One of the best hikes in Wyoming is also one of the toughest, but you’ll find the views along the way to be worth the effort. Hiking into the Winds through the Cirque of the Towers is an experience you won’t soon forget.

The Cirque of the Towers is a gate to the Wind River Range, and the top rated trail in the Bridger Wilderness.
Alltrails / Cullen McChristian
This hike is not a walk in the park - you'll want to plan a two or three day backpacking trip and be in decent hiking shape before heading out.
AllTrails / Savannah King
The most common out-and-back or loop versions of this trail will take you 17 to 20 miles through well traveled wilderness.
AllTrails / Savannah King
Bring microspikes - the snow field on Texas Pass and Jackass Pass can stay frozen well into the summer.
AllTrails / Adam Morrone
Even if you have to trek through some snow, the views from these passes are SO worth the effort.
AllTrails / Dane Rude

Related Stories

The Underrated River Trail In Wyoming You'll Want To Hike Over And Over Again

The Underrated River Trail In Wyoming You'll Want To Hike Over And Over Again

 The Enchanting Wyoming Trail That's Perfect For Everyone

The Enchanting Wyoming Trail That's Perfect For Everyone

 The Shady, Creekside Trail In Wyoming You'll Want To Hike Again And Again

The Shady, Creekside Trail In Wyoming You'll Want To Hike Again And Again
Arrowhead Lake, beneath the War Bonnet, is one feature you'll want to stare at for hours. Pick your jaw up off the floor and keep trekking - it just gets better.
AllTrails / Savannah King
As you hike, you'll find stunning overlooks,
AllTrails / Teena Bland
As you climb higher and higher into the sky, you'll be heading towards a top elevation of 10,785ft.
AllTrails / Breck Tuttle
The Cirque of the Towers itself is about 9 miles from the Big Sandy Lake Trailhead.
AllTrails / Eric Ramirez
There are very few trails in the world that are as breathtaking as the Cirque of the Towers trail from Big Sandy, and no matter how tired you are by the time you're done, you'll find the struggle was worth it for the views you found along the way.
AllTrails / Lynda McChesney

This is a heavily traveled trail, so you’ll have plenty of company out in the wilderness. That being said, it is a remote trailhead (so be sure you have a full tank before driving out here) and it is a hike that requires some experience. If you’re new to outdoor adventure, bring along a friend who can help you navigate using cairns and who can push you to continue on when your legs feel like jelly. Microspikes, bear spray, and a bear can (rather than a bag) are useful to have with you. You may encounter clouds of mosquitos, so douse yourself in bug spray for protection. Certain times of year, you’ll need mosquito netting, too. You can find some more advice from hikers and a full trail map at AllTrails.

If the Cirque of the Towers Trail seems a little too challenging, there are plenty of other beautiful hikes to experience in Wyoming. Check our list of 14 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In Wyoming and see which ones appeal to you!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Wyoming