SHERIDAN — Since 1939, a steep and rocky one-mile trail has given way to a mountain perch overlooking wide swaths of the Bighorn National Forest. Along the climb up to Black Mountain lookout at 9,500 feet, hikers pass small wildflower meadows, trickling streams and looming trees.

BNF public information officer Sara Evans Kirol deftly steps along the rocky scramble to the top, where a simple chain fence surrounds a small cabin.

Time slows and the air cools until the top, when cellphone service resumes with alarming notifications — sounds of the world beckoning below.

If you want to read more, click here.

About The Sheridan Press
The Sheridan Press has served Sheridan County, Wyoming, since 1887. The award-winning independent newspaper is dedicated to informing and engaging the community by creating, producing and distributing exceptional content and trusted journalism. Online rates start at just $1.50 per week; to subscribe to The Sheridan Press, click here. To make a tax-deductible donation in any amount, click here.