Mountains

Did you know that Wyoming has the second highest average elevation in the United States? This is thanks to the many stunning mountain ranges that span the state. Not only are Wyoming’s mountains beautiful to look at, but they also provide endless entertainment, from hiking and backpacking along rocky trails to fishing pristine alpine lakes and skiing or snowboarding down fresh, powdery runs. Here is a glimpse of just some of Wyoming’s most popular mountain ranges and how you can enjoy them on your visit.

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Absaroka Range

This sprawling mountain range to the east of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks offers the perfect backdrop for hiking, horseback riding and more. If you have the right vehicle for it, be sure to drive up Togwotee Pass to take in the views from over 9,000 feet above sea level. The pass is considered one of the most scenic drives in the country and can be accessed from the Wyoming Centennial Scenic Byway. Togwotee Pass is also a prime destination for snowmobilers looking for a ride with stunning scenery. Dubois or Cody can act as your basecamp as you explore these beautiful mountains

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Bighorn Mountains

With several scenic byways winding their way through this mountain range, it’s easy to see that the views are worth pursuing. Located in north-central Wyoming, this mountain range offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing and backpacking. Explore 100 miles of trails and breathtaking scenery in the Cloud Peak Wilderness, which includes this range’s highest peak: the 13,171-foot Cloud Peak. Head to Meadowlark Ski Lodge or Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area in the winter to ski and take part in other snow sports. Sheridan, Buffalo and Ten Sleep all offer access to the Bighorns.

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Snowy Range

Southeast Wyoming’s Snowy Range Mountains offer plenty of ways to take in the area’s alpine lakes and forests, whether it’s through hiking trails or scenic byways with plenty of scenic overlooks. You can camp in the mountains or use Laramie or Centennial as your basecamp. In the winter, this mountain range is known for its family-friendly skiing at Snowy Range Ski Area and epic snowmobiling trails. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Sierra Madre Range to the west for beautiful fall foliage along Battle Pass Scenic Byway.

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Teton Range

The Teton Range is spectacular in that it doesn’t have the foothills leading into bigger peaks like most mountain ranges; instead the peaks from the Tetons seem to come out of nowhere, towering above the Jackson Hole valley in northwestern Wyoming. You can rock climb, backpack and hike in the Tetons, as well as choose from several ski resorts for world-class skiing or riding. And let’s not forget about the national park named after this iconic range: Grand Teton National Park. Teeming with wildlife and stunning scenery, this park belongs on your Wyoming bucket list.

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Wind River Range

Wyoming’s Wind River Range spans much of the west-central part of the state, including the Wind River Indian Reservation. These mountains are truly a sight to behold and house Wyoming’s highest peak: the 13,802-foot Gannett Peak. A system of hiking trails allow visitors to take in sights among alpine lakes and forests. One of the favorite ways for locals and visitors alike to explore this area is through epic backpacking routes like Titcomb Basin and Cirque of the Towers, both of which have views to rival the most popular backpacking destinations. In the winter, head to White Pine Ski Area for affordable skiing. You can access this mountain range most easily through Pinedale, but Dubois and Lander offer access points as well.

Wyoming Range

Wyoming Range

This mountain range is one of southwest Wyoming’s best-kept secrets and offers access to equally spectacular alpine scenery. Hike a portion of the 70-mile Wyoming Range National Recreation Trail or fish for brown, cutthroat and rainbow trout along the Green River. In the winter, the snow-clogged range is a haven for snowmobilers. The Wyoming Range can be accessed through Pinedale, Big Piney and Kemmerer.

Know before you go

Before you set out on your epic adventure, explore what you need to know so your Wyoming vacation goes off without a hitch.

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