peak Wilderness maintains strict protections. No motorized or mechanical equipment can enter the area, and visitors can only access it by foot or horseback. This wilderness status protects the pristine alpine environment and Cloud Peak Glacier—the last active glacier in the range. The forest’s management plan has specific standards that protect wildlife habitats. These become crucial especially when you have domestic sheep grazing that could spread fatal diseases to native bighorn sheep populations.
Logging, grazing, and tourism today
Tourism brings significant economic benefits to surrounding communities. Big Horn County’s direct travel income grew from $28.40 million in 2014 to $40.10 million in 2023. The forest now balances multiple uses like recreation, timber harvesting, and livestock grazing. Conflicts surface occasionally, mostly about grazing allotments. Conservation groups have bought over 124,000 acres of domestic sheep grazing permits in the Wyoming Range to shield bighorn sheep from disease transmission. The forest monitors forage use closely to ensure eco-friendly grazing practices.
How to visit responsibly
New visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles throughout the bighorn mountains wyoming. Here are key responsible practices:
- Book camping spots early at reservable sites and stay flexible with plans
- Pack out all trash and pet waste
- Put out campfires completely and follow fire bans
- Support local businesses in nearby communities
Weather and seasons affect access to the area. Spring often brings mud and closed roads throughout the Bighorn National Forest. Smart visitors check current conditions before they head out, particularly for remote area trips. Different rules apply between wilderness areas and other forest lands, so knowing land designations helps visitors follow the right regulations.
The bighorn mountain range will offer exceptional outdoor experiences for future generations through this balance of preservation and responsible recreation.
The Bighorn Mountains showcase both geological wonders and deep cultural roots. These mountains stretch 200 miles and feature rocks as old as 3.25 billion years. The region’s rich indigenous heritage still shapes its identity today. Their remote location creates special ecosystems where wildlife flourishes in different elevation zones from river valleys up to alpine tundra.
The mountains strike a perfect balance between accessibility and untamed wilderness that new visitors will love. Families can enjoy easy trails like Porcupine Falls while experienced hikers can tackle rugged paths through the Cloud Peak Wilderness. Three scenic byways give drivers amazing views of the landscape. Campgrounds and fishing spots welcome outdoor enthusiasts with different skill levels.
This incredible landscape needs careful protection. The mountains will stay pristine for future generations if visitors follow responsible tourism practices. Smart trip planning, respect for wilderness rules, and Leave No Trace principles should guide anyone who visits these peaks.
The Bighorn Mountains give visitors a pure Wyoming wilderness experience. These peaks blend geological wonders with sacred cultural sites, abundant wildlife, and outdoor fun. People come here to find spiritual meaning at the Medicine Wheel, photograph bighorn sheep on steep slopes, or sit quietly by alpine lakes. Each visit creates lasting memories and builds a deeper connection to America’s natural treasures.
