8 Best Small Towns In Wyoming For A Crowd-Free Summer

Traveling to the western part of the United States for a summer vacation has become a popular tradition for families all across America. But with that drive to see unforgettable vistas, national parks, and never-ending forests comes big crowds, traffic, and reservations. While Wyoming has popular tourist towns and one of the most popular national parks in the country, Yellowstone, there is no shortage of under-the-radar locations that allow you to experience the majestic western wilderness without pushy tourists. These are some of the best small towns in Wyoming for a crowd-free summer.

Buffalo

If you're looking to enjoy a summer vacation with fewer crowds and more scenic beauty, Buffalo is a great choice. Located in north central Wyoming, just east of the Bighorn National Forest on Highway 16, you'll find this underrated locale. Take advantage of the natural scenery and history of the area all at once. Visit the Historic Occidental Hotel & Saloon, where you can stay in one of their vintage hotel rooms or three restaurants that still have the original look from the 1800s.

When it comes to scenery, Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway on Hwy 16 offers amazing views of Cloud Peak and the opportunity to explore historic sites along the way. Finally, visit the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum to get a closer look at the life of the town's first pharmacist in the past.

Pinedale

Located in western Wyoming, between the Bridger-Teton National Forest and Roberts Mountain, Pinedale is a small town of just over 2,000 people, according to the 2020 census. Like much of Wyoming, this small town takes advantage of the unforgettable natural landscapes around it, with seemingly every outdoor activity you can imagine available. Want to feel like a true Western cowboy? Try horseback riding through the Bridger-Teton National Forest during the summer or fall by renting a horse and taking a guide or not.

During the season, try Pinedale's local ski resort, White Pine Wyoming Ski and Summer Resort, for skiing, snowboarding, or even snowshoe expeditions. After outdoor activities, kick back with a drink at the Cowboy Country Distilling just outside town. Taste the spirits made by the local distillers and craftsmen from the area.

Sundance

Sundance is a quiet little town of just over 1,000 people, according to the 2020 census, located on the South Dakota border outside the Black Hills National Forest. If you're looking for a town that embodies the old Wild West, Sundance is a good place to start. History states the Sundance Kid did jail time here, so you can revisit the history at the Crook County Museum.

Continue the cowboy vacation at the Kara Creek Ranch, where you can participate in daily ranch activities across thousands of acres. Looking to explore the artistic side of Sundance? Visit the 1875 Gallery, where local artists showcase sculptures, photography, beadwork, and watercolor paintings.

Evanston

Tucked in the far southwestern corner of Wyoming, just a short walk from the Utah border, is Evanston. Home to around 12,000 people, as of the 2020 census, this small western town does a great job blending the western cowboy ways of the past with a modern feel. Take advantage of unforgettable mountain biking trails around Mirror Lake and the Uinta Mountains. Because Evanston has Bear River running next to it, relax with a fishing excursion before sunset.

You can also hit the links at the Purple Sage Golf Course in the northwest part of town before getting dinner from a multitude of restaurants, including barbecue at Dang Good Smokehouse and BBQ, or try some international flavors at the Ichiban Steakhouse on Harrison Drive.

Douglas

Eastern Wyoming is the location of the next small town on this list, Douglas. With only around 6,300 people as of the 2020 census, you'll be able to avoid big crowds while enjoying the folklore and attractions of this western town. Get a picture with an eight-foot jackalope statue, a storied legend of this mythical creature, around this area. Even though the town is under 10,000 people, Douglas still holds the Wyoming State Fair every August, where you can enjoy rides, unique foods, and concerts for four straight days.

Just like other Wyoming towns, Douglas doesn't shortchange visitors when it comes to memorable natural landscapes and opportunities. With the North Platte River running through town and the Ayres Natural Bridge Park a short drive to the west, there is always the Wyoming wilderness to keep you coming back.

Green River

As of the 2020 census, Green River was the seventh most populous town in Wyoming, but don't let that intimidate you, as around 12,000 people call this southwestern Wyoming town home. One of the most scenic towns in the state many people haven't heard of, Green River is a must-stop if you want to blend the geography of the Out West with water activities.

Start in northern Green River at the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop, where you can see and photograph over 1,000 wild horses across 24 miles. The town has Green River running through the heart of it and flowing south while expanding into the unforgettable Flaming Gorge Reservoir, where you can boat, swim, and fish surrounded by incredible views.

Sheridan

The next town on the list is known as the halfway point between Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park. Sheridan is located in northern Wyoming, near the Montana border. With the Bighorn National Forest just to the west, the opportunity to scale mountain peaks is just a short drive away, where you can visit the Medicine Wheel perched almost 10,000 feet up the mountain. Also, feel free to check out the Andrew J. Nielsen historical landmark north of town or the Trail End State Historic Site for eye-catching architecture in the heart of Sheridan.

Thermopolis

Central Wyoming, just outside of the Wind River Reservation, is where you'll find the town with the unique name, Thermopolis. If the town's name sounds like a good place to warm up, you'd be correct. Known for hot springs, stop at Hot Springs State Park for exploration or just to relax in one of the public soaking pools.

Want to soak in history, not spring water? Themopolis has you covered. Take the family to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center for exhibits, artifacts, and history. Learn more about this unique town at the Hot Springs County Museum, and don't forget to give yourself a boost of energy in the morning at the Black Bear Cafe.

Finishing Thoughts

Wyoming has always been a popular state for families to spend their summer vacations. However, as you can see, there are still undiscovered gems throughout the state that will allow you to take in the natural landscapes at a slower pace. Whether it's checking out wild horses in Green River, taking advantage of a scenic but less crowded ski resort in Pinedale, or lounging in a relaxing hot spring in Thermopolis, Wyoming offers countless small towns across the state that can offer you a summer vacation without the hectic crowd.