Cloud Peak

The highest summit of the Bighorn Mountain range in north-central Wyoming, rising to 13,167 feet (4,011 metres). The peak sits within the Cloud Peak Wilderness of Bighorn National Forest and is the range’s dominant alpine feature.

The summit offers typical alpine terrain - rocky ridges, steep slopes and exposed areas above treeline - and is sought by experienced hikers and mountaineers for its prominence and isolation. A small remnant glacier and perennial snowfields remain on the mountain’s shaded north slopes.

Cloud Peak has long been recognized as the highest point in the Bighorns and forms a local topographic high that influences weather and drainage in the region. The area is managed as wilderness, which preserves a backcountry character and limits mechanized access.

Located in northern Wyoming within the Bighorn National Forest, the peak sits roughly in the central part of the Bighorn range. Access roads lead to trailheads in the surrounding forest, but summit approaches are remote and commonly undertaken as multi-day routes.

• Elevation and status: It is the highest peak in the Bighorn Mountains at 13,167 feet (4,011 metres) and anchors the federally designated Cloud Peak Wilderness.
• Access and difficulty: Approaches are remote and typically require long trails and backcountry experience; routes traverse alpine terrain and scree above treeline.

What to See #

• Summit: The mountain summit rises to 13,167 feet (4,011 metres) and is the highest point in the Bighorn Mountains.
• Cloud Peak Glacier: A small remnant glacier and perennial snowfields persist on the north slopes and are known as Cloud Peak Glacier.