Near Shell Bench Trail #184
Looking to the northwest side of Shell Canyon from the end of the Shell Bench Trail.
Near Shell Bench Trail #184
The rim of Shell Canyon looking southwest. This trail features some of the most diverse terrain Wyoming has to offer, with high alpine forests, mid-mountain ponderosa forests, steep canyon walls, and low desert landscapes.
Near Shell Bench Trail #184
Looking west towards high Bighorn Dolomite peaks above Shell Canyon and the Bighorn Scenic Byway.
Near Shell Bench Trail #184
Bighorn wildflowers along the Shell Bench Trail.

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Hike Trail

Shell Bench Trail #184

4.7 (3 Ratings)
A nice hike that moves from alpine forest to desert canyon: a great way to experience Shell Canyon!
10.1
mi
Distance
556
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
10.15mi
Distance
556ft
Elevation Gain
3,143ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
7,820ft
High Point
5,088ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This is considered to be one of the better hikes in the Bighorns as the trail moves from a fun forest section to a fast and steep canyon descent. As of late, the trail is a little dirty with loose rock but more hikers will clean it up. This is a fun hike and a great way to experience Shell Canyon, Ten Sleep Canyon's long-forgotten sibling. For the best experience, plan to ride this as a point-to-point. Start by leaving a vehicle at the Post Creek Parking Area off of Highway 14 and then drive another vehicle to the Adelaide TH off of Ranger Creek Road.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
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Contributors
Laine Parish