The Best Things to Do in Lander, WY

January 16, 2019

Ready to discover some of the best things to do in Lander, WY? Incorporated in 1890, Lander was named after Frederick W. Lander, the engineer responsible for the Lander Trail, a wagon road traveled by thousands of people heading west. The Chicago & North Western Transportation Company chose Lander as the western terminus of its “Cowboy Line” railway in 1906, and the city was known as “where the rails end and the trails begin.”

Lander is a gateway to the Wind River Mountains. It has so many things to do and the best attractions for nature enthusiasts and is known for outdoor activities, such as rock climbing, mountain biking, camping, hiking and fishing. The region offers terrain for a range of abilities and recreational opportunities for all ages.

Discover Top Lander, WY Attractions

There are an abundance of top things to do in Lander, Wyoming. The neighboring Wind River Reservation features rich cultural experiences and stunning natural beauty. Lander’s historic Main Street offers numerous art galleries, unique shops and a variety of restaurants. From Sinks Canyon to South Pass, there are endless trails and mountains to climb and bike.

1. Sinks Canyon State Park

Arguably one of the best things to do in Lander, you can head to Sinks Canyon State Park Visitor Center for an introduction to the natural history of the canyon and wildlife. Stroll outside, where the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie plunges underground into a great limestone cavern called The Sinks. Take a short walk to watch it bubble up into a calm pool a quarter mile downstream at The Rise, where you can feed giant trout swimming in the pool below.

One of the best things to do in Lander, WY is to explore the Wind River hikes, including the Falls Trail just outside of Sinks Canyon State Park. This three-mile, easy to moderate hike, surrounds a series of waterfalls and cascades with the longest vertical fall about 60 feet high.

Rock Climbing in Lander, WY

Lander is known for its rock climbing. Sinks Canyon, Wild Iris, Wolf Point and many more locations have been developed for sport climbing, and Lander is home to the International Climbers’ Festival. The area also hosts trad climbing, bouldering and ice climbing opportunities.

2. Mountain, Road and Fat Biking

When it comes to Lander, outdoor things to do and any type of biking is optimal! One of the best things to do, Lander offers a range of options like rugged mountain bike trails to scenic roads ideal for casual touring.

Mountain Biking in Lander, WY

The network of single-track and off-road trails in Wind River Country ranks among the best things to do near Lander, WY. The terrain ranges from easy to extreme, and surroundings include mountains, alpine meadows and high desert bordered by red cliffs. Johnny Behind the Rocks, the Bus Loop, the Brewers Trail and Central Wyoming College’s Alpine Science Institute are popular mountain biking areas close to Lander.

Road Biking in Lander, WY

Road touring Togwotee Pass at 9,000’ and South Pass offer two very different views, and both are exceptional. Local shops provide rentals. Enjoy road biking opportunities from downtown Lander. North Second Street to Lower North Fork Road, Baldwin/Squaw Creek Road, Sinks Canyon Road, Lyons Valley Road and South Pass all offer great views and are favorites among locals.

Fat Biking

Fat biking is a type of off-road cycling that uses specially designed bicycles with fat tires to ride on soft, unstable terrain such as snow, sand or mud. A top thing to do in Lander, it has gained popularity in recent years due to its versatility and the unique challenge it provides to riders. In Wind River Country, this trend has not gone unnoticed, as the exhilarating experience of fat biking has attracted many enthusiasts to explore the rugged and beautiful landscapes. Stop by the local bike shops to inquire about rentals.

3. Lander Bar

The Lander Bar is a local favorite, known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music events. The historic “Coalter House” originally opened as a saloon. It went on to serve as a hotel, brothel and boarding house before returning to full-time service as a bar and grill. The menu varies from burgers to salads, and appetizers to hand-tossed sourdough pizza, and there are a handful of locally brewed beers on tap.

4. Lander City Park

Lander City Park offers free overnight camping for up to three nights and is a popular place for van-lifers and one of the best things to do for visitors passing through Lander. City Park features a playground, baseball fields, a shelter, a stage and large mature trees scattered throughout lush green grass. Popular events at the park include the Lander Presents Summer Concert Series, the Lander Pig Roast, Jurassic Classic and RiverFest.

5. Lander Chamber of Commerce

The Lander Chamber of Commerce supports business and community development. By working with local businesses and organizations, the Chamber helps to stimulate economic development, promote local events and create new opportunities for growth and success. Additionally, the Chamber also serves as a visitors’ center. It provides informational material on the area’s attractions, lodging and maps.

6. The Middle Fork

The Middle Fork is a staple among Lander’s restaurants. Offering breakfast and lunch, its cozy ambiance greets guests with local art on historic brick walls and a peaceful patio next to a creek – the perfect spot for a romantic brunch or a special occasion meal.

