Western spirit | the open road | lesser-known parks | summer activities for all
Wyoming
S ince the days of the earliest pioneers, Wyoming has held a special allure for those seeking adventure and a connection with the natural world. The least populated state in the U.S., Wyoming makes up for its sparse number of residents with its vast open spaces, inviting visitors to embrace the rugged landscape and unmatched beauty that defines the American West.
Wyoming, in this sense, is an idea as much as it is a place—one that embodies a spirit of freedom and exploration, with the ever-present opportunity for personal discovery. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history buff or simply in search of some restorative peace and quiet, Wyoming promises a memorable experience for all who venture into its untamed terrain.
Cowboy culture
Surrounded by over 1 million acres of the Bighorn National Forest, Paradise Guest Ranch in Buffalo offers visitors a chance to experience the true essence of Wyoming's cowboy culture. The 1000-acre ranch offers an enviable mix of relaxation and adventure amid sweeping mountain vistas and meadows full of wildflowers, pairing guests with individually selected horses that become trusted companions for the duration of a weeklong stay.
Activities include customized excursions like backcountry treks or fly-fishing in seldom-visited alpine lakes. This immersive experience is just one of Wyoming’s many destination ranches—including Lazy L&B Ranch in Dubois and Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga (a luxury option frequented by the likes of Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom and Reba McEntire).
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The Virginian Lodge | credit: Travis Burke
Western spirit
The open road
Wild at heart
Summer activities for all
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Buffalo Bill State Park | credit: @wanderingaroundtheus (IG)
Cowboy Country Distilling in Pinedale, Wyoming
Downtown Casper, Wyoming
White water rafting in Cody, Wyoming
Cheyenne Frontier Days in Cheyenne, Wyoming
Buffalo grazing in the Eastern Shoshone Buffalo Enclosure in Morton, Wyoming
Hole-In-The-Wall
Woodchoppers Jamboree & Rodeo
Guernsey State Park
Grizzly bear and elk in Jackson
Sinks Canyon | credit: @destinationlander (IG)
Water rafting on the Shoshone River
Killpecker Sand Dunes
Boar's Tusk in southwest Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park
Medicine Bow National Forest
The town of Cody, named after Wild West showman "Buffalo Bill" Cody, calls itself the "Rodeo Capital of the World," and when witnessing the Cody Nite Rodeo, it's easy to see why. Held every summer night from June to August since 1938, visitors can easily fit this long-running local event into their Wyoming itineraries.
For those seeking a bigger spectacle, the Cody Stampede Rodeo—a Fourth of July tradition for the past 105 years—attracts some of the top rodeo talent in the country as one of nine stops on the Million Dollar Gold Tour Series. Further bolstering its credentials, the Cody Stampede Rodeo is a repeat winner of "Best Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year'' by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
Native American heritage
The original inhabitants of Wyoming were Native American tribes like the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho, who have lived off the natural resources of this region for thousands of years. Their way of life is intimately connected with the land and its seasons, developing a deep understanding of the world that helped them thrive in their environment.
Today, Wyoming's trails, roads and highways follow centuries-old Native American hunting and trade routes—a reminder of the impact these tribes have had on Wyoming's history. Located in the “Valley of the Warm Winds,” the Wind River Indian Reservation (headquarters to the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative) encompasses more than 2.2 million acres and is home to thousands of tribal members who continue to preserve their heritage. Visit Vore Buffalo Jump, a notable archaeological site of the late-prehistoric Plains Indians, or browse locally made crafts at the St. Stephens Indian Mission and Heritage Center.
Ready-made road trips
Wyoming isn't just where the rich and famous seek refuge from the bright lights of Hollywood (don't worry, Jackson resident Harrison Ford hasn't crashed his plane in years). It's also a destination that has captured the imaginations of artists, writers and filmmakers for decades, inspiring the Cowboy State Pop Culture Itinerary that allows travelers to walk in those footsteps.
The Season 3 premiere of the Emmy Award-winning sitcom "Modern Family" saw the Dunphy and Pritchett families swap their suburban LA lives for a stay at Lost Creek Ranch Lodge & Spa in Jackson Hole, bringing some 100 members of the show's cast and crew on location.
