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.

Fall nights in Wyoming are made for stargazing! 📸 Photo by Bill Sincavage #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY #RoadTrip #StarGaze #StarGazing #Stars #DarkSky
Welcome to Wyoming, where the West is still wide open, boots are well-worn and cowboys reside. Photo: @bradytildeath #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Wondering what kind of personality Wyoming has? This sums it up. 🤠 Photo: David Rule #ThatsWY #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming
“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” -Albert Camus Photo: Scott Copeland #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Fall was made for fly-fishing in Wind River Country. Photo: Davis Clem #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
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