Cloud PeakAbout 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.
Best Time to Visit Cloud Peak
Summers (June-September) are the prime season for attempts; alpine conditions prevail outside that window.
Weather & Climate near Cloud Peak
Cloud Peak's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -16°C to 13°C. Moderate rainfall (583 mm/year).
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -16° - -7° | -21° | 33 mm | - | - | 8.7 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -16° - -6° | -20° | 32 mm | - | - | 7.0 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -16° - -6° | -20° | 53 mm | - | - | 6.2 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -14° - -4° | -17° | 71 mm | - | - | 5.8 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | -9° - 0° | -11° | 78 mm | - | - | 5.9 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | -4° - 5° | -5° | 76 mm | - | - | 5.6 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 0° - 13° | 3° | 44 mm | - | - | 4.9 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 1° - 13° | 4° | 39 mm | - | - | 5.0 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | -2° - 8° | -1° | 48 mm | - | - | 5.9 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | -6° - 2° | -9° | 43 mm | - | - | 7.0 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -12° - -3° | -16° | 35 mm | - | - | 7.6 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -14° - -5° | -19° | 31 mm | - | - | 8.6 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Cloud Peak
Access is typically from the Cloud Peak Wilderness trailheads in Big Horn National Forest. Common approaches include the West Tensleep Trailhead or the Medicine Wheel/Black Mountain access-expect long trailhead drives on gravel forest roads. Check the Bighorn National Forest ranger district for conditions and permit rules.
Tips for Visiting Cloud Peak
- Only experienced mountaineers should attempt Cloud Peak routes - the mountain requires alpine skills and route-finding.
- Plan for sudden weather changes; even in summer storms and snow can render routes dangerous.
- Use Big Horn National Forest trailheads; file a trip plan and check with local ranger district for conditions.