Bighorn National Forest Medicine Lodge Creek Archaeological Trail
Ancient petroglyphs accessed by mountain creek crossings
This backcountry route follows Medicine Lodge Creek deep into the Bighorn Mountains, leading to one of Wyoming’s most significant archaeological sites. The trail starts from Hyattville and climbs gradually through juniper and sage country before entering the canyon proper. You’ll ford Medicine Lodge Creek six times as you navigate toward the famous Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site, where Native American petroglyphs and pictographs dating back 10,000 years cover sandstone cliffs. The final mile requires careful rock navigation to reach the interpretive area.
Rated moderate with high-clearance 4WD essential for the creek crossings and rocky approach. Stock vehicles with good tires and skid plates can handle it, though the water crossings can be tricky during spring runoff. Open May through October, but summer is ideal for lower water levels. Respect the archaeological site – these petroglyphs are irreplaceable cultural treasures. What you get is a direct connection to ancient peoples in one of the most spiritually significant places in the Rockies.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6200 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Hyattville, Wyoming |
| Land manager | USFS - Bighorn National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler handle this trail without modifications?
Yes — stock 4WD high-clearance rigs like a 4Runner, Wrangler, or Tacoma can run this trail. The creek crossings are the deciding factor, so check water levels beforehand, especially in early season when snowmelt is running.
When does the trail open and what's the best time to go?
The trail is typically accessible May through October. Early season means higher water at the creek crossings; late summer into fall gives you lower crossings, stable dirt, and fewer people.
Do you need a permit to drive or camp here?
No permit required for day use or dispersed camping on Bighorn National Forest land. Standard forest rules apply — camp 100 feet from water and trails, pack out your trash, no fee.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually be ready for?
The Medicine Lodge Creek crossings are where this trail earns its rating — water depth varies significantly by season and recent rainfall. Rocky two-track with moderate shelf sections rounds out the challenge, nothing technical, but you're committed once you're in.
How close is the nearest gas station and is there cell service on the trail?
Hyattville is the nearest town and doesn't have a gas station — fill up in Worland or Greybull before heading out, both are roughly 30-40 miles away. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent on the trail; download offline maps and don't count on a signal.
Trail track
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