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.
If you`re ready to find room to breathe, take a deep dive into the heart of Wind River Country by learning more from our friends at Cowboys & Indians.
Read the full story at the link in our bio.
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Aug 12
Cheers to a new week! Tell us, where is your favorite place to grab a cold beverage?
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Aug 11
Welcome to Shoshoni, the crossroads of Wyoming.
https://windriver.org/destinations/shoshoni/
Aug 7
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Aug 5
Need a great place to grab a coffee or treat? Check out Lander Bake Shop! ❤
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Aug 4
Saturday nights. ❤
Photo: Bethany Baldes
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Aug 2
☀️ Happy August!
Take a peek at what`s happening around Wind River Country this month.
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Jul 31
Ready to venture to Wind River Country this fall?
Check out our ranches, cabins, lodges and more at the link in our bio.
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Jul 29
Consider this a postcard from our backyard. ❤️
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Wyoming Dubois
Jul 28
If you`re ready to experience touchable history, venture to South Pass City and try your hand at gold panning.
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Jul 27
Sunny summer days are the best days.
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Jul 24
Have you seen a jackalope?
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Jul 22