Discovering the Best Places to Visit in Wyoming

Wyoming, known as the Cowboy State, is a land of rugged landscapes, wide-open spaces, and stunning natural beauty. From the soaring peaks of the Grand Tetons to the iconic geysers of Yellowstone, Wyoming offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and historical treasures. Here’s an extensive guide to some of the best places to visit in Wyoming.

1. Yellowstone National Park

America’s First National Park

Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is not only the first national park in the United States but also the world. This iconic park covers over 2.2 million acres and is renowned for its geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Key Attractions

Old Faithful

Old Faithful is one of the most famous geysers in the world, known for its regular and predictable eruptions. Visitors can watch the geyser shoot water up to 185 feet in the air approximately every 90 minutes.

Grand Prismatic Spring

The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. Its vibrant colors, ranging from deep blue to fiery orange, make it one of the most photographed sights in the park.

Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America, offering stunning views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The West Thumb Geyser Basin, located on the shore of the lake, features several hot springs and geysers.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is a unique geothermal area known for its terraced travertine formations. The hot springs flow over colorful mineral deposits, creating a stunning landscape that is constantly changing.

Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is often called the "Serengeti of North America" due to its abundant wildlife. Visitors can spot bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears in this scenic valley, which offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the park.

2. Grand Teton National Park

Majestic Mountains and Pristine Lakes

Grand Teton National Park, located just south of Yellowstone, is known for its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park’s stunning landscapes attract hikers, climbers, and photographers from around the world.

Key Attractions

Jenny Lake

Jenny Lake is one of the most popular destinations in the park, offering scenic boat rides, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Teton Range. The Jenny Lake Trail provides access to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, two must-see spots.

Jackson Lake

Jackson Lake is the largest lake in the park, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, making it a popular spot for photography.

Teton Park Road

The Teton Park Road provides access to many of the park’s key attractions, including numerous viewpoints, trailheads, and picnic areas. The road offers stunning views of the Teton Range and the Snake River.

Moose-Wilson Road

The Moose-Wilson Road is a scenic drive that offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can spot moose, black bears, and other wildlife along this narrow, winding road.

Cascade Canyon

Cascade Canyon is a popular hiking destination, offering stunning views of the Teton Range and access to alpine lakes and waterfalls. The Cascade Canyon Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that provides some of the best scenery in the park.

3. Jackson Hole

A Premier Destination for Outdoor Adventure

Jackson Hole, located just outside of Grand Teton National Park, is a year-round destination known for its world-class skiing, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural beauty.

Key Attractions

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is one of the top ski resorts in North America, known for its challenging terrain and deep powder. The resort offers a variety of winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

National Elk Refuge

The National Elk Refuge is home to one of the largest elk herds in North America. During the winter months, visitors can take a sleigh ride through the refuge to see the elk up close. The refuge also provides habitat for bison, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife.

Town Square

The Town Square in Jackson is known for its iconic antler arches and lively atmosphere. The square is surrounded by shops, galleries, and restaurants, making it a great place to explore and relax.

Jackson Hole Rodeo

The Jackson Hole Rodeo is a popular summer attraction, offering visitors a taste of the Old West. The rodeo features bull riding, barrel racing, and other traditional rodeo events.

Art and Culture

Jackson Hole is home to a vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural events. The National Museum of Wildlife Art, located just outside of town, features a stunning collection of wildlife art and sculptures.

4. Devils Tower National Monument

America’s First National Monument

Devils Tower National Monument, established in 1906, is a striking geological feature and a sacred site for Native American tribes. The tower rises 867 feet above the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for climbers and hikers.

Key Attractions

Tower Trail

The Tower Trail is a 1.3-mile loop that circles the base of Devils Tower, offering stunning views of the monolith and the surrounding landscape. The trail is relatively easy and provides excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing.

Climbing

Devils Tower is one of the premier climbing destinations in North America, offering over 200 established routes. Climbers of all skill levels can find routes that suit their abilities, but permits are required for climbing.

Visitor Center

The Devils Tower Visitor Center provides information about the geological and cultural history of the monument. Exhibits, interpretive programs, and ranger-led walks are available to enhance visitors’ understanding of this unique site.

Prairie Dog Town

The Prairie Dog Town near the base of Devils Tower offers visitors the chance to see these lively creatures in their natural habitat. The prairie dogs are fun to watch and provide an interesting contrast to the towering monolith.

5. Cody

Gateway to Yellowstone

Cody, founded by Buffalo Bill Cody, is a vibrant town known for its rich Western heritage and proximity to Yellowstone National Park.

Key Attractions

Buffalo Bill Center of the West

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a complex of five museums that explore the history, art, and culture of the American West. The museums include the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Whitney Western Art Museum, the Plains Indian Museum, the Cody Firearms Museum, and the Draper Natural History Museum.

Old Trail Town

Old Trail Town is a recreated Western town that features historic buildings and artifacts from the late 1800s. Visitors can explore authentic log cabins, a saloon, and the gravesite of Jeremiah Johnson.

Cody Nite Rodeo

The Cody Nite Rodeo is the longest-running nightly rodeo in the world, offering visitors a taste of authentic Western entertainment. The rodeo features bull riding, barrel racing, and other traditional events.

Buffalo Bill Dam

The Buffalo Bill Dam, located just west of Cody, was one of the most significant engineering feats of its time. The dam offers stunning views of the Shoshone River and the surrounding canyon, and the visitor center provides information about its construction and history.

Yellowstone Regional Airport

Cody is a convenient gateway to Yellowstone National Park, with Yellowstone Regional Airport offering flights from several major cities. The airport makes it easy for visitors to access the park and explore the surrounding area.

