ADVENTURE GIDDY UP There may not be a more quintessential way to explore Wyoming than on horseback. Unleash your inner cowboy or cowgirl and saddle up for these equine adventures. Day Rides Dude Ranches Day rides are a good way to stretch your legs while road tripping through the state, and local outfitters supply a variety of options, from one-hour to full-day trips. Under the wing of a knowledgeable guide, trot the grounds of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks or survey the Bighorn, Wind River or Absaroka mountains. Summer Pack Trips Wyoming dude and guest ranches allow visitors to participate in incredible horseback-riding programs that include daily opportunities to partake in excursions of various lengths. A seasoned wrangler will pair you with a horse for the entirety of your stay (typically a week) who perfectly matches your riding abilities. Learn more on p. 70. Horse Camping Many outfitters and dude ranches also offer multi-day guided pack trips, which let riders delve deep into the Wyoming wilderness on horseback. Excursions include authentic chuckwagon meals and cowboy breakfasts to counter the massive amounts of calories you’ll burn in and out of the saddle on your journey. Wyoming’s more than 45,000 square miles of public lands are laden with wide-open spaces and stunning landscapes perfect for discovering on horseback. Those planning a trip with their equine companion will find a bounty of boarding options and horse-friendly campgrounds and trails. Learn more at TravelWyoming. com/things-to-do/horseback-riding. ALLEN’S DIAMOND 4 RANCH Find the Perfect Outfitter Check out listings organized by region: Salt to Stone, p. 99; Rockies to Tetons, p. 98; Park to Park, p. 96; Black to Yellow, p. 94; National Parks, p. 96. UNWIND, WYOMING-STYLE: Whether to soothe aching muscles after a rewarding hike or to bask in a magical wintry scene outdoors, hot springs around the state offer delightful relaxation. HOT SPRINGS STATE PARK Take in views of a resident bison herd while relishing the 104-degree waters of the world’s largest single-mineral hot springs in Thermopolis . Waterslides and a diving plat-form are ideal for families, while those seeking more solitude will appreciate the State Bath House’s soaking pools. GRANITE HOT SPRINGS South of Jackson near Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks, this locals’ favorite boasts the beautiful surroundings of the Gros Ventre Mountains, with spruce, fir and pine trees as far as the eye can see. Come winter, it’s only accessible by snowmobile, dog sled or cross-country ski, which is half the fun of visiting. SARATOGA’S HOT SPRINGS Prepare for serious pampering at Saratoga Resort and Spa , where guests are invited to lounge in intimate teepee-covered pools in addition to a 70-foot mineral-hot-springs swimming pool. Meanwhile, the Platte River-side Hobo Pool in Saratoga has two free soaking options and a picnic area. GRANITE HOT SPRINGS HOT SPRINGS STATE PARK 60 TravelWyoming.com CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: WYOMING OFFICE OF TOURISM; JEFF DIENER; FOCUS PRODUCTIONS/BOB WOODALL; BACKGROUND: TOM BOL. Rejuvenating Hot Springs.
Wyoming Official Travel Guide 2019 Wyoming Official Travel Guide: Page 60
