Recreation
Outdoor Recreation in Wind River Country
Wind River Country offers a wide range of ways to spend time outside, shaped by season, landscape and access to public land. Rivers, trails and open terrain create opportunities for everything from rafting and fishing to hiking, climbing and wildlife watching.
In winter, snow changes how you move through the region, opening up routes for skiing, snowmobiling and other cold-weather travel. Whether you’re looking for a short outing or a multi-day trip, recreation here is tied to the land and how it changes throughout the year.
Water & River Activities
Rivers and lakes across Wind River Country offer a range of ways to get on the water. Paddle calm stretches by canoe or kayak, or take on sections of whitewater with a guide. Fishing is a steady draw throughout the region, from alpine lakes to larger reservoirs like Boysen.
Some areas are best in spring and early summer when flows are higher, while others are suited for slower days on the water. Whether you’re casting a line or moving downstream, water access is a key part of recreation here.
Winter Recreation
Winter shifts the landscape and opens up new ways to explore. Snow-covered terrain supports snowmobiling, backcountry and Nordic skiing, fat biking and guided dog sled trips.
Higher elevations offer deeper snow and longer routes, while lower areas provide accessible trails and open space. Cold, clear days and quieter conditions make winter a different way to experience the region.
Land-Based Recreation
Trails, peaks and open terrain shape land-based recreation across Wind River Country. Hiking routes range from short canyon walks to multi-day trips in the Wind River Range. Cyclists find both paved routes and rugged singletrack, while climbers come for granite walls and high desert routes.
Horseback riding, camping and off-road travel offer additional ways to move through the landscape, each providing a different perspective on the region.
Legendary Lands, Timeless Trails & Wild Wonders
Public lands define much of Wind River Country, from the Wind River Range and Absaroka Mountains to state parks, historic trails and open access areas. These landscapes support hiking, wildlife viewing, stargazing and travel along routes that have been used for generations.
The region includes segments of the Oregon Trail, Continental Divide Trail and other historic corridors, alongside areas shaped by wildlife movement and seasonal change. These places offer both access and perspective on the land and its history.
Absaroka Mountains
Scenic Drives
Wind River Range
Sacajawea’s Gravesite
California Trail
Oregon Trail
Stories, Spurs, and Local Adventures
Guided trips and local experiences offer another way to understand Wind River Country. Outfitters lead pack trips, fishing excursions and hunts, while rodeos and seasonal events reflect long-standing traditions.
Cultural experiences, including powwows and visits to places like the Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary, provide context shaped by the people who live and work here.
Wind River Country:
Yellowstone’s Unique Neighbor
Listen in for stories and conversations that explore outdoor recreation, local knowledge and the landscapes that shape Wind River Country.
Rooted in History: Exploring the Ed Young Apple Orchard
Your Day, Your Adventure: Dubois—A Pocket Guide to Exploring Wyoming’s Wind River Country
Step Back to 1838 at the Mountain Man Rendezvous
What Does Wind River Country Taste Like?
Saddle Up in Wind River Country: Riding Through Wyoming’s Wild Heart
Follow Wind River Country in Real Time
See Wind River Country as it happens, from time on the trail to everyday moments across the region. Follow along and share your own experience by tagging @windrivercountry.
Fall colors in Wyoming? You better believe it.
Photos: Helen Wilson
#windrivercountry #wyoming #thatswy
Oct 16
While Wyoming may be known for Yellowstone National Park, the good folks at @lonelyplanet think there`s way more to The Cowboy State than just the park. And, we agree. Read their story all about how to go beyond Yellowstone to Wind River Country at the link in our bio.
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Oct 15
When you road trip through Wyoming, you may not expect to find a place like red canyon. With striking landscapes, it`s one of those places that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and take in the view.
Photo: @montanatia
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Oct 14
Happy October! Be sure to keep an eye on these events this month.
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Oct 12
Little moments, from one of the best small towns in the country.
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Oct 11
Life gets busy. We believe in slowing down, soaking it in and enjoying life at the Wyoming pace.
Photo: Gary Kunis
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Oct 9
Some places are loud and practically beg you to visit. Here in Wyoming`s Wind River Country, we let our landscapes do the talking. If you listen close, they have a lot to say. Plan your trip at the link in our bio.
Photos: @montanatia
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Oct 6
Fall in Wyoming. You’ve got to see it for yourself. 🍂
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Oct 4
Wyoming`s best fishing days happen in the fall!
📸 @jakeysforkphoto
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Oct 2
Fall nights in Wyoming are made for stargazing!
📸 Photo by Bill Sincavage
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Oct 1
Welcome to Wyoming, where the West is still wide open, boots are well-worn and cowboys reside.
Photo: @bradytildeath
#WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Sep 30
🍂 Crisp fall days are made for exploring Wind River Country!
Grab the family and hit the Popo Agie Nature Trail, a scenic one-mile loop that’s easy, beautiful and perfect for all ages.
📸 Wind River Country/ Helen Wilson
#WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY #RoadTrip #Hike #FamilyTravel
Sep 25