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Things to Do in Wyoming

Things to Do in Wyoming

Wyoming Rocky Mountains, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Wyoming's natural landscapes feature many opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Yellowstone NP

Easy: Boardwalks around geyser basins (Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic) offer accessible paths. Moderate: The Mystic Falls Trail has a moderate option, a 2.4-mile (3.9 km) round trip. Strenuous: The Mount Washburn Trail, a 6.2-mile (10 km) round trip, involves significant elevation gain. Various backcountry trails require permits.

Grand Teton NP

Easy: The Jenny Lake Trail is a 7.1-mile (11.4 km) loop, with flatter sections available. Access Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point via the Jenny Lake boat shuttle, then hike 1-2 miles (1.6-3.2 km), with a moderately strenuous climb to Inspiration Point. Moderate: The Leigh Lake Trail is a 7.2-mile (11.6 km) round trip. Strenuous: The Cascade Canyon Trail is a longer day hike that leads into the backcountry. Technical climbing routes exist on peaks like Grand Teton itself.

Wind River Range

This area features extensive, remote backcountry trails; most are strenuous multi-day backpacking trips suitable for experienced hikers.

Water & Adventure Sports

  • Whitewater Rafting: Popular on the Snake River (Jackson Hole) and Shoshone River (Cody), offering various thrill levels from scenic floats to Class III/IV rapids. Many guided tours are available.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Permitted on many lakes, including Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, and Yellowstone Lake. Rentals are available at marinas.
  • Fishing: Wyoming offers world-class fly fishing for trout in rivers like the Snake River and Green River, and in various lakes. Licenses are required.
  • Mountain Biking: Extensive trails exist around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Pass, and in state forests.

Climbing

  • Devils Tower is a renowned climbing destination.
  • A permit or registration is required for Devils Tower.
  • Technical climbing is available in Grand Teton.
  • Climbing opportunities exist in the Wind River Range.

Ziplining/Ropes Courses

  • Available at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
  • Also offered at Snow King Mountain Resort in Jackson.
  • An exhilarating way to experience mountain views.
  • Options for various skill and thrill levels.

Snowmobiling

  • A popular winter activity in designated areas.
  • Available on groomed trails in Yellowstone (with guided tours).
  • Also offered outside the national parks.
  • Experience the winter wonderland.

Wildlife Safety Advisory

Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife (minimum 100 yards for bears/wolves, 25 yards for others). Never feed animals. Be aware of your surroundings, especially during dawn and dusk. Consider booking a wildlife tour with a local guide for expert spotting and safety.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Wyoming's Western heritage and cultural offerings.

Workshops & Cultural Performances

  • Workshops: Formal workshops for tourists are limited, but some art galleries in Jackson might offer short classes focusing on local art or crafts.
  • Rodeos: Cody hosts a nightly rodeo in summer (June-August), offering an authentic Western experience. Other towns also feature weekend rodeos.
  • Native American Dance: Some visitor centers or events, like those at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, might feature Native American dance performances.
  • Chuckwagon Dinners: These offer a glimpse into cowboy culture with live Western music and food. Bar J Chuckwagon in Jackson is a seasonal example.

Cultural Festivals & Events

Cheyenne Frontier Days

In July, one of the largest outdoor rodeos and Western celebrations in the world. Features rodeos, concerts, and parades.

Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival

In September, this festival celebrates local and regional art, featuring gallery walks, museum exhibits, and workshops.

Town Square Lighting Jackson

In early December, this event kicks off the winter season with festive lights, carols, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Spa & Wellness Centers

These are concentrated in Jackson Hole, with spas at luxury hotels like Four Seasons, Hotel Terra, and Amangani. They offer traditional massage, hot stone treatments, and mountain-inspired therapies.

Hot Springs & Natural Therapy

Hot Springs State Park (Thermopolis) offers a free public bathing pool. Granite Hot Springs (near Jackson) is a natural, undeveloped hot springs pool. Yellowstone NP's Boiling River offers soaking (check regulations).

