19 Most Beautiful Places to Explore in Wyoming

Wyoming felt like one of the last truly wild states I’ve explored. It’s sparsely populated but packed with natural wonders – from Yellowstone’s geysers to the Tetons’ jagged peaks and wide-open cowboy country. I spent six weeks exploring its incredible gems, here are my favorites…

1. Grand Teton National Park 

This jaw-dropping park totally won me over — its jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife-filled valleys made me feel like I’d stepped into a real-life National Geographic spread!

Just an hour’s drive east from Grand Targhee over the pass into Jackson Hole, I stayed a week soaking in the Tetons’ beauty — hiking around Jenny and Taggart Lakes (I found it was best to arrive early to beat the crowds), gazing at dreamy views from Signal Mountain, kayaking on the Snake River, and even watching rock climbers tackle Cascade Canyon.

• Location: south of Yellowstone National Park, in the northwestern part of the state
• Location Map
• Size: Spans over 310,000 acres
• Wildlife: free-roaming moose, bison, elk, and grizzly bears.
• Grand Teton National Park Website

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the trendy Cloudveil Resort, I loved the cozy contemporary decor, the fire pits, the pool views of Snow King Mountain, and the rooftop’s telescopic viewfinder!

2. Jackson

This charming mountain town totally won me over with its mix of boutique shops, art galleries, fine dining, and classic Western flair — all framed by dreamy summer views of the Tetons. I loved how it managed to feel both adventurous and stylish at the same time!

I drove only 20 minutes south from Grand Teton to Jackson, where I lingered for three days — exploring the lively Town Square, admiring the elk-antler arches, and hopping between art galleries, boutique shops, and warm little cafés.

In winter, locals told me it transformed into a snowy paradise with skiing and snowboarding at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, snowshoeing in Grand Teton National Park, and cozy après-ski vibes. Even though the whole place was very charming it was pricey — both dining and accommodations stretched my budget!

• Location: Jackson Hole Valley, nestled between the Teton Mountain Range and the Gros Ventre Mountains in western Wyoming
• Elevation: 6,237 feet
• Location Map
• Population: approx. 10,500 residents

My highlights…

• I stayed at the cozy 4-star Rustic Inn Creekside for part of my trip and loved the rustic-chic decor and the luxury spa, where I relaxed with a hydrating wild sage and lavender body wrap inside a tipi-inspired tent!

3. Bighorn Scenic Byway, Bighorn National Forest 

I thought this 58-mile scenic drive was absolutely breathtaking — winding through rugged peaks, untouched forests, cascading waterfalls, and wide-open mountain vistas. It had a rugged yet serene vibe (and thin mountain air!) that made me want to keep stopping at every overlook.

From Cody, I drove two hours northeast on US-14A to Lovell and then spent two days exploring the byway — staying overnight at the rustic Shell Campground and the quirky 4-star Horseshoe Bend Motel, stopping at Shell Falls, hiking up to the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark, and soaking in the stunning views and pine-scented air from Cloud Peak and Medicine Wheel overlooks. I have to mention it was stunning but it was remote, with few facilities nearby — so I glad I bought water and snacks with me!

• Location: Bighorn National Forest along U.S. Highway 14 in the northern part of the state
• Length: 58 miles
• Wildlife: Mule deer, moose, black bears, elk, and golden eagles
• Location Map
• Bighorn Scenic Byway Website

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the 2.6-mile Bucking Mule Falls Trail — I loved how it opened up to panoramic canyon views and the dramatic sight of the falls plunging down sheer cliffs!

4. Yellowstone National Park 

Originated in 1872, this world-famous park actually left me speechless — its bubbling geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, thunderous waterfalls, and incredible wildlife made it feel like nature’s ultimate showstopper!

A 1.5-hour drive north from Jackson via the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Parkway brought me to Yellowstone’s South Entrance, where I spent four action-packed days — standing in awe as Old Faithful erupted, seeing the vivid Grand Prismatic Spring, hiking out to the dramatic Artist Point, spotting bison and wolves in stunning Lamar Valley, kayaking on shimmering Yellowstone Lake, and being humbled by the thunder of the Lower Falls in the spectacular Grand Canyon.

