Wyoming is home to plenty of stunning waterfalls – all it takes is one trip to the western side of the state to find that out first hand! While tourists flock to Yellowstone or the Tetons to catch a great fall, other Wyomingites head towards Bighorn National Forest. Here, you’ll find two of the most beautiful, impressive falls in the entire country. No need to plan a trip to Niagara when you live in the Cowboy State!
When you start your trek down to Porcupine Falls, don’t be fooled by the fact that you’ll barely be walking half a mile.
AllTrails / Derek Ward
There are some stairs that help with the way out, but it’s still a challenging hike. That being said, there’s no reason that most hikers can’t accomplish this feat. Overall, you’ll be traveling .8 miles out and back.
AllTrails / Derek Ward
The trail down is rocky and steep - bring a walking stick and be prepared to take your time.
AllTrails / Benjamin Sporrer
When you do get down to the water pool, the view is so worth the effort!
AllTrails / Derek Ward
Porcupine Falls itself may be the best hidden gem in Bighorn National Forest.
AllTrails / Meghan Sullivan
This stunning waterfall is the perfect backdrop for anyone who wants to wade (carefully!) in the pool and have a picnic on the rocks.
AllTrails / Jen McKibbon You can find a full map and trail details for the Porcupine Falls trail here
If you thought your day couldn’t get any better, though, think again. Just a short drive down the road from Porcupine Falls is another stunning waterfall - Bucking Mule Falls.
Google Maps
While the trail to Bucking Mule Falls won’t take you as close as the Porcupine Falls trail, it’s provides a similarly breathtaking view.
AllTrails / Matthew Legler
From the top of the trail, you’ll be able to look down into the entire Devils Canyon area. Hope you’re not afraid of heights!
AllTrails / Brandon Marlow
The waterfall itself can be seen from across the canyon. In all, the out-and-back trail will take you 4.7 miles through Bighorn National Forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife!
AllTrails / Derek Ward
You can find directions to both of these stunning falls right here. While most people can hike to both waterfalls in one day, you can also camp overnight and turn these treks into weekend adventures.
AllTrails / Derek Ward
AllTrails / Benjamin Sporrer
AllTrails / Meghan Sullivan
AllTrails / Jen McKibbon
You can find a full map and trail details for the Porcupine Falls trail here
Google Maps
AllTrails / Matthew Legler
AllTrails / Brandon Marlow
All told, a day exploring Bighorn National Forest’s stunning falls is a day that you won’t soon forget. In fact, many people prefer the serenity and isolation of these stunning natural wonders to the more popular falls in Yellowstone or even the mighty Niagara. What do you think?
While you’re in the area, you might want to visit the sacred site at the Big Horn Medicine Wheel. It’s only a short drive from the falls!
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