Itineraries catering to a wide range of interests can be crafted for those exploring Wyoming in the summer. History buffs in particular will enjoy the Devour the History of the Wild West Itinerary—a three-day journey that makes stops at various historic sites and landmarks.
The Occidental Hotel and Saloon in Buffalo (frequented by Buffalo Bill Cody, Teddy Roosevelt and General Phil Sheridan), Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum (a former Carnegie Library building that houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the history of the American West) and Crazy Woman Canyon (a scenic drive with towering cliffs and a dark and mysterious history) are just a few of the spots included in this tour of Old Wyoming.
Hiding in plain sight
Fill up your gas tank and continue your journey across Wyoming's scenic backroads, and you're sure to stumble upon other unique attractions. Perhaps the most infamous is Hole-In-The-Wall, a natural wonder that's been attracting travelers for centuries. This remote area in central Wyoming was famously used as a hideout by outlaws such as Butch Cassidy and Jesse James and is now a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Taylor’s Invasion Bar & Grill in nearby Kaycee has the large portions and friendly service you’ll need to fuel the rest of your journey.
State parks on a grand scale
If anything, the term "state park" is a bit of a misnomer when it comes to Wyoming. Not because the label is inaccurate, but because it fails to convey the breadth and scale of these hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Located just an hour from Yellowstone Lake, Buffalo Bill State Park outside Cody doubles as a suitable base camp for exploring the iconic national park while still boasting its attractions. The park's varied terrain includes rolling grasslands with a backdrop of the Absaroka Mountains. The Buffalo Bill Reservoir is another focal point, as fishermen can reel in trout and walleye, while others may choose to hike Sheep Mountain Trail, a 4.2-mile loop offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Wyoming's rugged outdoors beckon adventure enthusiasts from around the globe, and the natural scenery of these state parks allow for a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking (Bear River), biking (Curt Gowdy), climbing (Sinks Canyon), fishing (Seminoe) and camping (Keyhole)—you name it, Wyoming has it.
The only trail system to earn the designation of "Epic" by the International Mountain Biking Association, Curt Gowdy State Park in Cheyenne offers over 35 miles of multi-use trails that wind through picturesque landscapes of pine forests and rock formations. Two hours north, near Fort Laramie National Historic Site in Goshen County, you'll find Guernsey State Park; five of the seven campgrounds surround the waters of the Guernsey Reservoir, used for fishing, boating and swimming. Brimmer Point Trail is a gentle 1-mile hike that rewards hikers with views of the reservoir and surrounding cliffs.
One of Wyoming’s most underrated natural wonders, Sinks Canyon State Park in Lander is named after a distinct geological phenomenon in which the Popo Agie river disappears into a limestone cavern and then reappears downstream in a large pool called "The Rise." The park is also a premier rock climbing destination, beckoning climbers with three types of rock (granite, limestone and sandstone).
Visiting responsibly
You know the motto: Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints. As one of the most pristine and untouched natural areas in the country, Wyoming's beauty is best experienced with respect for its environment and wildlife.
Maintaining a respectful distance from the animals is critical to their safety as well as yours. Make sure to stay on designated trails and avoid disrupting natural habitats or disturbing wildlife. Responsible camping and hiking practices are also important, so be sure to pack out any trash, extinguish fires properly and leave the environment as pristine as you found it. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and follow all park rules and regulations. Cell phone service can be limited in more remote parts of the state, so make sure to bring plenty of food and water and don't rely solely on technology for navigation.
Explorers by nature
Ditch the laptop and pack your bags. Wyoming's boundless landscapes and towering mountains offer endless opportunities for adventure-seekers to test their limits and experience the great outdoors like never before.
Not that this natural playground is exclusively for the rugged and experienced. Many of Wyoming's most stunning sights and activities are accessible to all levels of adventurers, from beginners to experts. Regardless of your age or comfort level, there are guides, outfitters and tour operators stationed throughout the state who love nothing more than to share their passion for the outdoors and convert newcomers into lifelong explorers.
