Everyone needs a digital detox every now and then, and what better place to do so than in Wyoming? Getting away from the noise and distractions of everyday life isn’t hard around here. The state’s vast size and low population could allow each person living in Wyoming to have 111 acres all to themselves.
Use those numbers to your advantage by planning a trip to unplug and recharge in the Cowboy State. In these 10 Wyoming towns, you can leave your notifications behind and experience the beautiful authenticity of the West.
1. Lander
Hiking, mountain biking, fishing and world-class climbing await in this secluded mountain town along Wyoming’s Wind River Range. Most of Lander’s outdoor fun can be found in Sinks Canyon State Park, a beautiful park with a natural phenomenon known as The Sinks. Jump on one of the 500+ area climbing routes or explore the park’s stunning scenery via trail. If you’d like a more classic Western experience, book a stay at Allen’s Diamond Four Ranch.
2. Star Valley
Wyoming’s Star Valley is a community of 12 towns that span a 45 mile stretch of valley nestled against the Salt River Mountain Range – just one hour south of Grand Teton National Park. This often-overlooked part of the state is also one of the most beautiful, with rolling hills, snow-capped mountains and rushing rivers serving as the backdrop to your outdoor adventures. Cast a line in the Salt, Greys or Snake river, hike in the nearby Bridger-Teton National Forest or enjoy the views along the Star Valley Scenic Byway. In the winter, explore this area along hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails.
3. Saratoga
For the ultimate mountain rejuvenation, head to Saratoga and take a soak in the hot springs. Hobo Hot Springs features several free pools, including a few along the North Platte River. Or you can stay at Saratoga Hot Springs Resort to relax in their teepee-covered hot spring pools. Make your way to nearby Medicine Bow National Forest to hike along the Snowy Mountain Range. Here, you can camp, book a unique accommodation such as the Snow Survey Cabin or enjoy a luxurious, mountainside retreat at Brush Creek Ranch.
4. Sundance
Break away from the stresses of modern technology in the place where the Sundance Kid got his name. This Western town is located in the heart of the Black Hills, offering plenty of trails for the enjoyment of hikers, horseback riders and off-road vehicle enthusiasts alike. Another nearby attraction? Devils Tower. Explore America’s first national monument by hiking around its mile-long base or climbing up its 900-foot face. While in the area, discover the tiny town of Aladdin and its not-to-be-missed general store.
Devils Tower National Monument
5. Alcova
Technically part of Casper, Wyoming, Alcova is an unincorporated town near Fremont Canyon that offers rest, rejuvenation and adventure on the water. Get away from the noise of everyday life by staying at a campsite along the canyon’s Alcova or Pathfinder reservoirs; or book a rustic cabin in the town of Alcova. Rent a pontoon boat, kayak, stand-up paddleboard or water toy of your choosing at Alcova Resort and spend your days gazing at the canyon’s towering walls from its refreshing blue shores. Grab your fishing pole and cast a line into Alcova Reservoir, or try your luck at fly fishing on the nearby Platte River. Rock climbing, hiking and mountain biking offer even more fun on shore. For a zoomed-out look at this breathtaking landscape, jump in your car and explore the surrounding Seminoe to Alcova Scenic Byway.
6. Guernsey
Step off the grid and into a time when the West was a new frontier. Just south of Guernsey you will find remnants of travel from those heading West on the Oregon Trail during the mid-1800s. See the Oregon Trail ruts – the tracks worn into sandstone from pioneer wagons – some of which are now five feet deep. Then head to Register Cliff to find names carved into rock wall by emigrants passing through. Continue your deep dive into history with a trip to Fort Laramie, a national historic site that transformed from a fur trading outpost to a military post protecting westward travelers from local American Indian tribes. When you’re finished taking in the area’s history, relax on the reservoir at Guernsey State Park.
7. Lovell
This quaint town in northern Wyoming offers a doorway to both Western history and outdoor adventure. Spot wild horses at the Pryor Mountain Wild Mustang Center, discover ancient American Indian History at Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark or stroll through downtown Lovell, known for its beautiful rose gardens. While in town, take a few days to explore the nearby Bighorn Lake and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, an area that spans into Montana and features stunning, 1,000-foot-tall canyon walls carved by the Bighorn River.
8. Green River
Discover southwest Wyoming’s beautiful buttes and otherworldy rock formations in the area surrounding Green River. Toss your phones aside as you search for wildlife at the beautiful Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge, where moose, pronghorn and over 200 species of birds can be spotted year-round. Or drive the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop for the chance to see members of the area herd, which consists of about 1,500 wild horses. Drive the Flaming Gorge-Green River Basin Scenic Byway for breathtaking views of Green River and Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, leaving ample time to stop and explore.
9. Buffalo
Tucked just east of Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains, Buffalo offers a wide range of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed during any season. Take a hike in Cloud Peak Wilderness, cast a line in Clear Creek or saddle up for an hourly, daily or overnight horseback trip at one of several nearby ranches. When the snow starts falling, hit the slopes at Meadowlark Ski Lodge or snowmobile pristine trails in the Bighorns. For a touch of Wild West adventure, step back in time at the Historic Occidental Hotel, where infamous guests such as Butch Cassidy and Calamity Jane once stayed. Then venture down to Hole-in-the-Wall near Kaycee to get a first-hand look at one of the West’s best outlaw hideouts.
10. Dubois
Located near both the Wind River and Absaroka mountain ranges, Dubois boasts plenty of opportunities to getting away from your inbox and into the outdoors. Hike to the peaceful Lake Louise or challenge yourself with a hike up Whiskey Mountain, both of which aren’t far from Wyoming’s tallest mountain at 13,809 feet: Gannett Peak. Be sure to stop at the National Bighorn Sheep Center to learn about Wyoming’s bighorn sheep through engaging exhibits. During the winter months, head west to Falls Campground or Deception Creek to snowshoe or cross-country ski. These areas are protected from snowmobilers, allowing you to have a quiet experience on pristine snow.
These Wyoming towns are just the beginning. Take a look at what other Wyoming cities you can explore.
