Looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? The Wind River Basin in Wyoming offers some of the most secluded and charming towns in the American West. Nestled amidst rugged mountains, vast plains, and serene rivers, these hidden gems provide a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. From cowboy towns steeped in history to quiet communities rich in cultural heritage, here are 10 secluded towns in the Wind River Basin that are worth a visit.
10. Sweetwater Station: Crossroads of Trails
Sweetwater Station is a tiny community that serves as a tranquil waypoint for travelers interested in the historic trails of the Old West. With a population scarcely reaching double digits, this quiet spot offers a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection and exploration. The area is known for its historical significance as a crossing point for the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails, making it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore nearby landmarks, hike the open landscapes, and enjoy wildlife observation in the untouched surroundings. The primary industry revolves around agriculture and ranching, maintaining the area’s rustic charm. Sweetwater Station’s seclusion is due to its remote location, surrounded by vast stretches of open land far from urban centers.
Where is Sweetwater Station?
Located in central Wyoming, Sweetwater Station sits along Highway 287 in the Wind River Basin. Its isolated position is heightened by the expansive landscapes that surround it, offering unobstructed views of wide-open skies and distant horizons. The town’s seclusion comes from its sparse population density and distance from larger towns or cities. Travelers can reach Sweetwater Station by driving along Highway 287, enjoying a scenic route that showcases the natural beauty of Wyoming’s countryside.
9. Jeffrey City: A Modern Ghost Town
Once a bustling mining hub, Jeffrey City now stands as a haunting reminder of boom-and-bust cycles in American history, with a current population of fewer than 100 residents. The town thrived during the uranium mining boom in the mid-20th century but was nearly abandoned after the industry collapsed. Visitors can wander through deserted streets and explore abandoned buildings that tell stories of a bygone era. The primary allure is its eerie beauty and opportunities for photography, hiking, and experiencing solitude in a place reclaimed by nature. There are no major industries remaining, adding to its ghost town atmosphere. Jeffrey City’s seclusion is a result of its remote location and the exodus of its population, leaving behind a quiet, almost forgotten settlement.
Where is Jeffrey City?
Jeffrey City is situated in Fremont County, Wyoming, along Highway 287 between Rawlins and Lander. Its isolation is amplified by the vast stretches of high desert and rolling plains that surround it, with minimal services and amenities nearby. The town’s seclusion stems from both its physical remoteness and the sparse population that remains after the mining industry left. To reach Jeffrey City, travelers can drive along Highway 287 but should plan accordingly, as there are limited facilities in the area, reinforcing its status as a modern ghost town.
8. Lysite: Hidden Gem Near Oil Fields
Lysite is a small, unincorporated community with an estimated population of around 50 people, offering a quiet retreat amidst Wyoming’s rugged landscapes. The town is closely associated with the nearby oil fields, which have historically been significant to the local economy. Visitors to Lysite can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring the natural beauty of surrounding badlands and buttes. The area’s unique geological formations make it an intriguing destination for those interested in geology and paleontology. Lysite’s seclusion comes from its small population and remote setting, far from the traffic of major highways and urban centers.
Where is Lysite?
Lysite is located in eastern Fremont County, accessible via Highway 20 and then local roads leading into the community. The town’s isolated position is underscored by expansive plains and rugged terrain that provide a sense of being off the beaten path. Its seclusion is due to both its distance from larger towns and the low population density of the area. To get to Lysite, travelers should prepare for a journey through scenic, sparsely populated areas, with the nearest amenities some distance away, highlighting the town’s hidden gem status.
7. Ethete: Cultural Harmony in Seclusion
Ethete is a small community of about 1,500 people located on the Wind River Reservation, offering a unique blend of Native American culture and tranquil living. The town is a center for cultural events and traditions of the Northern Arapaho Tribe, providing visitors with opportunities to learn about indigenous heritage. Activities include attending local powwows, visiting St. Michael’s Mission, and participating in community events. The primary industries revolve around tribal governance, education, and cultural preservation. Ethete’s seclusion is derived from its reservation location, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere away from the bustle of larger towns.
Where is Ethete?
Ethete is situated in central Wyoming within the Wind River Reservation, approximately 15 miles northwest of Lander. The town’s secluded nature is enhanced by the surrounding natural beauty, including nearby mountains and open plains that provide a peaceful environment. Its seclusion is also cultural, offering a space where traditions are preserved and the community maintains a harmonious relationship with the land. Travelers can reach Ethete by taking Highway 132 from Lander, immersing themselves in the scenic vistas of the reservation along the way.
6. Kinnear: Quaint Town Amidst Rolling Hills
Kinnear is a small, unincorporated community with a population of about 150 people, nestled amidst the rolling hills and agricultural lands of the Wind River Basin. The town offers a serene countryside atmosphere, with panoramic views and a relaxed pace of life. Activities in Kinnear include exploring local farms, enjoying outdoor recreation like fishing and horseback riding, and visiting nearby historical sites. Agriculture is the main industry, with many residents involved in farming and ranching, contributing to the area’s rural charm. Kinnear’s seclusion comes from its sparse population and the expansive nature of the surrounding landscapes, providing plenty of open space and tranquility.
Where is Kinnear?