Whet your appetite for adventure with a rafting trip down the Snake River in Jackson Hole, the Wind River Canyon outside Thermopolis—or float through the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge along the Green River. Water outfitters like Mad River Boat Trips and Teton Whitewater LLC in Jackson, as well as Native-owned Wind River Canyon Whitewater & Fly-Fishing in Thermopolis, are ready to provide thrilling experiences on the water while ensuring safety and excitement for all.
Known for its wild horse safari trips, Cody Wyoming Adventures also operates white water rafting trips on the Shoshone River, as does Wyoming River Trips and River Runners of Wyoming.
Geological wonders
Centuries upon centuries of geological activity have shaped Wyoming's unique landscapes, resulting in a wealth of natural wonders to explore and allowing visitors to witness the dynamic forces of nature at work. Located in the Red Desert of southern Wyoming, the Killpecker Sand Dunes is the second-largest active sand dune field in the world at nearly 50 miles long and up to 10 miles wide. Appearing like a small sea with soft waves, these dunes offer a surreal and otherworldly experience for visitors to go sledding, sandboarding and even ATV-ing down their slopes.
Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga (left); Lazy L&B Ranch in Dubois (right)
Embracing the Wild West spirit, Wyoming’s cowboy culture is deeply ingrained in its history and way of life. From rodeos and ranching to cowboy boots and country music, this rich heritage is celebrated by locals and tourists alike. It’s not just a thing of the past, but a living tradition that continues to thrive in Wyoming today. Even in the cities, you can find traces of cowboy influence on food, art and daily life. No matter where you go in Wyoming, the cowboy spirit lives on.
Cody Stampede Rodeo
Welcome to your first rodeo
No trip to Wyoming is complete without visiting a rodeo. These competitions offer an electrifying taste of the cowboy lifestyle, drawing cowboys and cowgirls from across the country to compete in various rodeo events.
Watch as riders hold on for dear life during the bull riding competition at Cheyenne Frontier Days, “The world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western Celebration” (kicking up dust in July since 1897), or head to Casper for the College National Finals Rodeo — the rodeo equivalent of college basketball's March Madness—which takes place every June.
Dress the part
This may be your first time wearing that Patagonia vest outside the boardroom, but don't stop there. Lest you be detected as an interloping city slicker, you'll need a fresh pair of cowboy boots, a Stetson hat and some well-worn jeans to blend in with the crowd.
Serving the West since 1919, Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters in Casper is a nine-floor, 55,000-square-foot Western emporium where you can find everything you need to look the part, from classic workwear denim like Wrangler and Levi’s, to Western-themed art and home furnishings. One floor is dedicated to cowboy boots alone, with an estimated 10,000 pairs to choose from in various colors, styles and sizes. Martindale's Western Store in Laramie and Wayne's Boot Shop in Cody have a similarly extensive collection of cowboy apparel, the latter of which is just 3 miles away from Stampede Park.
Shopping in Jackson, Wyoming
With its stunning landscapes, vast open spaces and rich history, Wyoming is the perfect setting for a road trip. Not only does Wyoming boast spectacular natural wonders, but also a myriad of outdoor activities and curiosities for adventurers of all levels. From hiking in the picturesque national parks to exploring its charming towns, there's no shortage of incredible experiences to be had in this remarkable state.
Heading northeast, a pair of historic hotels greet visitors as they drive along Wyoming Highway 120 and US Highway 16, respectively. Built by Buffalo Bill in 1902 and named after his youngest daughter, the Irma Hotel in downtown Cody is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (the hotel's cherrywood bar was even a gift from Queen Victoria). The Sheridan Inn, meanwhile, is where author Ernest Hemingway stayed in 1929 when he finished his novel "A Farewell to Arms,'' seeking solitude and inspiration in the quiet beauty of the area. Another historic hotel with literary bona fides is the Virginian Hotel (located south along Interstate 25), which was a favorite haunt of Owen Wister, who wrote the novel of the same name.
Devils Tower National Monument
Crazy Woman Canyon
Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum
Occidental Hotel and Saloon in Buffalo, Wyoming
Wyoming's unique topography, with its towering mountains and often eerily barren plains, has an otherworldly quality, making it the perfect backdrop for sci-fi thrillers like "Starship Troopers" (shot at Hell's Half Acre in Casper) and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." Eager to evoke a sense of mystery and wonder, location scouts for the 1976 film by Steven Spielberg searched across the globe before settling on Devils Tower National Monument in the northeast corner of the state.
