The Lovell Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, year-round, except for Sundays, Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. During summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day), it is open seven days a week. The Yellowtail Dam Visitor Center in Montana is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
There is no entrance fee at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. However, certain fees apply for camping and other activities.
From Billings, take Interstate 90 to Hardin, then Highway 313 south to Fort Smith. Immerse yourself in breathtaking canyon vistas, serene waters, and untouched wilderness.
Designated parking areas for cars, RVs (up to 35 feet), and motorcycles are available, with no parking fees. Overnight parking is allowed at campsites like Horseshoe Bend Campground. Parking lots are near visitor centers and campgrounds.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, straddling the borders of southeastern Montana and north-central Wyoming, is a paradise of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Here, the construction of the Yellowtail Dam on the Bighorn River has created the majestic Bighorn Lake, flanked by 1,000-foot cliffs that rise dramatically from the water’s edge. The area’s 120,000 acres encompass forests, mountains, upland prairies, and deep canyons, offering a tapestry of ecosystems that support hundreds of species of plant life, birds, fish, and other wildlife.
For the avid outdoorsman, Bighorn Canyon presents numerous hiking trails, including the challenging routes to dramatic overlooks and the historic ghost town of Marquette. The Bighorn River is renowned for its world-class trout fishing, while Bighorn Lake is home to a diverse array of fish, including large walleyes. Boat tours and kayaking allow visitors to float beneath the towering canyon walls, and horseback riding in the South District offers a true western experience.
Historic ranches, such as the Ewing-Snell Ranch, stand as testaments to the region’s ranching history. Nearby, the city of Lovell, Wyoming, provides comfortable lodging options and access to local artisan towns. Seasonal events include ranger-led canoe tours and nature walks, enhancing the immersive experience of this natural wonder.
As the seasons change, Bighorn Canyon transforms: spring brings blooming wildflowers to the prairies, summer heats up the lake for water skiing and kayaking, autumn paints the forests with vibrant colors, and winter turns the canyon into a serene snowscape. Whether you’re an angler, hiker, or simply a lover of natural beauty, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is an unforgettable destination that combines adventure with the tranquility of a pristine wilderness.
- Area (mi²)
- 188
- Annual visitors
- 200 000
- Established year
- 1966
Top 3 Facts about Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
The canyon exposes a remarkable sequence of sedimentary rocks and is up to 2,000 metres deep, showcasing weak rock types such as shale and other geological formations.
In this pristine wilderness, bighorn sheep and wild horses roam freely, while mountain lions and bears inhabit the shadows. Over 200 bird species take to the skies, and the waters are home to a world-class fishery. Alpine areas give way to high desert, supporting a diverse array of flora and fauna, including desert shrubland, juniper woodland, and riparian habitats that shelter white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and pelicans. This vibrant ecosystem is a testament to nature’s grandeur.
Bighorn Lake, a 71-mile serpentine stretch, glimmers with crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of towering canyon walls. The lake, created by the Yellowtail Dam, slices through a diverse landscape of forests, mountains, and high desert, offering a tranquil setting for boating, fishing, and kayaking amidst dramatic vistas.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Scavenger Hunts
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in spring or fall to avoid extreme weather. Visit the visitors center first, then explore paved paths and rocky trails. Pack meals and rest often. Don’t miss Devil’s Canyon Overlook and Sullivan’s Knob Trail for breathtaking views.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, including lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, long-sleeved shirts, and a rain jacket. Bring a backpack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. For longer stays, include camping gear and a portable charger.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, store food and scented items securely, and make noise in low-visibility areas to avoid surprising animals. Respect their habitat and keep the area clean to preserve the natural balance.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast waters, and check weather conditions. Follow signs, respect fire restrictions, and contact park authorities at 911 for emergencies.Stay hydrated and informed to ensure a safe adventure.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures, 50s-70s°F, and occasional rain showers. Ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Witness the annual bird migration in late April to early June, a nature lover’s paradise.
Summer brings warm temperatures (70s-90s°F) and clear skies, ideal for guided hikes, ranch tours, and kayak programs. Enjoy campground events and scenic boat tours amidst pristine landscapes and ancient history. June to August are peak months for these unforgettable adventures.
Experience autumn’s cooler temperatures (50s-70s°F) and vibrant foliage. Witness bighorn sheep and wild horses returning to lower elevations. Ideal for hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing, with mild weather and fewer crowds. A hidden gem during September and October.
Winter brings crisp temperatures, ranging from the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit, with occasional drops below 0. Despite chilly conditions and potential snow closures, the serene landscape and fewer crowds make it an ideal time for a tranquil, immersive experience from December to February.