Top 19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wyoming

With windswept plains and crowd-drawing national parks, I think this state is a gem! Bordering Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Colorado, and Utah, the landlocked state in the Western United States attracts millions of visitors every year. Although it’s also one of the most sparsely populated, it has an outlawish vibe.

Home to the most dramatic peaks, unique geology, and diverse wildlife, it’s hard to know where to start, but I’ve made this guide to help you…

1. Bighorn Scenic Byway, Bighorn National Forest 

While the Bighorn National Forest is undoubtedly a stunning spot, driving through the scenic byway is in my opinion just as extraordinary!

If you’re tired of hiking or simply want to see some stunning natural scenery, I suggest jumping in your car and heading out on the byway to enjoy views of the mountains, valleys, and waterways—they’re just sublime! 

Here, every view will 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, I personally think this byway is a must-see! 

My must-do highlights…

• Take a drive along the scenic panoramic road views for breathtaking viewpoints.
• Choose a hiking trail most suited to your ability, there are 27 to pick from all filled with gorgeous nature.
• Pack a picnic to stop off for a break surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

2. Cody 

This scenic former Wild West town is named after frontiersman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody.

Like other outdoorsy towns, Cody offers great hiking, rafting, rock climbing, or camping opportunities.

There are lots of mountain ranges near the town that you can enjoy, as well as a museum dedicated to Buffalo Bill (which I loved!) that contains tons of artefacts and educational opportunities. I personally think it makes an excellent spot for a weekend getaway! 

My must-do highlights…

• Explore the Buffalo Bill Museum to learn about the area’s history and see interesting exhibits.
• For an adrenaline-pumping activity, have a go at rock climbing for a different perspective overlooking the area.
• Spend the night underneath the stars with a night camping in the wilderness.

3. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park 

If you come to this state for sightseeing, this is one of the most iconic landmarks and world-famous!

It’s one of nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone National Park, but it is the most popular and impressive.

The cone geyser is also very active. It has erupted every 44 minutes to two hours since 2000 and can spew water around 180 feet into the air. 

My must-do highlights…

• View the magical and vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring from the overlook on Fairy Fall Trails.
• Check out the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone to see the tallest waterfall in the park which stands at 308 feet high.
• Visit Yellowstone Lake where you can go kayaking or take a boat tour.

4. Devils Tower National Monument

This monument stands out in the area, surrounded by lots of green grass and beautiful trees. If you love any type of geographic wonder, I highly recommend stopping by!

It is a cool place to visit if you love different landscapes. If the day is obvious, you’ll feel surreal when you view the monument against the blue sky.

Regardless of when you visit it, this is one view you’ll take home with you and never forget because it is an amazing sight you will love.

My must-do highlights…

• Stop by the visitor center to ensure you don’t miss out on hidden gems.
• Hike along the Tower Trail that loops around the magnificent rock formations.
• Be amazed by the grand landmark that stands at 870 feet tall.

5. Wyoming State Capitol building, Cheyenne

This is a wonderful 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.

It dates back to 1888 and is the seat of Wyoming’s executive and legislative branches of government. It’s open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday at 300 E. 21st Street.

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.

My must-do highlights…

• Explore the exhibits being hosted in the building.
• Visit The Pancake Breakfast for a delicious food experience.
• Wander over to the beautiful Botanic Gardens filled with vibrant colors.

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 great if you love natural beauty and many things to do.

The Flaming Gorge Dam separates the gorge from the Green River, which is amazing in itself. 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.

My must-do highlights…

• Visit Red Canyon Lodge for some fun outdoor activities.
• Experience the thrill of water rafting.
• Discover the array of hiking trails for an adventure.

7. Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park

This is the first canyon downstream of Yellowstone Falls and is worth every minute spent there. It is 24 miles long and varies in width from 800 to 1,200 feet at various points.

It’s difficult to comprehend how humongous this canyon is until you see it with your own eyes.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is truly a wonder; visiting it is one decision you’ll never regret. If you’re 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.

My must-do highlights…

• Make sure to capture an Insta-worthy shot overlooking the breathtaking landmark.
• Take 328 steps down into the canyon for a unique viewpoint at Uncle Tom’s Trail.
• Admire the spectacular river at the Brink of the Upper Falls.