Save room for seconds, as the Chugwater Chili Cook-Off, returning June 15 for its 38th annual celebration, has grown to the largest single-day event in the entire state. The burn will definitely be worth it, with dozens of booths serving up spicy chili along with a variety of other food and drinks—the perfect fuel for the International Climbers' Festival in Lander the following month. This festival celebrating the community of climbing, held this year from July 11-14, is the longest-running event of its kind, offering workshops, clinics and competitions for climbers of all levels.
The Chugwater Chili Cook-Off returns June 15
Next up, pass through Aladdin, a ghost town with a population of just 15 people, and check out the historic general store before heading to Devils Tower National Monument; this colossal rock formation rises more than 1,200 feet above the surrounding landscape and was a sacred site for many Native American tribes. Monk King Bird Pottery, operated out of a converted gas station in Jeffrey City (population 58), is a rewarding detour for anyone interested in artwork with an outlaw flair.
Summer events & festivals
A lot can happen in the “middle of nowhere.” Despite its small population and remote location, the Cowboy State offers a surprisingly diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy when the snow melts and temperatures start to rise.
An event as wild as the West, the Woodchoppers Jamboree & Rodeo (June 15-16) combines a parade, rodeo and woodchopping activities all in one event. The chips fly with logging competitions like ax chopping, tree felling and even a "Mad Logger" chainsaw throw, satiating their appetite for adrenaline while wolfing down wood-fired barbecue served by local vendors.
The 64th Annual Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow, held June 20-23, is the biggest powwow in the state and a defining event for one of the oldest Native American tribes in North America. Located at the Fort Washakie Powwow Grounds on the Wind River Indian Reservation, this celebration showcases traditional Native American dances, drumming, singing, and arts and crafts, as well as an Indian rodeo and relay races.
The Fort Bridger Mountain Man Rendezvous (Aug. 30 - Sept. 2) at Fort Bridger State Historic Site immerses visitors in the rugged and adventurous spirit of the fur trade era as one of the largest mountain man gatherings in the nation. Attendees are required to wear primitive attire dating back to the 1840s, including period-specific footwear, as visitors from across the country step back in time for four days of activities like Flint Lock Only Shoot, Women's Frying Pan Toss, Buckskinner's Ball and Gray Beard Mountain Man Run.
Fort Bridger Mountain Man Rendezvous
You won't have to worry about crowds and traffic when you hit the roads less traveled in Wyoming. Sure, the state is known for its national parks—and for good reason. But there's so much more to explore beyond those popular destinations.
Iconic views
Ansel Adams knew what he was doing. Wyoming's landscapes often rival stunning pieces of art, and nature's masterpieces are on display throughout the state. From staggering mountain ranges to dramatic rock formations, Wyoming showcases some of the most iconic views in the world.
Consider Grand Teton, rising dramatically from the Jackson Hole Valley. The jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Tetons are an unforgettable sight, especially when seen from Snake River Overlook or Signal Mountain. Another iconic sight is Cirque of the Towers, a collection of glacier-carved granite spires in the Wind River Range that form an amphitheater-like terrain. To witness this marvel up close, take a hike around Lonesome Lake, or embark on an exhilarating climb to the Mitchell Peak. The views from the top are simply breathtaking.
Grand Teton National Park
Wyoming is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with vast landscapes, jagged peaks and spectacular views that make it an ideal destination for unforgettable adventures. Hiking, camping, rock climbing, hunting, fishing and horseback riding are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy in this incredible state. Each season ushers in a unique set of experiences and opportunities to explore the natural wonders of the area, welcoming visitors of all ages to partake. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer, a first-time explorer or traveling with little ones in tow, you're sure to find something that suits your interests and abilities.
A volcanic core dating back 2.5 million years rises 400 feet above the surrounding landscape and splits into two prongs — hence the name Boar’s Tusk. This striking feature above the surrounding Killpecker Creek plain once used as a landmark by Native American tribes now serves as a unique attraction for hikers and photographers.