• Location: mostly in the northwestern part of the state, also extending into Montana and Idaho.
• Size: spans over 2.2 million acres. 
• Wildlife: bison, bears, wolves, elk, moose, pronghorn, and a large number of bird species.
• Location Map
• Yellowstone National Park Website

My highlights…

• Staying at the eco-friendly 4-star boutique Bentwood Inn — I was won over by their gourmet organic breakfasts (the veggie omelet dotted with chives, dill, and garden-fresh parsley was divine!) and the wildlife safari the friendly staff arranged for me!

5. Buffalo

Dating from 1879, this quirky little frontier town felt like stepping back in time — with its well-preserved downtown, mountain views, and timeless small-town vibe, I found it one of the most picturesque places in Wyoming. It made me want to slow down and just soak in its history!

Traveling from Pinedale, I made the 5-hour drive northeast across central Wyoming on US-26 and I-25 to Buffalo, where I stayed for a weekend. I explored the fascinating Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, strolled the historic streets, browsed unique shops, hiked into the Bighorn National Forest, and drove the nearby Cloud Peak Scenic Byway.

• Location: base of the Bighorn Mountains, serving as a gateway to the Bighorn National Forest in the northeastern part of the state. 
• Size: around  4,500 people
• Location Map

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the storied Historic Occidental Hotel, I loved hearing how legends like Butch Cassidy, Buffalo Bill, Calamity Jane, and even Teddy Roosevelt once stayed here, and it was incredible knowing Owen Wister wrote parts of The Virginian (including the famous showdown scene!) in the very building!

6. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area 

This place literally made my jaw drop — with its rust-red cliffs, the mighty Green River (calm in some stretches, wild in others), and the sparkling blue waters of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir, the contrast of colors and landscapes felt astonishing.

This was the final stop on my Wyoming road trip. From Devils Tower, I made the long 6-hour drive south on I-25 and US-191 to reach Flaming Gorge near the Utah border.

My three-day stay while basing myself at the nearby comfy Little America Hotel was non-stop – epic views at Red Canyon Overlook, hiking the Canyon Rim Trail, boating the reservoir, white-water rafting the Green River, and a guided Flaming Gorge Dam tour that was way more interesting than I expected!

• Location: Northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming
• Size: 207,363 acres
• Wildlife: Bighorn sheep, mule deer, bald eagles, and osprey
• Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area Website

My personal highlight…

• Hiking Hideout Canyon Trail — a leisurely 2-mile round trip where I spotted deer among the fragrant junipers and ended with a swim in a secluded cove that felt like my own private hideaway!

7. Cody 

This historic Western town really stood out to me — founded in 1896 by the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody, it had a charming downtown full of Western-style buildings, a stunning mountain backdrop, and a welcoming small-town feel. I also loved how adventurous yet friendly it felt as a gateway to Yellowstone.

Leaving my former stop at Yellowstone through the East Entrance, I drove about 2.5 hours along the scenic Buffalo Bill Cody Byway to reach Cody.

I spent a fun weekend exploring — visiting the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, wandering through Old Trail Town, hiking in the nearby Shoshone National Forest, browsing the unique downtown shops and restaurants, and even catching the family-friendly Wild West Spectacular the Musical! 

• Location: Yellowstone National Park’s East Entrance in Park County, northwestern Wyoming
• Location Map
• Population: around 10,000 residents.

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the characterful 4-star Chamberlin Inn — I loved how the carefully restored building has kept some of its original 1900s charm, the organic foods like heirloom tomatoes, wildflower honey, and fresh sourdough bread, and learning from the staff how Ernest Hemingway once stayed!

8. Devils Tower National Monument

 

This was both a striking natural attraction and a sacred site revered by several Native American tribes. I was blown away by its otherworldly column of volcanic rock rising dramatically above the plains and forests — to me it felt mystical and awe-inspiring. It also was incredible knowing I was standing at one of the largest and most iconic examples of columnar jointing in the world! 

