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.
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.
What Does Wind River Country Taste Like?
Saddle Up in Wind River Country: Riding Through Wyoming’s Wild Heart
Dancing the Night Away: Tuesday Night Square Dancing at the Rustic Pine Tavern
Your Day, Your Adventure: Riverton—A Pocket Guide to Exploring Wyoming’s Wind River Country
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.
📍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