Montana sure knows how to show off. Just take one drive through Glacier or catch the sunrise over Yellowstone’s northern entrance, and you’ll see what I mean. But, what if I told you the adventure doesn’t need to end at the state line?
That same wild energy spills right over into Wyoming, where some of the most iconic national parks in the country are waiting just a few hours south.
This guide walks you through the must-see national parks and monuments in Wyoming. Whether you’re starting your journey in Montana or planning a trip focused on Wyoming alone, there’s plenty here that deserves a spot on your travel list.
1. Yellowstone National Park
At a Glance:
- Location: 55 miles south of Jackson Hole, ~90-minute drive
- Website: nps.gov/yell
- Best Time to Visit: June to August
- Cost: Standard National Park fees
- Reservation: Book lodges early for winter trips
- Recommended Stay: 5–7 days
Yellowstone is one of those places that doesn’t need much of an introduction. It’s the first national park in the world, and the kind of place that somehow feels bigger than your expectations…no matter how high they are.
Old Faithful is the headliner, sure, but Yellowstone’s real strength is its variety. Boiling-hot springs, geysers, thundering waterfalls, open meadows dotted with bison…it’s the type of park where every corner looks like a new planet.
If you’re into wildlife, this park delivers. You might spot elk grazing near the road, or hear wolves howling just after sunset. Bring binoculars…you’ll thank yourself later. The Lamar Valley is one of the best spots in the country for wildlife viewing.
Summer is the ideal time to go. All the roads are open, the weather is manageable, and daylight stretches long into the evening.
Winter’s quieter, sure, but it can also limit access. If you’re planning a cold-season visit, snow coach tours and warm layers are your best bet.
2. Grand Teton National Park
At a Glance:
- Location: Just 10 miles north of Jackson Hole
- Website: nps.gov/grte
- Best Time to Visit: June through August; winter for snow activities
- Cost: Standard National Park fees
- Reservation: Required for camping/lodging during busy months
- Recommended Stay: 3–5 days
Some parks make you work for the views. Grand Teton isn’t one of them. Here, the jagged peaks of the Teton Range shoot straight up out of the valley floor…no foothills, no buildup, just instant awe.
You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy it either. Sure, there are tough backcountry trails, but there are also mellow lake loops and scenic pullouts where you can snap a postcard-worthy shot without leaving your car.
Summer’s perfect for kayaking on Jenny Lake or taking a drive through Moose-Wilson Road, where moose sightings are common.
In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing take over, and the snow-covered Tetons are nothing short of magic.
Its close location to Jackson Hole makes it a convenient stop for travelers. Whether you’re camping, staying at a lodge, or just driving through, the Tetons always leave an impression.
3. Devils Tower National Monument
At a Glance:
- Location: Devils Tower, WY 82714, United States
- Website: nps.gov/deto
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- Cost: Standard National Monument fees
- Reservation: Not required
- Recommended Stay: Half-day to full day
Devils Tower rises over 800 feet from the rolling grasslands of northeast Wyoming and is impossible to miss. Its massive, almost otherworldly structure makes it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the U.S., and it’s just as intriguing up close.
Visitors can hike the 1.3-mile Tower Trail loop, which circles the base and provides panoramic views and interpretive signs along the way.
The monument is a sacred site for many Native American tribes, and it’s not unusual to see prayer cloths tied to trees in quiet respect.
While rock climbers are drawn to its vertical cracks, most people come to take in the scenery and enjoy a peaceful walk beneath the towering columns.
The visitor center has exhibits about the tower’s formation and history, and picnic areas are available for those planning to linger. It’s a great half-day stop that offers a mix of natural wonder and cultural heritage.
4. Fossil Butte National Monument
Image: nps.gov
At a Glance:
- Location: 864 Chicken Creek Rd, Kemmerer, WY 83101, United States
- Website: nps.gov/fobu
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall
- Cost: Standard National Monument fees
- Reservation: Not needed
- Recommended Stay: Half-day to full day
Fossil Butte National Monument offers a rare look into life from 50 million years ago, preserving some of the most detailed fossils ever discovered. Located in a quiet corner of southwestern Wyoming, this site was once the bottom of an ancient lake.
Today, it holds fossilized fish, birds, insects, reptiles, plants…even tiny details like fish scales and feather patterns are visible.
The visitor center features interactive exhibits and real specimens while the scenic drive and hiking trails give you a chance to explore the landscape where these fossils were found.
The Fossil Lake Trail and Nature Trail both offer great views and a peaceful walking experience. Fossil Butte doesn’t usually draw huge crowds, which means you can take your time and truly soak in the history.
If you’re curious about prehistoric life or want something different from the typical park visit, this stop is absolutely worth your time.
