The Remote Town In Wyoming That Is Full Of Surprises
By Caryl
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Updated on March 23, 2023
(Originally published March 18, 2023)
Out in a remote area in Wyoming, you’ll find an oasis for travelers and Wyoming natives alike. What once was thought of as a god-forsaken-area in Wyoming became a refuge for those who happened to find themselves out in the middle of nowhere. This remote community in the state is a haven that’s full of surprises. Make your itinerary for the next road trip with these things to do in Little America, Wyoming.
Little America is a census-designated place located in the southwestern part of the state. This Sweetwater County community is home to a population of around 70.
That's right, just by visiting you're going to make a huge impact on the population percentage. But don't judge this spot by its small size.
Little America was founded in 1934 by Stephen Mack Covey as a small combination gas station-motel-cafe. While herding sheep in Wyoming in the 1890s, Covey ended up lost in a blizzard in the same spot where Little America is located today.
He always vowed to come back and build a refuge for those caught out in this desolate area. Luckily for Wyoming, he was able to fulfill his dream.
It sounds a little mythical, but it's the truth. That small business turned into a tight-knit community of Wyoming locals.
Little America got its name from the remote base camp that was established by polar explorer, Richard E. Byrd, in the Antarctic in 1928.
Emperor the Penguin was even shipped over to be its live mascot but, unfortunately, he died on the way over from Antarctica. Instead, Emperor was stuffed and put on display. The name turned out to be very appropriate because this place has become the very picture of small town America.
Little America started out as a refueling stop on the Lincoln Highway. It quickly grew to include a hotel, restaurant, and post office. Pictured is the post office.
These amenities may seem like small steps, but it's the necessities that build the foundation for a strong place to live.
Long after the days of the dinosaur, this travel center in Wyoming became known as the world's largest gas station. It was a convenient refueling stop for those traveling along Interstate 80.
But some people who were traveling along the route didn't want to leave! And the small but mighty population grew from there.
Pictured is a blast from the past. This is what the travel center looked like back around the 1950s.
Though the car styles may have changed, a lot around town still looks the same.
Here is the lovely Little America Hotel. This haven for weary travelers features 140 guest rooms with velvet drapes and hardwood furnishings.
You don't have to stay in the hotel though, you can reserve an RV spot on the grounds if you're truly roadtripping through.
Check out the view from the motel parking lot.
Little America encompasses a total area of 7.8 square miles. It's a beautiful stretch of Wyoming, nothing but land and sky.
Little America is located 300 miles west of Cheyenne off of Interstate 80 Exit 68.
This thriving little community is just hours from both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. It can be a charming landing spot to explore the beauty of the area from.
For an even more remote area in Wyoming, check out The Most Remote Spot In The Continental U.S. Is Located Right Here In Wyoming .
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More to Explore
Small Towns In Wyoming
CC
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March 23, 2023
What are other small towns in Wyoming?
Never fear! Little America isn’t the only charming town to explore in this great state. Check out these other small towns in Wyoming as well.
Buford, Wyoming
Lost Springs, Wyoming
Van Tassell, Wyoming
Riverside, Wyoming
Hartville, Wyoming
Dixon, Wyoming
Bairoil, Wyoming
Manderson, Wyoming
Granger, Wyoming
Clearmont, Wyoming
Newcastle, Wyoming
Glenrock, Wyoming
Shoshoni, Wyoming
What state parks should I explore in Wyoming?
Once you’ve gotten your fill of small towns, consider checking out these state parks in Wyoming .
Bear River State Park
Boysen State Park
Buffalo Bill State Park
Curt Gowdy State Park
Glendo State Park
Guernsey State Park
Seminoe State Park
Sinks Canyon State Park
Hot Springs State Park
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