Bighorn Canyon

The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is an extraordinary place consisting of over 120,000 acres. After construction of the Yellowtail Dam was completed on October 15, 1966, the Bighorn River was transformed into a 71 mile long crystal clear lake, and the National Recreation Area was established by Congress. About a quarter of the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range lies within this area. The Bad Pass Trail is of special interest, and was used by native tribes of antiquity. It was the path between sheltered caves which the people used as their winter housing to their summertime hunting grounds. The trail itself is considered a sacred site, and walking or driving directly upon it is not permitted. Bighorn and Devil Canyon are two of the most dramatic view points of this area, with rugged bluffs and steep vertical cliffs over 2,500 feet high, formed as the river carved out its surrounding limestone walls. This area is loaded with outstanding hiking trails and plenty of opportunities to view wildlife. Be cautious of rattle snakes, and also unstable ground close to the edge of the canyon walls. Both Bighorn and Devil Canyon are accessible from the Wyoming High Country lodge via route 37 or ORV trails, and it takes only about 40 minutes to get there by car.