ThermopolisWyoming

Kayakers follow the Bighorn River toward the mineral terrace in Hot Springs State Park

Jackie Dorothy

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Spirit Trail, a scenic hike with views of the Bighorn River in Hot Springs State Park

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Colorful wildflowers grow along the Quarry Loop Hiking Trail

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Major Airports:
Central Wyoming (RIW)
Casper/Natrona County (CPR)
Yellowstone/Cody (COD)
States:
Wyoming

Adventure awaits in this recreational community where dinosaurs once roamed and healing waters flow.

Surrounded by stunning scenery, Thermopolis is located at the southernmost point of the Big Horn Basin in Wyoming’s Hot Springs County. While the residential population is sparse (fewer than 5,000 people live in the county), the local charm is abundant. The town’s name encapsulates what it is best known for: “Thermopolis” is derived from the Greek words that mean “hot” and “city,” so it is no surprise that you’ll find the largest mineral hot springs in the world here. With attractions such as Hot Springs State Park, the Historic Downtown District, Wind River Canyon and the nearby Boysen Reservoir all at your fingertips, you may find yourself dreaming about your time in Thermopolis long after you’ve returned home.

Immerse Yourself in Respite and Recreation

Visitors eager to experience the legendary spring water can’t miss Hot Springs State Park, located just east of the city center. There, theWyoming State Bath House offers bathers a tranquil soak in the healing waters, while the Star Plunge Recreation Center facility features an expansive outdoor pool with an impressive waterslide – as does nearby attraction Hellie’s Tepee Pools, which also boasts an indoor pool plus sauna and steam room facilities.

Also within the park are scenic stretches of mountain biking and hiking trails. A popular loop hike takes you on a boardwalk over the Rainbow Terraces, striking rock formations formed by a buildup of minerals from the flowing springs. Cross the historic Swinging Bridge over the Bighorn River for a chance to feed the giant goldfish, and don’t miss a chance to drive by the Bison Pasture, where the majestic beasts of Wyoming’s StateBison Herd have roamed for more than a century. In the summer months, the park is alive with the rousing sounds of concerts and music festivals.

Find even more outdoor adventure outside the park as you fish the world-class Blue River Byway, delight in views of Roundtop Mountain while playing a nine-hole golf course, float the Bighorn River in a kayak and white-water raft down the Wind River.

Walk Through Ancient Worlds

Dig into fascinating paleontology at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, a world-class museum where visitors will see real dinosaur bones and take part in hands-on exhibits. Don’t miss the chance to visit an active dinosaur dig site and observe paleontologists at work on the museum’s Dig for a Day tour. Just northwest of Thermopolis is the Legend Rock Petroglyph Site, an archeological wonder featuring rock art created by humans more than 10,000 years ago. For another trip back through time, hop in the car for a tour of the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway, which takes visitors through millions of years of breathtaking geological history.

Old Meets New in Downtown

Head to the Historic Downtown District, where Thermopolis’ Wild West past collides with its modern charm. Check out the beloved Hot Springs County Museum and Cultural Center to wander exhibits showcasing life in the Wild West and Native American artifacts. Stop by the Hole in the Wall Bar, once frequented by infamous outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, then head to the One-Eyed Buffalo, a popular brewery featuring award-winning beer.Locally owned restaurants and shops add fresh flavors and regional flair to the mix: Grab a hearty breakfast at Black Bear Café or a savory bowl of curry at Bangkok Thai, then stroll over to Jackrabbit Java to sip an award-winning latte and shop for books and antiques at the Storyteller. More treasures await at quirky local boutiques like Merlin’s Hide Out and Gooseberry Garden Quilt Shop, while the truly adventurous can shop an expansive selection of hot sauces at Discover Thermopolis.