The exterior of Outlaw Saloon with a view of the street and mountains in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Why This Wyoming Town Deserves More Attention

A pristine trail town tucked into the breathtaking beauty of western Wyoming, Dubois puts the 'wild' in the Wild West. Just 55 miles from Yellowstone National Park and nestled in the Wind River, Owl Creek, and Absaroka mountain ranges, the town is a welcoming alpine community with stunning views from every street.

From enjoying the fresh powder on the winter slopes to hiking, biking or riding through the wildflower-covered peaks in the summer, Dubois is a year-round destination that offers adventure in every season. From wildlife to nightlife, the fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down. Despite its serene location, Dubois is a vibrant town with lots on the menu from fine dining to lively western-style saloons.

The History of Dubois

Old West piano player on the front port of historic saloon in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

The remote Wind River Valley didn’t have many permanent residents until the late 1800s when the first intrepid homesteaders settled in the area and began a small but thriving community. Fur traders, explorers, and a few scattered Native American tribes knew the region, but the arrival of homesteaders started to give it an identity, and a town sprang up, fueled by the growth of cattle and sheep ranches.

The town of Dubois was formally incorporated in 1914 and flourished over the decades thanks to its logging, agricultural, and tourism industries. Now, Dubois has a population of 778, according to the 2022 census, and has stayed true to its roots as an authentic Western destination where you can still get the genuine cowboy experience.

Things to Do in Dubois

CM Ranch in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Dana Lane via Flickr.com

Get that cowboy experience at one of the oldest guest ranches in the country, the CM Ranch which opened in 1927. It doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced rider, or never been on a horse, the experienced staff at this busy dude ranch will show you the ropes. Guests can choose their own adventure, from riding trails through desert badlands and mountain highlands to fly fishing in the backcountry.

Sunset on the Painted Hills Near Dubois, Wyoming.

Dubois is in mountain country. Probably the only place on earth where you can see three different types of mountains in one area — those formed by glaciers, peaks created by volcanoes, and ranges made by shifting underground plates — this is a nature-lovers paradise and playground. If you would rather walk than ride, there is no shortage of local guides who can help you navigate the trails and find the best views. If you would rather go it alone, check out the Bonneville Pass Trail, which climbs through beautiful valley meadows, or the Five Pockets Trail, which offers amazing views of Horse Creek with the Absaroka Mountains in the background.

Look out for ancient carvings while you are exploring; Wyoming is home to stunning examples of rock art. In the Wind River Range, you will find the Torrey Lake Petroglyph District, which includes around 175 well-preserved petroglyphs. For more information on where to see the best pictograms or find accessible trails, speak to the staff at the Dubois Museum. This specialty museum traces the geology of the area, its early inhabitants, and its history of homesteading. They also offer custom guided tours of petroglyphs, native sheep trap and buffalo drive sites, and more.

Wind River in the Summer Near Dubois Wyoming. — Wind River in the summer Near Dubois Wyoming.

Dubois is also a popular destination for anglers. The unspoiled waters of its lakes, streams, and rivers are home to many thriving fish populations, including rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. Cast your rod at Torrey Creek. The waters in Dubois aren’t just for the fish, you can also dip your toes with a kayak or canoe ride, or book a relaxing float with local guide, Wind River Float Trips.

In winter, the country is even more beautiful, and there are still lots of ways to enjoy it. Go ice-fishing, take a dog-sled ride through the snowy wonderland, or try cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Downtown Dubois

Exterior of Outlaw Saloon with view of street and mountains in Dubois, Wyoming. — The exterior of Outlaw Saloon in Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Many Wild West legends have walked Dubois’ streets, including notorious outlaw Butch Cassidy. Things may look a little different now, but the town still has plenty of quirky character and Western vibes. After a day outdoors, fuel up at the Rustic Pine Tavern, which has been serving customers since 1919, or try the Outlaw Bar and Saloon. Formerly known as the Branding Iron Inn, the Outlaw Bar has been an iconic Dubois watering hole for generations.

In the summer months, the town hosts the Dubois Friday Night Rodeo, which runs through June, July, and August. The family-friendly event features Mutton Bustin, Calf Riding, Mini Bull Riding, Pee Wee Barrel Racing, and more.

What Makes Dubois Different

Main street in the western town of Dubois Wyoming. — The main street in the western town of Dubois, Wyoming. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Dubois is a town untouched by time. Tucked into the skyscraping mountain ranges of west Wyoming, this cowboy country has kept its beauty and its appeal for centuries, welcoming explorers, pioneers, hunters, and wanderers in search of adventure.

Saddle up at a dude ranch, climb the peaks, fish or float glacial rivers, and let loose at the local rodeo—this is a town where you can create unforgettable memories while enjoying an escape from the everyday.

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