8. Taggart Lake, 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 an amazing viewpoint, this is where you want to be.

I recommend not missing this one while visiting the many lakes in the park!

My must-do highlights…

• Check out the giant boulders located along the Taggart trail.
• Cool down with a swim in the lake on a hot day.
• Gaze in awe at the magnificent scenery surrounding the lake.

9. Hayden Valley, Yellowstone National Park

If you love wildlife, I suggest adding this place to your list! It is filled with animals such as elk, grizzly bears, coyotes, and buffalo, and there is more wildlife here than anywhere else in Yellowstone.

Add that to the beautiful scenic views you experience wherever you are, and you’ll understand why Hayden Valley is an unknown but extraordinary place to visit whenever you love nature and wildlife and experience something you’ve never done before.

My must-do highlights…

• Explore the muddy hot springs, also known as mud volcanoes.
• Take a drive and stop at the Sulphur Caldron viewpoint.
• Check out the wonderful LeHardys Rapids where you can also walk down to Yellowstone River.

10. Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis

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 the premises, if you’d prefer, over the outdoor waters.

My must-do highlights…

• Soak in the mineral-filled hot springs.
• Spend the night camping at one of the campgrounds surrounding the area.
• Wander through the trails around the springs.

11. 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!

My must-do highlights…

• Stroll around the cute and quaint buildings in the town.
• Learn about the area’s history by visiting the historic buildings and museums.
• Check out a fair or experience fine dining at a local restaurant.

12. Sinks Canyon, Lander

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 Wyoming, and one trip there will tell you why! 

My must-do highlights…

• Enjoying the scenic trail running available around the area.
• Take a picnic to have a lovely lunch whilst being surrounded by nature.
• Have a go at rock climbing for wonderful views.

13. Jackson

If you’re an outdoor lover, I recommend checking out this place! Jackson is 6,000 feet above sea level, filled with pristine sites and many trees and streams.

Town Square and AKA George Washington Memorial Park are at the centre of town, 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!

My highlights…

• Snowboarding in the winter!
• White-water rafting down the Snake River which was a very thrilling experience!

14. Jenny Lake, 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.

My must-do highlights…

• Take a scenic drive up to Signal Mountain for picturesque panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discover the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake. 
• Hike along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake which is perfect for all ages and ability levels.

15. 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!

My must-do highlights…

• Well known for the popular trails, going hiking is a must-do activity.
• Take a backpacking tour and stay over at a camping site.
• Stop by The Cirque of the Towers and be amazed by the epic landmark.

16. Medicine Bow Peak, Snowy Range

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.

My must-do highlights…

• Capture an Instagrammable shot of the insane mountain range.
• Drive along the scenic byway for several perfect viewpoint spots.
• Visit Lake Marie for a calming experience.

17. Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park 

With the mountains and trees reflecting off the water, there is no shortage of sights to enjoy. If you love natural beauty, Oxbow Bend is a must-visit.

Throughout the area, some overlooks allow you to enjoy and appreciate this beauty even more, giving you lots of ways to enjoy the area.

If you love overlooks, Oxbow Bend has one that promises to be one of the best in the entire park. You won’t have to go far to view numerous gorgeous sites.

My must-do highlights…

• Capture an Insta-worthy shot in this most photographed spot.
• Taking a guided tour to see all the perfect viewpoints.
• Cool down in the lake with a little dip in the refreshing water.

18. 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. Enjoy!

My must-do highlights…

• Wander around this breathtaking area at a slower pace than skiing by going on a snowshoe tour.
• Hit the slopes and fly down the freshly pisted runs with skis or a snowboard.
• Enjoy a fun group activity by going tubing, perfect for all ages and abilities.

19. 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, wildlife, festivals, and much more.

Whenever you decide to visit, you will find things to do all year round. Whether you prefer a busy activity or a quiet time, you will find great 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.

My must-do highlights…

• Hike the famous peaks of the Bighorn Mountains with amazing views.
• Spend some downtime by relaxing in this breathtaking area.
• Discover the interesting culture of the city by getting involved with community activities.