15 Incredible Natural Wonders In Wyoming That Defy Explanation
Lisa Sammons
Author
How do you even begin to compile a list of the best natural wonders in Wyoming? If you ask us, practically the entirety of the state is a natural wonder! We are so blessed to have an extraordinary number of natural attractions in Wyoming, whether you’re looking for majestic waterfalls, fascinating rock formations, unbelievably beautiful lakes, or pristine overlooks from which to observe the best nature spots in Wyoming. It’s not just bias that makes us think we are the most gorgeous state in the USA. Seriously, the natural beauty here never ends, and it feels almost impossible to just make a list of only a handful of spots, but we’ve done our best to compile some of the most beautiful of Wyoming’s natural wonders into a single bucket list – check it out:
Best Gorges & Canyons In Wyoming
When many people think of nature places in Wyoming, the first thing that comes to mind is canyons and gorges. Sure, we might not be home to the Grand Canyon itself, but we have some contenders that are pretty darn close in general majesty. There’s nothing like seeing the earth open up and the gaping red desert walls of a majestic gorge in Wyoming. Here are some of our favorite natural wonders in Wyoming in the gorges and canyons department:
1. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
This is undoubtedly one of the most incredible natural wonders in all of America. The Yellowstone River eroded the rocks away in this area, forming this magnificent gorge. The surrounding rocks get their unique colors from the iron compounds that are present here. You can get great views of the canyon via several roads throughout the park, but the more adventurous might prefer to explore the area via Uncle Tom's Trail, one of the best hiking trails in Yellowstone.
2. Sinks Canyon State Park
This place was once something of a hidden gem, but has grown much more popular as a recreation area over the last few years. The canyon here is quite fascinating, and the phenomenon of the "disappearing" river is astounding to see in person. It's one of the Wind River Mountain Range's coolest attractions, and belongs on any list of must-see nature in Wyoming. You'll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing at Sinks Canyon State Park.
Best Caves In Wyoming
There’s something so exotic about a massive cave in Wyoming that just gets your imagination going! Whether you’re spelunking down far below the Earth’s surface or simply peering in from the outside, it’s hard to not let your imagination wander when you see a sprawling cave system. These caves are some of the most fascinating natural wonders in Wyoming and are not to be missed!
3. Spirit Mountain Cave
In a cave this size, it's quite easy to get lost, so this is one natural wonder in Wyoming that might not be accessible for many. It was once known as the Shoshone Cavern National Monument, but is now called Spirit Mountain Cave. There are three developed levels here. In the 1950s, attempts were made to commercialize the cave, but there was little success and it was closed down in the late 1960s. A permit is now required to explore the cave.
4. Natural Trap Cave
Natural Trap Cave is quite a unique structure in the Bighorn Mountains. This sinkhole measures more than 85 feet deep and you can barely even see it until you're practically right on top of it. Countless animals have died here, and paleontologists have discovered a variety of well-preserved remains inside the cave. A grate has been placed over the cave to prevent anyone from climbing into it, and only scientists working in the area are allowed inside.
Best Waterfalls In Wyoming
When many of us think of natural attractions in the Cowboy State, our minds immediately go to waterfalls in Wyoming. Whether it’s a slow trickle or a pounding cascade of water, there’s something awe-inspiring about seeing all that water roaring down the landscape.
5. Mystic Falls
Mystic Falls is something of a hidden gem, but it's a wonderful waterfall in Wyoming. The trail to reach Mystic Falls is a relatively easy hike that's one of our favorite trails in Yellowstone. You'll enjoy some amazing views of this magnificent staircase waterfall right from the trail.
6. Shell Falls
You'll find the beautiful Shell Falls tucked away in the Bighorn National Forest. One of the best things about this waterfall is just how easily accessible it is - you can park your car, walk down a short set of steps, and you're right there. You don't even have to pay an entrance fee to access the park!
