Home to iconic outdoor destinations like Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming is rich in natural beauty. The least populous state in the United States lures in nature lovers from across the globe who want to experience its epic wildlife watching opportunities, cowboy culture, and historic small towns.
It’s easy to unplug and enjoy the best of Mother Nature within the state’s rugged landscapes, which offer access to skiing, hiking, and fishing adventures. Hop in the car and enjoy the wide-open spaces on a memorable road trip for an up-close view of the state’s mountains, glaciers, and pristine lakes, or pitch a tent and camp under the stars!
While Wyoming is best loved for its towering, snow-capped mountain ranges, there’s more to this state than its long list of natural wonders. You can dive deep into Wyoming’s Old West history at the historical sites, museums, and cultural centers that dot the state’s charming frontier towns or experience authentic powwows with American Indian tribes.
Discover the best things to see and do in Wyoming with our comprehensive guide, which highlights the top outdoor adventures and attractions. We include all the incredible things you should add to your Wyoming bucket list so you can make the most out of your vacation, whether it’s for a family getaway or an adventurous outdoor excursion. Get back to nature in one of the most beautiful states in the US!
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25 cool and unique things to do in Wyoming
1. Visit Geothermal Sites at Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park not only ranks high on most travelers’ Wyoming bucket lists but also on the top places to visit in the United States. Home to a long list of epic natural wonders, hiking trails, and awe-inspiring nature views, it’s absolutely one of the coolest things to do in Wyoming if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.
Old Faithful is the park’s world-renowned geyser and a must-see attraction when it erupts every 30 to 110 minutes. Gather around and watch the 130-foot-high eruption or capture bird’s-eye views of the phenomenon at Observation Point.
Some of the most photographed natural wonders in Yellowstone include Mammoth Hot Springs, which is known for its unique terraces, as well as the Grand Prismatic Spring, one of the world’s largest hot springs! The rainbow colors of this wonder are what make it so spectacular, ranging from deep red and green to bright yellows and oranges.
Don’t miss the lesser-known Norris Geyser Basin, which is the park’s oldest and hottest geyser at 459 degrees Fahrenheit. Other sights to tick off your list include the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a 20-mile-long canyon, as well as the picturesque Yellowstone Lake.
2. Take a Scenic Drive Through Grand Teton National Park
Easily one of the most beautiful parks in North America, Grand Teton National Park is filled to the brim with natural wonders. From the towering Grand Teton to the shimmering Jenny Lake, this outdoor oasis is one of the best places in the US for hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife watching.
Hop in the car and take in the park’s most spectacular scenery along Teton Park Road. Winding around the base of the Teton Range, it offers iconic lookout points with impressive vistas, where you can marvel at the Tetons, Menors Ferry Historic District, the Snake River Overlook, and Jenny Lake. You can also drive to Schwabacher Landing to admire the reflection of the Tetons in the waters of Snake River.
A must-visit in Grand Teton, Jenny Lake is a 250-foot-deep natural wonder and one of the park’s highlights, where you can go fishing, paddling, swimming, or boating. A popular hike from the Jenny Lake Trailhead offers views of Cascade Canyon, Storm Point, Symmetry Spire, and Mount Moran.
Experienced hikers can tackle the 13,000-foot-tall Grand Teton, while novice hikers can follow the three-mile round-trip Taggart Lake Trail. For a peek at the spectacular 100-foot drop at Hidden Falls Waterfall, follow the trail to Inspiration Point.
3. Photograph the Mormon Row Historic District
Located in Grand Teton National Park, the Mormon Row Historic District is a top thing to do in Wyoming for photographers. Some of the park’s most iconic images come from here, with its historic homesteads featuring a picture-perfect backdrop of the Teton Range.
First established by Mormon settlers in the 1890s, who moved to the Jackson Hole area from Idaho, the Mormon Row Historic District now features six of the 27 original homesteads, which offer a fascinating glimpse of Jackson Hole’s past.
Some of the most photographed buildings include the pink stucco John Moulton, T.A. Moulton Barn, and Chambers Barn. In addition to creating a classic Teton landscape, these buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and are well worth the effort to visit if you’re interested in history.
To reach this area, drive on Highway 89 past Moose Junction. You’ll see a sign that says “Antelope Flats Road,” drive about 1.5 miles until you see an old homestead at the intersection. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might spot pronghorn antelope, elk, and moose along the way!
4. Enjoy Wildlife Watching in Bridger-Teton National Forest
The Bridger-Teton National Forest is one of Wyoming’s biggest national forests, offering over 3,000 miles of unspoiled terrain. The expansive 3.4 million-acre park is nestled in western Wyoming and is beloved for its scenic rivers, hiking trails, and wilderness areas.
A large portion of the forest overlaps with the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which is one of the most stunning natural areas in the United States. Its miles of trails allow for mountain biking, horseback riding, and skiing in the winter, while fishing enthusiasts are spoiled for choice with the hundreds of lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers.
Wildlife watching is abundant in this nature lover’s paradise, as it lies adjacent to Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and the National Elk Refuge. Depending on the season, you might see moose, mule deer, and bighorn sheep in the winter, or bald eagles, trumpeter swans, sandhill cranes, grizzly bears, and over 300 species of birds in the warmer months.
Long-distance hikers can follow the 10-mile out and back Big Sandy Trail, which offers spectacular views of the Cirque of the Towers. The 6.3-mile Lower Green River Lake Loop wraps around the tranquil waters of Green River Lake, while the 5-mile Ski Lake Trail is one of the forest’s most popular routes.
5. Explore the Scenic Town of Jackson
A top travel destination in Wyoming, Jackson is nestled at the base of the Teton Mountain Range and is a popular jumping-off point for excursions into Jackson Hole. It also has a prime location near Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, which makes it one of the best places to visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
The authentic Old West town lures in skiers and snowboarders across the globe to the nearby Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, which is often voted as the top ski resort in the United States. With more than 2,500 acres of powder-packed terrain on two mountains, it’s easy to see why it’s so legendary among powder hounds.
Just down the road from Grand Teton National Park, Jackson also offers access to bucket list Wyoming attractions like the National Elk Refuge and National Museum of Wildlife Art. Other popular excursions include scenic floats and fly fishing on the Snake River.
After your adventures, you can enjoy a soak in the thermal pools at Granite Hot Springs or learn about the area’s Wild West history at the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum. Families might enjoy a fun dose of cowboy culture with a ride in a covered chuck wagon or stroll through Jackson Town Square with its boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
6. Ride the Cowboy Coaster at Snow King Mountain Resort
Not just a winter destination, Jackson Hole offers year-round fun for the whole family. One of the best activities to enjoy when the weather heats up is the Cowboy Coaster at Snow King Mountain Resort. Fun for little ones and adults alike, this exciting attraction zips you through nearly a mile of loops, curves, and drops.
You can enjoy the view of Snow King’s stunning wildflower meadows on the ride, which takes you 456 vertical feet up Snow King Mountain. You’ll be cut loose and surrounded by epic Teton views as you soar down twists and turns as much as four stories tall!
The exhilarating roller coaster ride isn’t the only thing you can do here in the summer, as there’s also a Treetop Adventure Ropes Course where you can shimmy over suspended bridges and ride an aerial skateboard. Chairlift Rides offer scenic views of the Tetons and Elk Refuge, while bungee trampoline, mini-golf, an alpine slide, and guided hikes are just some of the other activities on offer.
If you’re planning on a winter sports vacation to Snow King Mountain, you’ll find 400 skiable acres and 32 runs. There’s also a brand-new Winter Cowboy Coaster where you’ll blow by skiers and snowboarders. Night skiing is also popular, as well as snow tubing on the groomed lanes.
7. Ski the Slopes at Grand Targhee Ski Resort
With over 500 inches of annual snowfall per year, Grand Targhee Ski Resort offers the perfect vacation for ski enthusiasts. In addition to over 2,000 acres of lift-served terrain, there’s cat skiing, backcountry touring, fat biking, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing available.
On top of all that, you can enjoy unrivaled views of the Grand Teton Mountains while you enjoy your winter sports. More laid-back than Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, at Grand Targhee you’ll find a calm atmosphere with excellent ski options for all skill levels.
It’s considered a hidden gem for skiers and snowboarders, with a vertical drop of around 2,400 feet. There are fewer people here, which means you’ll have plenty of room to explore. If you want a challenge, there are some startling sections that are steep, while there’s also a beginner area to learn without advanced skiers buzzing by.
This mountain getaway is also an exciting destination in the warmer months, offering over 70 miles of hiking and biking trails. Families will find endless options for outdoor recreation, including scenic chair rides to the summit of Fred’s Mountain, a climbing wall, a bungee trampoline, and a nature center.
8. Marvel at Devils Tower National Monument
One of the coolest things to do in Wyoming, Devils Tower National Monument offers you a chance to see a fascinating 65-million-year-old rock formation up close. Considered a sacred site by Northern Plain Indians, you can learn about its unique geology as well as the indigenous people and diverse wildlife.
A popular spot for hikers, the 1.3-mile Tower Trail encircles the base and is dotted with prayer cloths placed there by local tribe members. You can marvel at the stunning views of the 1,200-foot-tall granite formation along the way, which sits majestically like a skyscraper in the Belle Fourche River Valley.
The natural formation is about 1,000 feet in diameter at the bottom and 275 feet at the top, which also makes it one of the most iconic climbing destinations in the United States. Featuring huge hexagonal columns and over 200 climbing routes, many consider it to be one of the finest traditional crack climbing areas in North America.
Keep your eyes peeled for bison, mule, white deer, and prairie dogs making regular appearances among the natural landscapes. Night sky viewing offers a unique experience. You’ll find popular star gazing spots at Joyner Ridge Parking Lot and Trail and the Circle of Sacred Smoke Sculpture and Picnic Area.
9. Take a Sleigh Ride through National Elk Refuge
A must on your Wyoming bucket list, at the National Elk Refuge you can see one of the largest elk herds in the world. Located near Jackson Hole, it’s home to more than 7,000 majestic elk and offers incredible adventures like sleigh rides in the winter.
Available from mid-December through early April, it’s one of the best wildlife experiences in the United States. Getting you within 20-30 feet of the elk, a guide will lead you through the area’s best sights and give you an overview of how thousands of elk have migrated here for centuries.
Seeing other wildlife here is also common, with eagles, coyotes, foxes, bison, and wolves often spotted on your outdoor journey. It’s not just about the animals at the refuge, though, as you’ll also be surrounded by some of Wyoming’s most incredible scenery, including the picture-perfect Grand Tetons!
Sign up for the National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides tour, which gives you about 45 minutes to an hour on the sleigh and takes you right to the heart of the action. The action-packed tour is given on an open-air ride, which means you’ll be guaranteed a front-row seat to the captivating wildlife viewing.
10. Tour the National Museum of Wildlife Art
Located in Jackson, the National Museum of Wildlife Art boasts a world-renowned collection of wildlife and Western artistic creations. It’s one of the most unique museums in the United States, featuring over 5,000 works of art that cover everything from art history to the natural behavior of animals.
Nestled on a butte overlooking the 20,000-acre National Elk Refuge, it’s also a popular pit stop on the way to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National parks. Step inside to browse its collection that represents wild animals from across the globe. Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol are just two of the notable artists showcased in the museum’s galleries.
You can explore a comprehensive history of wildlife in art, all the way from 2500 BC to the present day. The Greene Pathways Gallery showcases animals native to North America, while the JKM Gallery features thematic wildlife paintings and the Widener Gallery displays works by European wildlife artists.
Don’t miss the Carl Rungius Gallery, which is the largest public collection of his work in the country. Kids will also find a section designed for them, as the Children’s Discovery Gallery features a range of fun, hands-on activities, a life-size diorama, animal costumes, and a puppet theater.
11. Immerse Yourself in Native American Culture in Wind River Country
Located within the Wind River Mountain Range, Wind River Country is a unique destination where you can dive deep into Native American culture and traditions. It’s home to the Wind River Indian Reservation, the seventh-largest reservation in the United States, as well as the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho Indian tribes.
On the reservations, you can watch real-life Native American powwows and learn about tribal customs. If you time your visit right, you can attend the popular Eastern Shoshone Indian Days to experience the drum groups, dancers, and local vendors. Another notable event is the Northern Arapaho Powwow, which is Wyoming’s oldest powwow.
Weekly cultural events are typically held from May through September at the Wind River Indian Reservation, including educational experiences and exciting dance performances. You can also visit the gravesites of Chief Washakie and Sacajawea. After that, explore one of the cultural centers to learn about the tribes who live there.
12. Admire Glacier-Carved Valleys in the Wind River Range
After you explore Native American Culture in Wind River Country, get outside and see what makes the Wind River Gorge so special. Offering a backdrop for epic outdoor adventures, this top Wyoming destination features beautiful mountain lakes, alpine meadows, and glaciers.
It’s a top hiking area in Wyoming for a reason! It’s home to more than 40 peaks over 13,000 feet in elevation and seven of the largest glaciers in the Rocky Mountains.
You’ll find endless opportunities to enjoy the spectacular scenery on various trails. Favorite trails include Bear’s Ear Trail, Silas Canyon, Wind River Peak, and Elkhart Park to Sacred Rim, as well as the hike to Popo Agie Falls in Sinks Canyon State Park.
Fishing is another top activity in the lakes, rivers, and streams, with fly fishing and ice fishing offering access to brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. Thrill-seekers can try whitewater rafting, canoeing, or kayaking, while the Cirque of the Towers attracts rock climbers.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back adventure, drive along the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway from the town of Shoshoni to Thermopolis to marvel at dramatic views of the rock walls dating back 2.5 billion years. For an overnight adventure, full-service campgrounds can be found in Dubois, Lander, Riverton, and Shoshoni.
13. Explore the Wild West in Cody
You can go back in time to the Wild West in Cody, a charming frontier town in Wyoming known for its collection of interesting cultural attractions. Located about 50 miles from Yellowstone National Park, this “Rodeo Capital of the World” offers an authentic Old West experience for history buffs.
The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is the town’s most popular attraction, featuring five museums under one roof. The Old Trail Town is another site not to miss, home to a collection of 26 historic cabins filled with authentic relics where you can experience first-hand what an old western town was like.
If you’re up for an outdoor adventure, you can also raft the Shoshone River or hike a scenic trail in the Shoshone National Forest. If you time your visit right, you can attend the town’s annual rodeos. The Cody Night Rodeo and Cody Stampede are both held in the summer.
When it’s time to dine, the Irma Hotel & Restaurant is famous for its prime rib buffet and is filled to the brim with Old West charm and covered in old Wild West pictures and relics. Burn off your meal strolling the walkable downtown area, which features art galleries and boutique shops selling cowboy apparel.
14. Learn About the American West at Buffalo Bill Center of the West
A top attraction in Wyoming, Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody deserves a spot of its own on your trip itinerary. This complex of five museums is one of the best things to do in Wyoming if you’re a history enthusiast, featuring a fascinating collection of art and artifacts from the American West.
There’s plenty to do here, with a chance to see relics of Plains Indians culture, famous cowboy attire, and firearms, and classic and modern western artwork. You have your pick of topics at the various attractions, which include the Buffalo Bill Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, and Whitney Western Art Museum.
With so much to cover, it’s a good thing your museum admission is good for two days! Start by browsing the possessions of Buffalo Bill at the Buffalo Bill Museum or timeless artifacts from the 1800s in the Plains Indian Museum, then see over 10,000 firearms in the Cody Firearms Museum.
If you’ve got the kids in tow, they’ll love the immersive exhibits on display at the Draper Natural History Museum. Alternately, the Whitney Western Art Museum is a dream for art lovers with its timeless classics from Remington, Russel, Moran, and Bierstadt.
15. Hike to Shell Falls in Bighorn National Forest
Located in north-central Wyoming, the majestic Bighorn Mountains are a sister range of the Rocky Mountains. Offering 1,200 miles of trails and 189,000 acres of wilderness, the Bighorn National Forest is where you’ll find Shell Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wyoming!
It’s only a short walk to see the powerful 125-foot-tall waterfall up-close. The waterfall is easy to access and is surrounded by deep gorges and stunning natural landscapes on Shell Creek. Be sure to stop at the Shell Falls Visitor Center to learn more about the area through its interpretive signs.
Follow the designated out-and-back path to discover a direct view of Shell Falls tumbling over the granite rock. Afterward, you’ll find a quick 1/8-mile loop where you can enjoy the area’s scenic setting and other viewpoints of the cascading waters.
On a clear day, you can even spot a partial view of the smaller Brindle Falls at another lookout. This Wyoming wonder is a natural attraction that can be enjoyed by the entire family, as the easy-to-follow trail is good for all skill levels.
16. Take a Road Trip on the Beartooth Highway
One of the most scenic drives in the United States, the Beartooth Highway is an All-American Road. This iconic road trip is a must on your Wyoming bucket list, as it climbs 10,000 feet through pine forests and offers impressive views of glaciers, pristine lakes, and forested valleys, as well as views of more than 20 peaks towering above 12,000 feet.
Known as a gateway to Yellowstone, Beartooth Highway is 68 miles in length and stretches between northwest Wyoming and southwest Montana. You’ll find numerous outlooks along the way where you can stop and marvel at the views.
The Clay Butte Lookout Tower is a popular overlook a few miles from the Wyoming-Montana border. Don’t miss landmarks like the Bear’s Tooth, a jagged rock feature that resembles a bear’s sharp tooth.
Marvel at the high mountain lakes on one of the highest roads in Wyoming, including the picturesque Beartooth Lake and Island Lake, or get out and follow one of the many hiking trails along the way. If you want to camp overnight, the Beartooth Lake Campground and Island Lake Campground have tent and RV sites.
While it’s one of the top things to do in Wyoming, this road trip is not available in winter. With sharp curving switchbacks and dramatic inclines, it’s best tackled in good weather from late May to mid-October. Plan for extra time to pull over for a better look at the sights.
17. Tour Fort Laramie National Historic Site
Take a step back in time at Fort Laramie National Historic Site, a place where emigrants, U.S. Army soldiers, and Native Americans once traveled and worked. First established as a private fur-trading fort in 1834, it evolved into the largest and most popular military post on the Northern Plains.
Before it was abandoned in 1890, the “grant old post” was part of America’s western expansion and Indian resistance. You can visit this historical landmark near Torrington to learn more about the notable events, with your visit starting in the restored 1884 Commissary Storehouse.
Watch an orientation film before entering the museum, which brings history to life with staff dressed in period costumes. Explore the 12 restored buildings that date back to 1849, which include interpretive panels describing the buildings and a peek at prairie wagons, Mormon carts, and ox carts. If you time your visit right, you might catch one of the historic weapons demonstrations.
For more adventure, follow the site’s Confluence National Recreation trail that takes you to the Old Iron Bridge and junction of the Platte and Laramie rivers. In addition to spectacular nature views, you can catch a glimpse of local birds and other wildlife.
18. Enjoy a Soak at Hot Springs State Park
Home to a free bathhouse open to the public year-round, Hot Springs State Park is the perfect spot for therapeutic bathing. Located in Thermopolis, the world-famous mineral hot springs are set over colorful terraces and maintained at 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
After a soak, test your bravery by crossing the park’s suspension footbridge. Commonly called “The Swinging Bridge,” it offers incredible views over the Bighorn River. You can also stop to photograph the Teepee Fountain, a unique mound of rock shaped by the mineral-rich groundwater.
If you’re traveling with the family, you can also add a visit to Star Plunge to your itinerary. Located within the state park, the kid-friendly attraction features indoor and outdoor swimming pools, giant water slides, and mineral pools. There are also sun decks, a fountain waterfall, and a unique vapor cave where hot mineral water heats the room.
In addition to soaking and swimming, Hot Springs State Park is also a notable wildlife-watching destination. Home to around 25 bison, in the winter and fall months, you can often spot these resident animals roaming the grounds. The full-service day-use park is also popular for fishing and boasts boat ramps and group picnic areas.
19. Learn About Early Explorers at National Historic Trails Interpretive Center
Get off the beaten path and head to National Historic Trails Interpretive Center for an immersive look at Wyoming’s rich history. At this free attraction in Casper, you can follow the journey of the half-million pioneers who passed through the state on their westward adventure via the California, Oregon, Mormon, and Pony Express trails.
An important part of American history, these fascinating tales are told through seven interactive exhibit areas. In addition to multi-media presentations, you can explore its simulated covered wagon and stagecoach rides or catch one of the living history demonstrations.
Spend an afternoon browsing the collection of interpretive panels, captivating life-size displays, and artifacts that give a first-hand look at the treacherous journey. Through the interpretive center’s hands-on exhibits, you can start to understand what life was like for these pioneers between 1841 and 1868.
You can make a whole day of visiting the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, with its 500 acres of land also offering four miles of trails. Along with scenic landscape views, you can get up close to the trails that were once carved by emigrant wagons.
20. See Prehistoric Creatures at Wyoming Dinosaur Center
Located in Thermopolis, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center was once named one of the world’s coolest places for kids by Time Magazine. Founded in 1995 as a home for the fossils discovered in the hills just 10 minutes away, parents will love this top attraction too!
In fact, you can see nearly 20,000 dinosaur bones and some of the most amazing fossils ever found on display. Browse the museum and its 30 mounted skeletons, visit a preparation lab with visitor viewing, and marvel at the museum’s collection of dioramas that bring history to life.
If you want an even more immersive experience, sign up for one of the Dig Site Tours. On the 1.5-hour trip, you’ll be taken to a famous dig site, called “Something Interesting,” and learn about the geology of the area and where the actual bones are found.
You can even take it a step further and join a “Dig for A Day,” where you can actually dig for bones in one of the active dinosaur dig sites and search an ancient sea for marine fossils. There’s even a “Kids Dig” for little ones, where they get hands-on and take home a Dino-mite souvenir.
21. See How Handcrafted Bourbon is Made at Wyoming Whiskey
A fun activity for those 21 years old and up, Wyoming Whiskey is an independent, family-owned distillery located in Kirby in the Big Horn Basin. The distillery is deeply connected to the heritage of Wyoming, with its owner’s fourth-generation cattle ranchers.
They make bourbon in small batches on cattle ranch land, where the water is sourced from a limestone aquifer. It’s all about keeping it 100% Wyoming here, as they even source non-GMO grains from a local farm. Some of the most popular beverages here include its award-winning small-batch bourbon whiskey, single-barrel bourbon whiskey, and barrel-strength bourbon whiskey.
You can take a tour of this local Wyoming distillery. From milling to fermentation, you’ll see how the whiskey is aged for a minimum of five years and visit the distillation area with its copper still. Along the way, you’ll hear about the six rickhouses, charred oak barrels, and traditional process that makes their bourbon stand out from the crowd.
After you see how the company’s fresh ingredients and its handcrafted whiskey are made, make sure to try a few samples of their products. Head over to the on-site Whiskey Shop for a chance to purchase unique Wyoming Whiskey products and gear.
22. See Impressive Petroglyphs at Legend Rock Petroglyph Site
A popular Wyoming destination for history lovers, the Legend Rock Petroglyph Site is a one-of-a-kind natural attraction. Home to over 300 different petroglyphs, it’s noted as one of the most impressive petroglyph areas in the world.
Located about 23 miles west of the city of Thermopolis, it features a large collection of individual sandstone panels, some dating back 10,000 years. Visiting here is like a step back in time, as it has been a sacred site for Native Americans for thousands of years.
You can start your journey in the Visitor Center to learn more about the fascinating rock art and its rich history. Follow the interpretive trails to see the historic pieces up close, then take a break under the shade of one of the park’s picnic shelters.
Just be respectful of the petroglyphs and stay on the marked trails, observing proper respect for the people who hold this site sacred. You are not allowed to touch any of the rock panels, as they are fragile and can be affected by the oils on your hands.
23. Hike to a Canyon Overlook in Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s home to spectacular vistas that include red canyon walls and lush green forests. With over 200,000 acres of scenic landscape and wilderness, it spans 91 miles through the states of Wyoming and Utah.
Tucked away in the southwest corner of the state, it’s one of the best places in Wyoming for outdoor recreation. Take in the amazing Lake Flaming Gorge and Red Canyon views along the three-mile Bear Canyon Bootleg Trail, or marvel at the unique geological features found in Fantasy Canyon. For one of the most impressive overlooks, hike the Dowd Mountain trails or Basset Springs Loop trek.
If you want to get out on the water, the reservoir offers opportunities for boating, fishing, tubing, and kayaking from its endless shores and coves. You’ll find plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails to choose from, while camping overnight offers a serene setting with wide-open skies for stargazing.
If you want to catch a glimpse of some local wildlife, hop in the car and drive along the scenic route along Flaming Gorge. Its mountainous landscape blends into the desert, where you can often spot mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and wild horses.
24. Camp Overnight in Curt Gowdy State Park
Named after the famous sportscaster Curt Gowdy, Curt Gowdy State Park features seven sections of varied landscape with picture-perfect views of the Laramie Mountains. Located 24 miles west of Cheyenne and 24 miles east of Laramie, it offers the perfect setting for a range of outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and camping.
You’ll find three reservoirs in this park: Granite Springs, Crystal, and Upper North Crow. Bring your rod and reel for the chance to lure in a variety of fish species, such as rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon, or enjoy a leisurely day of boating on the water. In winter, ice fishing is popular!
If you’re looking for a thrill, the park features 35 miles of well-marked trails for mountain biking. Suited for many skill levels, this scenic spot boasts incredible views of the area’s shimmering reservoirs and is considered one of the best mountain biking destinations in Wyoming. The trails are even groomed in the winter, which means you can visit year-round.
You can also stay overnight to enjoy Curt Gowdy’s scenic landscapes when the sun goes down. There are 178 campsites that you can reserve. And the Aspen Grove campground is next to a free public horse corral if you want to camp with your horse.
25. Attend Cheyenne Frontier Days
One of the biggest annual events in Wyoming, Cheyenne Frontier Days will have you traveling back to the Old West. The capital city, known as the “National Rodeo Capital,” transforms into a cowboy-like movie for 10 days for this one-of-a-kind experience.
Pack your cowboy boots for this fun event, which is considered one of the world’s largest rodeo events. Typically held in the summer at the end of July, professionals flock here to win prizes at the various rodeos, which include events like barrel racing, bull riding, bareback riding, and team roping.
It’s not all about the rodeos, though, as you can also enjoy the food vendors, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. Kids will love the carnival rides, grand parade, and re-enactments of gunfights and showdowns held in Gunslinger Square, while all ages can appreciate the authentic Native American dancing in the Indian Village and free pancake breakfasts.
If you can’t make it out to Wyoming for the Frontier Days, the next best thing is a visit to the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum. This cultural and historical center features intriguing western artifacts, including an extensive collection of carriages. You can also learn about the first rodeo in 1897 and how Cheyenne Frontier Days have changed over the years.
There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Wyoming. What’s your favorite thing to do in The Equality State?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Easily one of the most beautiful parks in North America, Grand Teton National Park is filled to the brim with natural wonders. Hop in the car and take in the park’s most spectacular scenery along Teton Park Road. Winding around the base of the Teton Range, it offers iconic lookout points with impressive vistas, where you can marvel at the Tetons, Menors Ferry Historic District, the Snake River Overlook, and Jenny Lake. You can also drive to Schwabacher Landing to admire the reflection of the Tetons in the waters of Snake River.
A top travel destination in Wyoming, Jackson is nestled at the base of the Teton Mountain Range and is a popular jumping-off point for excursions into Jackson Hole. It also has a prime location near Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, which makes it one of the best places to visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
With over 500 inches of annual snowfall per year, Grand Targhee Ski Resort offers the perfect vacation for ski enthusiasts. In addition to over 2,000 acres of lift-served terrain, there’s cat skiing, backcountry touring, fat biking, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing available.
Named after the famous sportscaster Curt Gowdy, Curt Gowdy State Park features seven sections of varied landscape with picture-perfect views of the Laramie Mountains. Located 24 miles west of Cheyenne and 24 miles east of Laramie, it offers the perfect setting for a range of outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and camping.
Yellowstone National Park not only ranks high on most travelers’ Wyoming bucket lists but also on the top places to visit in the United States. Home to a long list of epic natural wonders, hiking trails, and awe-inspiring nature views, it’s absolutely one of the coolest things to do in Wyoming if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.
After you explore Native American Culture in Wind River Country, get outside and see what makes the Wind River Gorge so special. Offering a backdrop for epic outdoor adventures, this top Wyoming destination features beautiful mountain lakes, alpine meadows, and glaciers. It’s a top hiking area in Wyoming for a reason! It’s home to more than 40 peaks over 13,000 feet in elevation and seven of the largest glaciers in the Rocky Mountains.
