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.
📍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.
Photo: Wind River Country
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Jun 26
🏔️ Travel back to 1838 at the Mountain Man Rendezvous happening in Riverton, Wyoming.
Beginning tomorrow (6/26), immerse yourself in the traditions, skills and stories of the fur trade era.
📸 Photo: Wind River Country/Brad Christensen
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Jun 25
There`s no place quite like old Wyo`.
Photo: Journal of Lost Time
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Jun 23
When the mountains call, there’s only one thing to do. Go.
Photo: Journal of Lost Time
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Jun 19
Ready to learn more about the wild horses of the West? The Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary – which is located on the Wind River Indian Reservation – has a visitor center with an interpretive display, and also offers guided tours.
Plan your trip at the link in our bio.
Photo: Melissa Hemkin
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Jun 17
This is what we like to call the perfect summer day in Wind River Country.
Photo: Wind River Country/Paula McCormick
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Jun 15
Combine history and modern-day culture at the Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow, June 19-21. Held in Fort Washakie, the event includes a parade, hand game tournament, drum contest, Indian rodeo and relay races and Grand Entries.
Find more information at the link in our bio.
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Jun 13
The wilds of Wyoming are calling. Start planning your trip at the link in our bio.
Photos: Jhamil Bader, Jennifer Lips, Granite & Light, Wind River Country
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Jun 11
Plan a trip to Lander and Lander Brewfest to enjoy 80+ beers made all across the Mountain West on June 12-13. We hope to see you there – cheers!
Photo: Wyoming Office of Tourism
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Jun 8
Rodeo season is officially starting in Wind River Country. Be sure to join us as we kick off the first night of the Dubois Friday Night Rodeos TONIGHT! And if you can`t make this one, you can catch rodeo action every Friday through August 21.
@duboisrodeo
Photos: Brady McLean
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Jun 5
Spring storms and lush landscapes.
Start planning your visit at the link in our bio.
Photo: Scott Copeland
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Jun 4
June has arrived! Take a peek at the events around Wind River Country including Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow, Dubois Friday Night Rodeos, Lander Brewfest and 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous!
#CowboyState #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Jun 1