Best attractions in Wyoming
One word comes to mind when you think of Wyoming: Yellowstone. This sparsely populated state is home to Yellowstone National Park. One of the country’s most prized treasures and beautiful landscapes. But there’s a lot more to Wyoming than just Yellowstone.
Travel in Wyoming should first be about exploring the natural wonders. Stunning views tucked into every corner of the state. On your visit to Wyoming, you’ll be able to see some of nature’s most beautiful artwork at the state’s national parks and unique monuments.
Yellowstone National Park
To many Yellowstone National Park is the “granddaddy” of America’s National Parks. Yellowstone spans more than 3,000 square miles, covering lands that include lakes, canyons, rivers, and mountains.
Yellowstone National Park is the second largest national park in the lower 48. With so much to explore, including over 10,000 hydrothermal features, more than half the world’s geysers, 466 miles of road and trailheads.
Its most notable landmark is Old Faithful, a geyser with eruptions that are on time and predictable, to earn its nickname. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including Grizzly bears, wolves, free-ranging bison, and elk are among the park’s most well-known.
Grand Teton National Park
Wyoming’s other popular National Park is Grand Teton National Park. Which includes some of the country’s most impressive mountains. Part of the 40-mile long Teton Range. With well marked routes ascending daring cliffs. Grand Teton has become a Mecca for mountaineering and rock climbing.
It’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife provide the perfect location for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Delve deeper into this region’s breathtaking scenery.
Grand Teton National Park is easily identified by the snow-capped spine of the Teton mountain range and encompasses over 310,000 acres of forests, lakes, rivers, waterfalls and mountain trails to explore.
Fossil Butte National Monument
The land that makes up Fossil Butte dates to almost 56 million years ago. Evidence of which seen today in the fossilized forms of ancient plants and animals. Fossil Butte National Monument was created to protect this area. Which has preserved the fossils of fish, alligators, bats, small horses, turtles, insects, and several other species.
Explore one of the world’s largest deposits of freshwater fish fossils. Be sure to visit Fossil Butte’s visitor center with over 300 fossils on display. Visitors can also take a ride along the site’s scenic drive.
Independence Rock State Historic Site
Independence Rock State Historic Site located in Natrona County. Has been famous since the days of the Oregon Trail for its memorable form jutting about 130 feet up into the air and stretching more than 1,900 feet long.
While travelers passed through, many of them carved their names into the granite wall. Several thousands of these names are still visible.
The rock made of granite, and how exactly nature shaped its rounded form is not known. But it is a popular topic of inquiry. Independence Rock today is an awe-inspiring attraction for Wyoming locals and visitors.
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
In the middle of the 20th century the Bighorn River transformed into an enormous lake. Which extends 55 miles through the bottom of Bighorn Canyon, thanks to the construction of the Yellowtail Dam. Today, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is a popular recreation area. Known for excellent fishing and diverse landscape.
With over 120,000 acres of wilderness that straddle the northern Wyoming and southern Montana borders, Bighorn Canyon offers endless opportunities for adventure flowing all the way down to the end of the Bighorn Mountains. With over 12 hiking trails there is a trail for everyone.
Fort Laramie National Historic Site
Fort Laramie National Historic Site is on the land of a 19th century trading post and diplomatic site. That played an important role in the economic and political spheres of the early frontier. Later in the century the trading post converted into a U.S. military fort.
Today visitors to the fort can learn about its fascinating history and explore several of the restored buildings. Eleven structures are now restored and refurnished to their historic appearances.
Begin your tour at the visitor center located in the restored 1884 Commissary Storehouse with an 18-minute orientation film before entering the museum and browsing the bookstore.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West
The Buffalo Bill Center of the West plays tribute to the legendary frontiersman William F. “Buffalo Bill Cody.” The museum considered to the be the oldest and most comprehensive museum. Dedicated to chronicling the history of the American West. Has received nationwide recognition, in addition to being part of the Smithsonian Affiliations program.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West houses five world-class museums and a research library all under one roof. Discover the art of the West through stunning, priceless masterworks of painting and sculpture.
Devils Tower National Monument
One of Wyoming’s most dramatic landscapes, Devils Tower a rock formation that juts upward to a stunning 1,267 feet and oddly shaped like a tree stump. The Devils Tower National Monument is composed of sedimentary rocks and first began to form more than 200 million years ago.
While most visitors go to this mammoth rock just for photographs and to gaze in wonder. Daring athletes consider Devils Tower to be prime for climbing.
Stop at the visitor’s center to learn about one of the ranger-led programs, night sky viewing, hiking and climbing to the top of Devils Tower.
Hot Springs State Park
In the aptly named city of Thermopolis visitors can enjoy the soothing pools and pleasant views at this popular state park. Hot Springs State Park is home to state-run and private pools, inns, and other facilities.
It is a full-service park with restrooms, Volksmarch trail, fishing and a couple of boat docks and a group picnic shelter that can be reserved.
Over colorful terraces along the Big Horn River at Thermopolis flows water from mineral hot springs, over 18,000 gallons every 24 hours at a constant temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit. The park has a free Bath House where the water is maintained at 104 degrees for therapeutic bathing.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
The Flaming Gorge Nation Recreation Area surrounds the 91 mile long Flaming Gorge Reservoir spanning the states of Wyoming and Utah. A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Popular activities in the recreation area include camping, hiking, boating, and fishing. One section of the river is also a favorite spot for rafting. Around the Flaming Gorge, you will find plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails. There is even plenty of room to camp along the water.
Things to do in Wyoming
Planning a trip to this beautiful state don’t forget all that nature has given Wyoming. Crystal blue lakes, snowcapped mountains, rugged cliffs and green valleys are just a few of the places you can explore in Wyoming.