Cloud Peak Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · WY

Cloud Peak Wilderness

Cloud Peak Wilderness, situated within the Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming, offers a stunning landscape of rugged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Area189,0394+ Trails

Designation

Wilderness Area

Total Wilderness Area

189,039

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cloud Peak Wilderness

Cloud Peak Wilderness, situated within the Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming, offers a stunning landscape of rugged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cloud Peak Wilderness, declared a wilderness area in 1984, spans 189,039 acres within the Bighorn National Forest in north-central Wyoming. Dominated by Cloud Peak at 13,167 feet, the highest summit in the Bighorn Range, this area presents a formidable terrain of towering granite peaks, deep valleys, and expansive glacial cirques. The ecological diversity within the wilderness supports an array of wildlife, including moose, elk, mule deer, and various bird species. The wilderness maintains a pristine feel, with over 100 miles of trails facilitating exploration. Visitors can indulge in hiking, backcountry camping, fishing in crystal-clear lakes and streams, and simply admiring the stunning vistas. The solitude offered at higher elevations and less-traveled trails is a significant attraction. Due to the absence of roads and motorized vehicles, an adventure in Cloud Peak Wilderness promises a pure wilderness experience.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cloud Peak Wilderness

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cloud Peak – offering panoramic views from the highest point in the Bighorn Mountains.✦ Paint Rock Creek – known for its striking geological formations and diverse ecosystems.✦ Lost Twin Lakes – a beautiful pair of alpine lakes surrounded by high cliffs.✦ Backcountry solitude – provides a quiet, untouched atmosphere for experienced adventurers.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cloud Peak Wilderness

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Cloud Peak Wilderness
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cloud Peak Wilderness.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits or fees are required for access.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Cloud Peak Wilderness

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Circle Park Campground

Located near multiple trailheads, offering easy access to wilderness trail networks.

West Tensleep Lake Campground

Nestled by Tensleep Lake, it provides a serene setting ideal for fishing and kayaking.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cloud Peak Wilderness

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Dayton, Wyoming
⌖ 34.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dayton, Wyoming

Dayton, Wyoming is a rugged outdoor hub close to Yellowstone’s north entrance. It offers hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and snowmobiling amid stunning mountain and plain landscapes.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and fishing; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Ranchester, Wyoming
⌖ 36.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ranchester, Wyoming

Ranchester, Wyoming, offers a peaceful base for outdoor lovers with hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and winter sports nearby. Experience the scenic Bighorn National Forest, wildlife along the Tongue River, and iconic Devils Tower.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm weather and Winter for snow activities
Explore Town
Greybull, Wyoming
⌖ 44.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greybull, Wyoming

Greybull offers an authentic Wyoming adventure with access to the majestic Big Horn Mountains. Hike, bike, or fish in serene landscapes, and enjoy the quiet charm of this prairie town.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Worland, Wyoming
⌖ 46.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Worland, Wyoming

Worland in Wyoming is a tranquil gateway to outdoor exploration in Bighorn National Forest. Known for hiking, biking, fishing, and winter sports, it's a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.

Spring and Summer
Explore Town
Arvada, Wyoming
⌖ 54.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Arvada, Wyoming

Arvada, Wyoming is a quiet gateway to the open prairies and Thunder Basin National Grassland. Ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, this rural town offers a peaceful basecamp away from crowds.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cloud Peak Wilderness

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Three‑Seat Sea‑Doos and Full‑Day Runs on Lake De Smet
ADVEXPEDITION
Buffalo, Wyoming
Jet Ski RentalADV Bookable

Three‑Seat Sea‑Doos and Full‑Day Runs on Lake De Smet

Full‑day Sea‑Doo rentals on Lake De Smet (10:00–17:30) with a brief orientation — this guide clarifies what to bring, how fuel and damage policies work, and the on‑water rules you need to know.

Jet Ski RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Face to Flippers: A Family-First Dolphin Swim in Sheridan
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
DolphinADV Bookable

Face to Flippers: A Family-First Dolphin Swim in Sheridan

A 50-minute, family-friendly dolphin swim that pairs certified trainers and first-class facilities with small-group attention—this guide explains what to expect, who it’s for, and what to bring.

DolphinPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Face-to-Fin: A Family Dolphin Meet-and-Greet in Sheridan
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
DolphinADV Bookable

Face-to-Fin: A Family Dolphin Meet-and-Greet in Sheridan

A concise, 20‑minute, family-focused encounter with dolphins that emphasizes safety, certified trainers, and small groups—this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.

DolphinPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
ZIPLINES & MONKEYLAND: Treetop Speed and Shoulder‑Perched Squirrel Monkeys
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
ZiplineADV Bookable

ZIPLINES & MONKEYLAND: Treetop Speed and Shoulder‑Perched Squirrel Monkeys

A five‑hour outing that pairs 12 adrenaline zip lines—including two of the longest in the Dominican Republic—with coffee and chocolate tastings, a botanical garden stroll, and close encounters with squirrel monkeys; this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.

ZiplinePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Defender Max Limited: Comfort and Brawn into the Bighorn Backcountry
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Defender Max Limited: Comfort and Brawn into the Bighorn Backcountry

A rugged, six-seat UTV with a fully enclosed cab and high ground clearance for extended exploration of the Bighorn Mountains; this guide explains the vehicle’s features, pick-up options, and what to plan for on the trails.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Honda Monkey Rentals: Backroad Scrambles out of Sheridan
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
Bike RentalADV Bookable

Honda Monkey Rentals: Backroad Scrambles out of Sheridan

A concise field guide to renting nimble 125cc Honda Monkey motorcycles in Sheridan, Wyoming — what the bikes are, who can ride them, and the practical limits of a 160‑mile fuel range.

Bike RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip