Wyoming Field Trips

Pony Express National Historic Trail
Most of the original trail has been obliterated either by time or human activities. Along many segments, the trail's actual route and exact length are matters of conjecture. In the western states, the majority of the trail has been converted, over the years, to double track dirt roads. Short pristine segments, believed to be traces of the original trail, can be seen only in Utah and California. However, approximately 120 historic sites may eventually be available to the public, including 50 existing Pony Express stations or station ruins.

California National Historic Trail
The road to California carried over 250,000 gold-seekers & farmers to the gold fields & rich farmlands of California during the 1840's and 1850's – the greatest mass migration in American history. More than 1,000 miles of trail ruts and traces can still be seen in the vast undeveloped west – reminders of the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of early American travelers and settlers.

Oregon National Historic Trail
As the harbinger of America's westward expansion, the Oregon Trail was the pathway to the Pacific for fur traders, gold seekers, missionaries and others. Today, more than 2,000 miles of trail ruts and traces can still be seen in the vast undeveloped western lands – reminders of the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of early American travelers and settlers.

Connor Battlefield Historic Site - Banner
The site consists of 20 camping and picnic sites nestled in an oxbow of the Tongue River in the shade of large cottonwoods. There are two restrooms, a playground, and horseshoe pits. Each camping and picnic site has a grill and table and two sites are ADA accessible. Connor offers a quiet, relaxing campsite, away from the hustle of the road in the peaceful shade of a river bottom. Community facilities are within a few blocks, and yet a visitor would never know it. Camping sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, without reservations. Camping is seasonal. The park closes to camping and vehicles on October 31.
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Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site - Banner
Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site is located just 20 miles south of Sheridan on Interstate 90, Exit 44. At the Fort location the visitor will find an interpretive center with exhibits, videos, bookstore, and self-guided tours of the fort and outlying sites. The fort tour leads the visitor through the site to building locations, archaeological remains, and interpretive signs pinpointing the surrounding historic landmarks. A Civilian Conservation Corp Cabin has been refurbished to depict the quarters of an Officer’s wife and a Non-Commissioned Officer’s Quarters. In addition to the historic interpretation, this site provides three picnic areas and a restroom for visitor use. The two satellite sites of Fort Phil Kearny are the Fetterman Fight and the Wagon Box Fight battlefields. These two sites are located within a five-mile radius of the Fort Phil Kearny Visitor Center. Maps to the sites and interpretation are available at the Visitor Center. At both battlefields, the visitor will find an interpretive trail which leads through the battle providing both Indian and White perspectives of the conflict. The visitor can go to the actual locations of the skirmish lines and Indian charges and see the weapons and personnel involved. The Wagon Box Fight site provides the visitor with restroom facilities; also a picnic area where they may relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. All interpretive trails and facilities are either partially or fully accessible for the ADA. Guided tours of these three sites for social groups, schools, or special events may be scheduled through advance reservation.
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Wagon Box Fight - Banner
WAGON BOX FIGHT - August 2, 1867 The Wagon Box Fight was one of the key skirmishes in the Indian Wars that raged along the Bozeman Trail. In August 1867, several months after their triumph over troops commanded by Captain William Fetterman, Sioux Indian forces attacked woodcutters and soldiers camped five miles from Fort Phil Kearny. During initial stages of the battle, 26 soldiers and 6 civilians took refuge inside an oval of wagon boxes used as a stockade corral. Armed with brand new breechloading rifles, the troops held off the intense attacks until a relief force arrived, sustaining only three fatalities. This monument is erected to perpetuate the memory of one of the famous battles of history. It is dedicated to the courage and bravery of 28 soldiers in Company C, 27th United States Infantry, and four civilians, who held their improvised fort made of 14 ordinary wagon-boxes against three thousand Sioux warriors under the leadership of Red Cloud for a period of six or seven hours under continuous fire. The number of indians killed has been variously estimated from three hundred to eleven hundred. The following participated in the engagement:

