With windswept plains and crowd-drawing national parks, Wyoming is one of the most beautiful and visited states in the USA. In fact, millions visit the landlocked state in the western United States every year, but it’s also one of the most sparsely populated, with an almost outlawish vibe. Home to the most dramatic peaks, unique geology, and most diverse wildlife, it’s hard to know where to start in such a vast and gorgeous area, but from stunning valleys where wild buffalo roam to some of the most jaw-dropping sights you’ll see in the world, here are the best and most beautiful places to visit in Wyoming…
Bighorn Scenic Byway, Bighorn National Forest – one of the most beautiful road trips in the world
While the Bighorn National Forest is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sites in Wyoming, driving through the scenic byway is just as extraordinary. If you’re tired of hiking or simply want to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, jump in your car and head out on the byway to enjoy views of the mountains, valleys, and waterways that are second to none.
Every view is literally going to take your breath away, and there are miles and miles of it to enjoy. If you love Mother Nature, and even if you don’t, this byway is an attraction you will never be able to forget.
Cody – a town founded by “Buffalo Bill” which is one of the best places to visit in Wyoming
This is a very scenic town named after frontiersman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Like other outdoorsy-type towns, Cody offers great opportunities for those who are interested in hiking, rafting, rock climbing, or even camping.
There are lots of mountain ranges near the town that you can enjoy, as well as a museum dedicated to Buffalo Bill that contains tons of artifacts and educational opportunities. This is the perfect place to visit for a weekend getaway and has even been voted one of the 25 best places to visit in Wyoming.
Devils Tower National Monument – the first United States national monument
Surrounded by lots of green grass and beautiful trees, this monument definitely stands out in the area. In fact, if you love any type of geographic wonder, this is one monument you won’t want to miss.
It is a cool place to visit if you love different landscapes, and if the day is especially clear, you’ll get a surreal feeling when you view the monument against the blue sky. Regardless of when you visit it, however, this is one view you’ll take home with you and never forget because it is an amazing sight that you will love seeing.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area – easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Wyoming
Whether you love the water, hiking opportunities, or simply taking a drive and enjoying some extraordinary scenery, Flaming Gorge is certainly a sight to behold. With red rocks that attract attention regardless of why you’re there, this area is a great place to be if you love natural beauty and lots of things to do.
The gorge itself is separated from the Green River by the Flaming Gorge Dam, which is amazing in itself, so whether you visit this recreation area because you want to hike or simply because you love all of the sites to look at, you will not be disappointed.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park – one of the most famous beauty spots in the USA
This is the very first canyon downstream of Yellowstone Falls and is worth every minute you spend there. It is 24 miles long and ranges from 800 to 1,200 feet in width at various points. In fact, it’s difficult to comprehend how humongous this canyon is until you see it with your own eyes.
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is truly a wonder, and visiting it is one decision you’ll never regret. If you’re anywhere near this area, you owe it to yourself to go and see this canyon. It is truly a sight to see if you’re a nature-lover and a lover of the great outdoors.
Taggart Lake, Grand Teton National Park – a gorgeous area to explore in Wyoming for nature lovers
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 Wyoming.
It is set against a background that boasts mountains, lots of trees, and beautiful scenery that is nothing short of breathtaking. In fact, if you want to enjoy the picturesque Grand Tetons from an amazing viewpoint, this is where you want to be. While visiting the many lakes in the park, you should never forget this one.
Hayden Valley, Yellowstone National Park – home to a wonderful array of wildlife
If you love wildlife, Hayden Valley is where you need to go. Filled with animals such as elk, grizzly bears, coyotes, and buffalo, there is more wildlife here than there is anywhere else in all of Yellowstone.
Add that to the beautiful scenic views you get to experience wherever you are, and you’ll understand why Hayden Valley is an unknown but extraordinary place to visit whenever you love nature, wildlife, and experiencing something you’ve never done before.
Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis – one of the best places to explore in Wyoming
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 nice, 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 of the premises if you’d prefer that over the outdoor waters.
Sinks Canyon, Lander – a top attraction to visit in Wyoming
Located at the base of the Wind River Mountains, the water alone makes this a place you won’t want to miss when you’re in Wyoming because it seems to blend in with the canyon itself once you get to this area of it.
The canyon is deep but consists of lots of hiking trails, and once you get down to the Sinks, you can glimpse a gorgeous view of the canyon and water coming together. Sinks Canyon is consistently voted one of the most beautiful places to visit in Wyoming, and one trip there will tell you why.
Jackson – a popular mountain resort in Wyoming
Jackson is 6,000 feet above sea level and is filled with pristine sites and lots of trees and streams. At the center of town is Town Square, AKA George Washington Memorial Park, and when it comes to things to do, this city is second to none.
You can kayak in the Snake River, ski and go snowmobiling in the winter, and enjoy lots of restaurants, gift shops, spas, and art galleries anytime. You can even enjoy some old-fashioned shootouts if you visit the right area of town. There is never a shortage of things to do in this amazing city. Jackson is definitely one of the places to visit in Wyoming that should be considered a “must.”
Jenny Lake, Grand Teton National Park – one of the most visited areas in Grand Teton National Park
While it’s true that there are many smaller lakes in the beautiful Grand Teton National Park, Jenny Lake is one of the most unforgettable. Its water is so clear that you can see right down to the bottom of it, and it looks like a mirage because it is so clear.
With peaks and valleys in the background, this lake is fun to take pictures of and fun to wet your feet in, and even though it isn’t as big of a draw as Jackson Lake, this is still one lake you will not want to miss if you’re visiting the park.
Knapsack Col, Wind River Range – a beautiful and unspoiled hidden gem in Wyoming
One of Wyoming’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 definitely want to visit if you enjoy camping, hiking, and any other outdoor activity. It isn’t always mentioned in magazines, but it is one place you’ll never forget once you visit it!
Medicine Bow Peak, Snowy Range – the highest peak in the Snowy Range
Of all the Medicine Bow Mountains, this one is the tallest, and its majestic character is a sight to see. 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. This mountain should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list.
Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park – one of the most photographed beauty spots in the park
With the mountains and trees reflecting off of the water, you won’t have a shortage of sights to enjoy. If you love natural beauty, Oxbow Bend is where you need to visit. Throughout the area, there are overlooks that allow you to enjoy and appreciate this beauty even more, giving you lots of ways to enjoy the area.
In fact, if you love overlooks, there is one in Oxbow Bend that promises to be one of the best overlooks in the entire park. You won’t have to go far in the area to view numerous gorgeous sites.
Grand Targhee Ski Resort – a popular place to visit and vacation in Wyoming
Located roughly 90 miles from Jackson Hole, this ski resort is perfect for those who love to ski but who don’t like the long wait times of other resorts. Snowfalls average about 500 inches per year, and there are 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. Enjoy!
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