Whether you’re looking for an afternoon jaunt or extended time in the backcountry, Cody Country is a great place to hike. Landscapes vary from forest to alpine tundra to grassland areas. These trails offer unique features – waterfalls, breathtaking vistas or historic landmarks – and provide a diverse range of terrain and difficulty level. Each trail is described for day use although most continue or connect with other trails for longer outings.
SHOSHONE NATIONAL FOREST
Blackwater Fire Memorial (Trail #758) – 6.0 miles one way to Clayton Mountain; Moderately strenuous
This National Historic Trail takes you to a series of firefighter memorials. Continue to Clayton Mountain to see the foundation of an old lookout tower and startling views of the North Fork valley.
Windy Mountain (Trail #604) – 2.4 miles one way; Very strenuous
Incredible out-and-back hike. Check out the old lookout at the summit where you’ll feel on top of the world and learn why the mountain got its name!
Copper Lakes (Trail #635) – 3.0 miles one way; Short yet very strenuous and steep
Travel past Lee City, an old mining town, over talus slopes and snow fields as late as September. The trail is open all year, although a gate at Spring Creek prohibits motorized traffic until mid-July.
Beartooth Loop – 10.8 miles (several combinations are possible); Easy
This National Recreation Trail travels near timberline past alpine meadows, pristine lakes and mountain vistas. Look for cairns to direct your way.
Houlihan Creek (Trail #767.1A) – 4.5 miles one way to ridge top; Moderate to strenuous
Access via BLM’s Bobcat-Houlihan Trailhead. Hike offers vibrant spring and summer flora, wildlife viewing, and spectacular views of Carter Mountain. Respect private lands adjacent to the trailhead and be careful near swift and swollen streams during spring and early summer.
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
Turbid Lake – 3.3 miles one way; Moderately strenuous
Just before reaching Yellowstone Lake from the east, hop out of the car for a nice day’s jaunt. Watch for bear or bison on your way to this scenic mountain lake. Trail continues to Pelican Valley (closed to hiking until July 4th).
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
Four Bear – 4.0 miles one way; Easy except for 1½ miles of steep, narrow switchbacks
Hike through arid, rugged terrain with unique rock formations and incredible scenery. Good access to Jim Mountain.
Heart Mountain – 3.6 miles one way; Moderately strenuous
Travel along the northeast side of this “upside-down” mountain. The summit offers 360-degree views of the Big Horn Basin. On clear days you may spot Pilot and Index peaks to the northwest and the Big Horn Mountains to the east. Call the Nature Conservancy staff if you have any questions (307-754-8446) and be sure to sign in on the porch at the TNC Ranch before heading down the trail.
A FEW TIPS FOR HIKERS
• Carry bear spray and hike in groups.
• Keep dogs on leash while hiking on the forest. Pets are not allowed on trails in Yellowstone.
• Talk loudly, clap hands or sing to alert bears and other wildlife that you’re in the area, especially when near streams, on windy days or when visibility is limited.
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