2025's Towns In Wyoming That Come Alive In The Fall

Wyoming’s rugged landscapes and low population make it a prime place to experience the magic of autumn. The air turns crisp, the skies are vivid, and the mountains glow with fiery hues of aspen and cottonwood. Typically, western Wyoming shows its peak color in late September, southern Wyoming follows in early October, and much of the central and northern regions blaze in mid-October. So, now is the time for a 2025 getaway to these small towns that truly shine in the autumn season—or to get a head start on planning for 2026!

Buffalo

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Bighorn Mountains, Buffalo blends history with natural beauty. Its legendary Occidental Hotel, dating back to 1880, provides a living connection to the Old West, while modern-day Buffalo thrives on its role as a hub for outdoor recreation. Each fall, travelers are drawn to the Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway, where expansive views from over 10,000 feet showcase a brilliant sweep of changing foliage. The prime viewing window generally falls in early to mid-October. While in town, stroll along Artisan Row on Main Street to find handcrafted pieces, meet local makers, and take in the crisp autumn air. With its mix of heritage and seasonal color, Buffalo is a fall highlight in northern Wyoming.

Jackson

Situated near the world-famous Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, the town of Jackson blends outdoor spectacle with arts and culture, making it a unique stop during peak fall color. Late September and early October bring not just vivid aspen groves but also the unforgettable sound of elk bugling across the valley. The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram offers sweeping views of golden slopes and rugged peaks, giving visitors a bird’s-eye view of fall in the Tetons. Cultural life is also rich this time of year. September’s Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival has already passed for 2025 but is well worth putting on your 2026 calendar, while there is still time to catch Oktoberfest at Snake River Brewing in early October.

Saratoga

Saratoga, a cozy town of fewer than 2,000 residents in Carbon County, is a hidden gem for those who love fall. Best known for the Saratoga Hot Springs, the town becomes especially inviting in autumn when the cool air contrasts with the soothing warmth of the pools. Visitors can soak while gazing at cottonwood trees glowing gold along the North Platte River, usually peaking in early October. Outdoor enthusiasts often head to the nearby Snowy Range for brilliant aspen displays, fishing, and hiking. Fall is also prime time for birdwatching in spots such as Saratoga Lake, as migratory species stop in the area. With a slower pace than bigger destinations, Saratoga offers both relaxation and adventure, making it an excellent addition to your autumn itinerary.

Dayton

Dayton may be small, with fewer than 1,000 residents, but it is big on autumn charm. Situated near the entrance to the Tongue River Canyon, the town offers direct access to trails that burst into color by mid-October. Hiking here means weaving through bright groves set against dramatic canyon walls and the rushing river. Dayton also hosts its own celebration—the Tongue River Valley Fall Festival—complete with craft vendors, rides, music, and a playful “zombie run.” This community-driven event embodies the welcoming spirit of Wyoming’s small towns. Whether your favorite memory ends up being the canyon’s natural beauty or the milkshake from the historic Dayton Mercantile, Dayton is a wonderful place to soak in the season.

Hulett

Tucked into northeastern Wyoming, Hulett is best known for its close proximity to Devils Tower National Monument. With a population hovering around 300, the town maintains a cozy, welcoming feel. Each autumn, Devils Tower rises like a monolith against a patchwork of gold and orange leaves, reaching its peak color in early to mid-October. Outdoor lovers can hike around the tower’s base for spectacular foliage views, while experienced climbers may opt for the challenge of scaling it. Meanwhile, kayaking on the Belle Fourche River offers another spectacular setting for leaf-peeping. Annually in late September, the Hulett Quilt Show at the Hulett Museum brings local artisans together, adding a different burst of color to the vibrant autumn hues.

Laramie

In autumn, Laramie balances outdoor beauty with lively community spirit. As the home of the University of Wyoming, the town buzzes with energy each Cowboys football weekend, when fans fill restaurants, shops, and streets in a sea of brown and gold. October also brings family-friendly fun with the Laramie Hay Company Fall Festival in mid-month, followed by the Pumpkin Dunkin’ Festival the weekend before Halloween. Nature seekers can head just outside of town to the Vedauwoo Recreation Area, where unusual granite rock formations tower over trails lined with colorful foliage. With fall colors usually peaking by early October, Laramie is the perfect blend of culture, sports, and outdoor adventure.

Pinedale

Pinedale, perched on the edge of the Wind River Mountains, is a paradise for outdoorsy types year-round, but fall brings something special. The forests blaze with color in early October, setting the scene for hunters, anglers, and hikers alike. Local streams and lakes remain active with rainbow and brown trout, while the hills and valleys teem with deer and elk. The Museum of the Mountain Man, open until the end of October, adds a historical layer to any visit, highlighting the area’s fur trade and frontier past. To get the most out of your fall foliage viewing, the scenic drive out to Squaretop Mountain in the Bridger-Teton National Forest rewards visitors with some of the most iconic leaf-peeping in Wyoming.

Encampment

Once a booming mining town, Encampment today embraces its history while offering an ideal setting for fall exploration. Autumn’s vibrant colors and cooler temperatures perfectly suit the Grand Encampment Museum, home to reconstructed buildings that capture the spirit of the area’s mining and trapping days. Just a short drive away lies Aspen Alley, a narrow road lined with towering aspen trees that glow in brilliant yellow at the beginning of October. The scene is so striking that it has become a favorite for photographers. In addition, hunters flock to Carbon County each fall, as it is one of the best—and most picturesque—spots in Wyoming for big game like elk and moose.

Small-Town Autumn Splendor

Across Wyoming, fall is a season that brings together natural beauty and small-town hospitality. Crisp skies and golden sunlight illuminate aspen groves, cottonwoods, and mountain slopes, creating unforgettable landscapes. At the same time, communities open their doors with festivals, artisan markets, and sporting traditions that reflect local character. Whether you are drawn by the soaring peaks of the Tetons, the historical echoes of mining camps, or the quiet charm of riverside towns, Wyoming offers a fall experience unlike anywhere else. Make 2025 the year you discover these gems at their most colorful and lively!