Nestled within the rugged landscapes of Wyoming, the Big Horn Basin is home to some of the most secluded and charming towns in the American West. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into a simpler way of life, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich history. From rustic frontier settlements to tranquil villages beneath towering mountains, each town provides a unique retreat for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature. Join us as we count down the 10 most secluded towns in the Big Horn Basin, each offering its own special allure away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
10. Kirby: Small Town Flavor with a Taste of Local Spirits
With a population of just around 92, Kirby is a tiny community that boasts a big personality. One of the town’s unique attractions is the Wyoming Whiskey distillery, where visitors can tour the facility and sample locally crafted spirits. The main industry here revolves around this distillery, adding a distinct flavor to the town’s economy. Kirby’s seclusion is highlighted by its open landscapes and quiet streets, offering a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a place where everyone knows each other, and the simplicity of life is cherished by its residents.
Where is Kirby?
Located in Hot Springs County, Kirby sits comfortably between the towns of Thermopolis and Worland. Its remote position in the vast expanse of the Big Horn Basin contributes to its secluded nature. The town is accessible via U.S. Route 20, but its small size and the surrounding wide-open spaces make it feel worlds apart from busy urban centers. The journey to Kirby is a scenic drive through Wyoming’s picturesque landscapes, making it a delightful escape for those looking to get off the beaten path.
9. Emblem: The Tiny Town with Vast Scenic Beauty
Emblem is one of Wyoming’s smallest towns, with an estimated population of only 10 people. Despite its size, it offers vast scenic beauty, surrounded by sprawling ranchlands and distant mountain views. The town doesn’t have any major industries, which adds to its tranquil ambiance. Emblem’s seclusion is a treasure for those seeking solitude, where the sounds of nature prevail, and the night skies are illuminated by countless stars. It’s a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts who appreciate the untouched beauty of the countryside.
Where is Emblem?
Situated in Big Horn County, Emblem lies along U.S. Route 14/16/20 between Cody and Greybull. Its location in the heart of the Big Horn Basin makes it exceptionally secluded, with miles of open land in every direction. The town’s remoteness is enhanced by the minimal traffic passing through, as most travelers opt for larger highways. Reaching Emblem involves a deliberate journey through Wyoming’s serene landscapes, rewarding visitors with a peaceful retreat away from crowded destinations.
8. Frannie: The Crossroads of Wyoming and Montana
Frannie is a quaint town with a population of about 157 residents, known for its warm community and quiet living. As the northernmost town in the Big Horn Basin, it sits near the border of Montana, giving it a unique position geographically. The main activities revolve around agriculture and small businesses, reflecting the town’s rural character. Frannie’s seclusion is perfect for those seeking a peaceful environment, where the pace of life is slow, and the community is close-knit.
Where is Frannie?
Located in both Big Horn and Park counties, Frannie is accessible via U.S. Route 310. Its proximity to the state line adds to its charm, offering easy access to the attractions of both Wyoming and Montana, yet maintaining a feeling of isolation due to the surrounding rural areas. The town’s remote setting amidst expansive farmlands and gentle rolling hills makes it a serene getaway. Traveling to Frannie provides a scenic route through less-traveled paths, enhancing the sense of adventure and solitude.
7. Otto: Embracing Minimalistic Living in Big Horn Basin
With an estimated population of 50, Otto exemplifies minimalistic living in the heart of Wyoming’s countryside. The town’s residents embrace a simple lifestyle, often centered around farming and ranching. There are no bustling industries here—just the peaceful rhythms of rural life. Otto’s seclusion offers a retreat from the modern world’s distractions, where one can enjoy the beauty of wide-open spaces and the tranquility that comes with a sparse population.
Where is Otto?
Otto is nestled in Big Horn County, southwest of Greybull and east of Basin. The town is accessed primarily through county roads, enhancing its feeling of remoteness. Surrounded by agricultural land and distant mountain ranges, Otto feels like a peaceful oasis tucked away from mainstream routes. Getting there involves navigating through scenic backroads, which is part of the charm for visitors seeking an authentic and secluded experience in the Big Horn Basin.
6. Burlington: Stargazing and Serenity Under Open Skies
Burlington is a small town of approximately 288 residents, offering a serene environment embraced by vast fields and expansive skies. Agriculture is the mainstay here, with farming playing a significant role in the community’s livelihood. Burlington’s open landscapes make it an ideal spot for stargazing, as light pollution is virtually nonexistent. The town’s seclusion provides a quiet retreat where one can immerse themselves in the rhythms of rural life and the beauty of nature.
Where is Burlington?
