The best walks and hikes around Wyoming

Yes, Wyoming has many options for families. For an easy, flat walk, consider the Luzerne County Rail Trail — Pittstown. It's a 3.7-mile (6.0 km) path suitable for all fitness levels. Another great choice is the River Common loop — Wilkes-Barre, a pleasant 2.7-mile (4.3 km) walk through a riverside park that takes about an hour.

Wyoming offers several excellent loop trails. For a moderately challenging hike with some elevation, the Deer, Hilltop & Maconaquah Trail loop is a 5.6-mile (9.0 km) route through woodland. If you're looking for something shorter with great views, the Campbell's Ledge & Reservoir loop is a 3.6-mile (5.8 km) trail that offers a bit of a climb.

Dog policies vary significantly across Wyoming. While many trails in National Forests like Medicine Bow-Routt are dog-friendly (usually requiring a leash), dogs are heavily restricted in National Parks. In Grand Teton and Yellowstone, pets are generally not allowed on hiking trails, in the backcountry, or on shorelines. Always check the specific regulations for the park or forest you plan to visit before you go.

Wyoming is home to some spectacular waterfalls. In Yellowstone National Park, the Union Falls Trail leads to the impressive 265-foot Union Falls. For a more accessible option, the Cascade Canyon Trail in Grand Teton National Park features beautiful cascading waterfalls. The Bighorn Mountains also offer numerous trails leading to waterfalls, providing a less crowded experience.

Hikers in Wyoming have a wealth of highly-regarded options.

Grand Teton National Park is exceptionally popular for its dramatic mountain scenery and pristine lakes. For a unique experience, Sinks Canyon State Park near Lander is a local favorite, known for its disappearing river and great trails. In southeastern Wyoming, the expansive Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest offers countless trails through forests and mountains with scenic vistas.

Absolutely. The Luzerne County Levee Trail — Wilkes-Barre is a relatively flat 5.4-mile (8.7 km) trail that can be walked in shorter sections. Many trails in state parks, such as the Turtle Rock Loop in Vedauwoo Recreation Area, also offer easy hikes that can be completed in under two hours while enjoying unique rock formations.

The difficulty ranges from easy, flat river walks to strenuous, multi-day mountain expeditions. The trails in this guide are primarily easy to moderate, with six easy routes and three moderate ones. However, the broader Wyoming landscape includes challenging high-altitude climbs in the Teton and Wind River ranges, so there is truly a trail for every ability level.

The prime hiking season in Wyoming is typically from June to September. During these months, most trails are snow-free, wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is generally favorable. Higher elevation trails, especially in the Teton and Wind River ranges, may hold snow until July. Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors, but be prepared for unpredictable weather and early snowstorms.

For a day hike, essentials include plenty of water, high-energy snacks, a map, and a compass or GPS device. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so always pack layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are crucial due to the high altitude. In bear country, which includes much of western and northern Wyoming, carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is strongly recommended.

For most day hikes in national forests and state parks, you do not need a permit. However, you will need to pay entrance fees for National Parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton. For overnight backpacking trips, especially in popular areas like the Teton Crest Trail or parts of Yellowstone, a backcountry permit is required and can be highly competitive. Always check the official park service website for the specific area you plan to visit.

The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of terrain, from gentle riverside paths to more challenging forested loops. The well-maintained trails and beautiful natural scenery are frequently mentioned as highlights.