Wyoming morphs into a snowy paradise come winter, offering jaw-dropping scenery and a slew of activities that’ll make you want to dive right in.
Whether you’re chasing thrills or craving a peaceful escape, Wyoming’s got you covered. Let’s explore the top spots to hit this winter!
1. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone in winter is like stepping into a serene, snow-draped dream.
The usual summer crowds are long gone, leaving behind a tranquil wonderland.
Imagine steaming geysers contrasting against snowy fields and the chance to spot bison, wolves, and elk in their natural habitat.
It’s a scene straight out of a postcard.
Top Activities: Strap on some snowshoes or cross-country skis to explore the park’s trails.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; there’s nothing like seeing a bison plowing through the snow.
Highlight: Catching Old Faithful’s eruption with a snowy backdrop is pure magic.
Pro Tip: Hop on a guided snowcoach or snowmobile tour for an adventure you won’t forget.
2. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
If you’re all about skiing or snowboarding, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is your playground.
Known for its challenging slopes and killer views, it’s a must-visit for snow enthusiasts.
Top Activities: Tear up the slopes skiing or snowboarding. Don’t miss the Aerial Tram ride; the panoramic views of the Teton Range are unbeatable.
Highlight: Riding the Aerial Tram to the summit offers a bird’s-eye view that’s simply breathtaking.
Family-Friendly Option: If you’re new to the slopes, Solitude Station has gentler runs perfect for beginners.
3. Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park turns into a snow-covered masterpiece in winter.
Whether you’re up for adventure or just want to soak in the views, this place delivers.
Top Activities: Backcountry skiing is a thrill here, but if that’s not your speed, grab a camera for some wildlife photography or take a peaceful snowshoe hike.
Highlight: The Snake River Overlook provides stunning vistas of the snow-clad Tetons.
Tip for Visitors: Keep an eye out for elk, moose, and bald eagles making their winter rounds.
4. Hot Springs State Park
Need a break from the cold? Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis offers warm, mineral-rich waters that are just the ticket.
Top Activities: Soak in the natural hot springs to melt away any chill. Afterward, explore the park’s trails for a leisurely outing.
Highlight: The State Bath House keeps the water at a comfy 104°F—perfect for a mid-winter dip.
Nearby Eats: Local cafes serve up warm soups and plant-based options to refuel after your soak.
5. Devils Tower National Monument
While summer brings climbers to Devils Tower, winter showcases its serene beauty.
The snow-covered monolith stands tall, offering a peaceful retreat.
Top Activities: Take a snowshoe trek around the base and snap some photos of this iconic landmark.
Highlight: The quiet surroundings let you fully appreciate the area’s natural splendor.
Fun Fact: Declared in 1906, Devils Tower holds the title of the first U.S. National Monument.
6. Bridger-Teton National Forest
For those craving winter sports or a quiet escape, Bridger-Teton National Forest offers vast, pristine landscapes waiting to be explored.
Top Activities: Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular here. Fat biking is also gaining traction on the snowy trails.
Highlight: A visit to Granite Hot Springs lets you enjoy a warm dip surrounded by snow—it’s a surreal experience.
Local Tip: Don’t forget your camera; the mountain views are something else.
7. Laramie
Laramie blends cultural experiences with outdoor fun, making it a charming winter destination.
Top Activities: Head to Happy Jack Recreation Area for some sledding. The University of Wyoming Geological Museum is also worth a visit.
Highlight: Medicine Bow National Forest nearby offers trails perfect for snowshoeing and hiking.
Food Options: The town boasts eateries that cater to both vegan and non-vegan diets, so everyone’s happy.
8. Snow King Mountain
Known as the “Town Hill,” Snow King Mountain in Jackson is ideal for families and beginners looking for winter fun.
Top Activities: Try night skiing for a unique experience, or enjoy snow tubing and scenic gondola rides during the day.
Highlight: The Cowboy Coaster offers an exhilarating mountain ride that’s a hit with all ages.
Kid-Friendly: The snow tubing area is perfect for younger visitors to get their thrills.
9. Casper Mountain
Casper Mountain is a hub for winter activities, offering trails and breathtaking views for all to enjoy.
Top Activities: Cross-country skiing and sledding are popular here. When night falls, the stargazing is phenomenal.
Highlight: The Casper Mountain Trails Center provides well-maintained routes for skiing enthusiasts.
Tip: Set your alarm early; catching the sunrise from the mountain is worth it.
10. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Flaming Gorge in winter is a hidden gem for those who love solitude and snowy landscapes.
The gorge’s red rock cliffs contrast beautifully against the icy blue waters of the Green River, making for some of the most stunning winter scenery in Wyoming.
Top Activities:
- Ice Fishing: Try your luck catching trout and burbot on the frozen Flaming Gorge Reservoir.
- Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the scenic trails around the gorge, with breathtaking overlooks.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot bighorn sheep, elk, and bald eagles against the snowy backdrop.
Highlight:
The Red Canyon Overlook offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views, especially when covered in snow.
Pro Tip:
Dress in layers and check ice conditions before venturing out for fishing or hiking near the frozen reservoir.
11. Pinedale
Pinedale is a winter paradise for outdoor lovers, offering stunning mountain views, deep snow, and fewer crowds than Jackson Hole.
Nestled near the Wind River Range, this charming town is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Top Activities:
- Snowmobiling: Pinedale boasts 300+ miles of groomed trails, making it one of the best snowmobiling destinations in Wyoming.
- Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing: Explore White Pine Nordic Area and Bridger-Teton National Forest trails.
