Bordering Montana and South Dakota, this sparsely populated state draws millions with its “outlawish” vibe, windswept plains, national parks, and unique geologic areas. Here are my favorite spots I’d love to share..
1. Bighorn Scenic Byway, Bighorn National Forest
I personally think this drive is truly breathtaking! It’s a 58-mile scenic journey which winds through towering peaks, ancient untouched forests, cascading waterfalls, and expansive vistas – I love how both rugged and serene the vibe is here!
It’s located in Bighorn National Forest along U.S. Highway 14 in the northern part of the state, it connects Ranchester and Shell.
I drove it over four hours and gazed at the rugged Bighorn Mountains, stopped at Shell Falls, strolled along easy-on-the-eye hiking trails and took in panoramic vistas at overlooks along the 58-mile route.
- Address: U.S. Route 14
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring to fall
My favorite highlights…
- Taking the easy-to-moderate trail to Coney Creek Trail Stull Lakes, and Coney Lake.
2. Cody
This is such a unique and characterful spot! It’s a historic Western town and to me it really stands out because of its charming Western-style downtown, stunning mountain backdrop and being a gateway to the world-famous Yellowstone National Park – I also love how it feels adventurous but with a welcoming, small-town feel!
Located 52 miles east of Yellowstone National Park’s East Entrance, in Park County, in the northwestern part of the state. It was famously founded in 1896 by the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody and today it’s a very well-preserved Wild West town with around 10,000 residents.
I spent a fun weekend here and visited all the Buffalo Bill attractions including the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, strolled through the historic Old Trail Town, took a scenic drive along the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway, exploring the trails in the nearby Shoshone National Forest, and discovered the unique shops and restaurants in the interesting downtown area.
- Visitor Center Address: Cody Visitor Center 836 Sheridan Avenue,
Cody, WY 82414 - Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer and fall
My personal highlights…
- Visiting the Buffalo Bill Museum and seeing the interesting exhibits (such as a huge stuffed buffalo!) and learning all about Cody’s colorful history!
- Catching the Wild West Spectacular the Musical which was a really fun live show.
3. Yellowstone National Park
This is one of the most famous national parks in the world! It’s seriously jaw-dropping with its bubbling geysers, colorful hot springs, thundering waterfalls, extraordinary wildlife and untamed beauty – it’s like stepping into nature’s ultimate showstopper!
It’s located mostly in northwestern Wyoming, with small portions extending into Montana and Idaho. It was established in 1872, as the first national park in the world and spans over 2.2 million acres. It’s teeming with wildlife, including majestic bison, bears, wolves, elk, moose, pronghorn, and a large number of bird species.
I spent an extraordinary four days here and gazed at the much-loved Old Faithful geyser, discovered the incredible Grand Prismatic Spring, hiked a trail to see the breathtaking Artist Point, spotted wildlife in Lamar Valley, kayaked on Yellowstone Lake, and witnessed the power of the mighty Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone!
- Address: Yellowstone National Park, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: late spring and early fall
My highlights…
- Seeing the stunning Grand Prismatic Spring from the overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail.
- Checking out the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and see the tallest waterfall in the park (which stands at 308 feet high).
4. Grand Teton National Park
Although this lake is considered one of the smaller lakes in Grand Teton National Park, it should never be forgotten or omitted from your to-do list when visiting this gorgeous state!
It is set against a background that boasts mountains, many trees, and beautiful breathtaking scenery. If you want to enjoy the picturesque Grand Tetons from a fantastic viewpoint, this is where you want to be.
I recommend not missing this one while visiting the many lakes in the park!
- Location: Taggart Lake, Grand Teton National Park, Coordinates: 43.7197° N, 110.7775° W
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer
My personal highlights…
- Checking out the scenic giant boulders located along the Taggart trail.
- Cooling down with a swim in the lake on a hot day.
- Gazing in awe at the magnificent scenery surrounding the lake.
5. Buffalo
This historic former Frontier town dates from 1879. It has a stunning backdrop of stunning scenery and a very quaint main street lined with historic buildings, including the Jim Gatchell Museum dedicated to the Old West and the infamous Occidental Hotel, where Owen Wister’s Virginian finally “got his man.”
Other famous guests include Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, “Buffalo Bill” Cody, Tom Horn, Teddy Roosevelt, and Calamity Jane.
It’s nestled at the foot of the Big Horn Mountains, attracting outdoor lovers looking to ski, boat, camp, or hike in the wonderful landscapes filled with lakes, streams, mountains, and wildlife.
Buffalo is home to a good range of accommodations, restaurants, and bars, and it was once voted the state’s most beautiful town (by Expedia). It’s easy to see why!
