8 Secluded Towns in Wyoming

Wyoming's most captivating features are its vast basins, high-elevation prairie grasslands, and the Rocky Mountains. In this majestic state, travelers frequently miss out on undiscovered treasures in smaller communities, from the presence of bighorn sheep roaming around in Dubois to the quaint town of Buffalo, nestled in the foothills of the stunning Big Horn Mountains with easy access to the adventure of Yellowstone National Park. Other towns offer an opportunity to learn about historical moments and people, including one city where a young man named Harry Longabaugh came to be called the Sundance Kid. Whether it's the beautiful natural surroundings or history and culture that thrills you, these eight secluded towns in Wyoming are worth exploring.

Dubois

Dubois, a serene and secluded town in Wyoming, offers unique landscapes and easy access to national parks, such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton. It's a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can spend the day in the wilderness spotting bighorn sheep or step inside the National Bighorn Sheep Center to learn more about them. Dubois is also an excellent town for hiking, horseback riding, and hunting. From the land to the water, there are ample opportunities to kayak or canoe along the Wind River. Visiting Dubois in the winter is best for snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, ice fishing, and dogsledding. Stay in a cozy cabin at Longhorn Ranch Lodge, which offers stunning views of Whiskey Mountain and the Painted Hills badlands.

Buffalo

Visitors traveling to Buffalo for the first time will adore the charming town and its surrounding areas, whether for the breathtaking landscape, outdoor activities, or learning about local history. Nestled in the foothills of the stunning Big Horn Mountains, Buffalo is traversed by US Highway 16, making it a great destination to explore, whether visiting Mount Rushmore or Yellowstone National Park. The Bighorn National Forest is another great escape to enjoy alpine lakes and fishing streams, hike through stunning landscapes, and camp in tranquil locations like the South Fork Campground. A true treasure of Buffalo is the Historic Occidental Hotel, where Calamity Jane, Teddy Roosevelt, and other Old West luminaries stayed.

Lander

Located in west-central Wyoming, south of the Wind River Indian Reservation, Lander is a fun town to explore. Learn about the town's history with a visit to both the Museum of the American West and the Fremont County Pioneer Museum. Those interested in diving into the local art scene will find plenty to do at the Lander Art Center. Performing arts and theater are also present there, with the Lander-based traveling Wyoming Shakespeare Festival Company and Lander Performing Arts. Depending on your visit, you might be in town when a rodeo is going on or catch one of the many annual events like the Lander Brewfest. For recreation, rent cross-country ski gear, go on a scenic hike, or enjoy a round of golf.

Ten Sleep

Driving west from Buffalo, Wyoming, on the Cloud Peak Scenic Byway, leads to the town of Ten Sleep and the nearby Tensleep Canyon. This secluded area offers a perfect vacation destination all year long. Staying at Meadowlark Lake Lodge is ideal for those looking to go fishing, boating, or horseback riding while there. In the winter, the lodge offers lift-served skiing and snowboarding. Retreat to Ten Sleep Brewing Co. for local craft beers, live music, and a fun atmosphere. Visitors can also explore the town's historic ranching past by exploring the Ten Sleep Pioneer Museum.

Sundance

In Northeastern Wyoming, near the western border of the Black Hills National Forest, you'll find Sundance. Although secluded, Sundance is renowned for its rich history. A visit to the Crook County Museum & Art Gallery, housed in the renovated Old Stoney building downtown, allows visitors to relive the town's intriguing past. The museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Sundance's role in the Old West, including information related to Harry Longabaugh — aka the Sundance Kid. Devils Tower National Monument, America's first national monument, is an iconic landmark less than 30 miles away.

Pinedale

When formed in 1912, Pinedale was acknowledged as the town most remote from a railroad anywhere in the nation. This region is still among the most isolated in the United States. Despite this, Pinedale is a unique town to discover. People travel far and wide to Pinedale to attend Rendezvous Days, which feature rodeos, parades, and more. For nature exploration, the Bridger-Teton National Forest, part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, is home to many amazing creatures. Fremont Lake, nearby, is also well-liked throughout the year. Even in the winter, people come here for fishing, boating, water skiing, and picnics in the deep, blue lakes.

Thermopolis

Thermopolis is home to many hot springs within its secluded area. The Hot Springs State Park is a notable attraction in the town and boasts the largest mineral hot spring in the world, along with several trails and picnic sites. Thermopolis is also home to several attractions and museums, including the Hot Springs County Museum & Cultural Center, which draws visitors in with its artifacts from local pioneers. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center is also located in Thermopolis and offers many interactive geologic and paleontological activities. Many of the town's historic structures still stand in downtown Thermopolis and have been transformed into eateries, shops, and coffee shops. Thus, even a little walk around town offers many picturesque views and rustic experiences.

Piedmont

Once a bustling railroad and timber town, Piedmont in far southwestern Wyoming is now an abandoned ghost town in Uinta County. The town's charcoal kilns, constructed in 1869, provide a singular window into the past. The Union Pacific Railroad, which went through Piedmont, carried most of the charcoal made in the kilns to Utah. When a new line was built, it bypassed Piedmont, contributing to its eventual decline. The Piedmont Charcoal Kilns State Historic Site offers more insight into this significant period of history. The Piedmont Cemetery in town pays homage to dearly departed locals.

Discover These 8 Secluded Towns In Wyoming

Think about these secluded towns in Wyoming as you prepare for your next vacation. You'll encounter friendly locals, intriguing history, and breathtaking scenery everywhere you go — whether it's Dubois, Buffalo, or Sundance. From horseback riding through scenic landscapes to exploring a captivating national forest to diving into Old West history, take your time discovering the hidden gems to ensure your trip to Wyoming is enriching and unforgettable.