6. Wind River Range

A Wilderness Paradise

The Wind River Range, located in western Wyoming, is a stunning mountain range known for its rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and excellent hiking and climbing opportunities.

Key Attractions

Cirque of the Towers

The Cirque of the Towers is one of the most scenic and popular destinations in the Wind River Range. This stunning cirque features towering granite peaks, beautiful alpine lakes, and challenging climbing routes.

Gannett Peak

Gannett Peak, the highest point in Wyoming at 13,809 feet, is a challenging and rewarding climb for experienced mountaineers. The peak offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness and is considered one of the most difficult state high points to summit.

Titcomb Basin

Titcomb Basin is a beautiful alpine basin located in the heart of the Wind River Range. The basin is surrounded by towering peaks and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and photography.

Wind River High Route

The Wind River High Route is a challenging and remote backpacking route that traverses the length of the Wind River Range. The route offers stunning scenery, solitude, and a true wilderness experience.

Fremont Lake

Fremont Lake, located near the town of Pinedale, is the second-largest natural lake in Wyoming. The lake offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

7. Laramie

A Historic University Town

Laramie, located in southeastern Wyoming, is a historic town known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation, and the University of Wyoming.

Key Attractions

University of Wyoming

The University of Wyoming is the state’s flagship university, offering a variety of cultural and educational attractions. The University of Wyoming Art Museum features a diverse collection of art, while the Geological Museum offers exhibits on Wyoming’s rich fossil history.

Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site

The Wyoming Territorial Prison, built in 1872, is a well-preserved historic site that offers guided tours and exhibits on the history of the prison and its famous inmates, including Butch Cassidy.

Medicine Bow National Forest

The Medicine Bow National Forest, located just west of Laramie, offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway provides stunning views of the mountains and access to several trailheads.

Vedauwoo

Vedauwoo is a unique area of granite rock formations located just east of Laramie. The area is popular with climbers, hikers, and photographers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Laramie Plains Museum

The Laramie Plains Museum, located in the historic Ivinson Mansion, offers exhibits on the history and culture of Laramie and the surrounding area. The museum features period furnishings, artifacts, and guided tours of the mansion.

8. Cheyenne

The Capital City

Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming, is a vibrant city known for its rich Western heritage, historic sites, and annual events.

Key Attractions

Cheyenne Frontier Days

Cheyenne Frontier Days is the largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration in the world, held annually in late July. The event features rodeo competitions, concerts, parades, and a carnival, drawing visitors from around the world.

Wyoming State Capitol

The Wyoming State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark, is a beautiful example of Renaissance Revival architecture. The capitol offers guided tours that provide insight into the history and government of Wyoming.

Cheyenne Depot Museum

The Cheyenne Depot Museum is located in the historic Union Pacific Railroad Depot, offering exhibits on the history of the railroad and its impact on Cheyenne. The museum also features a model railroad and a gift shop.

Terry Bison Ranch

The Terry Bison Ranch, located just south of Cheyenne, offers visitors the chance to see bison up close and experience a working ranch. The ranch offers guided tours, horseback riding, and a variety of other activities.

Cheyenne Botanic Gardens

The Cheyenne Botanic Gardens feature beautiful gardens, greenhouses, and a conservatory, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The gardens also host a variety of educational programs and events.

9. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

A Stunning Canyon and Reservoir

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, located in northern Wyoming and southern Montana, is known for its stunning canyon, beautiful reservoir, and abundant recreational opportunities.

Key Attractions

Bighorn Lake

Bighorn Lake, formed by the Yellowtail Dam, offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by stunning canyon walls, providing a beautiful backdrop for water activities.

Devil Canyon Overlook

The Devil Canyon Overlook offers breathtaking views of Bighorn Canyon and the surrounding landscape. The overlook is accessible by car and provides an excellent spot for photography and wildlife viewing.

Bighorn Canyon

Bighorn Canyon is a stunning geological feature that stretches for over 70 miles. The canyon offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing, with several trails and scenic viewpoints.

Afterbay Lake

Afterbay Lake, located below the Yellowtail Dam, is a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching. The lake is stocked with trout and offers a peaceful setting for outdoor activities.

Bighorn Sheep Viewing

The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is home to a large population of bighorn sheep. Visitors can often spot these majestic animals along the canyon walls and in the surrounding landscape.

10. Hot Springs State Park

Natural Hot Springs and Historic Bathhouses

Hot Springs State Park, located in the town of Thermopolis, is known for its natural hot springs, historic bathhouses, and beautiful parkland.

Key Attractions

Hot Springs

The park features several hot springs that flow into the Big Horn River. Visitors can soak in the therapeutic waters at the State Bath House, which offers free admission, or at the commercial hot spring pools in the area.

Swinging Bridge

The Swinging Bridge is a historic suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the Big Horn River and the hot springs terraces. The bridge provides a unique perspective on the park’s natural beauty.

Rainbow Terraces

The Rainbow Terraces are colorful mineral formations created by the flow of hot spring water. The terraces offer a stunning display of colors and textures, making them a popular spot for photography.

Buffalo Pasture

The park is home to a herd of bison that roam freely in a fenced area. Visitors can view the bison from the park’s roads and trails, providing a unique opportunity to see these majestic animals up close.

Hiking and Picnicking

Hot Springs State Park offers several hiking trails that explore the park’s natural beauty, including the popular Monument Hill Trail. The park also features picnic areas and shelters, making it a great spot for a family outing.