In this episode of Wyoming’s Wind River Country: Yellowstone’s Unique Neighbor, listeners travel back to 1838 to experience one of Wind River Country’s most treasured traditions—the 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous, held yearly on the original rendezvous site in Riverton.

Once a gathering place for mountain men, traders and Native peoples, the annual rendezvous played an important role in the history of the American West. Today, that history comes alive through living history demonstrations, period camps, traditional skills and the dedicated volunteers who work to preserve this unique chapter of Wyoming’s past.

Throughout the episode, you’ll hear from some of the people who bring the rendezvous to life, sharing their passion for history and the importance of keeping these traditions alive for future generations.

Visitors can explore trader tents, visit with artisans, watch demonstrations and browse vendors offering handcrafted goods inspired by the era. Families can try tomahawk and knife throwing, one of the event’s most popular activities. In this episode, we talk with one of the longtime demonstrators who has spent years introducing both children and adults to the sport while sharing the history behind it.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of living history events or simply looking for a unique Wyoming experience, the 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the stories that helped shape Wind River Country.

Follow the Moments That Make Wind River Country


See Wind River Country as it happens, on the trail, in town and out on the land. Follow along for real moments from real people, and share your own journey by tagging @windrivercountry.

Have you seen a jackalope? 

Photo: Natalie Kovarik 

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We love to chase waterfalls around Wyoming. 

Photo: Scott Copeland 

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Cheers to the weekend! Tell us: where is your favorite place to grab a cold beverage?

Photo: Helen Wilson/Wind River Country 
Location: The Rock Shop Inn 

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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. 

Photo: Bob Wick 

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The perfect Wyoming day: hiking and viewing petroglyphs. 

Photo: Helen Wilson/Wind River Country 

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Welcome to Wyoming, a place where badlands and mountains collide. 

Photo: @nataliekovarik 

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Road trips like these are worth every mile. ❤️

Footage: @bradytildeath 

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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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Happy Independence Day from Wind River Country!

Photo: Wind River Country/Brad Christensen

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Soaking in the beauty of Jade Lake, one perfect view at a time.

📸: @jakeysforkphoto 

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📍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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