From Sheridan, I drove 2.5 hours east on I-90 to Devils Tower, where I based myself at the quirky but homely Devils Tower Lodge hiking the Tower Trail for jaw-dropping close-ups, strolling Joyner Ridge and gazing in awe at incredible panoramas, diving into its geology and Native history at the visitor center, and watching climbers carefully inch up its sheer rock walls! 

• Location: Black Hills region, northeastern Wyoming (near the town of Hulett)
• Size: Rises 867 feet from its base and reaches 5,112 feet above sea level
• Facts: Formed over 50 million years ago
• Wildlife: Prairie dogs, white-tailed deer, golden eagles, and falcons
• Devils Tower National Monument Website

My personal highlights… 

• Hearing the drumming of woodpeckers and prairie dog chatter in the distance!

9. Sheridan

I thought Sheridan was such a charming place — a gateway to the Bighorn Mountains with a mix of rustic historic charm, Western-style buildings, mountain views, and a downtown filled with art galleries, local shops, and tree-lined streets. Founded in 1882, its Victorian-era buildings and Western-style architecture were still beautifully intact.

In less than an hour after descending the Bighorn Scenic Byway, I rolled into Sheridan and stayed two fun days — overnighting at the Sheridan Inn where Buffalo Bill once stayed, exploring the Trail End mansion, poking through galleries and shops downtown, hiking in the Bighorn National Forest, and boating at sunset on the beautiful Lake DeSmet.

• Location: along the Bighorn River in the northern part of the state 
• Location Map
• Population: approx. 19,800

My personal highlights…

• I dined at Frackletons, a chef-driven restaurant downtown — I loved the friendly waitress, the open kitchen, and their pillowy potato gnocchi topped topped with crispy fried sage!

10. Medicine Bow Peak, Medicine Bow National Forest

This remote and majestic peak completely wowed me — with its jagged alpine views, crystal-clear lakes, and wild, untouched vibe, it felt like I’d stepped into pure wilderness!

I drove 1 hour west from my previous stop at Vedauwoo Recreation Area on Highway 130, winding through alpine scenery near Laramie, until I reached the Lake Marie Trailhead. From there, I had sweeping views of Medicine Bow Peak rising above the surrounding lakes and meadows.

I stayed for two days basing myself at the nearby homely Historic Elk Mountain Hotel and conquered the Medicine Bow Peak Trail, soaked in panoramic  summit views, lingered by Lakes Marie and Alice, and cruised the Snowy Range Scenic Byway in awe.

• Location: Medicine Bow Mountains, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, southeastern Wyoming
• Elevation: 12,013 feet
• Location Map
• Wildlife: moose, deer, pikas, marmots, raptors

My personal highlight…

• Hiking the Lake Marie Trail — an easy 3-mile loop skirting the sparkling shoreline, then added a two-mile extension to Mirror Lake and Lookout Lake, where glassy waters perfectly reflected the jagged Snowy Range peaks!

11. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

This dramatic area didn’t fail to wow me — with its sheer cliffs, turquoise waters, and sweeping views, it felt like a wilder, mini version of the Grand Canyon.

It was a 2-hour drive northeast from Cody on US-14A to Lovell and the Bighorn Canyon overlooks, where I based myself for two days at the rustic-chic Horseshoe Bend Motel and packed in hikes along the Rim Trail, boating on Bighorn Lake, exploring Fort Smith, and gazing out from Devil Canyon Overlook.

• Location: mostly along the Bighorn River and Bighorn Lake, near the Bighorn Mountains and located in northern Wyoming and southern Montana. 
• Location Map
• Size: spans around 120,000 acres
• Wildlife: Bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk and many varieties of birds

My highlights… 

• I also stopped by the Yellowtail Dam Visitor Center, where I learned how this towering concrete giant was built and how it still powers the region today through hydroelectric energy.

12. Hot Springs State Park

I thought this was such a relaxing natural attraction — a gorgeous spot that combined the soothing allure of hot springs with colorful mineral terraces, flower-filled gardens, and pretty views of the Bighorn River.