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Wyoming
In a state as beautiful as ours, it’s no surprise that you could make an entire road trip of all the scenic overlooks in Wyoming. You don’t even have to leave your car, much less trek through an all-day hiking trail, to reach some of the most magnificent views in the state.
7. Teton Point Turnout
There are actually several turnouts along the highway in Moose, each offering up magnificent views of the Tetons. You can see a variety of landmarks from these stops, each of which has parking areas, including the Snake River, Jenny Lake, and the Church of the Transfiguration.
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8. Inspiration Point Overlook
Inspiration Point is easily one of the most famous overlooks in Wyoming. It's a 1.8-mile out-and-back hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Grand Teton National Park. We recommend taking your time to explore this trail, as it has so many incredible views. To get more information and check out more photos of this utterly amazing hike, check out the trail guide at Alltrails.
9. Porcelain Basin Overlook
The boardwalk over Porcelain Basin will give you a great view of some of the most beautiful mineral hot springs in Yellowstone. The Porcelain Basin is one section of Norris Geyser Basin, an area that sees regular geyser eruptions. The geysers in this region of the park are ultra-impressive, and you'll even catch a glimpse of the tallest active geyser in the world, Steamboat Geyser. Seeing these natural wonders is an awe-inspiring event you won't soon forget.
Best Rock Formations In Wyoming
Whether you’re in California, Montana, Utah, or Wyoming, the towering rock formations of the western United States are pretty spectacular. It’s downright incredible what years of erosion can do to the landscape! We’re lucky enough to have some of the wackiest rock formations in North America in Wyoming – check out a few of the most magical:
10. Devils Tower National Monument
This igneous rock butte was the United States' first national monument. It was given that designation in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt, but had been recognized as an important site in Native American society for centuries before that. A number of fascinating Native American stories surround Devils Tower. Today, this natural wonder in Wyoming is not only among the state's most-visited landmarks, it's also a popular site for rock climbing.
11. Ayres Natural Bridge
The Ayres Natural Bridge was one of the earliest tourist attractions in Wyoming. This unique natural formation is 30 feet high and 50 feet wide. Those who are sure-footed can actually climb up on top of the bridge: the views are amazing and you can see for miles in every direction.
Unique Natural Wonders In Wyoming
While many of the natural attractions in Wyoming fit easily into categories like “rock formations” and “waterfalls,” some attractions, like our mineral hot springs, are not quite as easy to label. Here are some of the best natural wonders in Wyoming that aren’t so common in other states:
12. Hot Springs State Park
Did you know that this is the largest hot spring in the world? Enjoy a free 20-minute soak in the relaxing hot springs here, or simply stroll around the boardwalks admiring the scenery. Make sure to bring along a swimsuit and towel, but if you don't have them handy, you can rent them for a small fee from the on-site Bath House. There's a lot to see here, and make sure you don't miss the huge American buffalo herd that lives in the park.
13. Jenny Lake
Visitors to Jenny Lake have several different options for enjoying this pristine paradise. For an additional fee, you can take a boat shuttle across the water. Of course, you can also hike around the area, relax by the shoreline, or take a peek at the visitor center. The scenery here is so beautiful that it almost looks unreal, straight out of a postcard or painting.
14. Old Faithful
Old Faithful erupts more frequently than any of the other big geysers in Yellowstone. The eruptions here typically reach an impressive 130-140 feet in height. The eruptions last about 1.5 to 5 minutes and occur about 20 times a day. This geyser is one of the most-visited attractions in Yellowstone and is known the world over.
15. Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake covers 136 square miles and has 110 miles of shoreline. At its deepest point, it's more than 394 feet deep. It's one of the largest freshwater lakes in North America, and also among the oldest. There's a fascinating history behind Yellowstone Lake. This is such a magnificent spot, whether it's frozen over in ice or rippling under the sun on a beautiful summer's day.
Wow! I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for a Cowboy State road trip to check out some of these amazing natural wonders in Wyoming. The number of natural wonders in Wyoming is honestly astounding. Check out our Ultimate Hiking Guide for tips on the best gear to take with you on your next adventure.
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