When outsiders visit Wyoming, they predictably head straight for Old Faithful Geyser, Cascade Canyon, and the Irma Hotel. There’s nothing wrong with these incredible natural wonders and our famous historic places, but there are so many underrated Wyoming attractions and wonders that get overlooked! When you’re making up your Wyoming bucket list, be sure these nine places are on it.
1. Lone Star Geyser, Yellowstone National Park
The Lone Star Geyser is located in the Upper Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park - where you'll find the highest concentration of geysers anywhere in the world. Formerly called the "Pepper Pot," the Lone Star Geyser one of the most underrated attractions in the park. Ask the Rangers for an eruption estimate, and you can watch a major eruption occur for more than 20 minutes. Here, they typically occur three hours apart. Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY, 82190
2. Smith Mansion
The quirky Smith Mansion is quite a sight to see! Francis Lee Smith, from Cody, took advantage of free timber being cleared from a fire on Rattlesnake Mountain and built the most incredible home. This off-the-grid house is now undergoing some restoration, but you can get a glimpse of it from the outside. Address: 2891-2903 North Fork Highway, Cody, WY, 82414
3. Isa Lake
Isa Lake, near Craig Pass in Yellowstone National Park, is one of only two lakes in the entire world to drain into two separate oceans. Thanks to its position on the Continental Divide, it drains into the Pacific Ocean via the Lewis River, and into the Gulf of Mexico via the Firehole River. Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY, 82190
4. Saratoga's Hobo Hot Springs
Saratoga's healing "Hobo Hot Springs" are free to the public and open 24/7. Stop by for a dip to warm up and relax at this beautiful natural wonder. Address: 300 East Walnut Avenue, Saratoga, WY, 82331
5. Fossil Bute
Fossil Butte National Monument is home to some of the best preserved fossils in the world. Researchers have found fish, alligators, bats, turtles, miniature horses, insects and more, telling a tale about what this section of the world was like millions of years ago. Address: 864 Chicken Creek Road, Kemmerer, WY, 83101
6. Vedauwoo
The Vedauwoo is a unique geologic formation that's one of the best picnic spots around. Visit to walk the trails and catch sweeping views of the region, or test your skills climbing the rock. Address: Forest Road 720, Buford, WY, 82052
7. Cloud Peak Wilderness
Hiking through the Cloud Peak Wilderness is an experience that every Wyomingite should have at least once. This serene, remote preserved mountain area shows off stunning lakes and peaks as you hike along the wild trails. Address: Bighorn National Forest, Buffalo, WY, 82834
8. Hot Springs State Park
While many people head to the Mammoth area of Yellowstone to see natural hot springs, the often overlooked town of Thermopolis is home to the largest hot springs in the world. See them up close at Hot Springs State Park! Address: 538 N Park Street, Thermopolis, WY, 82443
9. Independence Rock
Visiting Independence Rock is like stepping back in time. This "Register of the West" was signed by thousands of migrants along the Oregon, Mormon and California Trails as a way of celebrating and marking their progress. If the travelers made it here by July 4th, they would have a chance to make it past the Sawtooth Mountains before snowfall. Address: WY-220, Alcova, WY, 82620
What do you think is the most underrated Wyoming wonder? Share with us in the comments below!
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