The Most Picturesque Towns In Wyoming
Wyoming, a state of soaring mountains, untamed rivers, and sweeping plains, offers some of the most breathtaking small towns in the American West. From Jackson, framed by the majestic Grand Tetons and its elk-antler arches, to Pinedale, resting beneath the rugged Wind River Range, each town captures a different face of the state’s beauty. Travelers find serenity at Buffalo’s Lake DeSmet or relaxation at Ten Sleep's Brewing Company, with scenic backdrops that never disappoint. Here are the most picturesque towns in Wyoming worth discovering.
Jackson
Jackson, often referred to as Jackson Hole in honor of the valley it rests within, is one of Wyoming’s most visually striking towns. Its lively character shines at Jackson Town Square, a gathering place framed by shady trees, benches, and the celebrated Elk Antler Arch, crafted from thousands of naturally shed antlers. These iconic archways, positioned at each corner of the square, have become timeless symbols and favorite backdrops for travelers seeking to capture the spirit of the West.
Beyond its charming core, the town is surrounded by landscapes that invite exploration. Outdoor adventure thrives at Snow King Mountain, where winter brings skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and lessons, while warmer months present hiking and scenic chairlift rides. Nearby, the National Elk Refuge provides a remarkable glimpse into wildlife preservation, drawing herds of elk each winter and offering horse-drawn sleigh rides that place visitors in the heart of Wyoming’s natural splendor.
Pinedale
Pinedale, long recognized as a hub for hunting outfitters and a true gateway to the Wind River Range, captures the essence of Wyoming’s wilderness. Sweeping scenery unfolds at the Skyline Drive Overlook Interpretive Site, especially at dusk when the landscape glows red against endless waters and mountain silhouettes. The town’s natural centerpiece, Fremont Lake, remains pristine and largely untouched, stretching 12 miles in length and ranking among the nation’s deepest. Each season, it becomes the stage for lively gatherings like the Sailing Regatta and the Big Fish Ice Derby.
Adventure seekers gravitate to White Pine Ski Resort, one of Wyoming’s oldest alpine destinations. Whether gliding down snowy slopes or hiking through summer trails, the Wind River backdrop heightens every moment. A short drive reveals the Elkhart Park Trailhead, a route lined with overlooks of glacial lakes and rugged summits.
Ten Sleep
Ten Sleep, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Bighorn Basin, has deep ranching roots that remain a vital part of its identity. The town brims with small-town energy during summer traditions, including its spirited two-day rodeo, lively parade, and Independence Day festivities when Main Street fills with music and community gatherings. August brings NoWoodStock, a beloved music festival that draws crowds to celebrate creativity and camaraderie. Nature lovers find renewal at the Circle J Ranch Camp - United Methodist, perched along the edge of the Bighorn National Forest, where red rock formations and forested landscapes create an atmosphere of reflection and inspiration.
Local flavor thrives at Ten Sleep Brewing Company, a microbrewery framed by sweeping views of the Bighorn Mountains. Visitors enjoy craft beer, outdoor games, food trucks, and live entertainment in a relaxed mountain setting. Alongside this, winter recreation flourishes at Meadowlark Ski Lodge, a snow-filled escape with groomed trails, lift-served runs, hearty meals, and cozy fireplaces overlooking scenic Meadowlark Lake.
Buffalo
Buffalo, resting at the base of the Bighorn Mountains, combines rugged scenery with the appeal of a historic western community. Outdoor adventures begin with a drive along US Highway 16, a mountain route with sweeping vistas that unfold, and wildlife such as moose and elk are often spotted. Families and travelers alike are drawn to Lake DeSmet, a locally treasured reservoir that provides clear waters for swimming, shaded picnic spots, and open space for children to wade safely.
In town, Crazy Woman Square serves as a welcoming green space, decorated with statues and well-tended lawns that invite relaxation and community gatherings. Those seeking fresh air find tranquility along the Clear Creek Trail Head, a shaded pathway following the gentle flow of the creek. Pet-friendly and easy to navigate, the trail is a peaceful escape beneath tree canopies, showcasing Buffalo’s harmonious blend of natural beauty and western character.
