Wyoming is not for the indecisive. It’s for the ones who hear the wind whisper through lodgepole pines and think, That’s home. It’s for the people who don’t mind a hundred miles between gas stations, who see a storm coming over the Tetons and smile, because it means the tourists are about to clear out. The best places here aren’t on billboards. They’re tucked into canyons, hidden along rivers, buried in the foothills of mountains where only locals and the occasional lost traveler dare to go.
Some places don’t just keep secrets—they are secrets. Hoback, where the Snake River wraps around pockets of ranchland like an old leather belt. Bondurant, where elk outnumber people and the skies turn pink in the evening like a watercolor left out in the rain. Jelm, a few cabins and a name most Wyomingites couldn’t point to on a map. These are the places for those who prefer their neighbors at a distance, their silence uninterrupted, and their freedom unspoken but absolute.
Welcome to Wyoming’s most secluded neighborhoods—where solitude is a birthright, and the roads out are always optional.
10. Jelm – Peaceful Retreat Near the Colorado Border
Experience the serenity of Jelm, a remote unincorporated area in Albany County that offers a true escape into nature. With a small population, Jelm is characterized by large acreages and rolling hills that provide ample space and privacy.
The proximity to the Medicine Bow National Forest means residents have endless opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing right at their doorstep.
Hidden gems like the historic Jelm Mountain and picturesque views of the Laramie River make this area particularly special. It’s a place where neighbors are few and far between, and the stars light up the night sky without interference from city lights.
Where is Jelm?
Jelm is located in southeastern Wyoming, near the Colorado border, about 30 miles southwest of Laramie. Nestled along the Laramie River and at the foot of Jelm Mountain, its geographic position offers both plains and mountainous terrain.
To get there, take Highway 230 out of Laramie and then turn onto County Road 10, which winds through scenic landscapes to Jelm. The area’s remoteness is part of its charm, providing a peaceful retreat far from the noise of urban centers.
9. Daniel – Rustic Charm in Sublette County
Discover the rustic allure of Daniel, an unincorporated community steeped in Wyoming’s rich ranching history. With just over 150 people, Daniel offers expansive properties and open spaces perfect for those seeking a quiet, secluded lifestyle.
The community is surrounded by panoramic views of the Wind River and Wyoming Mountain Ranges, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fishing, hiking, and horseback riding are popular activities, and the nearby Green River provides a haven for anglers. Local landmarks like the historic Daniel Schoolhouse add to the area’s quaint charm.
Where is Daniel?
Daniel is situated in Sublette County in western Wyoming, over 70 miles southeast of Jackson. It lies at the intersection of U.S. Route 189 and State Highway 354, offering easy access to neighboring towns while maintaining its seclusion.
The area’s geography features a mix of high desert plains and mountain vistas, contributing to its rustic appeal. Visitors can reach Daniel by driving north from Pinedale on Highway 191 and west on Highway 354, enjoying wide-open landscapes.
8. Big Trails – Tranquil Haven in Washakie County
Explore Big Trails, a hidden gem in Washakie County that embodies the essence of secluded Wyoming living. This unincorporated community offers large, private lots nestled amidst the scenic foothills of the Big Horn Mountains.
With a sparse population, residents enjoy peace, surrounded by vast open spaces and rugged terrain. Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, hunting, and exploring nearby canyons and creeks. The area is also known for its rich wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Where is Big Trails?
Big Trails is located in north-central Wyoming, approximately 40 miles south of Ten Sleep. The community sits along the western edge of the Big Horn Mountains, offering stunning views and a tranquil environment.
To reach Big Trails, travelers can take Highway 16 east from Worland to Ten Sleep, then head south on County Road 54, which leads into the heart of Big Trails. The journey showcases Wyoming’s diverse landscapes, from rolling plains to dramatic mountain backdrops.
7. Beulah – Quiet Corner of Wyoming
Experience the tranquility of Beulah, a small unincorporated area tucked away near the South Dakota border. With just over 70 residents, Beulah offers expansive properties amidst rolling hills and lush forests.
The community is surrounded by natural beauty, including access to the Black Hills National Forest and scenic Bear Lodge Mountains. Activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby attractions such as the Vore Buffalo Jump make Beulah a perfect spot for those who appreciate solitude and nature.
Where is Beulah?
Beulah is situated in northeastern Wyoming, in Crook County, just off Interstate 90 near the South Dakota state line. Its location provides a secluded setting while still accessible to travelers passing through the region.
To get to Beulah, take Exit 205 from I-90 and follow Beulah Road into the community. The proximity to the Bear Lodge Mountains and the Black Hills offers unique geographic features that enhance its secluded charm.
6. Shell – Hidden Gem Near the Bighorn Mountains
Discover Shell, a quiet locale with a handful of residents, nestled against the backdrop of the Bighorn Mountains. This area has spacious lots and few neighbors, offering plenty of privacy.
