9 incredible Wyoming hikes for every age and ability

22.07.2024 - 15:12 / lonelyplanet.com

Jul 20, 2024 • 7 min read

Sprawling landscapes, winding rivers, swathes of desert, towering mountain ranges and incredible national parks – the great state of Wyoming is truly a gift to hikers. Trails covering thousands of miles and every kind of natural landscape mean there's a perfect hike for every ability.

Whether you’re searching for family fun or want to go off the grid in the backcountry, look no further. There are wilderness areas across the Equality State, and you'll most likely have the whole trail to yourself. Here are the best hikes in Wyoming.

Most challenging hike
40 miles; 4–7 days one way; difficult to strenuous

A meandering 40-mile trek across the lofty spine of the Tetons, this trail isn’t for the faint of heart, climbing 3775ft to reach a high point of 10,645ft, and with jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes and at least three ecological zones.

The dangers are many – grizzly bears, altitude sickness and exposure to thunder and lightning, to name a few – so planning for your safety is paramount. Ensure you have all the appropriate gear, including proper documentation and permits for Grand Teton National Park and a bear bag or canister. Once everything’s in place, the trail offers views of the Tetons many don’t see: a remote and wild place only your feet can take you to.

Best hike for all ages
2.8 miles; 2–4 hours roundtrip (loop); easy

A trip to Wyoming isn’t complete without a visit to Devil's Tower, the dramatic geologic uplift that became the country's first national monument in 1906 and continues to draw visitors from around the world.

Paths like the Red Beds Trail offer a chance to get away from the crowds and view the tower – just be sure to keep one eye on your footing. With sections of flat and gravel for kids as well as steep climbs with rocky steps for experienced hikers, the sometimes hot and usually windy trail is a good mix. Starting off at the visitor center and looping back to the parking lot, the hike should take no more than half a day.

Planning tip: the views from the south side are the best, so start your trip in a counterclockwise direction to get there first. 

Best high-altitude hike
6.7 miles; 3–6 hours roundtrip (loop); difficult to strenuous

Situated in the Snowy Range of southeastern Wyoming, the Lakes Trail Loop offers alpine vistas and technical hiking around granite boulders, en route to Medicine Bow Peak at 12,018ft. Whether you want to tackle the summit in a day or backpack to one of the meadow-filled sites beneath the summit to camp for the night, the trail is worthy of both endeavors.

As it’s a loop, the preferred method of travel is clockwise, for better views of the landscape on the way down from the peak. Though not required, trekking or hiking poles are