National Parks and Natural Wonders That Make Wyoming a Must-Visit
Just a short drive north of Jackson, Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park rises dramatically from the valley floor, offering one of the most stunning mountain landscapes in the American West. The park’s signature feature, the jagged peaks of the Teton Range, dominate the horizon, with Grand Teton itself soaring to 13,775 feet. Hiking the Jenny Lake Loop trail, an easy 7.5-mile circuit, lets visitors soak in both lush forests and alpine vistas, while a boat shuttle across Jenny Lake offers quicker access to the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point trails. Early summer brings wildflower blooms and active wildlife, including moose and black bears, making this season especially vibrant. The stark contrast between the towering peaks and the serene lakes sets the Tetons apart from other Wyoming landscapes.
About three hours northeast of Jackson lies Yellowstone National Park, primarily in Wyoming but extending into Montana and Idaho. The park is a geothermal wonderland, and the iconic Old Faithful Geyser in the Upper Geyser Basin is an unmissable spectacle. Watching steaming water erupt in a predictable plume every 90 minutes feels like witnessing nature’s own clockwork. Beyond Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring dazzles with vibrant rings of blue, green, and orange, best viewed from the overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail. Yellowstone’s vastness invites exploration of rugged trails like the 5.5-mile moderate hike to Mystic Falls, where crowds thin and the wilderness feels infinitely wild. Visiting in late spring or early fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for those seeking tranquility amid the park’s bubbling mud pots and roaming bison.
Farther west, near the Idaho border, the New Fork Lakes Trail in Bridger-Teton National Forest, about an hour northwest of Pinedale, offers hikers a challenging but rewarding 12-mile round trip. This trail ascends through dense pine forests to a series of crystal-clear alpine lakes nestled beneath the Wind River Range’s soaring granite walls. The shimmering lakes reflect the jagged peaks, creating postcard-perfect scenes for photographers and nature lovers alike. The trail’s solitude and high elevation—above 9,000 feet—make summer the best time to visit, avoiding snow while taking in the cool mountain air. Unlike the more crowded national parks, New Fork Lakes offers a quieter immersion into Wyoming’s rugged backcountry.
In the northeastern corner of the state, Devils Tower National Monument stands about 40 miles northeast of Gillette as a striking geological marvel. This massive, columnar formation rises 1,267 feet above the surrounding terrain, drawing climbers and curious visitors alike. The Tower Trail, a gentle 1.3-mile loop, circumnavigates the base, offering close-up views of the rock’s dramatic vertical striations and chances to spot prairie dogs and birds. This sacred site for Native American tribes carries a deep spiritual significance, adding a cultural depth to the natural spectacle. Spring and early fall provide comfortable weather for hiking and photography, while summer evenings allow visitors to witness the Tower silhouetted against fiery sunsets.
Southwest of Casper, the Vedauwoo Recreation Area in the Medicine Bow National Forest is a playground for rock climbers and hikers, about 45 minutes away from the city. The area’s unique granite rock formations, shaped over millions of years, resemble whimsical sculptures scattered across the forest floor. Trails like the Echo Lake Loop, an easy 3-mile hike, navigate through dense pine trees and boulder fields, ending at a serene mountain lake perfect for picnics and reflection. Vedauwoo’s accessibility and unusual geology make it a favored escape for locals and visitors wanting a day trip with both adventure and tranquility. Fall’s crisp air and vibrant foliage create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities here.
Near the town of Cody, about 50 miles east of Yellowstone’s eastern entrance, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West offers a world-class museum experience with five distinct museums under one roof. Visitors can explore the rich history of the American West, from Native American art and culture to natural history, firearms, and the legacy of Buffalo Bill Cody himself. The Draper Natural History Museum, part of the center, provides immersive exhibits on the region’s wildlife and geology, making it an excellent complement to outdoor adventures. The town of Cody hosts lively summer rodeos that showcase Wyoming’s cowboy heritage, adding a festive cultural layer to the visit. Spring through early fall is an ideal time to explore both the museums and the nearby outdoor attractions.
Just east of Cheyenne, the Curt Gowdy State Park sprawls across nearly 3,000 acres of rolling hills and granite outcroppings, about 30 minutes from the state capital. This park boasts over 35 miles of multi-use trails that wind through pine forests and around sparkling reservoirs like Crystal and Granite Springs. The Wyoming Trail, a challenging 10-mile loop, is a favorite among mountain bikers and hikers for its varied terrain and panoramic views. Winter transforms the park into a cross-country skiing haven, while summer brings boating and fishing opportunities. Its proximity to Cheyenne makes Curt Gowdy an accessible option for those seeking diverse outdoor recreation without traveling far from city comforts.
Close to Laramie, Medicine Bow National Forest is a sprawling wilderness offering countless trails and scenic drives. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway, about an hour west of Laramie, climbs through subalpine forests and alpine meadows to the Snowy Range Pass at 10,847 feet elevation. This route showcases brilliant fall colors, wildflower fields, and sweeping mountain panoramas, with hiking options ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs, such as the Lake Marie Trail. The alpine lakes scattered along the way provide peaceful spots for fishing and picnicking. Early autumn reveals the forest at its most colorful, making the byway a favorite for photographers and leaf-peepers.
Lastly, the town of Thermopolis sits about two hours northwest of Casper and is renowned for its natural hot springs. Hot Springs State Park, nestled within Thermopolis, features a series of geothermal pools fed by the world’s largest mineral hot spring. Visitors can soak in the warm waters, which maintain a soothing temperature year-round, while enjoying views of the Bighorn River Canyon. The park also houses the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, where fossil exhibits and active dig sites highlight the region’s prehistoric past. Winter visits here have a special charm as the contrast between the cold air and steamy springs creates an almost magical atmosphere, ideal for relaxation after a day of exploring.
Each of these destinations reveals a different facet of Wyoming’s vast and varied landscape. From soaring peaks and bubbling geysers to serene lakes and cultural treasures, the state beckons travelers seeking both adventure and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether it’s climbing Devils Tower at dawn or wandering the vibrant trails of Grand Teton, Wyoming offers memorable experiences that linger long after the journey ends.