Roundtop Mountain Trail | Thermopolis

Roundtop Mountain Trail is a hiking path located in Thermopolis, Wyoming, USA. It provides access to elevated viewpoints overlooking the surrounding landscape.

Visual Characteristics

The trail itself is primarily composed of packed dirt and gravel, with sections of exposed rock. Vegetation along the route consists of sagebrush, juniper, and scattered ponderosa pine. The elevation gain leads to panoramic views of the Bighorn Basin and the Wind River Range in the distance.

Location & Access Logistics

The trailhead is situated approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) east of Thermopolis's town center. Access is via US Highway 20 East. Turn north onto Hot Springs County Road 113 (also known as Sage Creek Road). The trailhead parking area is located 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) up this county road on the west side. Parking is unpaved and can accommodate approximately 15 vehicles. No public transport services reach the trailhead.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Roundtop Mountain is an erosional remnant of the uplifted Bighorn Basin. The trail follows natural game trails and early prospector routes. The area's ecology is characteristic of semi-arid high plains, supporting flora adapted to dry conditions and significant diurnal temperature fluctuations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking the main loop trail, which is approximately 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) in length. Observation of local wildlife, including mule deer and various bird species. Photography of the basin and mountain range from designated overlooks.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The trailhead has a single informational kiosk. There are no restrooms, potable water sources, or designated shade structures at the trailhead or along the trail. Cell phone signal is intermittent to non-existent for most of the trail, with minimal 4G/5G coverage only at the very beginning near the parking area. No food vendors are present.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography, early morning (sunrise) and late afternoon (sunset) are recommended. The best months for hiking are May through October, avoiding the snow and ice of winter. Summer afternoons can experience high temperatures; early morning or late evening hikes are advisable during July and August.

Facts & Legends

Local lore suggests that early settlers used the prominent peak of Roundtop Mountain as a navigational marker when traveling through the basin. The mountain's distinctive shape is a result of differential erosion, with harder rock layers protecting softer underlying strata.

Nearby Landmarks

• Thermopolis Hot Springs State Park (4.5km Southwest)
• Wyoming Dinosaur Center (5.0km Southwest)
• Bighorn River (4.0km West)
• Hot Springs County Museum (4.8km Southwest)