Brady Point Trail

The Brady Point Trail climbs steeply to a dramatic volcanic promontory that juts into the North Fork Shoshone canyon, offering some of the most spectacular views in the entire Buffalo Bill State Park area. The volcanic pinnacles and eroded towers that characterize this section of the Shoshone canyon represent some of the most visually striking geology in Wyoming, with layered columns of volcanic breccia rising in fantastical formations from the canyon floor.

The trail gains elevation quickly from the trailhead, requiring a moderately strenuous effort to reach the point, but the views from the top amply justify the exertion. The entire sweep of the reservoir is visible from Brady Point, along with the full length of the upper canyon reaching toward the Absaroka Range and Yellowstone National Park. On clear days, the volcanic summits of the Absaroka can be seen rising to over 12,000 feet above the canyon rim.

Bighorn sheep are commonly spotted on the cliff faces below the point, and prairie falcons frequently nest in the vertical rock faces within sight of the summit. The volcanic rock formations glow an extraordinary range of reds, purples, and oranges during the golden hour, making Brady Point a particularly rewarding destination for photographers. Despite its short distance, the steep grade and rocky footing demand careful attention, especially on the descent.