Cloud Peak is the highest summit in the Bighorn Mountains and one of Wyoming's major prominence peaks, rising more than 7,000 feet above its key saddle. Located in north-central Wyoming within the 191,914-acre Cloud Peak Wilderness, designated by Congress in 1984, this peak is a regional landmark visible from long distances across north-central Wyoming. Cloud Peak Glacier lies below the northeast face and is commonly described as the last active glacier in the Bighorn Mountains.
Although the standard route is nontechnical, the climb is long, remote, and physically demanding, with a sustained boulder-field ascent in the upper reaches and significant exposure to alpine weather. Terrain above 12,000 feet can experience rapid temperature swings, strong winds, and snow even during the summer climbing season. Cloud Peak serves as the centerpiece of the wilderness area, drawing climbers seeking a committing three-day objective in a spacious but increasingly popular high-country setting.
Recommended Route
West Tensleep Trail to Mistymoon Lake
The standard route begins at the West Tensleep Trailhead near West Tensleep Lake at around 9,000 feet and follows the West Tensleep Creek drainage to Mistymoon Lake at 10,000 feet over approximately 8 miles. From Mistymoon Lake, the route continues briefly on trail toward the Solitude Loop and Paint Rock Creek area before leaving maintained trail and climbing mostly off-trail terrain toward the southwest ridge and summit.
The upper route crosses an extended boulder field, the crux of the ascent, where route-finding through complex rocky terrain demands focus and energy, requiring comfort moving over loose talus and large unstable blocks. Total cumulative elevation gain is around 4,500 to 5,300 feet depending on route line and campsite location.
Key Landmarks
- Mistymoon Lake (10,000 ft): Established camping area and reliable water source (filter/treat all water)
- Paint Rock Creek area (approx. 11,000 ft): Common route-finding transition and last water area before upper boulder fields (treat all water; availability varies seasonally)
- View of Cloud Peak Glacier: Visible below the east face during the final approach
warning An early alpine start from Mistymoon Lake is strongly recommended to reduce exposure to afternoon thunderstorms during the summit push and descent through the boulder field.
Permits & Camping
Climbing Permits
No paid climbing permit is required. Visitors entering Cloud Peak Wilderness should complete the free self-issued wilderness registration available at trailheads and carry the required copy. No climbing fee applies.
Camping & Wilderness
Dispersed camping is allowed in the Cloud Peak Wilderness, subject to site-specific restrictions. Mistymoon Lake is the primary overnight location with established campsites in the surrounding area. Camp at least 100 feet from lakes, streams, and other water sources, and do not camp in posted closed sites. Campfires are prohibited within 300 feet of water or trails, and above 9,200 feet no tree material may be transported or stored. Use a backpacking stove for all cooking. Pack out toilet paper and follow current wilderness human-waste disposal requirements. The area experiences high visitation in July and August, with multiple parties often on the route daily.
Wildlife & Seasonal Conditions
Late June through early September is the usual climbing window. July and August offer the most reliable conditions but also the highest visitation. June may hold lingering snow, while September brings more solitude along with increased risk of early storms and snowfall. Black bears and other wildlife may be present; store food securely and keep a clean camp. Moose, mule deer, elk, and mountain goats may also be encountered. Mosquitoes can be intense from late June through mid-August.
Safety Information
Technical Requirements
- Off-Trail Navigation
- Loose Rock Scrambling
- Altitude Acclimatization
- Alpine Start
Known Hazards
- Lightning Exposure
- Altitude Sickness
- Loose Rock & Scree
- Hypothermia
- Extreme Wind & Weather
- Dehydration
- Bears & Wildlife
Getting There
location_on Cloud Peak · WY
Data source: Bighorn National Forest, SummitPost, PeakBagger, trip reports
