Wyoming is home to the country’s first
national park. While Yellowstone National Park is definitely worth a visit,
Wyoming also boasts an abundance of serene outdoor experiences that will surely
take your breath away. Here are a few outdoor experiences you won’t want to
miss when traveling to Wyoming.
Jackson Hole
One of the best ways to experience Jackson
Hole is by horseback. A horseback ride through the expansive, rugged Jackson
Hole is sure to be a highlight of your trip. If you’re feeling more adventurous,
consider a whitewater rafting trip down the exciting Snake River. Hikers will
also find endless adventure opportunities within Jackson Hole, with thousands
of trails. A guided wildlife tour through Jackson Hole is a fun but safe way to
get up close to Wyoming’s wildlife. You’ll get your own wildlife guide who will
take you to the best places in the wild.
Jackson Hole is also an excellent winter trip.
The park has something for everyone: skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, and
snowmobile tours. Visit around the holidays to enjoy a magical winter sleigh
ride through Jackson Hole. Go back in time and enjoy dinner on a Chuckwagon
dinner ride through the park. During the winter months, you can also go dog
sledding, which is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park has earned a
reputation for its iconic mountain scenery. With over 500 square miles within
the park, you’ll have much to explore. Check out the expansive Grand Tetons
from the air in a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy hiking, boating, biking, or
fishing within the park. Take in a photo-worthy sunset from the top of Oxbow
Bend or sunset at Snake River Overlook.
Camping within nature is one of the best things to do in Wyoming. Set up a tent and
enjoy a peaceful quiet night of sleep underneath the stars. Fishermen will love
fly fishing in Snake River, Jenny Lake, or Leigh Lake.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is just a short
drive from Grand Teton National Park, making it a must-visit attraction when in
the area. Each park offers a distinct personality and sightseeing
opportunities. Scenic drives through the park are also a great way to check out
the local wildlife at a more relaxed pace. You could also sign up for a guided
tour to improve your chances of seeing some of the best wildlife. If you’re
feeling especially rustic, consider spending more time within the park by
camping.
There are also multiple lodges within the park
if you prefer more connected amenities. If you’re into history, you’ll enjoy
Mormon Row Historic District, a settlement that dates back to the 1890s. If
you’re looking to escape the crowds, consider a hike on the Hidden Falls and
Inspiration Point Trail. Make sure you bring your binoculars for birdwatching
within the park, as you’ll find Sandhill cranes, swans, bluebirds, and osprey.
If you don’t want to camp within Wyoming’s
parks, you could rent one of the many hotels in the area to relax and unwind
between adventures. Yellowstone and Wyoming have an abundance of hotels to
choose from, making it easy to find the perfect accommodation.
Bighorn Canyon National
Recreation Area
Parts of the Bighorn Canyon National
Recreation Area extend into Wyoming, meaning you don’t have to leave the state
to enjoy this park. You’ll find an abundance of recreational activities within
the Bighorn Canyon, including biking, hiking, fishing, and boating. The great
thing about Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is that it’s less popular
than the nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton parks, which means fewer crowds.
If you do make it over the state border, you
can capture mesmerizing photographs from the Devil’s Canyon Overlook. Rent a
kayak or canoe for the day for a relaxing paddle down one of the park’s rivers.
Hike the Bighorn Canyon, and keep an eye out for historical artifacts along the
way. For example, the Teepee Ring on the Two Eagles Interpretative Trail is
just one of the stops highlighting the importance of the 10,000-plus-year-old
trails.
The Bighorn Canyon is also home to its own
abundance of wildlife, including birds, bears, mountain lions, and ewes. Enjoy
them from afar, or sign up for a guided tour to get closer.
Wyoming is an ideal destination if you’re looking for an abundance of wildlife and outdoor recreation. You can expect minimal crowds, amazing sunrises and sunsets, photo-worthy views, and an opportunity to disconnect from technology. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a romantic couple’s trip, or a family getaway, you’ll find hours of entertainment when exploring the beautiful outdoors of Wyoming
