By Erica Bray. This piece was originally published on the Orbitz blog.

If y’all want to tap the real wild west of Wyoming, get the heck out of Jackson Hole, and think beyond the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone.

While these three must-see destinations are popular for good reason, they also invite a parade of tourists and “Wild West” commercialization that can run counter to that uncrowded, rough-around-the-edges mythology you’d expect of the West—the one made famous by the cowboys, frontiersmen, Native tribes and westbound settlers who first explored this landscape.

To uncover places that capture the Wild West spirit of these pioneers with rugged authenticity and fewer crowds, you’ll have to ditch the upscale hotels and mass-marketed tours that originate from Jackson and venture a bit further afield with a little DIY bravado.

Read the full post and what Erica wrote about Lander, the Wind River Indian Reservation, and Dubois in Wyoming’s Wind River Country.

Follow the Moments That Make Wind River Country


See Wind River Country as it happens, on the trail, in town and out on the land. Follow along for real moments from real people, and share your own journey by tagging @windrivercountry.

If you're looking for authentic Wyoming charm, make your way to Dubois. 🏔️ Surrounded by the Wind River and Absaroka Mountains, this small town is packed with history, outdoor adventure and incredible views. While you're here, stop by the National Bighorn Sheep Center and the National Museum of Military Vehicles and enjoy easy access to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Learn more in our bio. Photo: Brady McLean #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY #Dubois #DuboisWY
We love fall colors...who else is ready? Photo: Scott Copeland #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Sometimes all you need is a change of scenery. 🌄 Wind River Country is waiting. Photo: Davis Clem #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
"The landscape of the American West has to be seen to be believed and has to be believed to be seen." - N. Scott Momaday #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY Photo: Wind River Country, Brady McLean
If you're ready to find room to breathe and space to roam, take a deep dive into the heart of Wind River Country. Start planning in our bio. #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY Photo: Bill Sincavage
As we're approaching hunting season, there's no better photo opp than this. #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
While we've got lots of hidden gems in Wind River Country, Sinks Canyon is one of the coolest. It's located at the base of the Wind River Mountains, with landscapes that include foothills, forests, waterways and more. Plus, it's a short drive from Lander. Photo: Wind River Country #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Saddle up and experience Wyoming the way it was meant to be experienced. 🐴 Guest ranches and outfitters throughout Wind River Country offer guided pack trips that take you deep into some of Wyoming's most breathtaking backcountry. Start planning your stay in our bio. Photo: Bill Sincavage #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
We love a good waterfall moment. Photo: Tori Jones #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY