Southwest Wyoming is filled with beautiful rock formations, fun recreational activities, scenic byways and intriguing fossilized remains. It is a spectacular region to visit — all without breaking the bank.
Marvel at the White Mountain Petroglyphs
Wyoming’s Red Desert
Located approximately 26 miles northeast of Rock Springs, the White Mountain Petroglyphs are one of the state’s premier rock art sites. The site includes stone etchings of figures portraying bison and elk hunts, geometric forms and tiny footprints — all etched into the stone some 200 to 1,000 years ago. The petroglyphs also illustrate contact with European cultures in the form of horse and warrior etchings. It’s truly an incredible glimpse into history and is free to all visitors.
Check Out Mountain Man, Native American & Mining Artifacts at the Fossil Country Frontier Museum
Kemmerer
This museum hosts a collection of natural and cultural materials representative of the history-rich area. The museum’s goal is to educate the public about the area’s history and culture, and in doing so, does not charge for admission. A sampling of annual exhibits includes the J.C. Penney Mother store, bootlegging stills and wine presses and a replica coal mine.
Drive the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop Tour
Between Rock Springs and Green River
Winding north of Rock Springs and Green River is the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop, a 23-mile long, hard-packed gravel road that passes between beautiful rock formations and bottomless cliffs. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a pack of the magnificent wild horses that roam the area, but even if you don’t, the spectacular scenery is worth the drive.
Visit the Excellent Gallery at the Community Fine Arts Center
Rock Springs
The CFAC is one of Wyoming’s artistic treasures, housing works by Norman Rockwell, Grandma Moses and other important 20th-century artists in its permanent collection. The museum boasts close to 500 original American paintings, prints and photographs — in addition to changing displays of fine art throughout the year.
Hike Through Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge for the Chance to Spot an Amazing Roster of Wildlife
Green River
Protecting approximately 27,230 acres of riparian, wetland and upland shrub habitats along the Green River, the refuge could easily set the scene for a perfect nature walk. Count how many bird species you see (there are 220), and keep an eye out for bald eagles, trumpeter swans, moose, mule deer, white-tailed jackrabbits, coyotes, foxes and more.