It was a 1.5-hour drive south from Lovell on US-310 and WY-120 to reach Thermopolis, where I checked into the quirky 4-star Elk Antler Inn for two days and filled my time soaking in the free State Bath House, wandering the colorful mineral terraces, walking the Swinging Bridge, hiking Monument Hill, spotting bison, and picnicking by the river.

• Location: Along the Bighorn River, near Thermopolis in north-central Wyoming
• Size: 1,108 acres
• Wildlife: Bison, deer, and waterfowl
• Hotsprings State Park Website

My personal highlight…

• I bathed in the naturally heated outdoor pool at the State Bath House, where mineral-rich waters infused with calcium, silica, and sodium bicarbonate and the sulfur scent rising from the pool left me feeling wonderfully rejuvenated! 

13. Sinks Canyon State Park

I discovered this was an awe-inspiring mix of geology and wilderness — crimson cliffs, the Popo Agie’s mysterious underground ‘Sinks,’ and tranquil mountain solitude just minutes from Lander!

I continued 2 hours southwest from my previous Thermopolis stop on US-20 and WY-789 to Lander, where Sinks Canyon sits just outside town where I spent two days at the nearby Rodeway Inn Pronghorn Lodge.

On the Popo Agie Nature Trail, I reached the eerie “Sinks” where the river disappeared underground, tracked it to the “Rise” where it surged back out, crossed the swinging bridge, glimpsed mule deer on the paths, and ended the day admiring fiery red cliffs at sunset!

• Location: base of the southern Wind River Mountains in the central part of the state (just outside the town of Lander)
• Location Map
• Size: spans 568 acres
• Wildlife: moose, deer, bighorn sheep, black bears and a diverse range of bird species.
• Sinks Canyon State Park Website

My highlights…

• Picnicking at the Bruce Picnic Site, grilling a hearty BBQ beside the rushing Popo Agie River, with the scent of pine in the air and birdsong echoing through the canyon!

14. Knapsack Col, Wind River Range

This spot was both rugged and remote, and I loved it for its high-altitude vistas, shimmering alpine lakes, dramatic peaks, and the incredible sense of isolation it gave me. To me, it felt like one of Wyoming’s best-hidden gems. Known for its tough terrain and altitude, it definitely drew more experienced hikers and backpackers.

From Lander, I drove an hour northwest to Pinedale and then set off from the Elkhart Park trailhead into the Wind River Range backcountry.

I pitched my tent at Peak Lake and spent three days pushing along rugged trails, gazing at Big Sandy and Clearwater Lakes, trekking deep into wild backcountry, and marveling at climbers ascending the sharp granite towers of the Cirque.

• Location: Bridger-Teton National Forest in the Wind River Range (in the western part of the state)
• Location Map
• Wildlife: black bears, moose, mountain goats, marmots, and raptors

My personal highlights…

• I camped overnight in a tent at remote Peak Lake, where jagged peaks mirrored perfectly on the still waters and the strict “Leave No Trace” ethos kept the wilderness feeling pristine!

15. Wyoming State Capitol, Cheyenne

I thought this stately building made a fantastic first stop — with its elegant classical revival architecture, striking gold dome, ornate interiors, and beautifully landscaped grounds, it felt like a proper introduction to Wyoming!

I actually started my state trip here in Cheyenne, arriving from Denver Airport in under 2 hours via I-25 and staying at the unique and homely Prairie Rose Bed & Breakfast. I spent an afternoon at the State Capitol strolling through the gardens before joining the free guided tour, where I saw the restored interiors, admired the stained glass and grand staircase, viewed the historical exhibits, and learned all about the state’s political history and legislative process.

• Location: Cheyenne, the capital city of Wyoming in the southeastern part of the state
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Wyoming State Capitol Website

My personal highlights…

• Strolling through the immaculate gardens and admiring the proud bronze buffalo statue framed by flower beds bursting with golden marigolds!

16. The Red Desert 

This vast and untamed place always fascinated me — it felt like stepping into another world, with its windswept sand dunes, rugged badlands, and endless open skies.