- Address: Buffalo City Hall, 46 N Main Street, Buffalo, WY 82834
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring to fall
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a stroll around the cute and quaint buildings in the town.
- Learning about the area’s history by visiting the historic buildings and museums; my favourite was the Historic Occidental Hotel Museum; the historic western-style saloon was incredible!
- Dining on a hearty veggie brunch at the super-cute Busy Bee Cafe.
6. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Whether you love the water, hiking opportunities, or simply driving and enjoying some extraordinary scenery, Flaming Gorge is a sight to behold.
With red rocks that attract attention regardless of why you’re there, this area is excellent if you love natural beauty and many things to do.
The Flaming Gorge Dam separates the gorge from the Green River, which is impressive. Whether you visit this recreation area to hike or simply because you love all of the sites to look at, you will not be disappointed.
- Visitors Center Address: Flaming Gorge Dam Visitor Center 25 Utah Highway 43, Dutch John, UT 84023
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring to fall
My personal highlights…
- Staying in the cozy cabins in Flaming Gorge Resort.
- Going white water rafting!
- Hiking the scenic Red Canyon Overlook via Canyon Rim Trail (rated moderate) took me past stunning scenery.
7. Hot Springs State Park
At the center of this state park lies the largest single-mineral hot spring in the world, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the area isn’t as beautiful.
The water from the spring channels directly into bathhouses and two separate pools and is always a pleasant, comfortable 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Also in the area are hiking trails, flower gardens, and even a field where you can see bison roaming the area. There is even a bathhouse inside the premises if you’d prefer, over the outdoor waters.
- Address: Hot Springs State Park, 220 Park Street, Thermopolis, WY 82443
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring to fall (but winter offers a unique soaking experience)!
My personal highlights…
- Soaking in the mineral-filled hot springs in the Bathhouse.
- Camping overnight at Ten Sleep Brewing Co., next to the striking, beautiful red cliff Signal Butte.
- Hiking the T Hill Hiking Trail (moderate), which took me nearly 2 hours to complete but the incredible views made it worth it!
8. Devils Tower National Monument
This is a striking geological formation which has become a significant and important landmark in the state. It’s actually one of the largest examples of columnar jointing in the world and is a surreally beautiful spot.
It’s also a very sacred place for Native American tribes who have also named it Bear Lodge. It’s surrounded by lush green trees and several excellent hiking trails which in my opinion are well worth exploring, especially the looped Tower Trail which took us around the whole base.
- Visitor Center Address: Devils Tower National Monument, 149 State Highway 110, Devils Tower, WY 82714
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring to fall
My personal highlights…
- Stopping by the visitor center, I learned about the monument’s history and discovered all the hidden gems in the area.
- Hiking the scenic Tower Trail that took us in a loop around the magnificent rock formation.
- Just generally being in awe of the huge landmark that stands at 870 feet tall.
9. Sinks Canyon State Park
Located at the base of the Wind River Mountains, the water alone makes this a place you won’t want to miss when because it seems to blend in with the canyon itself once you get to this area.
The canyon is deep but contains many hiking trails. Once you get down to the Sinks, you can see the canyon and water coming together.
Sinks Canyon is consistently voted one of the best beauty spots in the state, and it’s a favorite of mine too!
- Address: Sinks Canyon State Park 3079 Sinks Canyon Road Lander, WY 82520
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer
My highlights…
- Hiking the North Slope Trail took me over scenic elevations.
- Having a picnic at Bruce Picnic Site, where I watched the gushing river as I ate.
- Taking beginner’s rock climbing lessons with Wind River Climbing Guides.
10. Jackson
If you’re an outdoor lover, I recommend checking out this place! Jackson is 6,000 feet above sea level and is filled with pristine sites, trees, and streams.
Town Square and AKA George Washington Memorial Park are at the town center, both worth visiting.
You can kayak in the Snake River, ski and snowmobile in the winter, and enjoy many restaurants, gift shops, spas, and art galleries anytime. If you visit the right area of town, you can even enjoy some old-fashioned shootouts. There is never a shortage of things to do here!
- Address: Jackson Town Square, 10 E Broadway Ave, Jackson, WY 83001
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring to fall
My highlights…
- Snowboarding in the winter!
- White-water rafting down the Snake River which was a very thrilling experience!
11. Medicine Bow Peak, Medicine Bow National Forest
Of all the Medicine Bow Mountains, this one is the tallest, and its majestic character is a sight. Unless you’re an experienced hiker, you shouldn’t attempt to climb to the top of this mountain, even though the view is extraordinary.
If you’re not a hiker, however, you can still enjoy the beauty of the place by visiting Lake Marie and taking in the unique sights and sounds of the area. I think this mountain should be on everyone’s bucket list.