Curt Gowdy State Park - Cheyenne
Curt Gowdy State Park has seven sections of richly varied landscape, flora and fauna decorate the foothills of the Laramie Mountains. There are three reservoirs, Granite, Crystal and North Crow. Granite offers excellent rainbow trout and kokanee salmon fishing as well as space for water sports. Crystal, the smallest of the reservoirs, has shoreline fishing for brown trout, rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. Also, enjoy boating while at Crystal. North Crow Reservoir is located 3 miles west of the Headquarter's Building. This is an unimproved fishing area. There are no picnic tables, water supply, comfort stations, and is day-use only—very natural. There are a limited number of reservable campsites at the Tumbleweed and Camp Russell campgrounds. Tumbleweed campground is next to a free public horse corral for those visitors who would like to camp with horses. Within the park is Hynds Lodge, which is listed on the National Register, and an amphitheater available for concerts, theater productions and many other cultural activities. The area is one of low-lying meadows, gently rolling hills and massive steep granite formations. Wildlife abounds and bird watchers will be treated to variety of non-native birds.
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Governors’ Mansion State Historic Site - Cheyenne
The Mansion is open Tuesday – Saturday 9 am – 5 pm (September 1 – May 31) and Closed on Sundays, Mondays and holidays. Summer hours are Monday through Saturday 9 am – 5 pm and Sundays 1-5 pm (June 1 – August 31). There is no admission fee (donations are accepted). This Colonial Revival Executive Mansion served as home to Wyoming’s Governors and their families for 71 years, (1905 to 1976). The history embodied in this mansion brings to life the people who served the State of Wyoming and the Nation from this location. Perhaps the greatest distinction of the home is that in 1925 it was the first in the United States to be occupied by a woman governor, Nellie Tayloe Ross. The stately Mansion, designed by Charles Murdock, was modern in 1905 because of its’ central plumbing, hot water heat, and combination gas and electrical fixtures. This 2 ½ story structure’s portico features solid sandstone columns that were quarried locally in four sections and then place one on top of the other. The top half of the columns are fluted and the Corinthian style capitals were carved on site. Construction of the Mansion began in the spring of 1904 and was completed that fall.
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Ames Monument - Cheyenne
Monument Plaque reads: "The Ames Monument. Left picture reads 1868 Work Train; right side picture is Town of Sherman. Completed in 1882 at a cost of $65,000, this monolithic, 60- foot high granite pyramid was built by the Union Pacific Railroad Company. It stands on the highest elevation (8,247 feet) of the original transcontinental route. Until 1901-- when the railroad was relocated several miles to the south, it passed close by the north side of the monument where once stood the rail-town of Sherman. The monument serves as a memorial to the Ames brothers of Massachusetts. Oakes (1804 - 1873) and Oliver (1807-1877), whose wealth, influence, talent, and work were key factors in the construction of the first coast to coast railroad in North America. The contribution made by Oakes was especially significant even though in 1873 he was implicated in a scandal relative to financing the construction of the railroad.

Buffalo Bill State Park - Cody
The majestic peaks of the Absaroka Mountains dominate the scenery at Buffalo Bill State Park. Two campsites, North Fork and North Shore, have a limited number of reservable sites. Learn more about the park at the Visitor Center with the interpretive exhibits, touch-screen computers, audio/visual presentation and a staff to help visitors.

Devils Tower National Monument - Devils Tower
America's First National Monument - Devils Tower rises 1267 feet above the Belle Fourche River. Once hidden, erosion has revealed Devils Tower. This 1347 acre park is covered with pine forests, woodlands, and grasslands. Deer, prairie dogs, and other wildlife are seen.

