The best walks and hikes around Gillette

Yes, there are over 30 hiking routes to explore in the Gillette area. These range from easy walks within city parks to more moderate treks through the surrounding prairie and sagebrush country, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels.

For a family-friendly outing, the Lake Surprise loop — Watchung Reservation is an excellent choice. It's a relatively short and easy walk that's suitable for most abilities. Many of the 26 easy-rated trails in the area are perfect for a relaxed day of exploring with children.

Most trails in the wide-open spaces around Gillette are suitable for hiking with a dog, provided they are kept on a leash and under control. The trails in areas like the Red Rock Trails and Burnt Hollow Outdoor Recreation Area offer plenty of room for you and your canine companion to explore.

If you're looking for a longer hike, the Sierra Trail loop — Watchung Reservation offers a substantial 9.5-mile (15.3 km) trek. For even more challenging terrain, consider a day trip to the nearby Bighorn Mountains or Black Hills National Forest, which feature numerous trails with significant elevation gain.

Yes, many of the trails around Gillette are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. A great example of a moderate circular route is the Watchung Reservation History Trail loop — Mountainside, which provides a varied hiking experience over its 6.2-mile (9.9 km) length.

Locals and visitors enjoy several key hiking spots. The Red Rock Trails system is a well-regarded area offering multiple routes with scenic overlooks. For a quieter experience, the Gillette Fishing Lake Trailhead provides a peaceful setting. Another local favorite is the Field of Dreams Trailhead, which offers pleasant walks through open fields.

The trails immediately around Gillette primarily feature rolling prairie, sagebrush hills, and park paths. In contrast, hiking at Devils Tower National Monument offers a unique experience focused on trails that circle the base of the iconic geological formation, providing dramatic and constantly changing views of the tower itself.

For summer hiking, it's essential to be prepared for sun and potential heat. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. The terrain is very exposed with little shade. It's also wise to bring a light jacket, as weather conditions can change quickly in Wyoming.

The landscape around Gillette is primarily characterized by dry grasslands and sagebrush prairie, so waterfalls are not a common feature on local hiking trails. The beauty of this region lies in its vast open spaces and rugged, arid scenery.

For a peaceful hike away from crowds, consider the Kitchell Pond – Loantaka Brook Crossing loop from Drew University. Its gentle terrain and serene environment make it ideal for a quiet, contemplative walk in nature.

The trails in the Gillette area are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the sense of solitude and the beauty of the wide-open Wyoming landscape. The well-maintained paths through the prairie are frequently mentioned as a highlight.

Yes, most of the local trails within Gillette, such as those at Red Rock Trails and city parks, are free to access. However, be aware that entering nearby destinations like Devils Tower National Monument or Keyhole State Park requires an entrance fee.