7. Popo Agie Falls Trail

It’s no surprise, but one of the top things to do in Lander is hike. The Falls Trail, just outside of Sinks Canyon State Park, is a three-mile, easy-to-moderate hike, surrounding a series of waterfalls and cascades, with the longest vertical fall at 60 feet high. The hike also features numerous panoramic views, perfect for photographic opportunities.

8. Fremont County Pioneer Museum

Explore the Fremont County Pioneer Museum, Wyoming’s oldest museum. The Museum collects, preserves and interprets artifacts from prehistory through the 1920s. It is home to a Pioneer Village, which features many restored historic structures to help interpret the history of the region. Visit the Museum to learn more about the people who lived in and around Lander, from indigenous communities and ranchers to miners and railroad workers.

9. Mulino Bistro

Sophisticated, yet relaxed, Mulino is an Italian bistro located in the back of the historic Lander Mill. Made from locally-sourced ingredients, their menu boasts hearty appetizers, delicious salads, hand-crafted pastas and chef specialties. This family-owned and operated restaurant has something for everyone, including a children’s menu.

10. Beaver Creek Nordic Ski Area

Another top thing to do, the Beaver Creek Nordic Ski Area, situated just a short 25-minute drive from Lander, offers an ideal location for cross-country ski enthusiasts. Spanning over 15 kilometers of prime United States Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management land, visitors can enjoy a well-maintained network of trails suitable for all skill levels, ranging from easy paths to more challenging routes.

With its convenient proximity and diverse offerings, the Beaver Creek Nordic Ski Area is the perfect destination for avid adventurers seeking a peaceful ski experience away from more crowded resorts.

11. Wind River Shuttle

Wind River Shuttle is a shuttle company based in Lander that specializes in backpacking and biking shuttles. It is ideal for accessing key attractions and trails in Wind River Country. The friendly, knowledgeable drivers can offer tips and information about the area.

12. Eagle Spirit Dancers

Experience the vibrant traditions of Native American dance and music. The Eagle Spirit Dancers feature both Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho dancers, making these performances one of Lander’s best things to see and one of the most wonderful places to learn about the tribes who call the Wind River Reservation home. The Eagle Spirit Dancers perform Wednesday nights at the Fremont County Pioneer Museum.

13. Upper Silas Lake

Upper Silas Lake is a stunning, clear teal lake that lies in the shadow of Cony Mountain. Upper Silas Lake is both a wonderful backcountry oasis and a great mountain lake for fishing and picnicking. It’s about three miles from the Christina Lake trailhead to Upper Silas Lake, which makes it a convenient six-mile round trip. Continuing along the trail provides more hiking opportunities and views of nearby Island Lake and Thumb Lake.

14. Evans Dahl Memorial Museum

The Evans Dahl Memorial Museum was constructed in the mid-1970s. It is filled with exhibits and historical pieces affiliated with Lander’s One Shot Antelope Hunt, Past Shooters Club and the Water for Wildlife Foundation. The goal was to preserve the One Shot Antelope Hunt history and Native American culture and heritage, as well as help with wildlife and habitat preservation.

15. Wild Iris Wall

Wild Iris is a beautiful sport climbing area featuring stark white dolomite pockets beneath peaceful canopies of aspen trees. Wild Iris is a collection of cliffs southwest of Lander, located at Limestone Mountain at an elevation of 9,000 feet. Popular crags include the OK Corral, Main Wall, The Erratic, Aspen Glade and more. Not only are the views of the Wind River Range from Wild Iris breathtaking, but the local history of the area’s development makes Wild Iris special.

16. Lander Art District

The Lander Art District encompasses the 200 blocks of Main and Lincoln streets and the 100 blocks of North 3rd and North 2nd streets. Within the District are art shops, galleries, the Lander Art Center, a tattoo parlor, a restaurant, bakeries, a bar and public art featured both outside and inside the businesses – one of the best things to do in Lander for art lovers and collectors.

17. Wild Iris Mountain Sports Store

Since 1991, Wild Iris Mountain Sports has supplied outdoor gear and recreation information to both locals and visitors. Originally established as a place to employ climbers and to provide a source for climbing equipment, Wild Iris now includes a large selection of mens’ and womens’ apparel, camping equipment, footwear and climbing equipment.

It has knowledgeable staff ready to offer advice on gear and local outdoor activities. Stop by Wild Iris Mountain Sports for gear rentals or to stock up on essentials before exploring the natural beauty of Lander.

18. Lander’s Main Street

Take a leisurely stroll down Lander, WY’s historic Main Street. Explore the diverse range of art galleries, which showcase the work of local artists, or browse through unique shops offering one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts. When hunger strikes, indulge in the delicious cuisine offered at a variety of restaurants, many of which serve up local beef or microbrews.

Whether the interest is in history, culture, shopping or dining, Lander has something for everyone.