Fort Fetterman Historic Site - Douglas
Fort Fetterman is administered by the Wyoming Division of State Parks and Historic Sites. It is preserved as a reminder of that colorful era known as the "winning of the west." A restored officer's quarters and an ordnance warehouse are original buildings. They stand among the many visible foundations of the Fort and Fetterman City. These two buildings house interpretive exhibits and artifacts of the Fort's history, Fetterman City, and its Indian predecessors. The visitor is encouraged to walk the grounds where interpretive signs describe the Fort's buildings and activities. These two buildings house maps, drawings, photographs, artifacts, and dioramas which interpret the history of the Indians, Military, and Civilians of Fort Fetterman and Fetterman City. The visitor is encouraged to walk the interpretive trail where signs describe the historic site and lead to a gazebo overlooking Crook’s Camp and the Indian Country to the north. The site provides several picnic areas and a shelter for group or individual use. Historic guided tours are available upon request and by appointment by calling Wyoming Pioneer Museum (307) 358-9288.
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Pioneer Memorial Museum - Douglas
Open year'round, the Pioneer Memorial Museum is located on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas, Wyoming. The museum collects, preserves, interprets and displays historical and cultural materials related to the westward expansion, to Wyoming pioneers in particular and the west in general. The first pioneer meetings began in 1884. Members had to be 21 years of age and either a resident of or doing business in Wyoming Territory prior to July 1, 1884. They began to meet annually in Douglas during the first Wyoming State Fair in 1905. The roster included cowboys, stockmen, freighters and soldiers. There were men and women who played an important role in achieving statehood for Wyoming. The Wyoming Pioneer Association was incorporated on January 8, 1926. Today the Wyoming Pioneer Association acts as an advisory board to the museum and has statewide and national membership. The State of Wyoming is responsible for the museum's operation and maintenance.
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Bear River State Park - Evanston
Bear River State Park and Visitor Center are located just outside Evanston, Wyoming. Bear River is a year-round park that offers nearly 300 acres that are ideal for picnicking, hiking, wildlife viewing, group activities, bicycling, skiing, rollerblading, remote control cars and many other activities. The park is home to a small head of captive bison and elk kept for public viewing. Three miles of foot trails are within park limits. They include 1.2 miles of paved trail and an arched footbridge that crosses the Bear River. Another 1.7 miles of packed gravel trails are on the of the west side of the river. The foot trails in the park also double as cross-country ski trails in the winter. Numerous other trails are maintained for those who ski and snowshoe. This park is for day-use only: no overnight camping is allowed.
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Edness K. Wilkins State Park - Evansville
Edness K. Wilkins is a serene day-use park for families, nature lovers and those looking for solitude can enjoy. The huge old cottonwoods as they cast reflections on the historic North Platte River and lend shade to visitors. The North Platte River provides a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife, and for fishing, canoeing and rafting. Today, a visitor can utilize picnic tables, grills, group shelters, playgrounds and a launching ramp for canoes or rafts. A universally accessible fishing pier, the only one like it in the state, has become one of the finest amenities provided to visitors. An additional 2.8 miles of accessible hard-surfaced paths provide visitors with an opportunity view some of the finest wildlife in the area. Anglers can try their fishing luck in the North Platte River. Swimmers can take a refreshing dip at the park swimming area. Bird watching enthusiasts can wile away the hours searching for yellow warblers, cedar waxwings, downy woodpeckers, and dozens of others. One birder counted 40 different species of birds on a summer outing.
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Independence Rock State Historic Site - Evansville
Independence Rock stands 6,028 feet (1,808.3m) above sea level. The tallest point of the rock is 136 feet (40.8m) above the surrounding terrain. If one were to walk around the base of this rock, the distance covered would be more than a mile, or 5,900 feet (1.8km). The mass of Independence Rock is equal to an area of 24.81 acres (9.924 ha). Windblown sand and silt have grooved the rock and polished it to a high gloss in a process called "windfaceting." It is because of this smoother surface that the pioneers were able to easily carve their names into the rock. It was the names carved in stone here that caused Father Peter J. DeSmet to appropriately name this place "The Register of the Desert" in 1840. Register Cliff and Names Hill also contain names left by the pioneers. There is no camping at this site.
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Fort Bridger State Historic Site - Fort Bridger
Established by Jim Bridger and Louis Vasquez in 1843 as an emigrant supply stop along the Oregon Trail. It was obtained by the Mormons in the early 1850s, and then became a military outpost in 1858. In 1933, the property was dedicated as a Wyoming Historical Landmark and Museum. There are several restored historical buildings from the military time period, a reconstructed of the trading post operated by Jim Bridger, and an interpretive archaeological site containing the base of the cobble rock wall built by the Mormons during their occupation of the fort. All of these locations are signed in Braille. In addition, a museum containing artifacts from the various different historical time periods is housed in the 1888 stone barracks building. There are gift shops in both museums and the reconstructed trading post. There is no camping available at Fort Bridger.
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Fort Laramie National Historic Site - Fort Laramie
Crossroads of a Nation Moving West - This “grand old post,” established as a private fur trading fort in 1834, witnessed the entire sweeping saga of America’s western expansion and Indian resistance to encroachment on their territories. Indians, trappers, traders, missionaries, emigrants, gold seekers, soldiers, cowboys and homesteaders would leave their mark on a place that would become famous in the American West.

Granger Stage Station - Ft. Bridger
This adobe-covered stone structure was one of dozens of Overland Trail stage stations built in the 1850s. The original station, Ham's Fork, was a dugout affair built around 1850. It was replaced by the stone structure in 1856 and renamed South Bend Station. Horace Greeley and Mark Twain were just two of the thousands of passengers who passed through. Later, the Pony Express used the station as a stopover in 1861-1862. When Union Pacific Railroad construction arrived in 1868, the old stage station was overrun with workers who renamed the site Granger.

Names Hill - Ft. Bridger
This site, on the cliffs rising above the Green River, is one of three locations along the Oregon Trail where emigrants registered their presence. Here they camped and carved their names into the soft limestone. The earlist dates back to 1822 (making it the oldest pioneer inscription in Wyoming), but the most famous is that of mountain man Jim Bridger, who despite reportedly being unable to read or write, left his mark here in 1844. The Indians using pictographs, as well as the white man left his mark on the rock.

Piedmont Charcoal Kilns - Ft. Bridger
Built by Moses Byrne in 1869 to supply charcoal for the iron smelting industry in Utah, these conical limestone kilns measure 30 feet across and 30 feet high. Only three of the original 40 kilns remain. It was estimated that during 1873, the kilns could produce 100,000 bushels of charcoal. Most of the charcoal was sent to Utah on the UP railroad. Wood burned in the kilns came from the nearby Uinta Mountains. The ghost of Piedmont is nearby, as is the Byrne family cemetery.

Glendo State Park - Glendo
Glendo State Park is one of southern Wyoming’s most popular boating parks. It offers visitors water-skiing, fishing and other water- based activities. Fishing is so good that Glendo has several fish records. Day-use and overnight facilities feature improved campsites, comfort stations, tables and grills. A commercial concession at the reservoir provides visitors with complete marina services, motel units and fishing equipment.
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Guernsey State Park - Guernsey
Guernsey State Park provides seven campgrounds. Five are around the lake. All campgrounds include comfort stations, picnic tables, fire grills and drinking water. The Guernsey Museum, the Castle and Brimmer Point are available to explore. The museum is perched on a high cliff, overlooking the water. The building itself is made of hand hewn timbers and hand forged iron. The roof is framed with the timbers and covered with split cedar shakes, and the floors were formed by pieces of smooth flagstone. The Castle, with its giant fireplace and winding steps, leads to an observation area for a spectacular view of the park. The Oregon Trail was one of the primary routes used by the immigrants' westward migration across the plains from 1841 to 1869. Today, in many parts of Wyoming, remnants of The Oregon Trail can still be seen. Register Cliff located two miles southeast of Guernsey provided travelers with a "chalkboard" where they placed their names for those who followed. The landmark still remains much the way it looked to pioneers on wagon trains journeying West.
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Hawk Springs State Park - Guernsey
Hawk Springs reservoir boasts a blue heron rookery, including birds such as the blue-winged and green-winged teal, gadwall, pintail, wood duck, and great horned owl. Fishermen have long known that fishing is good at Hawk Springs. Game fish include walleye, largemouth bass and channel catfish. Winter ice fishing is also good at the park. There are 24 camping units, comfort stations, and accommodations for trailers. A boat ramp and parking area are available.
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Oregon Trail Ruts - Guernsey
The Oregon Trail was one of the primary routes used by emigrants heading westward across the American continent in the 1840s. Although many remnants of the trail can be seen in Wyoming, the Oregon Trail tracks here are notable because they were cut into solid rock. A short trail leads uphill to four-foot deep gouges cut by the wheels of thousands of wagons. This site was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1975.

