Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers can embark on unforgettable hiking and biking adventures in Buffalo and Kaycee, Wyoming — where expansive skies meet rugged landscapes to deliver the true essence of the wild.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll, a chance to observe wildlife or a vigorous workout surrounded by nature, the Clear Creek Trail System has something to offer everyone. One of the most popular multi-use and maintained trails in the region weaves its way through Buffalo, extending all the way to Mosier Gulch. As you explore this pristine landscape, you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty of creek bottoms and captivating vistas along the 7-mile path. With plenty of benches dotting the mostly flat trail, you can pause, catch your breath, and soak in the magnificent scenery, all while staying within earshot of the babbling creek. For further information on trails, please visit imagesofthewest.net/clear-creek-trail-system
Cycling enthusiasts are in for a treat — the Clear Creek Trail System offers excellent opportunities for both beginner and intermediate bikers, regardless of the season. This well-maintained trail system allows you to follow the meandering course of Clear Creek, providing stunning views and wildlife encounters — all while staying conveniently close to town.
The trail even connects with the Mentok trail, often hailed as the “signature trail” in the region. Intermediate to advanced riders can follow this all the way up Mosier Gulch or traverse the face of Grouse Mountain for a challenging ride. For further information on trails, please visit imagesofthewest.net/clear-creek-trail-system
Just six miles northwest of Buffalo off French Creek Road, this area offers 7,900 acres owned by the Game & Fish Commission for the preservation of the wildlife habitat. There are multiple entrances (open seasonally). Whichever direction you choose to go, you’ll experience beauty and likely see wildlife.
Where: 6 miles northwest of Buffalo on French Creek Road, then 2 miles in on North Sayles Creek Road
Activities: Horseback Riding, Hiking, Biking and Fishing
Expect: Fewer people, incredible views, gorgeous canyon hike up the face of the mountain
Popular: Firebox Park, Rock & Keno Creeks — Wind through a stunning canyon up the face to Firebox Park, with trail loops through Rock and Keno Creeks. This is a hidden gem.
Alternative: Hit the trail and wind your way up Firebox Canyon for incredible views through Sayles Creek and Rock Creek.
Closed January 1 through May 14
The Bighorn Mountains offer an abundance of trailheads and trails. Elgin Park, Hunter Corrals and Circle Park are all popular trailheads.
Where: Less than 15 miles from Buffalo on Hwy 16
Activities: Hiking, Biking and Horseback Riding
Where: FS Road 20, 13 miles west on Highway 16
Great For: Hiking and Fishing
Expect: Heavy Use, Stunning Views, Camping Nearby
Popular: Sherd Lake — 1.8 miles | Rainy Lake – 6 miles | Willow Lake – 8 miles
Where: FS Road 19, 12 miles west on Highway 16
Great For: Horseback Riding, Hiking and Fishing
Expect: Corral — Hosts for Horse and Trail Advice, Camping
Popular: Seven Brothers Lakes — 8mi | Florence Pass/Bomber Mountain — this long, gradual hike leads to a historic monument and the wreckage of a military bomber that crashed there in 1943.
For those looking for a more immersive forest experience, backpacking trips or day hikes are found in the Cloud Peak Wilderness Area above Buffalo. While enjoying these adventures, help protect this fragile resource by following Leave No Trace principles and the rules and regulations of the Cloud Peak Wilderness Area.
OBTAIN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON NEW AND SEASONAL FIRE RESTRICTIONS BEFORE HIKING OR CAMPING IN THE BIGHORN NATIONAL FOREST
For more maps, locations, gear and tips, reach out to the experts.
Check out the WONDER Map.
For free, personalized fishing information, contact an Outdoor Recreation Pathfinder at wyorec.info/pathfinders
High Plains District Office
1425 Fort Street, Buffalo, WY
307-684-1100
Powder River Ranger District
1415 Fort Street, Buffalo, WY
307-684-7806
The Sports Lure
66 South Main Street, Buffalo Wy
307-684-7682
Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Places to Fish in Wyoming
Places to Fish
Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Interactive Fishing Guide
Interactive State Map of Fishing Locations
Hiking in and around the Bighorns can be an enjoyable, rewarding experience. Trails are found along lakes and streams, across grassy parklands and to high mountain summits. Before you start exploring, accurately locate trails by purchasing a detailed Forest Map at U.S. Forest Service offices or at many commercial outlets throughout the area. Topographic maps are available through the U.S. Geological Survey or at local sporting goods stores. Another source of information is the Office of Outdoor Recreation’s WONDER Map. This interactive map shows trailheads in the area as well as providing basic trail information.
