Many people have heard of Cheyenne Frontier Days with its iconic rodeo, star-studded concerts, free pancake breakfasts, and parades that takes place every Summer in July. After all, people from all over the world attend this premiere event.
However, did you know that Wyoming also features stunning natural scenery? And not just in Yellowstone National Park, either! Here’s a list a few of our favorite summer vacation spots here in our home state of Wyoming.
President Theodore Roosevelt named Devil’s Tower America’s first National Monument in 1906. If you’re not familiar with this monument off-hand, you may have seen it featured in the film Close Encounters of the Third Kind. This towering geological formation in Wyoming’s scenic Black Hills (Northeast corner of the state) astounds visitors with its 1,200 foot vertical rise and flat top. Take some binoculars to watch the climbers. They come from all over the world to try their luck on the sheer faces punctuated by deep cracks.
Head on west to visit Jackson Hole. Nestled in a deep valley between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges, Jackson Hole is home to movie stars and fabulous wildlife. It’s also the gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
A short day’s trip southeast will bring you to Saratoga—renowned for its free, world-class hot springs, fishing, and magnificent scenery. This charming, small town is surrounded by Elk Mountain, the Sierra Madres, and the Snowy Range. The breathtaking, panoramic views attract artists, photographers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers of all kinds. Stop by the Snowy Range Brewery to relax after a long day of exploring.
Just a few miles south of Saratoga, you’ll find the Snowy Range Scenic Byway that leads to Centennial Woods’ hometown of Laramie. This 29 mile road winds its way through the Snowy Range portion of the Medicine Bow National Forest. Rising from 8,000 feet to 10,847 feet at its highest point, you can travel this scenic road in less than an hour—but why would you? Instead, take the time to enjoy the beautiful scenery, mountain lakes, and the cool mountain air.
Just a few miles east of Laramie is the Vedauwoo Recreation Area (pronounced: vi də vu:). This area is popluar with rock climbers, hikers, mountain bikers, and camping enthusiasts. Vedauwoo has some of the most unique granite rock formations on Earth. Many first time visitors have described visiting the area like going to another planet. While driving through Wyoming you will miles upon miles of the snow fences that we maintain to supply with our beautiful reclaimed wood. Enjoy and drive safely!
For More Wyoming Vacation Ideas Visit That’s WY
