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 annually. 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 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 sublime!
Every view will take your breath away, and there are miles and miles to enjoy! If you love Mother Nature, and even if you don’t, I personally think this byway is a must-see!
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a drive along the scenic road and stopping at viewpoints to see breathtaking views.
- Take the easy-to-moderate trail to Coney Creek Trail Stull Lakes, and Coney Lake.
- Packing a picnic and stopping off to eat at a spot surrounded by gorgeous scenery.
2. Cody
This scenic former Wild West town is named after frontiersman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody.
Cody offers excellent hiking, rafting, rock climbing, and camping opportunities like other outdoorsy towns.
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 personal highlights…
- Visiting the Buffalo Bill Museum and seeing interesting exhibits (such as a stuffed buffalo!) and learning all about the area’s history.
- Trying rock climbing with an experienced guide.
- Photographing the incredible historic architecture.
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 favorite highlights…
- Seeing the stunning Grand Prismatic Spring from the overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail.
- Checking out the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and see the tallest waterfall in the park (which stands at 308 feet high).
- Kayaking on Yellowstone Lake.
4. Devils Tower National Monument
This monument stands out in the area, surrounded by green grass and beautiful trees. If you love any 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.
My personal highlights…
- Stopping by the visitor center, I learned about the monument’s history and discovered all the hidden gems in the area.
- Hiking along the Tower Trail that loops around the magnificent rock formations.
- Being amazed by the grand landmark that stands at 870 feet tall.
5. Wyoming State Capitol building, Cheyenne
This is a beautiful 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.
300 E. 21st Street dates back to 1888 and is the seat of Wyoming’s executive and legislative branches of government. It is open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday.
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 personal highlights…
- Exploring the interesting exhibits hosted in the building.
- Exploring the nearby beautiful Botanic Gardens, which were 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 excellent if you love natural beauty and many things to do.
The Flaming Gorge Dam separates the gorge from the Green River, which is impressive. 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 personal highlights…
- Staying in the cozy cabins in Flaming Gorge Resort.
- Going white water rafting!
- Hiking the scenic Red Canyon Overlook via Canyon Rim Trail (rated moderate) took me past stunning scenery.
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 isn’t easy to comprehend how humongous this canyon is until you see it with your own eyes.
The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is 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 highlights…
- Capturing an Insta-worthy shot overlooking the breathtaking landmark.
- Taking the 328 steps into the canyon for a unique viewpoint at Uncle Tom’s Trail.
- Admiring 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 a fantastic viewpoint, this is where you want to be.
I recommend not missing this one while visiting the many lakes in the park!
My personal highlights…
- Checking out the scenic giant boulders located along the Taggart trail.
- Cooling down with a swim in the lake on a hot day.
- Gazing 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 highlights…
- Exploring the muddy hot springs, also known as mud volcanoes.
- Taking a drive and stopping at the Sulphur Caldron viewpoint.
- Check out the wonderful LeHardys Rapids, where I found I could walk down to the 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 pleasant, 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 personal highlights…
- Soaking in the mineral-filled hot springs in the Bathhouse.
- Camping overnight at Ten Sleep Brewing Co., next to the striking, beautiful red cliff Signal Butte.
- Hiking the T Hill Hiking Trail (moderate), which took me nearly 2 hours to complete but the incredible views made it worth it!
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 favorite highlights…
- Taking a stroll around the cute and quaint buildings in the town.
- Learning about the area’s history by visiting the historic buildings and museums; my favourite was the Historic Occidental Hotel Museum; the historic western-style saloon was incredible!
- Dining on a hearty veggie brunch at the super-cute Busy Bee Cafe.
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 the state, and it’s a favorite of mine too!
My highlights…
- Hiking the North Slope Trail took me over scenic elevations.
- Having a picnic at Bruce Picnic Site, where I watched the gushing river as I ate.
- Taking beginner’s rock climbing lessons with Wind River Climbing Guides.
13. Jackson
If you’re an outdoor lover, I recommend checking out this place! Jackson is 6,000 feet above sea level and is filled with pristine sites, trees, and streams.
Town Square and AKA George Washington Memorial Park are at the town center, 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 personal highlights…
- Taking a scenic drive up to Signal Mountain and seeing panoramic views overlooking the park.
- Discovering the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake.
- Hiking along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake which was a scenic, easy and quick trail.
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 personal highlights…
- Well known for the popular trails, going hiking is a must-do activity.
- Camping overnight in a tent above the upper Titcomb Lake – the scenery was incredible!
- Stopping by The Cirque of the Towers and photographing 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 personal highlights…
- Capturing an Instagrammable shot of the insane mountain range.
- Driving along the scenic byway and stopping at several viewpoints to take photos.
- Visiting the tranquil Lake Marie was a calming, zen-like 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 highlights…
- Capturing an Insta-worthy shot of the stunning scenery.
- Taking a guided tour and finding out all the best viewpoints.
- Going stand-up paddle boarding (there are rentals available in the areas).
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 highlights…
- Going on a scenic snowshoe tour in the winter, the snowy scenery here is just stunning!
- Going skiing and then retiring to a cozy lodge.
- Enjoying tubing, which was a fun, family-friendly experience!
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.
You will find things to do all year round whenever you decide to visit. Whether you prefer a busy activity or a quiet time, you will find excellent 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 personal highlights…
- Hiking the moderate Story Penrose Trail which took me through the famous peaks of the Bighorn Mountains – the views are stunning!
- Dining at the quaint Cowboy Cafe, I highly recommend the Apple rhubarb pie!
- Discovering local art at the Sheridan Russell Gallery.
