The mountain range is known for its impressive snowfall, with an average annual accumulation of 250 inches. The peak snowpack typically reaches around 120 inches, providing ample opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts to enjoy nearby ski resorts such as Powder Horn and Antelope Butte.
Climate trends suggest that warming temperatures may lead to earlier snowmelt and a decrease in overall snowpack. This could potentially impact the hydrology of the area, including downstream rivers, creeks, and reservoirs that rely on snowmelt for water supply. However, the Bighorn Mountains have been shown to be more resilient to climate change impacts than other nearby mountain ranges, potentially due to their higher elevations and unique topography.
Overall, the snowpack in Burgess Junction is a critical component of the local ecosystem and serves as an important source of recreation and water supply for the surrounding communities.
1. Hiking: Burgess Junction is surrounded by beautiful national forests, including the Bighorn National Forest, offering numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the mountains and wildlife. One popular hiking trail is the Medicine Wheel Passage Trail, which takes hikers through varied terrain and offers panoramic views of the area.
2. Fishing: Burgess Junction is located near several mountain streams and lakes that are perfect for fishing. The nearby Shell Creek and Shell Lake are popular spots for trout fishing, with opportunities for both fly fishing and spin casting. Anglers can expect to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout in these waters.
3. Camping: With its proximity to the Bighorn National Forest, Burgess Junction is an excellent destination for camping enthusiasts. There are several campgrounds in the area, such as Shell Creek Campground and Bald Mountain Campground, offering a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature. Campers can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting while staying in the area.
4. ATV riding: The Bighorn National Forest has designated trails for ATV riding, providing an exciting way to explore the rugged terrain around Burgess Junction. Riders can venture through forests, across meadows, and up mountainsides, enjoying the thrill of off-roading in a scenic setting. Popular ATV trails in the area include the Black Mountain ATV Trail and the South Piney ATV Trail.
5. Wildlife viewing: Burgess Junction is located in a prime area for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat. Visitors may encounter elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, and numerous bird species while out exploring the forests and meadows surrounding the town. Wildlife enthusiasts can bring binoculars or a camera to capture these sightings and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Wyoming wilderness.
| Site ID | Snow Sensor 377 |
| Geolocation | 44.80, -107.53 |
| Elevation | 7,880ft. |
| Last Updated | 2026-07-20 |
| Observed Snowpack | 0 inches |
| Percent of Normal | 0% |
| Snow Water Equivalent | NA |
| Past 24hrs | 0.0 inches |
| 24hr Forecast | 0 inches |
| 120hr Forecast | 0 inches |
| Peak Snowpack | 73 inches |