Nestled within the vast and rugged landscapes of Wyoming lies the enigmatic Red Desert Basin, a region brimming with history, natural beauty, and secluded towns that whisper tales of the Old West. Away from bustling cities and modern distractions, these ten towns offer a retreat into a world where time seems to stand still. From restored ghost towns to quiet communities surrounded by sweeping deserts and mountains, each destination provides a unique glimpse into Wyoming’s rich heritage and the serene allure of seclusion. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, exploring these hidden gems will unveil a side of Wyoming that few have experienced.
10. South Pass City
Step into history in South Pass City, a restored ghost town in the midst of the Red Desert’s midst. With an approximate population of just four residents, this former gold mining hub offers a fascinating journey back to the 1860s. Visitors can explore over 30 restored historic structures, including a general store, saloons, and miners’ homes, all reflecting the boom-and-bust tale of the gold rush era. The main industry now is heritage tourism, providing a glimpse into the wild frontier days. What makes South Pass City truly secluded is its preservation of the past amidst the remote high plains, offering a tranquil environment far removed from the hustle of modern life.
Where is South Pass City?
Located in southwestern Wyoming, South Pass City sits near the Continental Divide in Fremont County. Its isolation is accentuated by the surrounding rolling hills and sagebrush-covered plains, miles away from major highways and urban centers. To reach this secluded spot, travelers venture south from Lander along Highway 28, winding through scenic vistas of the Red Desert Basin. The remoteness of South Pass City not only preserves its historic charm but also provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in Wyoming’s frontier history.
9. Reliance
Explore Reliance, a former coal mining hub turned quiet enclave in the Red Desert region. With an estimated population of around 600 residents, this small town holds deep roots in Wyoming’s mining history. Visitors can delve into the Reliance Tipple, an old coal processing plant now serving as a historical site showcasing the town’s industrial past. The main industries have shifted from mining to supporting local tourism and small businesses. Reliance’s seclusion arises from its location amidst the vast open spaces of the Red Desert, providing a peaceful atmosphere steeped in historical significance.
Where is Reliance?
Reliance is situated in Sweetwater County, approximately five miles north of Rock Springs. Tucked away from the main thoroughfares, its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding barren landscapes and minimal traffic. Access to Reliance is via county roads branching off from Highway 191, making it a quiet retreat away from busier routes. The town’s remote setting amidst the expansive desert terrain offers visitors a unique glimpse into Wyoming’s rugged and tranquil environments.
8. Eden
Find serenity in Eden, a small town offering a lush contrast to the surrounding desert. Home to approximately 300 residents, Eden is a refreshing oasis known for its agricultural community amidst the arid landscapes. Visitors can enjoy verdant farmlands, local orchards, and the calm ambiance that the town provides. The primary industries revolve around farming and ranching, contributing to the town’s unique greenery in the Red Desert Basin. Eden’s secluded nature comes from its small population and the expansive open spaces that envelop it, making it a tranquil escape from more populated areas.
Where is Eden?
Located in Sweetwater County, Eden lies northeast of Farson along U.S. Route 191. Its seclusion is heightened by the miles of desert separating it from larger towns and highways. Travelers can reach Eden by taking scenic routes through the Red Desert, offering views of the stark yet beautiful surroundings. The town’s remote location provides a peaceful atmosphere where the quietness of rural life prevails, making it a hidden gem within Wyoming’s diverse landscapes.
7. Point of Rocks
Discover Point of Rocks, a historical waypoint nestled in the vastness of the Red Desert Basin. With a small population of around three residents, this tiny town is rich in history linked to the Overland Trail and the Union Pacific Railroad. Visitors can explore the Point of Rocks Stage Station, a historic structure that once served as a pivotal stop for stagecoaches in the 1860s. The area offers a glimpse into the past with stark desert beauty surrounding the town. The main industries have dwindled, leaving Point of Rocks as a quiet testament to bygone eras. Its seclusion is inherent in its minimal population and the expansive desert that isolates it from bustling communities.
Where is Point of Rocks?
Situated in Sweetwater County, Point of Rocks lies along Interstate 80, east of Rock Springs. Despite its proximity to the interstate, the town remains secluded due to the sparse development and vast open spaces of the Red Desert. Access is straightforward via I-80, but the surrounding emptiness gives it a remote feel. The town’s isolation amidst sweeping plains provides visitors with a serene environment steeped in historical significance.
6. Baggs
Visit the secluded town of Baggs, a gateway to the Red Desert and rich in Old West history. Baggs has an approximate population of 440 residents and is known for its connections to famous outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Visitors can explore the Little Snake River Museum, which showcases artifacts and stories from the region’s past. The main industries include ranching and energy production, reflecting the town’s deep-rooted ties to the land. Baggs’ seclusion stems from its location amidst rolling hills and the vastness of southern Wyoming, offering a quiet retreat with a touch of historical intrigue.
Where is Baggs?
Located in Carbon County near the Colorado border, Baggs sits along Highway 789. Its remote setting is accentuated by the surrounding open landscapes and minimal neighboring towns. To reach Baggs, travelers can drive south from Rawlins or north from Craig, Colorado, enjoying scenic views along the way. The town’s distance from major urban centers contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, making it a unique destination for those seeking solitude and a taste of the Old West.