5. Fort Laramie National Historic Site
At a Glance:
- Location: 965 Grey Rocks Road, Fort Laramie, WY 82212, United States
- Website: nps.gov/fola
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall
- Cost: Standard National Historic Site fees
- Reservation: Not needed
- Recommended Stay: Around half a day
Fort Laramie once stood as a key outpost on the edge of the American frontier.
Originally built in 1834 as a fur trading post, it later grew into a major military stronghold, playing a central role in western expansion, Native American relations, and migration along the Oregon Trail.
Today, the site is carefully preserved and offers a vivid picture of 19th-century life. Visitors can walk through restored barracks, officer quarters, and trading buildings, many of which are filled with period furnishings and exhibits.
There’s also a network of walking paths and signs that explain how the fort operated day to day. Rangers often host programs or living history events that help bring the past to life.
The wide-open grounds and old stone buildings give it an almost timeless feel, and it’s not hard to imagine soldiers, scouts, and settlers once moving through the same dusty pathways you’ll walk today.
6. Medicine Bow–Routt National Forest
Image: Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests
At a Glance:
- Location: Laramie, WY 82070, United States
- Website: fs.usda.gov
- Best Time to Visit: Spring to early fall; winter for snow sports
- Cost: Some areas require permits or fees
- Reservation: Required for select campsites
- Recommended Stay: 1–3 days
Medicine Bow–Routt National Forest feels like Wyoming at its most raw and untouched form. Spread out across rugged mountains and alpine meadows near Laramie, this forest offers the kind of peaceful escape that sticks with you.
There are miles of trails to explore…some easy and winding, others that climb toward high-altitude ridges with sweeping views.
Wildflowers bloom through the summer, and wildlife like elk, moose, and even black bears occasionally make an appearance. If you’re into fishing, Sand Lake is a local favorite, known for calm water and quiet surroundings.
In the winter, the area turns into a playground for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. With fewer crowds than Wyoming’s better-known parks, you’ll have space to breathe and time to slow down.
Whether you’re pitching a tent, casting a line, or just out for a scenic drive, this forest has a quiet charm that’s easy to fall into.
Tips for Visiting Wyoming’s National Parks
Planning a trip to Wyoming’s national parks means getting ready for high altitudes, unpredictable weather, and some pretty remote terrain. It’s not hard to have an incredible time out here, but being prepared can make all the difference.
Whether you’re hitting Yellowstone, the Tetons, or one of the quieter spots, here are some helpful things to keep in mind before you go.
What to Bring
The weather can swing from warm and sunny to cold and stormy in a matter of hours. Having the right gear will keep you comfortable and ready for whatever the trail throws at you.
- Plenty of water: Dehydration happens faster at elevation, especially in summer.
- Layered clothing: Mornings can be chilly, and afternoons warm, so pack a lightweight jacket or fleece.
- Comfortable shoes: Trails vary from flat to rocky, so sturdy footwear matters.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Even on cooler days, UV exposure is strong at higher altitudes.
- Bug spray: Especially in wetter areas like near lakes and rivers.
- Binoculars: Great for spotting wildlife safely from a distance.
- Offline map or park brochure: Cell service can disappear quickly in the backcountry.
How to Stay Safe
Nature out here is powerful and unpredictable. Respecting the land and wildlife is key to keeping both yourself and the parks safe.
- Keep your distance from animals: Bison, elk, and bears may look calm, but they’re wild.
- Stay on marked trails: It’s easy to get turned around or damage sensitive areas.
- Carry bear spray in grizzly country: And learn how to use it.
- Tell someone your plans: Especially if you’re hiking in less busy areas.
- Follow fire regulations: Conditions can change fast, especially in dry months.
Smart Travel Tips
A little planning goes a long way in places where services are spread out. Being a step ahead helps you make the most of your visit without unexpected hiccups.
- Book early: Campsites and lodges fill fast, especially during peak season.
- Visit early or late in the day: You’ll avoid crowds and maybe catch better light for photos.
- Fuel up: Some parks don’t have gas stations once you’re inside.
- Pack snacks or meals: Dining options can be limited and far between.
Spending time in Wyoming’s parks means you’ll be out in the wild more often than not. Just come prepared and stay aware of your surroundings, and you’ll have a trip that’s safe, smooth, and unforgettable.
Conclusion
Wyoming’s national parks offer something for everyone: geysers and wildlife in Yellowstone, dramatic peaks in Grand Teton, sacred geology at Devils Tower, ancient fossils at Fossil Butte, frontier history at Fort Laramie, and peaceful trails in Medicine Bow.
Each spot has its own story and rhythm, whether you’re after quiet hikes or awe-inspiring views. If you’ve explored Montana and want to keep the momentum going, Wyoming is the natural next step.
Take the time to slow down, look around, and let these parks leave their mark on you.