4 Reasons to Visit Wyoming this Winter

From hot springs to skiing, this state is a magical place in the winter

Wyoming is a magical place in the winter. Whether you’re soaking in steaming hot springs in Saratoga or bombing through the powder at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, this state has winter vacation destination written all over it.

1. No Lift Lines​

If you’ve got skiing on your mind, head to Wyoming. Not only is the snow great, but lift lines are nearly nonexistent. Whether you opt for the family-friendly mountain at Snowy Range Ski Area near Laramie or one of the three ski areas near Jackson, you’ll have a memorable ski experience.


Photo courtesy of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

There are numerous skiing opportunities in Wyoming; there’s everything from remote ski areas to resorts. All levels of skier are welcome here whether you want the steep runs of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort or the more mellow and affordable 92 acres of terrain at Hogadon Ski Area on Casper Mountain.

2. Book a Wildlife Adventure

That’s right, just because snow is falling doesn’t mean the wildlife are snoozing. In fact, Wyoming is a winter wonderland and the best way to see this is to become part of the scenery. 


A wildlife tour with Jackson Hole Eco Tour Adventures. Photo by Chelse Groham.

Jackson Hole Eco Tour Wildlife Adventures offers an array of outings in the winter. Some involve strapping snowshoes on your feet and venturing out into a magical land where the only sound is snow falling from trees. 

Jackson’s close proximity to two national parks means that a tour with this company will take you into Grand Teton and/or Yellowstone National Park at a time when there won’t be crowds. There are snowshoe outings and cross-country ski tours or you can take one of the Wildlife Tours in the comfort of their nicely outfitted vans.

Snowmobiling is a popular sport in Wyoming and in some small towns across the state, you’ll see more snowmobiles in driveways than cars. 


Snowmobiling on Togwotee Pass near Dubois. Photo by Jennie Hutchinson, Wind River Country.

Wind River Country is a winter playground with 600 miles of world-famous groomed snowmobile trails. Here you’ll find postcard views and lots of fun. Bring your own snow machine or rent one in Lander, Wyoming.


Photo by Jennie Hutchinson, Wind River Country.

Of course, the area also offers fat biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and backcountry skiing. With a county population of about 40,000, it’s likely you won’t see many people during your Wind River Country vacation. 

Whether you choose to snowshoe in or park near a hot spring pool, Wyoming has hot spring lovers covered. 


Saratoga Hot Springs Resort in the snow.

Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, located in southwest Wyoming, has a hot springs pool, multiple private pools beneath teepees as well as a beautifully appointed spa. The tiny town of Saratoga is a true escape from the hustle and bustle of real-life and becomes even more serene in the quiet of winter.

Granite Hot Springs, near Jackson, is only accessible in the winter by snowmobile, skis or snowshoes. There is a 104-degree soaking pool as well as a man-made swimming pool. It is fed by Granite Falls, south of Jackson. You can also reach this destination by dog-sled, a uniquely Wyoming experience. 

For more ideas on what to do in Wyoming in the winter, go to TravelWyoming.com

Categories: The Heidi Guide