The community is known for its proximity to Shell Falls and Shell Canyon, hidden gems that provide breathtaking views and outdoor adventure opportunities. Ranching remains a vital part of the local culture, and the open ranchlands and canyons create a peaceful haven away from city life.
Where is Shell?
Shell is located in northern Wyoming, along U.S. Route 14 in Big Horn County. It’s roughly halfway between Greybull and the eastern entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
To reach Shell, travelers can drive east from Greybull on Highway 14, enjoying the scenic route that winds through the Bighorn National Forest. The area’s unique geography includes towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, making it an interesting and secluded destination.
5. Clark – Vast Open Spaces in Park County
Uncover the beauty of Clark, a spread-out community along the Clarks Fork Yellowstone River. With a population of around 300, Clark has large acreage properties and rugged terrain that offer residents unparalleled privacy.
The proximity to the Beartooth Mountains provides stunning vistas and recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Hidden gems like the Clark’s Fork Canyon add to the area’s natural allure, making it a haven for those seeking solitude in a picturesque setting.
Where is Clark?
In Park County, about 30 miles north of Cody, Clark is located in northwestern Wyoming. The community stretches along Highway 120 near the Montana border.
To get there, drive north from Cody on Highway 120, and you’ll reach Clark, nestled between the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountain Ranges. The area’s geography, with its mix of river valleys and mountain terrain, contributes to its secluded atmosphere.
4. Bondurant – Remote Wilderness Getaway
Immerse yourself in Bondurant, a sparsely populated area in the Hoback Basin with a population of around 100 people. This community offers expansive ranches and homes on large parcels amidst rolling hills and meadows.
Over 30 miles from the nearest town, Bondurant is perfect for a secluded lifestyle surrounded by wilderness.
Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor activities like fishing in the Hoback River, hiking in the nearby Bridger-Teton National Forest, and spotting wildlife like elk and moose. The annual Bondurant BBQ adds a touch of local tradition to this quiet community.
Where is Bondurant?
Bondurant is situated in western Wyoming, in Sublette County, along U.S. Highway 191. It’s about 35 miles southeast of Jackson and 25 miles northwest of Pinedale.
To reach Bondurant, drive along Highway 191, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The area’s remote location in the Hoback Basin contributes to its status as a wilderness getaway, providing a peaceful escape from urban life.
3. Story – Serenity in the Bighorn Foothills
Experience the quiet charm of Story, an unincorporated community tucked into the eastern slope of the Bighorn Mountains. With a population of around 900 residents, Story is known for its wooded one-acre lots and limited commercial activity.
Lush forests surround the community and offer a network of trails for hiking and horseback riding. Attractions like the Story Fish Hatchery and nearby lakes provide additional recreational opportunities. It’s an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude in a serene mountain setting.
Where is Story?
Story is located in north-central Wyoming, in Sheridan County, approximately 20 miles south of Sheridan. Accessible via U.S. Highway 87 and then west on State Highway 194, the drive to Story offers scenic views of rolling hills and forested landscapes.
The community’s position at the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains makes its geography particularly interesting, as it transitions from plains to mountainous terrain, enhancing its secluded ambiance.
2. Centennial – Gateway to the Snowy Range
Explore Centennial, a tranquil enclave at the base of the Snowy Range Mountains. With a population of about 270, this small town features large secluded properties and minimal development.
The vast natural landscapes ensure peace and breathtaking views far from urban hustle. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy skiing at the nearby Snowy Range Ski Area, hiking numerous trails, and fishing in alpine lakes. The historic Centennial Depot and local artisans add to the town’s unique character.
Where is Centennial?
Centennial is situated in southeastern Wyoming, in Albany County, approximately 30 miles west of Laramie. To get there, take Wyoming Highway 130 west from Laramie, a route known as the Snowy Range Scenic Byway.
The town’s location at the edge of the Medicine Bow National Forest makes its geography particularly appealing, offering a gateway to high alpine environments and many outdoor adventures.
1. Hoback – Secluded River Valley Living
Discover Hoback, an unincorporated community nestled along the Snake River in Teton County. With a population of around 1,500 residents, Hoback offers spacious acre-plus lots surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests.
The area provides ultimate privacy just 15 miles south of Jackson. Outdoor activities are abundant, including rafting on the Snake River, hiking the nearby trails, and soaking in natural hot springs. Hidden gems like the Hoback Market and local eateries add to the community’s charm without the bustle of a larger town.
Where is Hoback?
Hoback is located in northwestern Wyoming, where Highways 191, 189, and 26 converge. It’s situated along the banks of the Snake River, offering scenic river valley views.
To reach Hoback from Jackson, drive south on Highway 191 for about 15 miles, enjoying the picturesque journey through the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The unique geography of river valleys surrounded by mountain ranges makes Hoback a particularly secluded and beautiful place to live.