- Location: Lake Marie Trailhead, Wyoming Highway 130 (Snowy Range Scenic Byway, Saratoga, WY, 82331
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: June to November
My personal highlights…
- Capturing an Instagrammable shot of the insane mountain range.
- Driving along the scenic byway and stopping at several viewpoints to take photos.
- Visiting the tranquil Lake Marie was a calming, zen-like experience.
12. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
This dramatic area never fails to wow me! It’s a jaw-dropping area home to steep dramatic cliffs, serene turquoise waters, and breathtaking views – to me it showcases the untamed wilderness of the American West!
13. Sheridan
Sheridan is a charming place in a Western setting surrounded by panoramic mountain views. The city caters to all as it offers many activities, such as parks, picnic areas and wildlife, festivals.
You will find things to do all year round whenever you decide to visit. Whether you prefer a busy activity or a quiet time, you will find excellent options!
Those who love to explore culture and history won’t be disappointed, as every inch of this place has something to tell. The locals are passionate about their community, and I love that they will ensure they deliver the best hospitality to their visitors.
- Address: Sheridan City Hall, 55 Grinnell Plaza, Sheridan, WY 82801
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer
My personal highlights…
- Hiking the moderate Story Penrose Trail which took me through the famous peaks of the Bighorn Mountains – the views are stunning!
- Dining at the quaint Cowboy Cafe, I highly recommend the Apple rhubarb pie!
- Discovering local art at the Sheridan Russell Gallery.
14. Knapsack Col, Wind River Range
One of the state’s best-hidden gems, this is the perfect place to visit if you love to hike. Not only is it gorgeous, but it offers tons of hiking opportunities for both experienced and beginning hikers.
Knapsack Col is located between Winifred Peak and Twin Peaks, and it’s a place you’ll want to visit if you enjoy camping, hiking, and any other outdoor activity. It isn’t always mentioned in magazines, which makes it even more special!
- Visitor Center Address: Elkhart Park Trailhead, Forest Road 210, Pinedale, WY 82941
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring to fall
My personal highlights…
- Camping overnight in a tent above the upper Titcomb Lake – the scenery was incredible!
- Stopping by The Cirque of the Towers and photographing the epic landmark.
15. Wyoming State Capitol, Cheyenne
This is a beautiful building and a great tourist attraction, so add it to your list of things to do when visiting the state.
It’s located in Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming. In addition to being a beautiful and elegant building, it’s one of twenty state capitols designated as a historic landmark.
300 E. 21st Street dates back to 1888 and is the seat of Wyoming’s executive and legislative branches of government. It is open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday.
While here, take a little time to explore the rest of the city of Cheyenne and head for attractions such as the Frontier Days Old West Museum, Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, Wyoming State Museum, the 1904 Historic Governors’ Mansion, and the Cheyenne Depot Museum.
- Address: Wyoming State Capitol, 200 West 24th Street, Cheyenne, WY 82001
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
My personal highlights…
- Exploring the interesting exhibits hosted in the building.
- Exploring the nearby beautiful Botanic Gardens, which were filled with vibrant colors.
16. The Red Desert
This vast and untamed place always fascinates me! I think it’s a stunning and remarkable expanse which feels like stepping into another world, with its windswept sand dunes, rugged badlands, and endless open skies.
17. Vedauwoo Recreation Area
This unique spot is often overlooked! Although I personally think its stunning with striking granite rock formations that rise dramatically from the rolling plains and peaceful pine forests, open meadows and winding trails.
18. Fossil Butte National Monument
I think this is a really fascinating spot! It also has a surreal beauty which to me felt like stepping into a time, with its stunning high desert scenery and perfectly preserved fossils that tell stories from millions of years ago – it’s like nature’s very own museum!
19. Grand Targhee Ski Resort
Located roughly 90 miles from Jackson Hole, this ski resort is perfect for those who love to ski but don’t like other resorts’ long wait times.
Snowfalls average about 500 inches per year, with five lifts to utilize.
Best of all, there are areas of the resort that are great for all levels of skiers, from beginners to the most advanced. In addition, you also get access to snowshoeing and Nordic trails to enjoy, which is the icing on the cake for adventurous people.
This is also a great place to have a fun family outing.
- Location: Grand Targhee Resort, 3300 Ski Hill Road, Alta, WY 83414,
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: December to March (as this is when the snowfall is the best)
My highlights…
- Going on a scenic snowshoe tour in the winter, the snowy scenery here is just stunning!
- Going skiing and then retiring to a cozy lodge.
- Enjoying tubing, which was a fun, family-friendly experience!