Register Cliff - Guernsey
Also referred to as Register Cliff and Sand Point Station. The cliff is sandstone precipice rising one hundred feet from the valley floor of the North Platte River. Despite erosion by wind and water it remains very much as travelers on the Oregon Trail saw it more than 100 years ago. One of three main sites along the Oregon Trail where emigrants left inscriptions, Register Cliff is the closet to civilization. Only one night away from the safety of Fort Laramie, emigrants camped here along the banks of the North Platte River and etched their names into the soft sandstone cliff. Many of the inscriptions were made during the peak years of travel on the trail in the 1840s and 1850s. Even earlier, however, as far back as 1829, trappers and traders passing through carved their names into the rock. A small trading post was located near the cliff. In 1861, it was turned into a Pony Express stop, and later a stage station. A walkway and informative sign at the base of the cliff enable the visitor to learn more about this historic site.

Medicine Lodge Archaeological Site - Hyattville
The Medicine Lodge site has long been known for its Indian petroglyphs and pictographs. They are directly associated with important human habitation sites for thousands of years. Within a 12-mile radius of Medicine Lodge, five distinct vegetation zones can be found. These range from the desert basin to the big mountain meadows. A variety of Wyoming's animals are here at the site. In addition to porcupines, prairie dogs, bobcats and mountain lions, there are many others to see. There is excellent fishing for brook and brown trout. Don't forget to bring your binoculars, as there are over 100 species of birds that call Medicine Lodge home.
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Fossil Butte National Monument - Kemmerer
Some of the world's best preserved fossils are found in the flat-topped ridges of southwestern Wyoming's cold sagebrush desert. Fossilized fish, insects, plants, reptiles, birds, and mammals are exceptional for their abundance, variety, and detail of preservation. Most remarkable is the story they tell of ancient life in a sub-tropical landscape.

Sinks Canyon State Park - Lander
Sinks Canyon State Park features a geologic phenomenon in which the Popo Agie River vanishes into a large cavern (the Sinks) but reappears in a trout- filled pool, the Rise, about half a mile down the canyon. These trout live a leisurely life, with no fishing allowed. A visitor center features wildlife and recreation exhibits, viewing sites and interpretive signs about wildlife and habitat requirements. The park contains hiking trails and offers camping, picnicking, rock climbing and fishing. Sinks Canyon is home to a wide variety of wildlife, birds and plants. Visitors might see porcupines, black bears, red squirrels, bighorn sheep, mule deer, moose or golden eagles.
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Wyoming Territorial Prison - Laramie
Listed on the National Register, visitors can spend the day touring the beautifully restored Wyoming Territorial Prison. Built in 1872, the prison held some of the most notorious outlaws in the region, including Butch Cassidy. Visitors to the 190- acre facility can also enjoy the newly restored Warden's House and Horse Barn Exhibit Hall featuring rotating displays and a family friendly scavenger hunt. New for 2008:“Community Art, Western Art” featuring original pieces by the local Laramie Art Guilds. In the prison, learn more about Butch Cassidy in “The Reel, Not Real, Butch Cassidy” exhibit. Those wishing to take a little piece of the prison and Wyoming home with them can stop by the Visitor’s Center and gift shop for a splendid array of memorabilia. Large groups and RVs are welcome! Plenty of parking. Bring your lunch and have a picnic on the grounds and let the kids stretch their legs. Lots to see and do.
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Keyhole State Park - Moorcroft
Keyhole is a mecca for both resident and migrating birds of all species. Visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of other wildlife, including mule deer, pronghorn antelope and wild turkeys. There is a marina and motel located on the headquarters side of the lake and operated by a concessionaire. The concessionaire has pop, alcohol, groceries, bait, tackle, fishing licenses and 10 electric campsites that he reserves. There is a public boat ramp at the marina.
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Grand Teton National Park - Moose
Located in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park preserves a spectacular landscape rich with majestic mountains, pristine lakes and extraordinary wildlife. The abrupt vertical rise of the jagged Teton Range contrasts with the horizontal sage-covered valley and glacial lakes at their base, creating world-renowned scenery that attracts nearly four million visitors per year.

