Long Lake - A Bighorn Cruiser
This popular 6-mile out-and-back trail climbs gradually to two alpine lakes in the Bighorns. With its short distance and gentle incline, this trail could also be a fun introduction to hiking or backpacking for kids.
Intro
Long Lake is a crystal-clear alpine lake within the Cloud Peak Wilderness at 8,925 feet. The trail starts at the Circle Park Trailhead, which is easily accessible from Highway 16 in the southern part of the Bighorns. From the trailhead kiosk, the trail heads west through a meadow and then enters the forest at 0.1 mile. The first section includes round, ankle-turning rocks, but they soon disperse and the rest of the trail has good footing. There is a loose wire gate at the wilderness boundary at mile 0.6. Simply step over the wire or open and close the gate to proceed. At mile 1.5, the trail passes a small, marshy lake covered with lily pads. Continue on the trail to beautiful Sherd Lake at mile 1.7. This is a popular destination and turn-around point for the many family groups and day-hikers on the trail. But by continuing toward Long Lake, the crowds disappear and the trail becomes a true wilderness hike. From Sherd Lake, the trail turns north and a bold creek crossing is required. There is no bridge, but Oliver Creek has many channels through this marshy spot, and it is possible to rock hop and scramble over logs to stay mostly dry. Once across the creek, stay on the main trail for a few minutes and watch for the trail junction sign. At the junction, take a left on Trail 91 and follow it one mile to Long Lake. At mile 3, the trail emerges from the forest onto a rocky knoll above beautiful Long Lake, with views of snow-capped Darton Peak in the distance. This is the turn-around point for the hike, or it could be an overnight camping spot for backpackers. Camping is allowed at Long Lake, but campsites must be at least 100 feet from the lakeshore and creek.
What Makes It Great
At just two miles from the paved highway, the Circle Park Trailhead provides quick access to the Cloud Peak Wilderness. Most of the trail is under a shady forest canopy, so this hike is a good choice for warm summer days. An extensive system of well-marked trails begins at this trailhead and leads to dozens of alpine lakes. Hikers can choose to turn this route into a longer hike by exploring some of the other lakes nearby.
Who is Going to Love It
Families with children, or anyone looking for a short overnight backpacking trip will love this trail. It has minimal climbing and the trail is clear and well marked. Equestrians share this trail with hikers, and many hikers bring the family dog, so be prepared to greet many fellow nature lovers on summer weekends. For anyone who worries about grizzly encounters when hiking, this trail may have deer, moose, elk, and black bears, but no grizzly bears. There are no grizzlies in the Bighorns, so it’s possible to relax a little and enjoy the trail.
Directions, Parking & Regulations
From Cody, travel east on WY-14 toward Greybull, and then take WY-20 and WY-16 south and east to Ten Sleep. From Ten Sleep, continue east on WY-16 into the Bighorns for 46 miles and turn left at the sign for the Circle Park Campground. Follow this dirt road for two miles and turn left at the sign for the trailhead. Park in the turnaround area near the kiosk. Free dispersed camping is allowed along the dirt road, and camping is permitted in the developed campground for a fee. Hikers planning to enter the Cloud Peak Wilderness must fill out a free permit at the trailhead kiosk. There is no cell phone service in this area.