Local Transportation: Bighorn Mountains

Public Transit Realities

Within the Bighorn National Forest, and in the immediate vicinity of the mountains, there is essentially no public transportation. This means no bus routes, trains, or other scheduled services that would take visitors into the forest or between trailheads.

Travel is almost exclusively by private vehicle. The towns surrounding the Bighorns also have limited public transit, typically consisting of very localized shuttle services or on-demand options, not suited for mountain exploration.

Navigating Bighorns

Reliance on a private vehicle—either your own or a rental car.
Plan routes carefully using detailed paper maps or downloaded offline maps.
Account for variable forest road conditions and check current information.
Fill your tank in gateway towns, as gas stations are scarce within the mountains.

Route Planning

Use detailed paper maps or downloaded offline maps (from Google Maps, AllTrails, or Gaia GPS) to plan your routes effectively.

Road Conditions

Forest roads can be unpaved and rough, affecting travel times. Check conditions with the Bighorn National Forest before setting out.

Fuel Stops

Gas stations are scarce within the mountains; fill up your tank in towns like Sheridan or Buffalo before venturing into the Bighorns.

Public Transit Summary

Local Transit

No bus routes or scheduled services into the forest.
Amtrak passenger rail service does not extend directly to the Bighorn Mountains.
Limited localized shuttle services in surrounding towns, not for mountain access.

Mountain Access

Access almost exclusively by private vehicle.
No ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) operate within the mountains or consistently in small towns.
Some private lodges or outfitters may offer pre-arranged shuttle services for guests.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Availability

Available in larger gateway towns like Sheridan and Buffalo. Hailing on mountain roads is not possible.

Typical Fares

Usually metered or pre-agreed for specific destinations within town limits.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are not reliably available in the small towns surrounding the Bighorns.

Safety Considerations

For taxis, use reputable local companies recommended by your hotel or a visitor center.

Rental Options

Renting a vehicle is the most practical choice for getting around the Bighorn Mountains.

Car Rental Requirements

A valid driver's license from your home country or state.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English.
A major credit card in the renter's name.
Meeting the minimum age requirement (typically 21, sometimes 25).

Vehicle Recommendations

A vehicle with good ground clearance is often useful for unpaved forest roads.
A 4x4 or AWD vehicle can be beneficial for remote areas or wet conditions.
Book your rental well in advance, especially for peak season or specific vehicle types.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are extremely limited in the immediate Bighorn area.

Driving Laws & Parking

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply; drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are for all occupants.
Obey posted speed limits, which vary significantly by road type.

Ample parking at trailheads, campgrounds, and viewpoints throughout the forest.
During peak season, popular trailheads can fill early in the morning.
For overnight parking at a trailhead, leave a note with your itinerary and contact information.

Specialty Vehicle Options

Motorcycle/Scooter

Rentals are extremely limited in the immediate Bighorn area. You might find specialized shops in larger regional cities like Sturgis or Billings.

Bicycle Rentals

No bicycle sharing programs exist. Rentals might be available from a few local outdoor shops in Sheridan or Buffalo, but they are not widespread.

Tour Buses

These services are not available within the Bighorn Mountains for independent travel. Private tour operators offer guided scenic drives using smaller vehicles.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer more intimate ways to experience the Bighorn Mountains, permitting slower exploration and closer engagement with the environment.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

The downtown areas of Sheridan and Buffalo are pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and local shops.
The Bighorns feature numerous designated hiking trails, ranging from short, easy walks to strenuous treks.
Walking is the main way to explore areas beyond scenic drives. Self-guided exploration is the norm.
Nature trails at visitor centers or campgrounds are often well-maintained and suitable for casual strolls.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated paved bike paths are limited within the Bighorns.
Road cycling on paved scenic byways offers challenging opportunities. Be aware of vehicle traffic.
Mountain biking is permitted on many forest roads and some designated multi-use trails.
Ride with caution and wear bright clothing. Check regulations for specific trails.

No-Go Areas

Avoid private property unless you have permission. Respect all "No Trespassing" signs. Respect wilderness boundaries where motorized vehicles and bicycles are prohibited.

Safety for Walkers & Cyclists

Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems and to avoid getting lost, notably in wilderness areas. Carry water, a map, and a form of communication.

Distances can be greater than they appear, and conditions can change quickly. Inform someone of your itinerary before heading into remote areas.

Accessibility Information

Limited Access

Accessibility in the Bighorns is limited outside of developed areas; most trails are unpaved and rugged.
Some visitor centers and accessible campgrounds may have paved paths and accessible restrooms.
Check specific facility information on the Bighorn National Forest website for details on accessible sites.

Vehicle & Organizations

Renting an accessible vehicle is a consideration, but forest road conditions remain a barrier for some.
Road conditions in the forest can still present challenges for accessibility.
Organizations specializing in accessible travel may provide more tailored information and support.

Critical Safety for Walking/Cycling

Essential Gear

Always carry water to stay hydrated.
Always carry a map for navigation.
Carry a form of communication (satellite messenger if in remote areas).

Wilderness Rules

Respect wilderness boundaries where motorized vehicles and bicycles are prohibited.
Adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
Inform someone of your itinerary before heading into remote areas.

Takeaway

Exploring the Bighorns relies almost entirely on a private vehicle.

Local Transportation