There are places in Wyoming where silence doesn’t mean absence—it means presence. The presence of wind moving through cottonwood groves. Of elk threading their way across frost-dusted ridgelines. Of space, not just physical, but emotional—a geography of the spirit as much as the land. Wyoming, from the Lakota word “mschewe,” roughly meaning “at the big plain,” lives up to its name not in spectacle, but in scope. It’s less about escape, more about return: to scale, to sky, to the slow curve of days without noise.
In towns like Story, where forests hang close and the mountains are more companion than backdrop, or Bondurant, where the stars still name the hours, life moves without urgency. These neighborhoods aren’t for hiding—they’re for re-rooting. Some are reached by gravel track, others by stubbornness and snow tires. What binds them is a shared refusal of rush, a quiet beauty that’s unbothered by headlines.
So here’s your unofficial atlas: 10 unhurried hideaways, mapped not by population but by peace.
10. Veteran – Serenity in Goshen County
Veteran is a small, unincorporated community that embodies the peaceful charm of rural Wyoming. With a population hovering around just 25 residents, it’s a place where everyone knows each other, and life moves at a slower pace.
Surrounded by vast agricultural lands, Veteran offers a serene landscape dotted with farms and open skies. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to retreat into a life of simplicity and quiet. The community may be small, but the sense of camaraderie and connection to the land is immense.
Where is Veteran?
Located in eastern Wyoming’s Goshen County, Veteran sits approximately 10 miles north of the town of Yoder. The community is easily accessible via US Highway 85, which runs through the rolling plains characteristic of the region.
The area’s flat geography offers unobstructed views of the horizon, making for breathtaking sunsets. Getting to Veteran is a straightforward drive from larger towns like Torrington, yet once there, you’ll feel worlds away from anything resembling city life.
9. Kelly – A Hidden Gem Near Jackson’s Hole
Kelly is a charming, secluded town located in the heart of Wyoming’s Jackson Hole Valley. With a population of just around 200 residents, this quiet town offers an escape from the bustling crowds found in nearby Jackson.
Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing, with Grand Teton National Park and the National Elk Refuge nearby. The main industries in Kelly revolve around tourism, outdoor recreation, and agriculture, as many locals also engage in farming or ranching.
Despite its proximity to the popular Jackson Hole area, Kelly remains peaceful and relatively untouched, offering an ideal location for those seeking solitude. The town’s seclusion is partly due to its position in a narrow valley surrounded by mountains, making it less accessible than its more commercialized neighbors.
Where is Kelly?
Located in Teton County, Kelly lies approximately 12 miles north of the town of Jackson, Wyoming. Its secluded nature is due to the surrounding mountainous terrain and its position tucked between the Snake River Range and the Tetons.
The area is not heavily traveled, with limited access roads compared to other towns in the valley. Visitors typically drive via Highway 191, but the town’s remoteness ensures that it remains a peaceful retreat for those willing to make the effort to reach it.
8. Daniel – Quiet Living Near the Green River
Daniel is a small community where the simplicity of rural life meets the grandeur of Wyoming’s natural landscapes. Home to approximately 150 residents, it offers a peaceful retreat with wide-open spaces and panoramic views of the Wind River Mountain Range.
Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in fishing, hunting, and horseback riding, making the most of the area’s unspoiled wilderness. The Green River flows nearby, adding to the serene ambiance and providing a habitat for diverse wildlife.
Where is Daniel?
Located in Sublette County, Daniel sits at the crossroads of Highways 189 and 354, about 12 miles west of Pinedale. The community is set against the backdrop of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, offering easy access to vast tracts of public land.
The drive to Daniel treats visitors to stunning vistas of mountains and meadows, truly capturing the essence of Wyoming’s rugged beauty. Despite its remote feel, it’s relatively easy to reach, making it a hidden gem for those in the know.
7. Boulder – Embrace Solitude in Sublette County
Boulder, with a population of around 75 residents, is the epitome of a quiet Wyoming community where solitude is part of daily life. Surrounded by the vast expanse of the western plains and shadowed by the Wind River Mountains, it’s a place where the landscape takes center stage.
The area is a gateway to outdoor adventures, including hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby national forests. Boulder’s sparse population and expansive surroundings offer a peaceful retreat from the modern world’s distractions.
Where is Boulder?
Boulder is located along US Highway 191, about 11 miles south of Pinedale in Sublette County. The community serves as a convenient starting point for excursions into the Bridger Wilderness and the greater Wind River Range.
The geography is characterized by rolling hills and open rangeland, making for a scenic and leisurely drive. Boulder’s accessibility yet secluded nature strikes a perfect balance for those seeking both convenience and solitude.
6. Jelm – A Secluded Haven in the Laramie Mountains
Jelm is a small, unincorporated area that offers residents a secluded lifestyle amidst the beauty of the Laramie Mountains. With just a handful of residents, it’s a place where privacy is a given.
