7 Natural Wonders Unique To The Cowboy State That Should Be On Everyone’s Wyoming Bucket List

Wyoming is a state full of wonders - from national parks, forests, and monuments, to off-the-grid grasslands, badlands, and high mountain deserts. Here are a few of the most bucket-list-worthy Wyoming natural wonders.

1. Jenny Lake, Grand Teton National Park

Jenny Lake is a glacial alpine lake in Grand Teton National Park that many would consider the centerpiece of the park's natural beauty. It's more than 250 feet deep, crystal clear, and was formed 12,000 years ago. Today, you can experience Jenny Lake at the nearby primitive campground, by hiking along the lakeshore, or by taking a boat from the visitor's center area across to Cascade Canyon.

2. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone has the world's largest collection of geysers, hot springs, and thermal features. The most famous of these is Grand Prismatic Spring. It discharges more than 500 gallons of water each minute and is more than 350 feet in diameter. You can see it in the park's Midway Geyser Basin.

3. Devils Tower National Monument / Bears Lodge

Devils Tower National Monument, also known as Bears Lodge, is an igneous rock butte that stands on its own near Wyoming's border with South Dakota. It is a sacred spot to local tribes and was the country's first National Monument. Today, it draws hikers and climbers, as well as indigenous people who wish to celebrate the tower's history and significance.

4. Heart Mountain

Heart Mountain is an oddity - it's a solitary mountain miles away from the range where it originated. The odd story of Heart Mountain is hard to believe.

5. Ayres Natural Bridge

Did you know that the Ayres Natural Bridge is considered one of the country's very first roadside attractions? Emigrants along the Oregon Trail often stopped here to marvel at the wonder.

6. Green River Lakes / Squaretop Mountain

The Wind River Range is one of the oldest mountain ranges in the country, and it is known for steep topography and wild weather. One of the more accessible spots in the range is along the Green River Lakes. From the Upper Green River Lakes, you'll have a view of the iconic and distinct Squaretop Mountain

7. Fossil Butte National Monument

Fossil Butte is near Kemmerer, Wyoming, and it's one of the best places for fossil hunting and prehistoric preservation in the entire country. The monument preserves part of the 50-million-year-old Green River formation, which is the best record of Cenozoic aquatic life on the continent. Some of the fossils preserved here include alligators, small horses, and even bats.

This short list covers just a few of the endless natural wonders you'll find in the Cowboy State. What are your favorite places in Wyoming? We'd love to hear from you!