Lander
Formerly called Pushroot, Old Camp Brown, and Fort Augur, Lander rests at the edge of the Wind River Mountains, blending rugged scenery with deep cultural heritage. The striking landscape of Sinks Canyon State Park captivates with its winding river, sheer canyon walls, and a tapestry of plants and wildlife thriving in the foothills and forests. Adventurers are also drawn to the Popo Agie Falls Trail, a sunlit climb leading to a series of tumbling cascades that reward hikers with breathtaking mountain scenery.
Heritage meets wilderness at the Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary, one of just four public off-range pastures in the country, highlighting both the deep cultural significance of the horse to Native communities and the untamed beauty of wild herds. For thrill-seekers, Wild Iris Wall on Limestone Mountain is a renowned climbing destination, where sheer cliffs rise dramatically against wide skies, creating a backdrop that defines Lander’s picturesque allure.
Dubois
The early settlers of Dubois hoped to call their community “Tibo,” a Shoshone word meaning “stranger” or “white man,” a name affectionately tied to Father John Roberts, their Episcopal priest. When the postal service declined the suggestion, Governor Joseph M. Carey chose “Dubois” in honor of his friend, Idaho senator Fred Dubois. Today, the town rests amid striking landscapes, framed by the colorful cliffs of the Dubois Badlands Wilderness Study Area, whose rugged beauty glows in the Wyoming sun.
Life in Dubois balances history, culture, and natural wonder. The Dubois Museum preserves stories spanning from the Precambrian era to the timber industry of the 1980s, grounding the town in a rich regional narrative. The National Bighorn Sheep Center highlights the significance of wildlife in the surrounding valleys through immersive exhibits and guided eco-tours. At the same time, community spirit shines at Dubois Town Park, a well-kept riverside retreat that reflects the pride and care of this scenic mountain settlement.
Sheridan
Named for General Philip Sheridan, the storied Union cavalry leader, this Wyoming community radiates a union of frontier heritage and cultural richness. Outdoor adventurers are drawn to the Tongue Ranger District and Forest, a vast mountain landscape filled with campgrounds, alpine trails, and breathtaking vistas. For those seeking history, the Trail End State Historic Site stands as a grand mansion with intricate details and peaceful gardens, creating an atmosphere that feels timeless.
Life further blossoms in spaces like Kendrick Park, a welcoming spot with summer concerts, a pool, and herds of elk and buffalo. The town’s vibe is anchored by the Historic Sheridan Inn, built in 1892, where Buffalo Bill Cody once auditioned acts for his legendary Wild West Show. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, the Inn remains a striking symbol of Sheridan’s colorful past and enduring character.
Worland
Set within the Big Horn Basin along the banks of the Big Horn River, Worland is a welcoming community surrounded by striking scenery and deep cultural roots. The Gooseberry Badlands Scenic Overlook & Trail highlights the region’s dramatic landscape, with vivid soils that shift in hue throughout the seasons and sculpted formations shaped by centuries of wind and water. Hikers can follow a quiet 1.5-mile path through this desert wonder, pausing to take in the sweeping views against Wyoming’s endless sky.
The town also celebrates history and recreation in equal measure. The Washakie Museum & Cultural Center showcases extraordinary paleontological finds, Indigenous artifacts, and stories of early ranching life, connecting past generations to the present. Families enjoy the Worland Aquatic Center, complete with paddle boards, a slide, and a lively pool setting, while golfers appreciate the charm of Green Hills Golf, a scenic course framed by hay fields and mountain air.
A Picturesque Retreat In Wyoming
From mountain valleys to high desert basins, Wyoming’s small towns showcase scenery as varied as it is breathtaking. Whether it is the alpine backdrop of Jackson, the rugged charisma of Dubois, or the sweeping views near Worland, each town pairs natural beauty with cultural depth. Trails, lakes, historic landmarks, and vibrant traditions make these places more than destinations—they are experiences that linger. Explore these most picturesque towns in Wyoming, each with its own highlight waiting to be experienced.
