Bighorn National Forest Medicine Lodge Creek Archaeological Trail

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.