- Ice Fishing: Fremont Lake, Wyoming’s second-largest natural lake, is ideal for ice fishing enthusiasts.
Highlight:
The Green River Lakes offer breathtaking winter scenery, with the iconic Squaretop Mountain rising above the frozen waters.
Pro Tip:
Visit Museum of the Mountain Man to learn about the rich fur-trading history of the region before heading out on your winter adventures.
12. Cody
Cody, often called the “Rodeo Capital of the World,” transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months.
Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody, this town offers a mix of Western history, outdoor adventure, and breathtaking winter landscapes.
Top Activities:
- Yellowstone National Park (East Entrance): While most Yellowstone roads close in winter, guided snowmobile and snow coach tours operate from Cody, offering a magical experience through the park’s steaming geysers and snow-covered landscapes.
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West: A must-visit museum complex featuring exhibits on Western history, firearms, Native American culture, and wildlife.
- Ice Climbing: Cody is a world-class destination for ice climbing, with more than 250 frozen waterfalls in the South Fork Valley.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and even wolves in the surrounding areas.
Highlight:
Attend Cody Ice Festival (usually in February), where climbers from around the world showcase their skills and offer clinics for beginners.
Pro Tip:
Drive along the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway, which offers incredible winter views of the Absaroka Mountains and access to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.
13. Saratoga
Saratoga, Wyoming, is a hidden winter retreat known for its natural hot springs, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm.
Nestled in the Snowy Range Mountains, this town offers a peaceful yet adventurous winter escape.
Top Activities:
- Hobo Hot Springs: One of the best free natural hot springs in Wyoming, open year-round for a relaxing soak under the winter sky.
- Snowmobiling & Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the Snowy Range and Sierra Madre Mountains, which boast hundreds of miles of groomed trails perfect for adventure seekers.
- Platte River Fishing: The North Platte River remains ice-free in many spots, making it a great place for winter fly fishing.
- Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby: A popular annual event where anglers compete to catch the biggest fish from local lakes.
Highlight:
Stay at the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, where you can enjoy private pools, spa treatments, and cozy lodge accommodations.
Pro Tip:
Visit Medicine Bow National Forest, just a short drive away, for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing with breathtaking mountain views.
14. Bighorn Mountains
The Bighorn Mountains offer a stunning winter escape with pristine snow-covered landscapes, diverse wildlife, and countless outdoor activities.
Located in north-central Wyoming, this range is often considered a hidden gem compared to the more famous Rocky Mountains.
Top Activities:
- Snowmobiling Paradise: With over 400 miles of groomed trails, the Bighorns are one of the best snowmobiling destinations in the West. The Powder River Pass and Burgess Junction are especially popular.
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Head to Meadowlark Ski Lodge for some of the best downhill skiing in the region, perfect for both beginners and experienced skiers.
- Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the untouched beauty of the mountains on dozens of scenic winter trails like the Sibley Lake Trail System.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles while enjoying the peaceful winter landscape.
Highlight:
The Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark, a sacred Native American site, offers a breathtaking view of the snow-covered peaks in winter.
Pro Tip:
Stay at a cozy mountain lodge or rent a rustic cabin in the town of Buffalo or Sheridan for easy access to the Bighorn Mountains.
15. Wind River Range
The Wind River Range is a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure.
This rugged mountain range in western Wyoming offers breathtaking alpine scenery, dramatic peaks, and some of the best backcountry experiences in the state.
Top Activities:
- Backcountry Skiing & Snowboarding: The Wind River Range is famous for its deep powder and challenging terrain, making it a top destination for experienced backcountry skiers.
- Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking: Trails like the Big Sandy Trailhead and Elkhart Park Trailhead offer stunning winter landscapes, including frozen lakes and snow-covered forests.
- Ice Climbing: The region is a hotspot for ice climbers, with impressive frozen waterfalls and steep alpine routes that attract climbers from all over.
- Wildlife Spotting: Even in winter, you can see moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and even wolves roaming through the snowy wilderness.
Highlight:
The Cirque of the Towers, a breathtaking collection of jagged granite peaks, becomes a dramatic winter scene with towering snow-covered spires.
Pro Tip:
Be prepared for extreme conditions—temps can drop below zero, and winter storms can be intense.
For safety, hire a guide if you’re new to backcountry adventures in this remote region.
16. Buffalo
Nestled in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, Buffalo is a charming town that brings together rich history and thrilling outdoor adventures.
This quiet, small-town gem is ideal for those who want to mix winter exploration with a touch of local history.
Buffalo offers the best of both worlds, combining scenic beauty with a welcoming community vibe.
Top Activities:
- Historic Sites & Museums: Visit the Occidental Hotel, a historic landmark where famous figures like Butch Cassidy once stayed. For a deeper dive into local history, the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum offers fascinating exhibits about the area’s Wild West heritage.
- Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking: Head out to the Bighorn National Forest for some peaceful snowshoeing through tranquil, snow-covered forests. The forest’s quiet beauty during the winter months is perfect for anyone seeking solitude in nature.
- Wildlife Watching: Buffalo is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, mule deer, and the occasional moose roaming the area in the winter months.
Highlight:
The Occidental Hotel is a must-see. It’s not just a place to stay but a piece of the Old West, where you can feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Don’t forget to ask about the hotel’s storied past!
Family-Friendly:
Buffalo is a great destination for a family winter getaway. You can explore the town’s history and head out for some easy outdoor activities, making it perfect for a relaxed, educational trip with your loved ones.