Wind River Indian Reservation
Welcome to The Wind River Indian Reservation
The Wind River Indian Reservation spans more than 2.2 million acres and is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho Tribes. This is a place where culture, history and community life continue to shape the land today.
Attend a powwow, visit cultural centers and museums or spend time on the land through permitted recreation. Each experience offers an opportunity to learn, listen and better understand the traditions and stories that are part of this place.
Fun Facts
Population
About 13,000 residents across reservation communities
Elevation
Approximately 5,000 to 9,000 feet above sea level
What the Area Is Known For
The Wind River Indian Reservation is home to the Eastern Shoshone Tribe and the Northern Arapaho Tribe. Known for its living Native cultures, expansive landscapes and access to the Wind River Mountains, the reservation offers opportunities to experience powwows, cultural traditions and outdoor recreation.
Events
Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow
Northern Arapaho Powwow
Community powwows and cultural gatherings throughout the year
TravelStorys: Take the Interactive Audio Tour
Travel through the reservation with guidance from Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho voices. This interactive audio tour follows Highways 287 and 26, connecting communities such as Ethete, Fort Washakie and Riverton while sharing stories tied to each place.
The tour was created in partnership with local students and community organizations. It offers a meaningful way to learn while moving through the region.
Fort Washakie: Stand Among the Legacy of Heroes
Fort Washakie is the oldest community on the reservation and holds deep historical significance. Originally established as Fort Brown, it was renamed in 1878 to honor Chief Washakie.
The area includes the Eastern Shoshone Tribal Cultural Center, the resting places of Chief Washakie and Sacajawea and the Path of Honor Wind River Veterans Memorial.
Local shops and trading posts offer Native-made artwork, including beadwork, leather goods and other handcrafted items created by community members.
Ethete & St. Stephens: Explore Arapaho Heritage
Ethete and St. Stephens are central to Northern Arapaho life on the reservation. Cultural centers, including the St. Stephens Mission Heritage Center and the Northern Arapaho Experience Culture Room, share history, language and traditions.
The St. Stephens Art Center features Native artwork and beadwork created by local artists.
Cast & Catch on Tribal Waters
A Tribal Fishing License is required for non-tribal members to fish on reservation waters. Licenses support conservation efforts and help protect these resources for future generations.
Powwows on the Wind River Indian Reservation
Powwows are an important part of community life on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Held throughout the summer, these gatherings bring together families, dancers, singers and visitors.
Dancing, drumming and regalia reflect generations of tradition. Those who attend are asked to be respectful, follow event protocols and take time to observe and learn.
Reel In Awe: “One of the Last Untouched Places”
The Wind River Indian Reservation is home to diverse fish and wildlife across its rivers, plains and mountain landscapes.
This film highlights a partnership with Indifly. It supports conservation efforts and sustainable fly-fishing initiatives led in collaboration with Indigenous communities.
Curious About Wind River Country? Start Here
Continue learning through stories that highlight the people, land and traditions of the Wind River Indian Reservation. Discover offer additional context and perspectives that deepen understanding of the communities and their history.
Your Wind River Country Historic Road Trip
Travel the reservation by road and follow routes that connect communities, landmarks and cultural sites. This self-guided tour offers a way to move through the landscape while learning about its history and significance.
Annual Powwows: Come & Witness Vibrant Traditions
Annual powwows bring together community members and visitors for gatherings centered on tradition, dance and shared experience. Each event reflects the ongoing cultural life of the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho Tribes.
Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow
In Town for These Events
Community events and gatherings take place throughout the year, offering opportunities to observe, learn and respectfully take part in local traditions.
Businesses in Wind River Indian Reservation
Deka-Guy Hee
Lander, WY 82520
Wind River Canyon Whitewater
Thermopolis, WY 82512
Paintbrush Grill
Ethete, WY 82520
Follow the Wind River Indian Reservation Moments
See moments shared from across the Wind River Indian Reservation. Follow along to learn more about the communities, landscapes and traditions that shape this place.
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
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
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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
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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