Bighorn Basin · Travel guide · Updated 2026

The Majestic Bighorn Basin: Nature's Hidden Gem in Wyoming

Discover the Bighorn Basin in Wyoming: A treasure trove of natural wonders, prehistoric fossils, and outdoor adventures amidst stunning landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of Wyoming, the Bighorn Basin is a stunning destination teeming with natural beauty, rich history, and an array of outdoor adventures. This expansive basin, surrounded by the Bighorn, Absaroka, and Beartooth mountain ranges, offers a unique blend of geological wonders and vibrant ecosystems. Visitors can explore everything from ancient rock formations and fossil beds to lush forests and sparkling rivers. The Bighorn Basin is particularly renowned for its paleontological significance. Fossil hunters and dinosaur enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover that this area is one of the richest sites for prehistoric finds in North America. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis is a must-visit, offering fascinating exhibits and even the chance to participate in a real dig. Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of activities in the Bighorn Basin. Hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching are just a few of the popular pastimes. The diverse terrain ranges from rugged canyons and high deserts to verdant valleys, providing endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Don't miss a visit to Hot Springs State Park, where you can soak in natural hot springs and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. The Bighorn Basin is also steeped in cultural history. The region was once home to Native American tribes, and their legacy can be seen in the petroglyphs and ancient artifacts scattered throughout the area. Additionally, the basin played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States, with historic trails and sites that tell the story of early pioneers and settlers.

When is the best time to go to Bighorn Basin?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest months
Longest daylight
Driest period

Explore places in Bighorn Basin

    See all →
    America the Beautiful, Teton National Park, Wyoming | Flickr
    Destination guide

    More about Wyoming

    Discover Wyoming: A Land of Unspoiled Beauty, Rich History, and Boundless Outdoor Adventures in the Heart of the American West.

    Tell me more about Wyoming
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Explore Bighorn Basin in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    Majestic landscape in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming image - Free stock  photo - Public Domain photo - CC0 Images
    File:Bighorn, Grand Canyon.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    Turtles and Tortoises - Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (U.S. National  Park Service)
    File:MedicineWheel.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Main street Lovell WY.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Hot Springs SP, Wyoming.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Clouds over the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Theropod dinosaur footprints in sandstone (Kayenta Formation or Navajo  Sandstone, Lower Jurassic; Potash-Poison Spider dinosaur tracksite,  Williams Bottom, west of Moab, Utah, USA) 36 (32809349330).jpg - Wikimedia  Commons
    File:Castle Gardens Scenic Area by Ten Sleep, Wyoming 07.jpg - Wikimedia  Commons
    File:Buffalo Bill Dam WY2.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.