The thermal features of Old Faithful and the nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone need no introduction, but a trip to the hot springs of Saratoga offers a more secluded, tranquil and interactive experience. Two main options are available in this town located in southern Wyoming: Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, where visitors can soak in natural mineral hot springs and enjoy spa treatments, or Hobo Hot Springs—a free public hot spring open 24/7 for those seeking a more rustic experience.
Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone National Park
Dinosaur digs
Dinosaur enthusiasts both young and old will be delighted to explore Wyoming's rich prehistoric past. The state is home to several dinosaur excavation sites and museums, including the University of Wyoming Geological Museum in Laramie (home to a 75-foot-long skeleton of a sauropod apatosaurus), the Tate Geological Center in Casper (home to an 11,600-year-old mammoth skeleton named Dee) and the Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis (home of Jimbo the Supersaurus—a 106-foot long sauropod found near Douglas and the largest, most complete Supersaurus ever discovered).
The visitor center at Fossil Butte National Monument in Kemmerer has more than 2000 Green River Formation fossils on display, including a 10-foot-long crocodile. Nearby is Ulrich's Fossil Gallery, which offers guided fossil digging tours in the Green River Formation.
Fossil Butte National Monument
To infinity and beyond
Once you're done digging, shift your gaze upward to the vast expanse of the clear night sky and the stars above. With its low population and minimal light pollution, Wyoming allows visitors to experience some of the darkest skies in the country, and thus some of the best stargazing.
Camping or driving out to remote spots like Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in McKinnon, Vedauwoo Campground & Recreation Area in Buford and the Skyline Scenic Drive outside Pinedale will provide unparalleled opportunities to observe the star clusters, constellations and shooting stars that light up the sky each night.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
In the summer, Jackson Hole is a prime spot to view Saturn's rings, the Milky Way Galaxy and even the Andromeda Galaxy with the naked eye. Those with access to a telescope will be able to see the Ring of Nebula and the Cigar Galaxy, while June marks the highly anticipated arrival of Snow King Observatory. Seated on the crest of the ridge atop Snow King Mountain Resort, visitors can ride the ski resort gondola to the observatory and gaze upon the celestial wonders through professional-grade telescopes.
The 4,400-square-foot observatory will also feature a 35-seat planetarium theater and a rooftop observation deck to view astronomical events like meteor showers and eclipses. There’s even a solar telescope available to safely observe the sun during the day.
The BLOX Building (left); The Black Diamond (right)
Photo credit: Daniel Rasmussen
The International Climbers' Festival takes place July 11-14
Curt Gowdy State Park (left); Seminoe State Park (right)
Gillette, Wyoming
The Chugwater Chili Cook-Off returns June 15
Longmire Days 2024, a three-day festival based on the Walt Longmire novels and Netflix series created by Wyoming writer Craig Johnson, returns July 18-21 to Buffalo in Johnson County—the real-life location that inspired the fictional setting of Absaroka County used in the show. After stopping at the Bucking Buffalo Supply Company owned by Johnson's wife, Judy, fans of the series will have the chance to meet Johnson and the actors for an autograph session, enroll in a book writing seminar and enjoy commentary from the group during the event's charity softball game.
June 14-15 marks the return of Chris LeDoux Days in Kaycee, where fans of the late rodeo legend and country music star gather for a weekend filled with rodeo, live music and community celebration. Ned LeDoux, Kyle Park and Patrick W Stafford headline the concert lineup for the 13th edition of this event, which marries the best of cowboy culture and musical entertainment.
Brinton Museum in Bighorn
Western spirit | the open road | lesser-known parks | summer activities for all
Western spirit | the open road | lesser-known parks | summer activities for all
Western spirit | the open road | lesser-known parks | summer activities for all
Cowboy culture
Surrounded by over 1 million acres of the Bighorn National Forest, Paradise Guest Ranch in Buffalo offers visitors a chance to experience the true essence of Wyoming's cowboy culture. The 1000-acre ranch offers an enviable mix of relaxation and adventure amid sweeping mountain vistas and meadows full of wildflowers, pairing guests with individually selected horses that become trusted companions for the duration of a weeklong stay.
Activities include customized excursions like backcountry treks or fly-fishing in seldom-visited alpine lakes. This immersive experience is just one of Wyoming’s many destination ranches—including Lazy L&B Ranch in Dubois and Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga (a luxury option frequented by the likes of Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom and Reba McEntire).
