Wyoming is a huge state. While most visitors hit the same few destinations, namely Grand Tetons and Yellowstone, there are a few main roads, highways 25, 80 and 90, that pass through the desolate areas. But take the backroads and you might be surprised at what you find.
I discovered these towns going between northern Colorado and northwestern Wyoming. You’ll find experiences like dude ranches, hiking, horseback riding and fishing in these small towns. Each has something unique to offer. There’s also the Wild West history that can’t be found anywhere else.
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Buford
When I call Buford a small town, I mean it. As the nation’s smallest town, it has only one resident and he’s the employee of PhinDeli Town Buford. He also lives onsite at the truck stop/coffee shop. They serve Vietnamese coffee and sell souvenirs.
The unincorporated community was named for a Union general in the Civil War but it was purchased by the current owner in 2013. Also nearby is the Tree in the Rock, exactly as it sounds, and Ames Brothers Pyramid, which was built in honor of the two brothers who financed the Union Pacific Railroad. There’s nowhere to stay or eat in town so you’re better off just passing through.
Laramie
Nearby is the town of Laramie, home to the University of Wyoming. Among the attractions is The Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, where criminals like Butch Cassidy were held in the early days of the state.
It’s a fascinating museum you could spend hours in. Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument is a seemingly out-of-place monument to a memorable president. It features a statue of just his head and was built to honor his 150th birthday.
Much of the town was closed on the day we were there, but driving around town we noticed Altitude Chophouse & Brewery. We ended up having lunch at Corona Village, a Mexican restaurant. There are a number of historic locations in town: Cavalryman Steakhouse dates back to 1866 and Buckhorn Bar dates back to 1900.
Curt Gowdy State Park and Medicine Bow National Forest offer accommodations, as does the nearby Laramie KOA Journey. You’ll also find the standard roadside chains like Hampton Inn and Fairfield Inn.
Rawlins
Rawlins, down the road, is another prison town, but with a different history. The town of less than 10,000 was named for another Union general. It was once a major stop on the Union Pacific Railroad. Wyoming Frontier Prison, nicknamed “The Old Pen,” housed train robbers and other Wild West outlaws.
They offer tours of the building, which is said to be haunted. Carbon County Museum details the area’s past and present, including exhibits on famous residents and Native American traditions.
We enjoyed dinner at Asian Bistro, but Anong’s Thai Cusine also came recommended. You’ll also find fast food chains closer to the highway.
Rawlins KOA Journey was our home for the night, which was a perfunctory campground near the highway. We split a beer and watched Game of Thrones on WiFi. There’s also the Victorian beauty Ferris Mansion Bed and Breakfast and standard roadside chain hotels.
Saratoga
There was just one reason that we stopped in Saratoga. We’d read about their Hobo Hot Springs, which were free to visit. The town had no cell service, but we found it easily. It’s open 24/7 and allows you to soak in the mineral and algae waters with temperatures ranging from 100 to 119 degrees Fahrenheit.
The only downside was that the bathrooms and showers have no doors so there’s no privacy. Outdoor activities in town are also a big draw, whether it’s wildlife spotting, fishing, hiking, or skiing. Grand Encampment Museum, in the nearby town of Encampment, is a living history museum.
Bella’s Bistro is one of Saratoga’s best restaurants, serving Italian food in an upscale setting. Duke’s Bar & Grill is a casual sports bar, while Rustic Bar Inc is just as the name implies.
Accommodation options in Saratoga are surprisingly plentiful, ranging from humble campgrounds to chain hotels to luxury resorts. The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch is a luxury dude ranch in town. Saratoga Hot Springs Resort has its own spa, brewery, and poolside teepees. The Hotel Wolf is a historic property, open since 1893.
Wow, I’ve never known a “town” with a population of just one person! You certainly came across some interesting history and activities on your trip. Thanks for sharing!