Wyoming, USA
Organize your planning into a chronological timeline so nothing is overlooked.
Organize your preparations for a smooth journey.
Secure flights to Sheridan, Billings, or Denver. Book rental car, especially a 4x4 if needed, for peak season.
For peak season (July-August), reserve campgrounds (via Recreation.gov) or popular lodges well in advance.
If you plan multi-day backpacking, specialized permits, guided tours, or guest ranch stays, book these early.
Finalize your day-to-day itinerary. Download offline maps and guides to devices.
Acquire any specialized outdoor gear. Check Bighorn National Forest website for conditions and fire restrictions. Get a Wyoming Fishing License if fishing.
Schedule a health check-up. Check passport validity and apply for visa/ESTA (if international) with ample processing time. Purchase travel insurance.
Reconfirm all flights, rental car, and accommodation bookings.
Pack based on climate-appropriate clothing. Notify bank/credit card companies of travel plans. Make digital and physical copies of essential documents.
Arrange for mail collection, pet care, or house-sitting if required. Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary.
These preparations for a smooth start to your journey.
Pre-trip research focuses on current conditions and safety.
Prepare your home for your absence.
Ensure your Travel insurance is active and covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation/interruption. This for peace of mind for your adventure.
Your first steps upon arrival for your Bighorns adventure.
Pick up rental car at the airport. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Get local SIM card (if international traveler) for U.S. Mobile number.
Purchase groceries and fuel in a gateway town (Sheridan, Buffalo) before mountains.
Proceed to your pre-booked hotel, lodge, or campground.
Visit a Bighorn National Forest Visitor Center (e.g., Tongue District Office in Sheridan, Powder River District Office in Buffalo) for maps, current conditions, and ranger advice.
Review your downloaded offline maps and confirm your route for the next day. Familiarize yourself with local area regulations.
USD is the currency. ATMs are available in towns for cash withdrawals. Make initial purchases of water, snacks, and any last-minute essentials.
Purchase any last-minute souvenirs in the gateway towns before heading to the airport.
If you have large items or excess luggage, consider shipping them home from a local post office or shipping center. No Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists applies in the U.S.
Allow ample time to drive from the mountains to your departure airport.
Account for winding roads, potential wildlife on the roads, and unpredictable mountain weather. Add buffer time, especially if your flight is early in the morning.
Refuel your rental car before returning it, as rental companies charge high prices for un-filled tanks.
Return your rental car according to the agency's instructions. Check in for your flight (online check-in often available 24 hours in advance) and proceed through airport security.
Keep your vehicle's fuel tank topped off whenever you are in a town. Gas stations are scarce once you are deep within the Bighorn National Forest.
Always prioritize safety by staying informed about local conditions and weather forecasts.
Preparation for your trip ensures a smoother, more enjoyable experience in the Bighorn Mountains.