Welcome to your first rodeo
No trip to Wyoming is complete without visiting a rodeo. These competitions offer an electrifying taste of the cowboy lifestyle, drawing cowboys and cowgirls from across the country to compete in various rodeo events.
Watch as riders hold on for dear life during the bull riding competition at Cheyenne Frontier Days, “The world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western Celebration” (kicking up dust in July since 1897), or head to Casper for the College National Finals Rodeo — the rodeo equivalent of college basketball's March Madness—which takes place every June.
Dress the part
This may be your first time wearing that Patagonia vest outside the boardroom, but don't stop there. Lest you be detected as an interloping city slicker, you'll need a fresh pair of cowboy boots, a Stetson hat and some well-worn jeans to blend in with the crowd.
Serving the West since 1919, Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters in Casper is a nine-floor, 55,000-square-foot Western emporium where you can find everything you need to look the part, from classic workwear denim like Wrangler and Levi’s, to Western-themed art and home furnishings. One floor is dedicated to cowboy boots alone, with an estimated 10,000 pairs to choose from in various colors, styles and sizes. Martindale's Western Store in Laramie and Wayne's Boot Shop in Cody have a similarly extensive collection of cowboy apparel, the latter of which is just 3 miles away from Stampede Park.
Native American heritage
The original inhabitants of Wyoming were Native American tribes like the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho, who have lived off the natural resources of this region for thousands of years. Their way of life is intimately connected with the land and its seasons, developing a deep understanding of the world that helped them thrive in their environment.
Today, Wyoming's trails, roads and highways follow centuries-old Native American hunting and trade routes—a reminder of the impact these tribes have had on Wyoming's history. Located in the “Valley of the Warm Winds,” the Wind River Indian Reservation (headquarters to the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative) encompasses more than 2.2 million acres and is home to thousands of tribal members who continue to preserve their heritage. Visit Vore Buffalo Jump, a notable archaeological site of the late-prehistoric Plains Indians, or browse locally made crafts at the St. Stephens Indian Mission and Heritage Center.
Ready-made road trips
Wyoming isn't just where the rich and famous seek refuge from the bright lights of Hollywood (don't worry, Jackson resident Harrison Ford hasn't crashed his plane in years). It's also a destination that has captured the imaginations of artists, writers and filmmakers for decades, inspiring the Cowboy State Pop Culture Itinerary that allows travelers to walk in those footsteps.
The Season 3 premiere of the Emmy Award-winning sitcom "Modern Family" saw the Dunphy and Pritchett families swap their suburban LA lives for a stay at Lost Creek Ranch Lodge & Spa in Jackson Hole, bringing some 100 members of the show's cast and crew on location.
Hiding in plain sight
Fill up your gas tank and continue your journey across Wyoming's scenic backroads, and you're sure to stumble upon other unique attractions. Perhaps the most infamous is Hole-In-The-Wall, a natural wonder that's been attracting travelers for centuries. This remote area in central Wyoming was famously used as a hideout by outlaws such as Butch Cassidy and Jesse James and is now a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Taylor’s Invasion Bar & Grill in nearby Kaycee has the large portions and friendly service you’ll need to fuel the rest of your journey.
Summer events & festivals
A lot can happen in the “middle of nowhere.” Despite its small population and remote location, the Cowboy State offers a surprisingly diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy when the snow melts and temperatures start to rise.
An event as wild as the West, the Woodchoppers Jamboree & Rodeo (June 15-16) combines a parade, rodeo and woodchopping activities all in one event. The chips fly with logging competitions like ax chopping, tree felling and even a "Mad Logger" chainsaw throw, satiating their appetite for adrenaline while wolfing down wood-fired barbecue served by local vendors.
