NATIONAL PARKS DEVILS TOWER NATIONAL MONUMENT FOSSIL BUTTE NATIONAL MONUMENT MORE THINGS TO DO ON WYOMING’S PUBLIC LANDS Devils Tower National Monument near Sundance & Hulett AMERICA’S BACKYARD: This monolithic butte towers over the surrounding prairielands; and due to its vertical cracks, it’s known as a world-class rock-climbing destination. Experience this scenic site for yourself by hiking one of the many trails, sleeping beneath the stars at Belle Fourche River Campground or stargazing on a guided night tour. Fossil Butte National Monument near Kemmerer @byronbanasiak @sharkteethandfossils FORT LARAMIE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE This geologic formation rises 1,000 feet above the Twin Creek Valley and is home to some of the world’s best-preserved fossils, including those of plants, insects, reptiles and early mammals — which can be seen in the visitor center. While you’re here, learn how paleontologists prepare fossils during daily demonstrations and bring a picnic to enjoy on the 1.5-mile Nature Trail. Fort Laramie National Historic Site & Oregon Trail Ruts National Historic Landmark near Guernsey BIGHORN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA Originally established as a private fur-trading outpost in 1834, Fort Laramie went on to become one of the largest military posts on the Northern Plains. Peek into the past at some of the remaining buildings, including the Commissary Storehouse and the Calvary Barracks. Just 15 miles away, see some of the best-preserved wagon tracks at the Oregon Trail Ruts, left by pioneers traveling westward. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area near Lovell @Jocelyn Catterson Take in the splendor of Bighorn Lake’s sapphire waters with activities like fishing, kayaking, swimming and waterskiing, or take to the trails to see the area’s diverse landscapes. For an easy hike with sweeping views of Bighorn Canyon’s towering lime-stone walls and Crooked Creek, follow the 1.8-mile Mouth of the Canyon Trail to the overlook. Guided boat tours from Horseshoe Bend Marina with Hidden Treasures Charters are available for sightseeing and relaxation. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area near Rock Springs & Green River @therockieswest Lush greenery juxtaposed against towering red-rock formations sets the scene for this desert oasis, where Flaming Gorge Reservoir beckons with water fun. Rent a boat from a local marina — offering everything from houseboats to fishing boats — and cruise around the 91-mile-long reservoir for wakeboard-ing, fishing or swimming. A number of boat-accessible camp-grounds offer a secluded overnight experience. “At Devils Tower National Monument, known to many as Bear Lodge, we protect and preserve a world-class geologic and sacred landmark that has shaped thousands of years of Native Indian culture and the history of the northern Great Plains. The nation’s first national monument recently increased accessibility in and around the visitor center area. We want everyone to be able to experience this spectacular site.” — Amnesty Kochanowski Superintendent, Devils Tower National Monument 58 TravelWyoming.com FROM TOP LEFT: INSTAGRAM/BYRONBANASIAK; INSTAGRAM/SHARKTEETHANDFOSSILS; WYOMING OFFICE OF TOURISM; FLICKR/JOCELYN CATTERSON; INSTAGRAM/THEROCKIESWEST. FLAMING GORGE NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
Wyoming Official Travel Guide 2022 Wyoming Official Travel Guide: Page 58