5. Farson
Experience rural Wyoming in Farson, where open skies meet the Red Desert’s edge. With an estimated population of about 300 residents, Farson is a small agricultural community known for its expansive farmlands and ranches. A highlight for visitors is the Farson Mercantile, famous for its giant ice cream cones and local goods. The main industries revolve around farming, ranching, and serving as a rest stop for travelers. Farson’s seclusion is due to its vast surrounding landscapes and distance from larger towns, providing a quiet, rural ambiance.
Where is Farson?
Farson is located in Sweetwater County at the junction of U.S. Route 191 and Wyoming Highway 28. Its position on the wide-open plains of the Red Desert makes it feel isolated despite the crossing highways. Travelers often pass through on their way to more populous destinations, but the town itself remains peaceful and less frequented. The simplicity of getting there contrasts with the seclusion felt upon arrival, offering a serene snapshot of rural Wyoming life.
4. Superior
Step back in time in Superior, a historic mining town quietly resting in Wyoming’s Red Desert Basin. With a population of around 250 residents, Superior harbors a rich coal mining heritage from the early 20th century. Visitors can see remnants of the old mines and explore historical sites that hint at its bustling past. The main industries have shifted away from mining, leaving behind a tranquil community keen on preserving its history. Superior’s seclusion comes from its location surrounded by desert landscapes and the remnants of its once-thriving industrial activities, offering a peaceful environment for history enthusiasts.
Where is Superior?
Located in Sweetwater County, Superior is northeast of Rock Springs, accessible via County Road 4-17. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding rugged terrain and sparse population in the area. To reach Superior, visitors journey through stretches of open desert, which heightens the sense of isolation upon arrival. The town’s remote setting provides a quiet retreat and an authentic glimpse into Wyoming’s mining history.
3. Bairoil
Uncover the hidden gem of Bairoil, a small community thriving amidst the vast desert landscape. With approximately 100 residents, Bairoil is closely linked to the oil extraction industry, as suggested by its name—a combination of “Bair” from Charles M. Bair, an early investor, and “oil” representing its industry. Visitors can experience the unique atmosphere of a town built around oil fields, with the surrounding desert offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The main industry remains oil production, sustaining the town’s economy. Bairoil’s seclusion is a result of its small size and location amid the expansive Red Desert, providing a quiet, tight-knit community setting.
Where is Bairoil?
Bairoil is situated in Sweetwater County, northwest of Rawlins, accessible via Wyoming Highway 73. The town’s remote location is surrounded by miles of desert and minimal traffic, reinforcing its secluded nature. Travelers reach Bairoil by venturing off the main highways, passing through the stark beauty of the Red Desert Basin. The isolation of Bairoil offers a peaceful environment and a chance to witness Wyoming’s lesser-known landscapes.
2. Jeffrey City
Explore the near-ghost town of Jeffrey City, a remnant of Wyoming’s mining boom in the Red Desert region. Once home to over 4,000 people during the uranium mining peak from the 1950s to the 1980s, it now has an approximate population of about 50 residents. Visitors can see the abandoned buildings and infrastructure that tell a story of rapid growth and decline. There are a few businesses that cater to travelers, including a café and a motel. The main industry collapsed with the uranium market, leaving the town largely deserted. Jeffrey City’s seclusion is evident in its sparse population and the haunting quiet of its empty streets and buildings.
Where is Jeffrey City?
Located in Fremont County along U.S. Route 287, Jeffrey City lies between Rawlins and Lander. Its seclusion is due to its distance from major cities and the surrounding expanse of the Red Desert. To get there, travelers drive through long stretches of open road with minimal development, enhancing the sense of isolation. The town’s remote location amidst the vast Wyoming landscape provides a unique and reflective experience for visitors exploring the remnants of its mining past.
1. Wamsutter
Discover the quiet charm of Wamsutter, a tiny town nestled in the heart of the Red Desert Basin. With an approximate population of 450 residents, Wamsutter serves as a secluded stop along Interstate 80. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the town, including opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring the serene desert landscapes. The main industries are oil and gas extraction, contributing to the local economy while maintaining the town’s quiet atmosphere. Wamsutter’s seclusion comes from its vast surrounding emptiness and the sparse population that gives it a peaceful, small-town feel.
Where is Wamsutter?
Situated in Sweetwater County, Wamsutter is located directly along Interstate 80, roughly halfway between Rock Springs and Rawlins. Despite its accessibility from the interstate, the town remains secluded due to the expansive Red Desert that surrounds it. Travelers can reach Wamsutter easily by exiting I-80, but the vast open spaces and minimal development around the town contribute to its isolated ambiance. The remote setting offers a tranquil retreat and a chance to experience the quiet side of Wyoming’s desert region.
The Red Desert Basin has such intriguing towns! I love how places like Rawlins and Wamsutter add to the charm with their rich history and stunning landscapes. Perfect for exploring!
Those hidden gems like Atlantic City and Jeffrey City have such character. “Every corner tells a story,” especially with their unique histories and breathtaking desert views!