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National Recreation Area Montana , Wyoming

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

About

Nestled within the expansive wilderness of the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, nature enthusiasts are greeted with a vast playground waiting to be explored. Spanning over 120,000 acres, this remarkable destination beckons visitors to embark on a journey of discovery amidst diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. From rugged cliffs to serene waters, the park offers a captivating tapestry of natural wonders. As you venture through the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape teeming with history and biodiversity. With a history that spans over 10,000 years, the park provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human heritage intertwined with the natural world. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape into the great outdoors or craving an adventure filled with exploration, the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area promises an unforgettable experience for all who tread its paths. Join us in uncovering the secrets of this extraordinary place, where every corner holds a story waiting to be told.

Directions

Directions to Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Unveiling the Path to Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Reaching The North District at Fort Smith, MT

Starting from Billings, your journey to the breathtaking realm of Bighorn Canyon's North District at Fort Smith, MT, begins on Interstate 90 South. Traverse this scenic route until you reach Hardin, MT, where you'll take Exit 495. From here, a right turn onto State Highway 313 will lead you to St. Xavier and subsequently, to Fort Smith, Montana. This leg of the journey encapsulates the spirit of Montana, with its vast landscapes and picturesque settings.

Discovering The South District at Lovell, WY

For those setting their sights on the South District at Lovell, WY, your expedition commences on Interstate 90 West from Billings, MT. Upon reaching Laurel, MT, take Exit 434. Then, navigate onto US 310 East/US 212 South. Stay on course by following US 310 East, which will guide you to Lovell. The Visitor Center, a hub of information and wonder, is conveniently located on the east side of Lovell, making it an accessible starting point for your adventure.

Address

For your convenience, here is the address of the South District Visitor Center: Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area South District Visitor Center, Lovell, WY 82431. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.

Get detailed directions »

Location

Located in Billings

Weather Information

North District: Semi-arid, receiving 18 to 20 inches of rain annually. South District: High-desert, receiving 6 to 10 inches of rain annually. Summer temperatures: Highs in the 80s (F) and 90s (F), lows in the 50s (F) and 60s (F). Summer temperatures can peak over 100 degrees. Winter temperatures: Range in the 20s and 30s with low temperatures averaging the 10s (F) and 20s (F). During the winter the thermometer can drop below 0 (F) with extreme wind chill factors.

Gallery

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area - Image 1
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Quick Facts

  • Designation: National Recreation Area
  • City: Billings
  • Park Code: bica
  • Website: Official Website

Activities

Arts and Culture Theater Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Astronomy Stargazing Biking Road Biking Boating Motorized Boating Sailing Jet Skiing Boat Tour Camping Compass and GPS Fishing Freshwater Fishing Fly Fishing Food Dining Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hiking Front-Country Hiking Off-Trail Permitted Hiking Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Canoe or Kayak Camping Kayaking Stand Up Paddleboarding Junior Ranger Program Playground Skiing Cross-Country Skiing Snow Play Snowshoeing Swimming Freshwater Swimming Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Topics

Architecture and Building Archeology Arts Painting Photography Poetry and Literature Burial Cemetery and Gravesite Colonization and Settlement Commerce Dams Engineering Explorers and Expeditions Farming and Agriculture Ranches Forts Industry Mining Migrations Military Cavalry Indigenous and Native Warrior Native American Heritage Schools and Education Wars and Conflicts Tribal Conflicts Indian and Frontier Wars Westward Expansion Homesteading Women's History Ancient Seas Animals Birds Bison Cats (wild) Elk Fish Tortoises and Turtles Caves Caverns and Karst Canyons and Canyonlands Fire Foothills Plains and Valleys Forests and Woodlands Fossils and Paleontology Geology Groundwater Freshwater Springs Lakes Mountains Natural Sounds Night Sky Astronomy River and Riparian Rock Landscapes and Features Scenic Views Thickets and Shrublands Trails Water Trails Unique Species Rare Watersheds Waterfalls Wilderness

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area? Learn more about the park, plan your trip, and discover the natural wonders that await you.

Visit Official Website