I spent two days camping at the Red Desert Rose Campground and taking time to explore the surreal landscapes of shifting dunes and jagged rock formations. I went on an off-road adventure, hiked out to the secluded Killpecker Sand Dunes (one of the largest living dune systems in the U.S.), explored Adobe Town with its dramatic badlands and spires, and admired the ancient White Mountain Petroglyphs carved into the stone near Rock Springs.

• Location: bounded by the Great Divide Basin to the west, the Wind River Mountains to the north, the Sierra Madre Mountain range to the east, and the Green River to the south.
• Location Map
• Size: around 9,320 square miles
• Wildlife: hardy pronghorns, wild horses, and a large variety of bird species including golden eagles and sage grouse.

My personal highlights…

• Going on a fun three day driving tour – I’ll never forget waking at dawn to see the vast Killpecker Sand Dunes glowing gold in the first light of sunrise!

17. Vedauwoo Recreation Area

This unique spot is often overlooked, but I found it absolutely stunning. Towering granite formations rose dramatically from the plains, surrounded by peaceful pine forests, open meadows, and winding trails. Knowing the Sherman Granite dated back over a billion years made the landscape feel even more awe-inspiring.

From Cheyenne, I drove just 30 minutes west on I-80 to reach Vedauwoo and I stayed for one night camping at the stunning Vedauwoo Campground. While I was there, I hiked the photogenic Box Canyon Trail, watched climbers scaling the granite walls, and biked the rugged Turtle Rock Trail.

• Location: 24 miles west of Cheyenne in the southeastern part of the state. 
• Location Map
• Size: over 10 square miles of rugged terrain
• Wildlife: mule deer, moose, chipmunks, pine siskins and mountain bluebirds
• Vedauwoo Recreation Area Website

My highlights…. 

• Hiking the Box Canyon Trail – I loved how towering granite walls closed in around me, creating a dramatic, almost secret world away from everything outside!

18. Fossil Butte National Monument

I thought Fossil Butte National Monument was fascinating. It had a surreal beauty that made me feel like I’d stepped back in time — with its high desert scenery and perfectly preserved fossils that told stories from millions of years ago, it really felt like nature’s own museum.

I continued about 2 hours southwest from the Red Desert along I-80 to the high desert near Kemmerer and Fossil Butte. I spent a full day there exploring the visitor center’s extensive exhibits, joining a ranger-led hike that lasted around two hours, watching fossil preparation demonstrations, taking scenic drives through the stark but beautiful desert terrain and staying overnight at the Fossil Butte Motel (which was a 20 minute drive away).

19. Grand Targhee Resort

This resort was absolutely picturesque — I stopped here on my summer and found endless slopes dotted with wildflowers, breathtaking views of the Tetons, and a laid-back, sunny, vibe and lots of fresh mountain air! 

Although after I researched I found it was famous for its reliable powder in the winter (around 500 inches annually), and offering something for everyone: gentle beginner runs, intermediate trails, and challenging off-piste terrain for advanced skiers. There was even tubing, snowshoeing, fat-biking and a fun après-ski scene (November to April).

From Fossil Butte, I drove about 3.5 hours north through Star Valley and over Teton Pass into Alta. I stayed for three days and packed in plenty – hiking through wildflower meadows, riding the scenic chairlift up Fred’s Mountain, biking its trails and catching live music at the Bluegrass Festival. 

• Location: Alta, western slope of the Teton Range, western part of  Wyoming near the state’s border with Idaho
• Location Map
• Size: over 2,600 acres of skiable varied terrain 
• Wildlife: moose, elk, mule deer, and black bears
• Grand Targhee Resort Website

 My highlights…

• Staying at unique and cozy Teton Teepee Lodge – I loved the Insta-worthy circular layout, the awesome especially the sunken circular fire and the homemade breakfast baked on‑site, especially the very moist Cinnamon coffee cake!

Where is Wyoming? 

Wyoming sits in the Mountain West, bordered by Montana to the north, South Dakota and Nebraska to the east, Colorado and Utah to the south, and Idaho to the west.