State parks on a grand scale
If anything, the term "state park" is a bit of a misnomer when it comes to Wyoming. Not because the label is inaccurate, but because it fails to convey the breadth and scale of these hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Located just an hour from Yellowstone Lake, Buffalo Bill State Park outside Cody doubles as a suitable base camp for exploring the iconic national park while still boasting its attractions. The park's varied terrain includes rolling grasslands with a backdrop of the Absaroka Mountains. The Buffalo Bill Reservoir is another focal point, as fishermen can reel in trout and walleye, while others may choose to hike Sheep Mountain Trail, a 4.2-mile loop offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Wyoming's rugged outdoors beckon adventure enthusiasts from around the globe, and the natural scenery of these state parks allow for a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking (Bear River), biking (Curt Gowdy), climbing (Sinks Canyon), fishing (Seminoe) and camping (Keyhole)—you name it, Wyoming has it.
Visiting responsibly
You know the motto: Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints. As one of the most pristine and untouched natural areas in the country, Wyoming's beauty is best experienced with respect for its environment and wildlife.
Maintaining a respectful distance from the animals is critical to their safety as well as yours. Make sure to stay on designated trails and avoid disrupting natural habitats or disturbing wildlife. Responsible camping and hiking practices are also important, so be sure to pack out any trash, extinguish fires properly and leave the environment as pristine as you found it. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and follow all park rules and regulations. Cell phone service can be limited in more remote parts of the state, so make sure to bring plenty of food and water and don't rely solely on technology for navigation.
Iconic views
Ansel Adams knew what he was doing. Wyoming's landscapes often rival stunning pieces of art, and nature's masterpieces are on display throughout the state. From staggering mountain ranges to dramatic rock formations, Wyoming showcases some of the most iconic views in the world.
Consider Grand Teton, rising dramatically from the Jackson Hole Valley. The jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Tetons are an unforgettable sight, especially when seen from Snake River Overlook or Signal Mountain. Another iconic sight is Cirque of the Towers, a collection of glacier-carved granite spires in the Wind River Range that form an amphitheater-like terrain. To witness this marvel up close, take a hike around Lonesome Lake, or embark on an exhilarating climb to the Mitchell Peak. The views from the top are simply breathtaking.
Explorers by nature
Ditch the laptop and pack your bags. Wyoming's boundless landscapes and towering mountains offer endless opportunities for adventure-seekers to test their limits and experience the great outdoors like never before.
Not that this natural playground is exclusively for the rugged and experienced. Many of Wyoming's most stunning sights and activities are accessible to all levels of adventurers, from beginners to experts. Regardless of your age or comfort level, there are guides, outfitters and tour operators stationed throughout the state who love nothing more than to share their passion for the outdoors and convert newcomers into lifelong explorers.
Geological wonders
Centuries upon centuries of geological activity have shaped Wyoming's unique landscapes, resulting in a wealth of natural wonders to explore and allowing visitors to witness the dynamic forces of nature at work. Located in the Red Desert of southern Wyoming, the Killpecker Sand Dunes is the second-largest active sand dune field in the world at nearly 50 miles long and up to 10 miles wide. Appearing like a small sea with soft waves, these dunes offer a surreal and otherworldly experience for visitors to go sledding, sandboarding and even ATV-ing down their slopes.
Dinosaur digs
Dinosaur enthusiasts both young and old will be delighted to explore Wyoming's rich prehistoric past. The state is home to several dinosaur excavation sites and museums, including the University of Wyoming Geological Museum in Laramie (home to a 75-foot-long skeleton of a sauropod apatosaurus), the Tate Geological Center in Casper (home to an 11,600-year-old mammoth skeleton named Dee) and the Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis (home of Jimbo the Supersaurus—a 106-foot long sauropod found near Douglas and the largest, most complete Supersaurus ever discovered).
The visitor center at Fossil Butte National Monument in Kemmerer has more than 2000 Green River Formation fossils on display, including a 10-foot-long crocodile. Nearby is Ulrich's Fossil Gallery, which offers guided fossil digging tours in the Green River Formation.
To infinity and beyond
Once you're done digging, shift your gaze upward to the vast expanse of the clear night sky and the stars above. With its low population and minimal light pollution, Wyoming allows visitors to experience some of the darkest skies in the country, and thus some of the best stargazing.
Camping or driving out to remote spots like Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in McKinnon, Vedauwoo Campground & Recreation Area in Buford and the Skyline Scenic Drive outside Pinedale will provide unparalleled opportunities to observe the star clusters, constellations and shooting stars that light up the sky each night.
