Gooseberry Badlands: A Geological Marvel
Adventure Destination

Gooseberry Badlands: A Geological Marvel

Visit Gooseberry Badlands near Worland, WY for stunning geological formations and fossil exploration. Ideal in spring and fall, enjoy the vibrant colors and solitude. Best for photographers and geology enthusiasts.

Geological Exploration8.2/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Geological Exploration

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Gooseberry Badlands, located in Worland, Wyoming, offers stunning views of surreal rock formations and fascinating geological structures. This unique badland is renowned for its colorful landscapes and towering rock spires that emerge dramatically from the ground. These captivating formations, sculpted over millions of years, provide an awe-inspiring glimpse into the Earth's history.

Key Features and Unique Facts

The badlands are characterized by sharp ridges, hoodoos, and unusual sedimentary rock layers painted in shades of red, orange, and cream. These vibrant colors result from the oxidation of minerals within the rock. Nature enthusiasts will find themselves mesmerized by the peculiar shapes carved by wind and water erosion.

Rich in paleontological significance, this area has yielded numerous fossils, offering insights into the prehistoric life that once thrived here. The landscape's solitary beauty coupled with its rich history makes it a must-see destination for geology lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.

Experience the Wild Beauty

Marvel at the natural artistry of Gooseberry Badlands and enjoy an unforgettable visit steeped in both natural wonder and geological intrigue.

Editorial Assessment

Gooseberry Badlands scores an 82 for its captivating geological formations and fossil sites. It's a visually stunning destination rich in history and natural beauty, though less widely known than other landmarks. Its uniqueness makes it a worthwhile visit for geology fans and outdoor adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Gooseberry Badlands: A Geological Marvel

Adventure Guide to Gooseberry Badlands: A Geological Marvel

1

Hiking Trails

  • Details:

    Location: Throughout the Badlands.

  • Details:

    Special Features: Trails with panoramic views, varied terrains, and surreal rock formations.

  • Details:

    Visitor Tips: Best in spring or fall for cooler temperatures. Bring water, trail map, and sun protection.

2

Photography Hotspots

  • Details:

    Location: Near the hoodoos and colorful rock layers.

  • Details:

    Special Features: Dramatic landscapes perfect for capturing unique geological formations.

  • Details:

    Visitor Tips: Morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting. Allow time to explore angles and perspectives.

3

Fossil Exploration

  • Details:

    Location: Designated areas within Gooseberry Badlands.

  • Details:

    Special Features: Fossil sites with historical significance.

  • Details:

    Visitor Tips: Visit with a guide for best exploration. Respect all guidelines to preserve the area.

4

Local Insights

  • Details:

    Historical Fact: Fossils unearthed here provide significant information about ancient ecosystems.

  • Details:

    Driving Directions: Located approximately 20 minutes from Worland, WY. Follow US-16 W and Gooseberry Creek Road.

Reviews

V
Victoria Williams2 weeks ago

The view is incredible. We didn't do the walk because it was too hot. Not a bit of shadow. No, it's lunar. It feels like another world.

J
johnathan stone4 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

A
Anna Jović5 months ago

A beautiful place, perfect for a walk or a short break.

A
Alberto Bacchion5 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

L
Leon Fisher4 months ago

This is just a spot on the map. Blink at the speed limit and you could miss it. Don't blink. Do stop. While there be sure and take the loop trail around its interior. Just a mile long and worth it.

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Drifting the Wind River: A Quiet Float Through Thermopolis’s Canyon Walls26.8 mi
Thermopolis, Wyoming

Drifting the Wind River: A Quiet Float Through Thermopolis’s Canyon Walls

A short, beginner-friendly guided float through Wind River Canyon that pairs gentle rafting with short hikes and excellent wildlife viewing.

26.8 miView Trips & Details →
Teepee Yoga on a Gentle Float Through Wind River Canyon26.8 mi
Thermopolis, Wyoming

Teepee Yoga on a Gentle Float Through Wind River Canyon

A two‑hour guided float from Wind River Canyon Whitewater & Fly Fishing that pairs a scenic river trip with a yoga stop in a teepee — ideal for beginners and families (Ages 6+; 8am departure).

26.8 miView Trips & Details →
Bighorn Emersion: A Backcountry Fly-Fishing Immersion Out of Thermopolis26.8 mi
Thermopolis, Wyoming

Bighorn Emersion: A Backcountry Fly-Fishing Immersion Out of Thermopolis

A fully outfitted, multi-day wilderness fly-fishing expedition led by expert guides that combines remote alpine and stream fishing with backcountry camp life.

26.8 miView Trips & Details →
A Full Day on the Meandering: Fly-Fishing the Big Horn at Thermopolis28.1 mi
Thermopolis, Wyoming

A Full Day on the Meandering: Fly-Fishing the Big Horn at Thermopolis

A guided, full-day fly-fishing trip on the scenic Big Horn River in Thermopolis with expert guides, boats, and lunch included.

28.1 miView Trips & Details →
Big Horn River Fly-Fishing: Guided Casting Through Thermopolis29.2 mi
Thermopolis, Wyoming

Big Horn River Fly-Fishing: Guided Casting Through Thermopolis

A guided fly-fishing outing on the Big Horn River near Thermopolis that pairs expert guidance with transport and provided equipment to chase large, rising trout.

29.2 miView Trips & Details →
Two Days, One Lifeline: Rent Avalanche Gear for Cody’s Backcountry41.7 mi
Cody, Wyoming

Two Days, One Lifeline: Rent Avalanche Gear for Cody’s Backcountry

A two-day rental from Beartooth Rides and Guides supplies a backpack, shovel, probe, beacon and radio so groups heading into Cody’s avalanche terrain carry the essential tools for rescue and communication.

41.7 miView Trips & Details →