Story Penrose Trail

The Story Penrose Trail is located in the Bighorn National Forest near Story, Wyoming. Parking is available at the trailhead, which is a popular starting point for both day hikes and overnight camping.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for all users.

The trail offers beautiful scenery throughout the warmer months. However, be aware that by mid-summer, it becomes open to ATV/UTV use, which can increase traffic. Summer in Story, Wyoming, can also be very hot, so bring plenty of water. Spring and early summer are ideal for wildflower viewing, while the dense forest provides ample shade even on warmer days.

Generally, there are no entrance fees to access the Bighorn National Forest for day use. However, specific permits may be required for certain activities like overnight camping or commercial use. It's always a good idea to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the latest regulations before your visit.

The trail features a mix of terrain. The initial 2 kilometers offer a relatively easy, gentle ascent through a dense pine and spruce forest. As you continue, it becomes steeper and rockier, with sections described as rugged, sustained climbs featuring roots, rock gardens, and 'baby heads' (small, loose rocks). Recent improvements have been made to recondition the tread for a more comfortable experience.

You'll hike through a dense pine and spruce forest, often under a Ponderosa Pine canopy. The area is rich in diverse vegetation, and the trail is particularly notable for stunning wildflower viewing opportunities. Around the 3-kilometer mark, a small creek provides a serene spot. A significant highlight is a scenic overlook at approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles), offering panoramic views of the Bighorn Mountains.

Hikers may encounter various wildlife, including deer, elk, and a variety of bird species. The secluded nature of the trail also offers a quiet environment for wildlife observation.

The initial 2 kilometers are a relatively easy, gentle ascent, which can be suitable for beginners or families looking for a shorter, less strenuous walk. However, the trail quickly becomes steeper and more challenging with rocky sections, making the full route more moderate to difficult. Families with younger children or beginners might prefer to stick to the easier initial sections.

Yes, be aware that poison ivy is abundant in the area, so it's advisable to know how to identify it and take precautions. Also, by mid-summer, the trail is open to ATV/UTV use, so you may encounter motorized vehicles in addition to horses and other hikers. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.

Beyond its own scenic beauty, the Story Penrose Trail provides access to several alpine reservoirs, including Kearny, Willow Park, and Cloud Peak, which are popular for fishing. It also serves as a popular trailhead for both day hikes and overnight/weekend camping in the Bighorn National Forest.

The specific tour on komoot covers approximately 5.76 kilometers (3.58 miles) with an estimated duration of about 1 hour and 58 minutes. However, the full Story Penrose Trail is significantly longer, around 11.7 miles, and can take much longer depending on your pace and how far you choose to go.