Burgess Junction

Perched high in the Bighorn Mountains, Burgess Junction is one of the most accessible and rewarding mountain destinations in northern Wyoming. Sitting at over 8,000 feet in elevation, this scenic crossroads offers sweeping views, cool summer air, and year-round outdoor adventure. Whether you are passing through on your way to Yellowstone National Park or planning a dedicated mountain getaway, Burgess Junction is a place worth slowing down for.

A Scenic Crossroads in the Clouds

Located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 14 and U.S. Highway 14A, Burgess Junction serves as a natural hub for exploring the northern Bighorn National Forest. The drive alone is unforgettable, with winding mountain roads climbing through dense pine forests before opening to expansive alpine meadows and distant peaks.

Nearby, the dramatic drop into Shell Canyon offers one of the most stunning overlooks in the region, while the route toward Dayton descends through equally breathtaking scenery.

Things to Do at Burgess Junction

Stop Into the Visitor Center
The visitor center is a great place to stop for a picnic, you can grab a snack or drink inside, and also find a nice selection of souvenirs and Bighorn Mountain merchandise. There are also several exhibits about the history and wildlife of the area. Some nice walking paths run up to the side and provide sweeping views of the surrounding area including peaks and the meadows full of wildflowers, as you ascend and circle the hill.

Take in the Views
The wide-open vistas around Burgess Junction make it one of the best places in the Bighorns for sunrise and sunset photography. Rolling meadows, thick forests, and distant ridgelines create a constantly changing landscape depending on the season. Pictures never do justice for a place like Burgess Junction but you you can get pretty close.

Hiking and Exploring
Numerous trails branch out from the area, offering everything from short walks to longer backcountry routes. Wildflowers blanket the meadows in summer, while fall brings crisp air and vibrant colors.

Wildlife Watching
Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and even moose in the surrounding forest. Early morning and evening are the best times to spot wildlife moving through the area.

Winter Recreation
When snow arrives, Burgess Junction transforms into a winter playground. Snowmobiling and cross country skiing are popular, with groomed trails connecting to miles of backcountry terrain. There are several mountain lodges in the area that are great for weekend winter getaways.

Stay and Relax

Burgess Junction is home to Bear Lodge Resort, a full-service mountain lodge that offers cabins, dining, and easy access to outdoor recreation. It is a perfect basecamp whether you are exploring in summer or hitting the snow in winter.

Camping options are also available nearby for those looking to immerse themselves fully in the forest setting.

Getting There

From Buffalo, take U.S. Highway 16 west into the mountains, then connect to U.S. Highway 14 toward Burgess Junction. The drive takes about an hour and climbs steadily into cooler, higher elevation terrain.

From Greybull, head east through Shell Canyon on U.S. Highway 14. This route is especially scenic, passing waterfalls, cliffs, and sweeping canyon views before reaching the junction.

Why Visit Burgess Junction

Burgess Junction is more than just a stop along the highway. It is a place where the scale and beauty of the Bighorn Mountains really come into focus. With easy access, incredible scenery, and year-round recreation, it stands out as one of the best high elevation destinations in northern Wyoming.

Whether you stay for an hour or a weekend, Burgess Junction delivers the kind of mountain experience that keeps people coming back.