Yoga & Beach/Pool Clubs

Some studios and resorts in Jackson Hole offer yoga classes. Dedicated retreats are rare. Some hotels and resorts feature pools. "Beaches" around lakes like Jackson Lake are natural, undeveloped shorelines.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Wyoming's entertainment and nightlife scene centers around its Western heritage and mountain town vibe.

Live Music Venues

  • Jackson Hole: The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar offers live country music and features iconic saddle bar stools.
  • The Silver Dollar Bar & Grill also has live music.
  • The Mangy Moose Saloon in Teton Village hosts a variety of acts.
  • Cody: Often features live Western music in its saloons, enhancing the cowboy town atmosphere.

Theater & Performance Spaces

Jackson Hole Playhouse

Has seasonal melodramas and Western-themed shows, offering family-friendly entertainment.

Center for the Arts Jackson

Hosts touring performances, concerts, and local productions, offering a diverse cultural calendar for visitors.

Nightlife Overview

Nightclubs and dancing options are limited. The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is the main spot for dancing in Jackson. Generally, towns are quiet after 10 PM, with the exception of a few active bars in Jackson.

Bar Districts & Late-Night Options

Jackson's Downtown

Jackson's downtown area has a concentration of bars within walking distance, making a casual pub crawl feasible.

Limited Late Hours

Most towns in Wyoming generally become quiet after 10 PM, with limited late-night options outside of Jackson.

Local Events

Check local listings for special events, concerts, or performances that might extend into the evening.

Shopping & Markets

Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts while shopping in Wyoming.

Traditional Markets & Artisan Crafts

  • Farmers Markets: Jackson (Saturday mornings in summer) and other towns offer local produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods.
  • Artisan Workshops & Galleries: Numerous art galleries in Jackson Hole showcase Western and wildlife art, photography, and sculpture.
  • Native American Crafts: Available at some museums and specialized shops. Ensure authenticity by purchasing from reputable sources.
  • Shipping: U.S. Domestic shipping is straightforward. For international shipping of large items, consult the store or a shipping company regarding customs duties in your home country.

Souvenir Recommendations

Local Art & Photography

Consider purchasing prints, paintings, or sculptures depicting Wyoming's landscapes and wildlife.

Huckleberry Products

Jams, candies, and other items made from the tart, sweet huckleberry make unique and delicious souvenirs.

Western Wear & Wildlife-Themed Items

Look for cowboy hats, boots, buckles, wildlife-themed clothing, or plush toys as mementos of your trip.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Concentrated in Jackson Hole.
  • Offers high-end Western wear.
  • Specialized outdoor gear.
  • Unique jewelry and fine art.

Museum Gift Shops

  • Often feature educational items.
  • Local artisan crafts.
  • Books on Wyoming's history and nature.
  • Support local institutions.

General Retail

  • Larger towns have national chain stores.
  • Grocery stores for provisions.
  • Sporting goods stores for outdoor gear.
  • Pharmacies for health and travel essentials.

Customs & Restrictions

Air Travel Restrictions
  • Note restrictions on items like bear spray for air travel.
  • Check TSA guidelines for all prohibited items before packing.
  • Consider shipping large or restricted items directly home.
International Customs
  • For international shipping of large items, consult the store or a shipping company.
  • Review customs duties and regulations in your home country.
  • Avoid purchasing items that may be prohibited from import.

Shopping Tip: Support Local

Look for "Made in Wyoming" labels.

Activity Planning Summary

To Do

  • Explore Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for iconic sights.
  • Experience a rodeo in Cody for authentic Western culture.
  • Hike, bike, or raft in stunning natural landscapes.
  • Visit Hot Springs State Park for a relaxing soak.

To Consider

  • Book popular activities and tours well in advance, especially in peak season.
  • Dress in layers for varying weather conditions throughout the day.
  • Carry bear spray when hiking in designated areas and know how to use it safely.
  • Respect wildlife and maintain safe distances.