Adventures in the Old West: Wyoming's Small Towns

Dubois offers a slice of the American Old West, tucked away in the tranquil Wind River Valley, only an hour from Yellowstone. Horseback riding through picturesque trails is popular in summer, and winter brings the excitement of dog sledding. The town is also a spectacle of colour in spring with blooms like Indian paintbrush and lupines dotting the landscape.

Established by the legendary Colonel William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, Cody is a gateway to scenic drives leading to Yellowstone. It boasts thrilling ziplining adventures at Sleeping Giant with stunning views of the Absaroka Mountains. Cody's historical Old Trail town features frontier-style architecture from the 1890s. Local crafts, including saddle-making, can be explored in the town’s quaint shops.

Jackson is a playground for sports and nature lovers. Thrilling activities such as whitewater rafting on the Snake River and rock climbing in the Tetons are all on offer here. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snowmobiling. The town is also a prime spot for watching wildlife like eagles and moose. Cultural pursuits can be enjoyed in Jackson’s vibrant galleries and eateries, including the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar.

Afton is notable for its rare periodic springs, one of only three such places globally, where water intriguingly flows intermittently. The surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest offers excellent camping and hiking opportunities. Afton’s downtown is home to unique indie shops and eateries, perfect for those looking to indulge in local flavours like the treats at Star Valley Chocolate Cafe.

In Farson, the local claim to fame is the oversized ice cream cones at Farson Mercantile, known locally as the "Big Cone." This small town is also a gateway to historical sites like petroglyphs and remnants of the Oregon Trail, enriching visitors with its deep historical roots. Pack a picnic and head to Big Sandy Reservoir for a relaxing day in the great outdoors.

Lander, a hub for arts and culture in Wyoming, hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from Native American powwows to local music events. The town is also a starting point for excursions into the Wind River Range. Explore local galleries and the Museum of the American West to get a sense of the area's rich history and artistic contributions.

Saratoga is known for its hot springs, which are freely accessible to the public and reputed for their healing properties. The town is a sanctuary for relaxation and also offers excellent fly fishing spots along the North Platte River. After a day of soothing baths or outdoor activities, visitors can enjoy local cuisine at cozy, rustic restaurants that capture the spirit of the West.

Pinedale is the gateway to the vast wilderness of the Bridger Wilderness Area. It's a favourite among hikers, fishermen, and nature lovers. Fremont Lake, just a short drive from town, offers pristine waters ideal for boating and fishing. The Mountain Man Museum, meanwhile, pays homage to the region's fur trading and mountain man history.

Alpine sits at the confluence of three rivers, making it a prime spot for water sports like kayaking and fishing. The surrounding mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. In winter, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing take centre stage. Alpine's lively bar and grill scene provides the perfect backdrop for sharing stories of the day’s exploits.

Situated away in the Bear Lodge Mountains, Sundance is rich with legend surrounding outlaws and was originally home to the notorious Sundance Kid. Today, the town provides a variety of outdoor sports and historical monuments, including many hiking and mountain bike paths. The Crook County Museum and Art Gallery features artefacts from the outlaw and pioneer movements as well as Native American culture.

Greybull offers a quiet retreat with its quaint downtown lined with antique shops and cafes. The Greybull Museum provides insights into the local history, focusing on palaeontology and the area's oil and gas industry. Nearby, visitors can explore the Big Horn Mountains and Bighorn National Forest, which offer spectacular scenery and numerous trails for outdoor adventures.

In Teton Village, adventure meets natural beauty. Summer months are perfect for rock climbing and hiking, while winter attracts skiers worldwide to its renowned slopes. For thrill-seekers, Corbet's Couloir offers a daunting challenge. The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram provides breathtaking views across the Tetons, and after a day of adventure, the Mangy Moose Steakhouse and Saloon is the ideal spot to unwind.

Centred around its rejuvenating geothermal hot springs, Thermopolis invites visitors to relax in the thermal waters of Hot Water Springs State Park. Explore the town via the Swinging Bridge over the Bighorn River, potentially spotting bison herds. The town is also a hub for rafting and fishing enthusiasts and boasts delightful eateries like the Black Bear Cafe and One Eyed Buffalo Brewing.

Green River is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, kayaking and river tubing are popular activities, capitalizing on the scenic river that shares the town’s name. Nearby, the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area offers excellent hiking opportunities. Local culture is showcased at the Sweetwater County Museum. A drive between Green River and Rock Springs might even reward you with sights of wild horses in their natural habitat.

Gillette's music scene is always hopping, with a lineup of concerts and festivals throughout the year that keep the tunes rolling. At the CAM-PLEX Multi-Event Facilities, you're in for a treat with everything from foot-tapping country music concerts to captivating Broadway shows. Meanwhile, over at the Frontier Relics and Auto Museum, you can explore a fascinating collection of classic cars and memorabilia, complete with a nostalgic drive-in theatre experience. For those who love the great outdoors, don't skip a visit to the Durham Bison Ranch, where you can get up close with Wyoming's iconic wildlife.