Located in Fremont County along Highway 26, Kinnear is approximately 15 miles west of Riverton. The town’s remote feeling is accentuated by vast agricultural fields and the absence of urban development, creating a peaceful retreat. Its seclusion is due to both its small size and the wide-open spaces that separate it from more populated areas. Travelers can reach Kinnear by driving along Highway 26, enjoying the scenic views of Wyoming’s countryside as they approach this quaint community.
5. Pavillion: Agricultural Heartland Oasis
Pavillion is a small town with a population of approximately 230 residents, set in Wyoming’s agricultural heartland. The community is known for its peaceful rural setting, surrounded by vast fields and farms that produce a variety of crops. Visitors can experience the charm of small-town life, engage with local farmers, and enjoy activities like fishing in nearby lakes and streams. Agriculture is the main industry, with farming and ranching playing significant roles in the local economy. Pavillion’s secluded atmosphere comes from its tight-knit community and the expansive rural landscapes that envelop it, offering a tranquil oasis away from city life.
Where is Pavillion?
Pavillion is located in Fremont County along Highway 133, about 25 miles northwest of Riverton. Its seclusion is heightened by surrounding agricultural lands and the lack of urban development, creating a serene environment. The town’s remote location contributes to its peaceful ambiance and slower pace of life. Travelers can visit Pavillion by driving north from Riverton on Highway 133, taking in the scenic farmland and open skies that characterize the region.
4. Crowheart: Remote Beauty and Open Skies
Crowheart is a small community with an estimated population of around 150, offering expansive ranchlands and breathtaking views of the Wind River Mountains. The town is an ideal spot for stargazing, thanks to its clear skies and minimal light pollution. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Ranching is the primary industry, with vast open ranges contributing to the area’s remote and untouched feel. Crowheart’s seclusion is a result of its sparse population and the wide distances between settlements, providing a true sense of escape into nature.
Where is Crowheart?
Situated along Highway 26 in Fremont County, Crowheart is approximately 30 miles west of Riverton and east of Dubois. The town’s remote location is emphasized by the surrounding open spaces and proximity to the Wind River Indian Reservation. Its seclusion is enhanced by natural barriers of mountains and rivers, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude. Travelers can reach Crowheart by taking Highway 26, enjoying picturesque views of mountains and plains as they journey toward this hidden gem.
3. Fort Washakie: Rich Native American Heritage
Fort Washakie is a community of about 1,800 residents located on the Wind River Reservation, serving as a center of culture and history for the Eastern Shoshone Tribe. Visitors can explore sites like the grave of Chief Washakie and the Shoshone Tribal Cultural Center to learn about Native American heritage. The town hosts cultural events and offers opportunities to experience traditional arts, crafts, and storytelling. Primary industries include tribal administration, education, and cultural tourism. Fort Washakie’s seclusion stems from its reservation location and the preservation of traditions that keep the community close-knit and connected to ancestral roots.
Where is Fort Washakie?
Fort Washakie is located in western Wyoming, approximately 12 miles north of Lander along Highway 287. The town’s secluded nature is due to its setting within the Wind River Reservation and the surrounding natural landscapes of mountains and rivers. Its seclusion is both geographical and cultural, offering a peaceful environment steeped in history. Travelers can reach Fort Washakie by driving north from Lander on Highway 287, immersing themselves in the scenic beauty of the reservation and the stories it holds.
2. Shoshoni: Gateway to Hidden Natural Wonders
Shoshoni is a small town with a population of around 650 residents, serving as a gateway to some of Wyoming’s hidden natural treasures. Situated near Boysen Reservoir and Boysen State Park, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and camping. Nearby, the colorful landscapes of badlands and hot springs offer unique opportunities for exploration. The economy is centered around tourism, agriculture, and small businesses catering to travelers. Shoshoni’s seclusion comes from its location at the crossroads of major highways yet retaining a quiet, small-town atmosphere away from larger population centers.
Where is Shoshoni?
Located in central Wyoming at the junction of Highways 20 and 26, Shoshoni lies south of the Wind River Basin. The town’s seclusion is highlighted by expansive natural areas surrounding it, including Boysen Reservoir to the north and open plains stretching in all directions. Its position away from larger cities contributes to a peaceful environment while still being accessible to visitors. Travelers can reach Shoshoni by following Highway 20 or 26, enjoying scenic drives through Wyoming’s diverse landscapes.
1. Dubois: A Cowboy Town with Rustic Charm
Dubois is a charming town with a population of about 1,000, nestled between the Absaroka and Wind River mountain ranges. Known for its authentic Old West atmosphere and log-style architecture, Dubois offers a rich cowboy heritage that’s palpable in every corner. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and visiting the National Bighorn Sheep Center. The town also hosts cultural events such as the annual Dubois Cowboy Gathering, celebrating western music and poetry. Main industries include tourism, ranching, and outdoor recreation services. Dubois’s seclusion is due to its mountainous surroundings and distance from major highways, preserving its rustic charm and quiet atmosphere.
Where is Dubois?
Dubois is located in northwestern Wyoming along Highway 26/287, about 80 miles east of Jackson Hole. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by the rugged mountain ranges that envelop it, providing stunning scenery and a barrier from the outside world. Its location along the Wind River contributes to a tranquil environment where nature takes center stage. Travelers can reach Dubois by driving along Highway 26/287, a route that offers breathtaking views of mountains and forests leading to this hidden gem of the Wild West.
