Lander
Where the Rails End & the Trails Begin
Welcome to Lander
Set at the base of the Wind River Mountains, Lander blends walkable streets, outdoor adventure and a vibrant small-town spirit. Start your day downtown, then head into Sinks Canyon, where trails, climbing routes and open space begin just minutes from Main Street.
Incorporated in 1890 and named for Frederick W. Lander, the city later became the western terminus of the Chicago & North Western “Cowboy Line” railway—earning its nickname, “where the rails end and the trails begin.” Today, that legacy lives on in a community shaped by exploration, connection and life close to the land.
Fun Facts
Population
About 7,500 residents
Elevation
5,358 feet above sea level
What the Area Is Known For
Lander sits at the base of the Wind River Mountains and is known for its access to Sinks Canyon State Park, nearby Red Canyon and a vibrant outdoor culture centered on climbing, mountain biking, backpacking and fishing.
Events
International Climbers’ Festival
Lander Brewfest
Fremont Area Road Tour
Pioneer Days Rodeo
What Awaits You When You Arrive in Lander
Visitor Resources
Lander Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center
100 N. First Street
Lander, WY 82520
(307) 332-3892
Savor the Legends, Then Dine Your Way Through Lander
Spend time on Main Street, where local history and everyday life meet. Visit the Fremont County Pioneer Museum, browse art galleries and step into locally owned shops.
When it’s time to eat, settle in for Wyoming beef, fresh flavors and craft brews, with each stop reflecting the character of Lander and the people who call it home.
Bike, Swing & Climb. Meet Your Outdoor Playground
In Lander, the outdoors starts right in town. Walk or ride from Main Street to nearby trails, or gear up at a local outfitter before heading into the mountains. Climb world-class routes, cast a line in nearby rivers or spend the day biking, hiking or skiing. Play a round of golf, explore local foundries or take in the surrounding landscape at your own pace.
Just beyond town, the Wind River Range rises with more than 40 peaks over 13,000 feet, Wyoming’s highest summit at Gannett Peak and hundreds of alpine lakes waiting to be explored.
Sinks Canyon State Park
Just six miles from town, Sinks Canyon State Park offers one of Lander’s most unique natural features. Watch the Popo Agie River disappear into a limestone cavern, then reappear downstream in The Rise.
Explore hiking trails, scenic drives and year-round recreation, from mountain biking in summer to cross-country skiing in winter, all just minutes from downtown.
Curious About Wind River Country? Start Here
Go deeper into Lander with stories that highlight outdoor adventure, local culture and the people who shape this community. From days spent in Sinks Canyon to evenings downtown, you’ll find ideas to help you plan your time here.
Start with the Best Things to Do in Lander, WY guide and build your trip from there.
The Best Things to Do in Lander, WY
Winter in Motion: The Pedigree Stage Stop Dog Sled Race in Lander
Stories in the Shadows: Lander’s Haunted History Walking Tour
Beneath the Boulders: Exploring Boulder Choke Cave in Sinks Canyon
Let the Roads Lead You Across Wyoming
Hit the road and see more of Wind River Country. Scenic routes near Lander lead past historic corridors, canyon views and wide-open stretches of Wyoming worth exploring at your own pace.
Lander’s Celebrations, Festivals & Traditions
Plan your trip around Lander’s signature events, where community, outdoor spirit and local traditions come together throughout the year.
Lander’s International Climbers’ Festival
In Town for These Events
See what’s happening while you’re here. Local events add another layer to your time in Lander, from community gatherings to seasonal celebrations.
Businesses in Lander
Gannett Peak Elementary
Lander, WY
Evangelical Free Church
Lander, WY 82520
505 Main St., Lander.
Lander, WY 82520
Lander Ridge
Lander, WY 82520
Follow Lander in Real Time
See Lander as it happens, from trails and climbing routes to downtown moments and local events. Follow along and share your own experience by tagging @windrivercountry.
Spring storms and lush landscapes.
Start planning your visit at the link in our bio.
Photo: Scott Copeland
#WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY #CowboyState
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
One of the best ways to experience Wind River Country this summer is on the water. You can enjoy over 2,000 miles of rivers and streams and 262 lakes and reservoirs.
Photo: Jared Steinman
May 29
Welcome to the Cowboy State, a place that`s made for riding horses and enjoying the great outdoors. Book a stay at a guest ranch and experience Wyoming like a true cowboy.
Book your adventure at the link in our bio.
Photos: Wyoming Office of Tourism, Davis Clem, Gary Kunis
#WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY #CowboyState
May 27
Say hello to a summer in Wyoming filled with wide open spaces and some of the best events around.
Photo: Wind River Country/Preston Ackerman
#CowboyState #ThatsWY #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming
May 24
Planning a summer road trip? Hit the road on a scenic driving tour around Wind River Country.
Learn all about the area`s driving tours in our bio.
Photos: Wind River Country, David Rule
#CowboyState #Wyoming #ThatsWY #WindRiverCountry
May 22
Ready for the ultimate Wild West getaway? Discover history in Lander at the Fremont County Pioneer Museum.
Photo: Wind River Country/Suite 1491
May 20
If you`re ready for a unique Wyoming stay, we`ve got the perfect place for you. Just outside of Lander in Sinks Canyon State Park you`ll find a cozy yurt stay.
Photos: Wind River Country & Brady McLean
#ThatsWY #Wyoming #CowboyState #WindRiverCountry
May 18
Our region is home to eight unforgettable stops you won’t want to miss. From quiet, historic towns with small populations to lively small cities, Wind River Country offers something for everyone.
Start planning your trip at the link in our bio.
Photos: Wyoming Office of Tourism & Wind River Country
#WindRiverCountry #CowboyState #Wyoming
May 15
Looking for epic mountain biking? You’ll find it in Wind River Country 🚵♂️
From rugged trails to scenic rides, adventure is waiting around every turn. Start planning: https://windriver.org/experience/mountain-road-biking/
Photos : DART Trails & Wind River Country
#Beautiful #Wyoming #WindRiverCountry #CowboyState
May 14
Happy Mother’s Day from Wyoming`s Wind River Country. 💐
Photo: Brad Christensen
#Wyoming #Beautiful #WindRiverCountry #MothersDay
May 10
Community Cocktail Tasting tonight in Riverton!
Be sure to head to Bar 10 and taste Wyoming inspired cocktails at 6:30 p.m. TONIGHT! What a great pre Mother`s Day activity!
#WindRiverCountry #CowboyState #ThatsWY #Wyoming
May 9