Winter in Wyoming
Nature dominates in Wyoming, where the Great Plains meet the epic Rocky Mountains. Throughout the state you’ll find countless ways to experience the great outdoors, such as natural hot springs, scenic overlooks, world-class skiing and so much more. Also notable is Wyoming’s storied role in the mass westward migrations of the 19th century, the Old West aesthetic that accompanied that era and the cowboy lifestyle that persists throughout the state. Put all together, Wyoming offers a nature, beauty and history-filled itinerary that you won’t want to miss!
Casper
Today, Casper is a top-ranked family-friendly small city in the West, according to Forbes Magazine, and nestled between Casper Mountain and the North Platte River, it’s quite beautiful, too! The surrounding areas offer lots of nature activities, such as fishing and hiking, and the city itself delivers more cowboy relics from the Old West era.
Where to Stay:
What to Eat:
- Enjoy homemade honey wheat bread in a charmingly old Casper home at The Cottage Cafe.
- Follow the neon lights to Johnny J’s Diner for an authentic 50’s style experience.
- Grab a steak at one of Casper’s earliest fine dining establishments, The Silver Fox Steakhouse.
What to Do:
- Hike Casper Mountain to the beautiful Garden Creek Falls.
- Shop from over 10,000 pairs of cowboy boots at Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters, a Casper institution for 100 years.
- Fish the famous Miracle Mile river system.
Thermopolis
In fact, the name Thermopolis comes from the Greek for “Hot City,” and Thermopolis claims the world’s largest mineral hot spring, known as “The Big Spring.” You can enjoy the springs for free, thanks to an agreement formed with the native Shoshone and Arapaho tribes. Also unique about Thermopolis: dinosaur fossils were found in the area. You can see them at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center.
Where to Stay:
What to Eat:
- For pancakes that are bigger than your plate, grab breakfast at Thermopolis Cafe.
- After soaking in the hot springs, grab a cold one at One Eyed Buffalo Brewing Company where they specialize in craft beer.
- Experience the joys of small-town diners, with a stop at local favorite, Black Bear Cafe, known for hearty portions and homemade biscuits.
What to Do:
- See the fossils at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, one of the largest and most unique fossil collections in the world.
- Behold the pink-hued rock walls dating back to the Precambian period on the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byways.
- Take the plunge at Hot Springs State Park.
Jackson
This stop includes the iconic Grand Teton National Park, where pristine lakes, majestic mountains and over 300 kilometers of trails stand as tribute to the people who have protected it over the years. Add to those, the world-class skiing offered in Jackson Hole, and you’ll start to get an idea of what’s in store. The vast wildlife population of the area is honored throughout Jackson, from the National Museum of Wildlife Art to the Jackson Town Square that’s enshrined with elk antlers from the nearby National Elk Refuge.
Where to Stay:
What to Eat:
- Go to Picnic, a new restaurant voted “best new restaurant” by locals, according to Jackson Hole Traveler.
- Visit Dornan’s for their popular pizza and pasta, or to dine beside a teepee.
- Some say the buffalo burger at Local is the best around. See for yourself.
What to Do:
- Go horseback riding at a real dude ranch at Turpin Meadow Ranch.
- Hit the slopes at Snow King Mountain Resort.
- Give ice fishing a try at Jackson Lake.
- Snap a photo of the T.A. Moulton Barn, which is positioned in front of a picturesque mountain background, and considered “The Most Photographed Barn in America,” by Atlas Obscura.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park comprises over 9,000 square kilometers, and contains within it natural features such as stunning canyons, lush forests, racing rivers, hot springs and the famous Old Faithful Geyser. Oh, and the whole thing rests atop a volcanic hot spot! Put on your hiking shoes and trek through the park, keeping an eye out for some of the park’s animal inhabitants: bears, wolves, bison, elk and antelope.
Where to Stay:
What to Eat:
- Dine on the majestic shore of Yellowstone Lake while enjoying fresh fish or wild game dishes at Lake Hotel Dining Room.
- For a beef burger by local ranchers go to Wiley’s Canteen at Lake Lodge.
- Enjoy a meal in a cabin that pays tribute to the Old West at the Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room.
What to Do:
- See Old Faithful’s exciting eruption.
- Behold the majestic and colorful Grand Prismatic Spring.
- Discover the Waterfalls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
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