Jeffrey City
Where the Boom Once Swept Through the Town
Welcome to Jeffrey City
Jeffrey City rose quickly during the uranium boom of the 1950s, when discoveries in the nearby Gas Hills turned this stretch of high desert into a busy mining town. When the mines closed, much of that activity faded, but the story remains.
Today, it’s a quiet stop along the highway where that history is still visible. Spend time at the Split Rock Bar & Cafe, stay at the Green Mountain Motel or browse a local pottery shop. It’s a place that feels unchanged in many ways, and that’s exactly what makes it worth the stop.
Fun Facts
Population
About 50 residents
Elevation
Approximately 6,400 feet above sea level
What the Area Is Known For
Jeffrey City was once a booming uranium mining town during the Cold War, when thousands of workers and families lived there. Today it stands as one of Wyoming’s most well-known near-ghost towns, offering a fascinating glimpse into the rise and fall of America’s uranium industry.
Events
Community gatherings and occasional local events hosted by residents and nearby communities in the Sweetwater River and South Pass regions.
Gallop, Bike, Then Stay the Night Under the Stars
Just south of town, Green Mountain opens up into wide, quiet country. Camp at Cottonwood Creek, ride horseback, mountain bike or spend the day watching for wildlife across the high desert. Wild horses are sometimes seen near Carmody Lake, and rockhounds may find jade or agate in the surrounding hills.
Some areas may be seasonally closed from December 1 through June 15. Check with the Bureau of Land Management in Lander for current access.
Discover Ghost Towns and the Pioneer Spirit
Roads near Jeffrey City pass through historic mining areas, open land and remnants of earlier settlement. Follow these routes to see how this part of Wyoming developed.
Wind River Country: Yellowstone’s Unique Neighbor
Hear the stories behind Jeffrey City and the surrounding landscape. This podcast adds context and voices to the places you pass through, offering a deeper understanding of the area’s history and character.
In Town for These Events
See what’s happening nearby and consider adding a local event to your time in this part of Wind River Country.
Businesses in Jeffrey City
Follow Jeffrey City in Real Time
See Jeffrey City as it is today, from quiet stretches of highway to everyday moments in town. Follow along and share your own experience by tagging @windrivercountry.
Have you seen a jackalope?
Photo: Natalie Kovarik
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Jul 22
We love to chase waterfalls around Wyoming.
Photo: Scott Copeland
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Jul 20
Cheers to the weekend! Tell us: where is your favorite place to grab a cold beverage?
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Location: The Rock Shop Inn
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Jul 17
Mountain biking, road biking, fishing and hiking. Wind River Country is an outdoor lover`s paradise.
Start planning your trip at the link in our bio.
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Jul 15
The perfect Wyoming day: hiking and viewing petroglyphs.
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Jul 14
Welcome to Wyoming, a place where badlands and mountains collide.
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Jul 10
Road trips like these are worth every mile. ❤️
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Jul 8
Make plans to attend the Ethete Celebration Powwow, happening this week, July 9–12 at the Ethete Powwow Grounds. Experience the vibrant traditions, incredible dancing, drumming and welcoming community that make this annual celebration so special.
Schedule:
Thursday -7 p.m. warm up night, royalty contest and youth powwow
Friday -7 p.m. grand entry
Saturday – 1 p.m. grand entry
Saturday – 7 p.m. grand entry
Sunday – 10 a.m. parade
Sunday – 2 p.m. grand entry
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Jul 6
Happy Independence Day from Wind River Country!
Photo: Wind River Country/Brad Christensen
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Jul 4
Soaking in the beauty of Jade Lake, one perfect view at a time.
📸: @jakeysforkphoto
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Jul 3
Escape to Wyoming.
Photo: Haley Ford
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Jul 2
📍South Pass City, Wyoming
While you can visit this historic gold mining town from the end of May – mid October, save the date for Gold Rush Days – July 11 & 12.
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Jun 26