John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway - Moose

Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum - Multiple Locations
Offers museums and attractions in multiple countries focusing on odd and amazing things. Provides videos, details about exhibits, and their history.

Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail - Nauvoo, IL to Salt Lake City, UT
Led by Brigham Young, roughly 70,000 Mormons traveled along the Mormon Trail from 1846 to 1869 in order to escape religious persecution. The Pioneer Company of 1846-1847 established a route from Nauvoo, Illinois, to Salt Lake City, Utah, covering about 1,300 miles that would include construction of new ferries and bridges, and the placement of markers for others to follow.

Trails End State Historic Site - Sheridan
Finished in 1913, Trail End was the home of the John B. Kendrick family. He was a cowboy who came up the Texas Trail in 1879, made his money in ranching and real estate, and later served as Wyoming's Governor and U.S. Senator. Trail End's Flemish Revival design and technologically-advanced interior are unique to the Rocky Mountain west. Today's visitors can enjoy 3.8 acres of groomed grounds (containing hundreds of indigenous and exotic trees), a fully-restored history house museum (mostly original furniture), plus regular productions at the Carriage House Theater. Trail End is open daily from March 1 through December 14. Please consult the following schedule for seasonal hours:
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Boysen State Park - Shoshoni
Boysen State Park is one of the larger parks in the State Park System. It is a lake-orientated park at the south end of the Owl Creek Mountains at the mouth of Wind River Canyon now part of the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway. It offers a variety of water type recreation. Day and camping facilities are available. It features interesting geological formations. Several state record fish have been caught out of the reservoir. Winter Services... We are open year-round with limited services in the winter season. All of our water systems, except for Brannon are closed from the middle of September to the middle of April.
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Seminoe State Park - Sinclair
Seminoe State Park is nestled up against the base of the Seminoe Mountains. One of Wyoming’s treasures is located 35 miles north of Sinclair, Wyoming. Seminoe Reservoir offers the full range of water-based activities and is known for both trout and walleye fishing. Day-use and overnight facilities feature improved sites, comfort stations, tables and grills. Seminoe has four campgrounds available:
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Fort Fred Steele State Historic Site - Sinclair
Fort Fred Steele was established on June 20, 1868 and occupied until August 7, 1886 by soldiers who were sent by the U.S. Government to guard against attack from indians. The construction of the Trans Continental Union Pacific Railroad across southern Wyoming 1867-1869, in turn, brought the cattlement, sheepherders, loggers, tie hacks, miners and merchants who changed the wasteland into Wyoming Territory. Colonel Richard I. Dodge, who selected this site on the west bank of the North Platte River, named the fort for Major General Frederick Steele, 20th U.S. Infantry, a Civil War hero.
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South Pass City State Historic Site - South Pass
South Pass City has a variety of interesting and educational activities for visitors throughout the summer. When the presence of volunteer staff permits, not only can you walk through each of the 17 restored and exhibited original structures, you can enjoy an ice cold sarsaparilla and a game of billiards on a restored 1860s period table, as well as hear the ring of a hammer on steel when the blacksmith shapes hot iron. Each day, one can shop in the historic Smith-Sherlock General Store or pan for gold in the clear waters of Willow Creek. In the Interpretive Center, you can also learn about other gold producing methods that have been used around South Pass City throughout its history. For folks with as much interest in nature as history, South Pass City is home to a three-mile Volksmarch Trail where you can enjoy viewing some of the area's wide array of wildlife. mule deer, antelope, moose and beaver are just a few of the animals that can be seen. For birders, many species call this area home at different times of the year, including mountain blue birds, finches, hawks and eagles. Anglers will enjoy blue ribbon fishing for brook, rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout in many of the area's streams and lakes. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail also passes through town. Popular among serious hikers and mountain bikers, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail runs the length of the Rocky Mountains from Canada to Mexico. Each year, numerous bikers and hikers utilizing this trail visit the site. Many use the general delivery at the General Store's post office for re-supply, and enjoy a tour through town before continuing on their journey.
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Point of Rocks Stage Station - South Pass City
The sandstone stage station on the south bank of Bitter Creek was built in the summer of 1862 when "Stagecoach King" Ben Holladay moved his stage line south from the Oregon Trail to the Overland Trail because of Indians destroying or marauding the current business site. The Station was attacked by Indians who attempted to burn it, but without much success because of its rock composition. Reportedly, it was also the scene of a robbery committed by the notorious Jack Slade-renegade agent of the Overland Stage Line-in which seven stagecoach passengers were killed. Point of Rocks, frequently referred to as the "Almond Stage Station" or "Rock Point," was originally built to accommodate travelers on the Overland State in the early 1860s. Built of local sandstone, the sod-roofed structure also served as a freight station, a store, a school, a ranch headquarters and a private home. After 1868, the station served as the junction of the Overland Trail and the transcontinental railroad while during the 1870s, it was the closest railway station to the South Pass gold mines.

Wyomin State Parks & Historic Sites: Great Places for Kids - Statewide
A teacher's guide to Out of School Activities. (Pdf)

Hot Springs State Park - Thermopolis
Over colorful terraces along the Big Horn River at Thermopolis flows water from mineral hot springs. More than 8,000 gallons flow over the terrace every 24 hours at a constant temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit. The park has a free bath house where the water is maintained at 104 degrees for theraputic bathing. Hot Springs has 6.2 miles of universally accessible trails and hiking trails. It is a full-service park with comfort stations, a Volksmarch trail, fishing, and a couple of boat docks. One of the reservable group picnic shelters is located here. Hot Springs is a day-use park. The Hot Springs State Park bison herd is the central herd for the Wyoming State Parks. During the late fall and winter months, the park bison are fed a daily supplement to insure good health. This feeding usually occurs at 8:30 a.m., giving the off-season visitor the unique opportunity to view the "Monarch of the Plains," up close. Please remember that bison should be viewed ONLY while you remain in your vehicle. The suspension foot bridge across the Bighorn River is commonly called "The Swinging Bridge." The bridge offers a unique vantage point from which to view the Bighorn River and mineral terrace. Hot Springs State Park has long been known for its beautiful summer flower gardens. Make a point of bringing your camera with you, and capture the exciting splash of color all summer long.
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Legend Rock Petroglyph Site - Thermopolis
Take a step back in time with a visit to Legend Rock.The site is administered out of Hot Springs State Park where visitors are recommended to stop before visiting the site. A key and permit is required to attend the site. Keys and permits are available at the State Bath House, located at Hot Springs State Park, the Hot Springs County/ Thermopolis Chamber of Commerce and the Meeteetse Museum. There is no charge for the permit but a photo ID is required. Family and group tours can also be scheduled through Hot Springs State Park. A minimum one-week notice is recommended. Tours are free to the public but availability may be limited so be sure to call the state park office ahead of time at (307) 864-2176. While at Legend Rock be sure to stay on the marked trails and observe proper rock art etiquette and respect for the people who hold this site sacred. Defacing any part of rock panels in anyway is prohibited and can be a felony under state and federal laws. Do not touch the rock panels in any way as they are fragile and even oils from your hands can affect future site dating a research. Do not pick up or move any artifacts or rocks as they can contain valuable cultural information and even the location of the rocks is important to that data. Be sure to keep your permit with you for Bureau of Land Management and State Park Rangers to check. The site is also under video-surveillance for security reasons.

Yellowstone National Park - Yellowstone National Park
Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park is America's first national park. Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it is home to a large variety of wildlife including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk. Preserved within Yellowstone National Park are Old Faithful and a collection of the world's most extraordinary geysers and hot springs, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.