Located in Big Horn County along U.S. Route 20, Burlington sits east of Otto and south of the Shell Reservoir. Its position away from major urban centers contributes to its secluded atmosphere. The surrounding open plains and distant views of the Absaroka and Big Horn mountain ranges add to the town’s picturesque setting. Visitors can reach Burlington via scenic highways that traverse the heart of Wyoming’s agricultural regions, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
5. Manderson: Riverside Solitude in the Heart of Wyoming
Manderson is home to about 114 people and offers a serene atmosphere along the Bighorn River. The town provides peaceful riverside walks and is surrounded by lush vegetation in an otherwise arid region. Small businesses and agriculture support the local economy, reflecting the town’s modest lifestyle. Manderson’s seclusion is accentuated by its quiet streets and the gentle flow of the river, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and a strong sense of community.
Where is Manderson?
Situated in Big Horn County, Manderson is accessible via U.S. Route 16, nestled between Basin and Worland. Its riverside location contributes to its feeling of isolation, with the waterway providing a natural barrier from the busier regions. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, with the Big Horn Mountains visible in the distance. Traveling to Manderson involves a scenic drive through Wyoming’s countryside, offering glimpses of the state’s diverse landscapes along the way.
4. Hyattville: Quiet Oasis Amid Rolling Hills and Fossil Beds
Hyattville is a peaceful farming community with a population of around 75 residents. It’s known for its proximity to the ancient dinosaur fossil sites in the nearby Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite. The town is enveloped by rolling hills and offers tranquil vistas that appeal to those looking for a quiet escape. Agriculture dominates the local industry, and the residents take pride in their close-knit community. Hyattville’s seclusion provides a serene environment where the past and present blend seamlessly.
Where is Hyattville?
Located in Big Horn County, Hyattville can be reached via Wyoming Highway 31, northeast of Ten Sleep. Its remote setting is enhanced by the surrounding Bighorn National Forest and the Absaroka Range to the west. The town’s isolation is a draw for visitors interested in paleontology and outdoor recreation without the crowds. Accessing Hyattville involves traversing scenic byways that meander through some of Wyoming’s most captivating natural areas, making the journey as enriching as the destination.
3. Ten Sleep: Where Cliffs and Cowboy Culture Converge
Ten Sleep has a population of about 260 people and is renowned for its rich cowboy heritage and outdoor adventures. Nestled in a picturesque canyon, the town is a hotspot for rock climbing enthusiasts due to the surrounding limestone cliffs. The main industries include tourism, ranching, and farming, all contributing to its rustic charm. Ten Sleep’s seclusion is accentuated by its location at the base of the Bighorn Mountains, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in Western culture.
Where is Ten Sleep?
Situated in Washakie County, Ten Sleep lies along U.S. Route 16, east of Worland and west of the Powder River Pass. The town’s secluded nature is amplified by the mountainous terrain and winding roads that lead to it. Accessing Ten Sleep requires navigating through scenic mountain passes, providing breathtaking views and a sense of adventure. Its remote location makes it a perfect getaway for those seeking both solitude and the thrill of outdoor pursuits in a stunning natural setting.
2. Shell: Tranquility at the Base of the Bighorn Mountains
Shell is a serene village with an estimated population of 83 residents. Nestled against majestic cliffs, the town is near the stunning Shell Falls, a hidden gem that attracts nature enthusiasts. Ranching and tourism are primary industries, with the area offering excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Shell’s seclusion is defined by its tranquil environment and the breathtaking backdrop of the Bighorn Mountains, providing a perfect escape for solitude seekers.
Where is Shell?
Located in Big Horn County along U.S. Route 14, Shell sits east of Greybull and west of the Bighorn National Forest. The town’s remote location at the mouth of Shell Canyon contributes to its secluded atmosphere. The journey to Shell involves traversing mountain roads with awe-inspiring views of cliffs and waterfalls. Its limited accessibility and the surrounding rugged terrain make Shell feel like a world apart, ideal for visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature’s tranquility.
1. Meeteetse: A Hidden Frontier with Old West Charm
Meeteetse, with a population of approximately 327, exudes rustic allure with its historic wooden boardwalks and frontier-era buildings. The town offers a glimpse into Wyoming’s frontier past, featuring attractions like the Meeteetse Museums that showcase local history and culture. Ranching is a significant industry, and the nearby Greybull River provides fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities. Meeteetse’s seclusion is marked by its untouched landscapes and the preservation of its Old West charm, making it a unique destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Where is Meeteetse?
Situated in Park County, Meeteetse is accessible via Wyoming Highway 120, south of Cody and north of Thermopolis. Its location along the Greybull River and the surrounding Absaroka Mountains enhance its remote feel. The town is off the main tourist routes, contributing to its peaceful and secluded nature. Traveling to Meeteetse involves a scenic drive through rolling hills and open rangeland, offering visitors a chance to experience the vastness and beauty of Wyoming’s western frontier.
