8 of the Most Beautiful Places to See in Wyoming

Wyoming is a land of rugged mountains, rich tribal legends, wide ranches, cowboy towns, and some of the world’s greatest wilderness areas. Numerous outdoor activities can be done in these vast areas such as hiking, mountain biking, climbing, kayaking, and even fishing. Read through this list of the most beautiful places to see in Wyoming.

1. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is the world’s first and oldest national park and is one of the most amazing geographical areas on the planet. A variety of wildlife is also abundant here, you can see black and grizzly bears, herds of bison, antelopes, gray wolves, elks, bald eagles, and trumpeter swans.

The Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872 and is regarded as a geothermal paradise since. Bubbling mud pots, active geysers of many sizes, and steaming hot springs were formed a million years ago and are popular attraction sites for many tourists, you just have to take extra precautions when walking around these areas. Bodies of water are also present here, such as waterfalls, lakes, and rivers that stretch for miles.

2. Jackson Hole

Nestled in a valley at the foot of Teton Mountains, Jackson Hole oozes a total Wild West vibe. The rugged wooden buildings, boardwalks, shops, restaurants, galleries, and a town square made of elk-horn arches all add to the charm of this quaint town.

The city is also a gateway to the Grand Teton National Park, one of the most beautiful places to see in Wyoming. Some of the highlights to see here are the National Museum of Wildlife Art which features over 4,000 paintings and exhibits. You can also catch a glimpse of the largest herd of wintering elk in the Grand Teton National Park, as well as the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, should you want to experience their line up of exciting mountain sports.

3. Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is one of Wyoming’s jewels. This mighty Teton Mountain Range was formed millions of years ago.  A fault in the earth’s crust cracked and created 12 peaks with heights reaching up to over 12,000 feet. The Grand Teton, the highest of them all, stands tall at over 14,000 feet above sea level.

Furthermore, abundant wildlife is also present in this national park. You can find over 300 species of birds, 60 different species of mammals, and a number of freshwater fish that live within the park. The best way to enjoy this park is by hiking its massive network of trails.

4. Hot Springs State Park

If you want a pit stop for a relaxing soak, you should definitely check out Hot Springs State Park, which is one of the most beautiful places to see in Wyoming. It is built around the world’s biggest single mineral hot spring, and the steamy mineral waters are directed into the bathhouses and are kept at a constant 104˚F.

You can either choose to experience it indoors at the State Bath House or in the pools located outdoors. You can also try the hiking trails across the park. Be amazed at the view of the summer flower gardens, as well as the ancient petroglyphs.

Witness the herd of bison wandering around the park and the Rainbow Terrace where the water from another stream descends into the Bighorn River. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places to see in Wyoming!

5. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Flaming Gorge National Recreational Area is named after the area’s impressive red sandstone cliffs. It stretches from the Green River in Wyoming into Utah. The reservoir is a great spot for fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, and camping. For a more thrilling experience, you can also raft the area of the Green River downstream from Flaming Gorge Dam.

The Red Canyon Vista and Visitor Center offer stunning views of the gorge. From this area, you can hike the Canyon Rim Trail that leads to the lip of the canyon with displays of colorful rock formations, petroglyph walls, and prehistoric fossils along the way.

6. Fort Laramie National Historic Site

Fort Laramie is the first garrisoned post in Wyoming. This once private-fur trading post became one of the most important outposts in America, serving pioneers en route to the Oregon, Mormon, and California trails.

It also played a role in the Plains Indian wars where it also served as a military post. President Theodore Roosevelt declared this over 200 acres of military reservation land a national monument in 1938.

Tourists can enjoy the park through a walking tour of the historic buildings but first, you have to go to the Visitor Center for a brief video description of the fort’s history.

7. Devil’s Tower National Monument

This geological gem towers at over 1,000 feet above the Belle Fourche River and Wyoming’s eastern plains. The Visitor Center offers a detailed explanation of the geology of this flat-topped volcanic wonder. You can also learn all about the culture and history of the area through its exhibits and photos.

In addition, you can hike along the over 8-mile trail, which circles the rock and goes deep into the surrounding forest and meadows. Abundant wildflowers are a great background for photos during the spring and early summer. Take the whole family for other activities like rock climbing and fishing. Guided tours are available for the entire year at one of the most beautiful places to see in Wyoming.

8. Cheyenne

Cheyenne, the Capital of Wyoming, was once the biggest outpost of the United States Cavalry. Named after the Cheyenne Indians, this town boasts museums and historical sites that tell its beginnings in 1867 as a station on the Union Pacific Railroad.

The annual rodeo which happens every late July features ten days of exciting festivities. It is something that both the locals and the visitors look forward to every year. For a sure Wild West experience any time of the year, make sure to check out the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum that exhibits rodeo scenes and old horse-drawn wagons. Other places you can visit here are the Wyoming State Museum, Wyoming State Capitol Building, Cheyenne Depot Museum, and the Big Boy Locomotive.

From its wild west experiences and rodeo spectacles to its massive landscapes and beautiful scenery, Wyoming will surely unleash the cowboy and the adventurer in you. Don’t forget to remember these places as you Yee-haw your way into this paradise. Finally, work your way down this list of the best things to do in Wyoming!