Wyoming’s landscape is full of natural wonders, every corner of the state beautifully sculpted, chiseled, and perfected over the ages. But while the wonders that rise up above the landscape – Wyoming’s iconic mountain ranges, rock formations, and towering falls – often get the most glory, the Cowboy State has so much more to offer. For instance, Wyoming’s Grand Canyon is absolutely spectacular! But, how about southern Wyoming’s own Bighorn Canyon? Bypass the social media crowds and experience this lookalike natural wonder in Wyoming for yourself at Flaming Gorge:
There are more than a few bucket list-worthy destinations this side of the Rockies, but Wyoming and Montana's shared Bighorn Canyon has always been a crowd-pleaser.
Bighorn Canyon was formed by the damming of the Bighorn River after the construction of the Yellowtail Dam. Eons before that, the landscape lifted and shifted to form the Bighorn Mountains, and the subsequent erosion carved the Bighorn Canyon that can be seen today.
The iconic Devil Canyon Overlook is perhaps the most famous spot in the region, drawing thousands of visitors, photographers, and road-trippers alike. Social media is flooded with fantastic shots of this singular spot.
You'll find this famous overlook ever so slightly across the border in Montana, although the recreation area itself is shared by both Montana and Wyoming.
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But did you know southern Wyoming has a wow-worthy "Bighorn Canyon" of its own? The overlooks are just as phenomenal!
Welcome to Flaming Gorge! Sprawling over 207,000 acres, Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a world of hidden gems that sits on the opposite side of the state from its iconic Montana counterpart.
From the beautiful Flaming Gorge Reservoir that stretches across both Wyoming and Utah to the region's stunning red cliffs to the arid expanses of the Ashley National Forest, there's a lot to love here. Every corner offers something new to see and experience.
Geologically, the canyon was formed by similar processes as that of its lookalike counterpart up north. Ancient mountains and thousands of years of erosion and powerful waters have carved a truly spectacular sight right here in Wyoming.
Just a few miles north of Utah, the Green River collides with the man-made Flaming Gorge Dam to form a series of meandering channels that have all the curvaceous appeal of Bighorn Canyon but without the selfie crowds.
The vibrant canyon walls plunge hundreds of feet to the water below and ignite throughout the day with their namesake fiery hue.
But you can also experience the panoramic beauty of this overlooked recreation area by taking the Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway. That's where you'll find some of the most epic views. Every angle is spectacular!
We would never go so far as to say that our canyons or overlooks are better than another state’s…but we certainly aren’t complaining about the views, that’s for sure! Have you ever visited Flaming Gorge in Wyoming? What are some of the best attractions, restaurants, and sights nearby that are worth a visit along the way?
Wyoming has more treasures hidden within its depths. Stay tuned! In the meantime, check out these fantastic, overlooked rock formations near Buford.
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