Lonely PlanetSep 8, 2026
Where to Go When Yellowstone is Busy
When Yellowstone National Park is too busy, head instead to Wyoming
22 things in this story
- Wind River CountryNeighborhoodWyoming's best hub for outdoor adventures with smaller crowds.
- Whiskey Mountain TrailTrailLeads to Lake Louise or Glacier Trail, towards Wyoming's highest point.
- Wind River FlyfitterPlaceOffers fly-fishing excursions in Dubois.
- Big Wind River Float TripsPlaceArranges rafting day trips in Dubois.
- Dubois BadlandsSightBrightly banded rock pinnacles and water-carved valleys.
- Martin OutfittersPlaceOffers guided horseback rides in the Dubois Badlands.
- Longhorn Ranch Lodge and RV ParkHotelExcellent basecamp in Dubois, RV spaces by the river.
- Lone Buffalo SteakhouseRestaurant
- Elsewhere
- The SinksAttractionLander, United StatesGeological wonder where the Popo Agie River vanishes into the canyon.
- The RiseSightLander, United StatesWhere the Popo Agie River resurfaces into a tranquil pool.
- Popo Agie Falls TrailTrailLander, United StatesLeads to cascades with natural rock waterslides.
- Wild IrisSightLander, United StatesLimestone walls offering rock climbing routes for all levels.
- Sinks CanyonPlace of worshipLander, United StatesSandstone cliffs offering climbing and rappelling routes.
- Cirque of the TowersSightLander, United StatesGranite peaks offering ambitious, technical climbing.
- Wind River Climbing GuidesPlaceLander, United StatesRuns climbing trips and courses from Lander.
- International Climbing FestivalFestivalLander, United StatesLongest-running climbers’ festival in the country, held in July.
- Johnny Behind the RocksTrailLander, United StatesMountain biking trail system with beginner-to-intermediate routes.
- Jurassic Classic Mountain Bike FestivalFestivalLander, United StatesAnnual event in August drawing cyclists for rides, clinics, and competitions.
- Lander MotelHotelLander, United StatesHomey, retro stay right on Main St in Lander.
- The Middle ForkRestaurantLander, United StatesOffers delectable breakfast with outdoor seating by the creek.
- Popo Agie CampgroundPlaceLander, United StatesPrimitive camping available in Sinks Canyon State Park.
- Pushroot Brewing CompanyRestaurantLander, United States