The area is known for its large properties, some of which encompass hundreds of acres, providing ample space to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings. Outdoor activities abound, from hiking and horseback riding to stargazing under some of the clearest skies in the state.
Where is Jelm?
Situated in Albany County, Jelm lies southwest of Laramie and is accessible via Highway 230 and county roads that wind through the mountains. The drive offers stunning views of the Snowy Range and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Jelm’s remote location means that while it’s a bit off the beaten path, the journey there is part of the allure. It’s an ideal spot for those who don’t mind traveling a little farther to find true peace and quiet.
5. Tie Siding – Rustic Charm Off the Beaten Path
Tie Siding is a tiny community that exudes rustic charm and a sense of timelessness. With a population of fewer than 20 people, it’s one of the most sparsely populated areas in the state.
The landscape is a mix of rolling hills and pine forests, offering a tranquil backdrop for those who call it home. Visitors can explore the nearby Ames Monument or take a leisurely drive along the Old Lincoln Highway, soaking in the history and serenity of the region.
Where is Tie Siding?
Located in southeastern Wyoming’s Albany County, Tie Siding is just north of the Colorado border along US Highway 287. The area is characterized by its rugged beauty and relatively untouched landscapes.
The drive from Laramie takes about 30 minutes, making it accessible yet secluded. Tie Siding’s proximity to both the mountains and the plains provides a unique blend of geographical features, appealing to those who appreciate nature’s diversity.
4. Hanna – Remote Living in the High Desert
Hanna is a small, unincorporated community located in the high desert of Carbon County, Wyoming, with a population of around 500 residents. This remote neighborhood offers a peaceful environment with wide-open spaces, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
The area is known for its natural beauty, including nearby hiking trails and opportunities for stargazing under the clear desert skies. The primary industry in Hanna is agriculture, with ranching as the most prevalent occupation.
Its seclusion and isolation make it an ideal location for people who appreciate quiet living, solitude, and scenic surroundings. The absence of nearby towns or cities enhances its remote charm and makes Hanna a hidden gem in Wyoming.
Where is Hanna?
Located off Interstate 80, Hanna is about 30 miles southeast of Rawlins, Wyoming. The surrounding desert landscape creates a sense of isolation, with vast stretches of land and few neighboring communities.
To reach Hanna, travelers can take Exit 211 from I-80 and drive south through open desert terrain, making it an ideal location for anyone looking to disconnect. The combination of seclusion, clear skies, and quiet living makes Hanna a perfect escape from busy city life.
3. Story – A Woodland Escape in the Bighorn Mountains
Story is a picturesque community nestled within the dense forests of the Bighorn Mountains. With a population of around 900, it offers a bit more in terms of amenities while still maintaining a secluded atmosphere.
Residents enjoy large wooded lots, abundant wildlife, and a serene environment that’s perfect for rest and relaxation. Hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas are plentiful, allowing for endless exploration of the natural beauty that surrounds the town.
Where is Story?
Located in Sheridan County, Story is accessible via US Highway 87 and State Route 194. It’s approximately 20 miles south of Sheridan, making it relatively easy to reach while still feeling tucked away.
The town’s elevation and forested setting provide a cooler climate and a lush environment compared to the surrounding plains. Story’s enchanting setting makes it a delightful retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without venturing too far off the grid.
2. Clark – Peaceful Living Near the Montana Border
Clark is a quiet, unincorporated community that offers residents a tranquil lifestyle surrounded by Wyoming’s rugged beauty. With a population of about 300, it’s a place where privacy and space are abundant.
The area is characterized by its dramatic landscapes, including the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River and the nearby Beartooth Mountains. Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding are everyday pastimes, making it ideal for nature lovers seeking solitude.
Where is Clark?
Situated in Park County, Clark is located along Highway 120, approximately 30 miles north of Cody. The community stretches over a vast area, providing residents with large acreages and a true sense of openness.
The proximity to the Montana border adds to its frontier feel, and the scenic drive includes views of towering mountain ranges and winding rivers. Clark’s location offers both isolation and easy access to the amenities found in nearby towns.
1. Bondurant – Sublette County’s Hidden Gem
Bondurant is a remote community that truly lives up to the idea of getting away from it all. With a population of just over 100 residents, it’s nestled in the mountains of Sublette County and offers sprawling ranches set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.
The area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, and exploring the nearby Bridger-Teton National Forest. Bondurant’s seclusion and picturesque setting make it a perfect spot for those seeking peace and a strong connection to the land.
Where is Bondurant?
Located along US Highway 191, Bondurant lies about 30 miles southeast of Jackson. The drive to Bondurant is nothing short of spectacular, with the road winding through mountain passes and along the Hoback River.
The community’s elevation and surrounding peaks contribute to its cool climate and abundant wildlife. Despite its remote feel, Bondurant provides a tranquil escape that’s still within reach of the recreational and cultural offerings of the Jackson Hole area.
