The quiet, unincorporated town of Story, Wyoming – beautifully nestled within a sea of dense, towering pines – has blissfully slipped under the radar for generations. But despite being relatively unknown to Cowboy State visitors, this woodsy community has long been a popular getaway for locals. The fairytale-like setting of Story is characterized by abundant wildlife, mesmerizing Bighorn views, and a refreshing taste of uncharted Wyoming. There’s a wealth of outdoorsy things to do here, but for many, it’s the refreshing sights and sounds of Piney Creek that make this small town such a fantastic retreat. This summer, kick back and immerse yourself in the real Wyoming on the banks of this small town creek and its storybook setting.
Wyoming's crystal clear, glittering lakes get a great deal of attention - and rightfully so! From bountiful reservoirs to spectacular alpine lakes, the call of Wyoming's lake country is hard to resist. But personally, we're just as enthralled by our state's wild and scenic rivers, babbling brooks, and gently cascading creeks.
Both large and small, these ribbon-like bodies of water hearken to something deep within our souls. They cut through the landscape and history in a way that embodies America's roots and awakens the inner explorer within every Wyomingite.
The "story" of Story, Wyoming began around 1901, although much has been relatively lost to time. The town was first platted by Marshall Wolf but ultimately named after Charles B. Story, a local rancher. Story was instrumental in getting a post office established for the community – the first official building in what had, until then, been a town made up of only temporary lodging and tents.
Today, Story, Wyoming (pop. <1,000) is a treasured getaway in the great outdoors, thanks to its lush setting - a true oasis in the Bighorns. You'll find this charming town about halfway between Sheridan and Buffalo. And, perhaps even more notably, snugly nestled between North and South Piney Creeks.
You'll find North Piney Creek cascading down the east slope of the Wyoming Range. While it's just one of many premier trout streams coursing off the mountains, this idyllic spot is a beautiful, unspoiled slice of the region that captures the kind of wildness the state is famous for.
Fishermen will find a variety of fish including brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout here.
If angling isn't on your adventure bucket list, then the multitude of scenic spots to kick back and just enjoy the sights and sounds of the water are sure to lure you in.
You'll quickly find yourself totally at peace and with every trouble and stress a distant memory.
Of course, South Piney Creak has ample fishing opportunities as well, but this creek segment is known for a few other sky-high reasons as well: specifically, the massive granite walls that rise up as a backdrop.
South Piney Creek Canyon is a stunning limestone canyon with a wide array of rock climbing routes for a range of ability levels. Not to mention Piney is home to some of the best scenery in the range as the walls loom over a picturesque valley of old-growth Ponderosa pines and sweeping bands of Bighorn Dolomite. Nestled near the sleepy town of Story, Wyoming, and within striking distance of Sheridan and Buffalo, Wyoming, South Piney Creek Canyon is also a very accessible and convenient option if you’re looking for a quick approach to an amazing sport climbing area.
The area around the creek is also chock full of phenomenal hiking trails, both waterfront and winding through the trees.
South Piney Creek Trail is absolutely gorgeous, offering hikers spectacular views of the river roaring through the canyon and the vibrant mountains in the distance.
At less than 3 miles, despite being a little rocky, this trail is doable for nearly everyone. This short but naturally stunning hike offers crystal clear streams, thick ponderosa pine forest, and dolomitic limestone cliffs. Cross-country skiers, hikers, fly fishers, and rock climbers convene here throughout the year.
The Story Penrose Trail is a rocky, mixed-use trail that beckons with showy displays of wildflowers. This challenging hike isn't for the faint of heart, but hardy adventurers will be rewarded with lovely stream crossings and oodles of wildlife.
All in all, Piney Creek in the humble little town of Story offers not only a wealth of waterfront beauty and abundant sportsman recreation, but is a key landmark in the area and a fantastic picture-perfect escape into nature as well.
Be right back… we’re ready to spend some time by this idyllic small town creek!
Have you ever ridden an ATV, hiked, fished, climbed, or explored the area around North or South Piney Creek? This small town creek is worth checking out this season! In fact, if you’re looking for a few places to stay (although pitching a tent is a fantastic idea!), check out this cute little waterfront cabin. Or, in the area, there are also half a dozen historical markers detailing a variety of Oregon Trail events. See if you can find them all!
Next, if you’re ready to go all in on that Piney rock wall, get your next round of climbing gear and expert training all in one spot.
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