Wyoming’s northwestern corner gets all of the attention from nature lovers around the country, but locals and Wyoming natives know that the coolest spot to enjoy natural wonders and beautiful scenery is in the aptly named Hot Springs County. Visit Thermopolis, one of the best hot springs in the US, to see soak and sightsee at one of the most amazing places on the planet!
Thermopolis is a bit of an oasis in Wyoming, and the town itself rises up out of the high mountain prairie rather suddenly, if you’re traveling through.
Flickr / Sam Beebe
Pay attention, though, and you’ll quickly realize why you’ve got to stop here for a bit and see what the town has to offer.
Flickr / Charles Willgren
Hot Springs State Park is the obvious attraction, and it’s home to the world’s largest mineral hot spring.
Flickr / Don Barrett
Walk around the thermal features and terraces on boardwalk trails and you’ll enjoy every minute you spend exploring.
Flickr / Don Barrett
While nothing quite compares to Yellowstone’s massive Mammoth Hot Springs, the mineral terraces at Hot Springs State Park are impressive natural wonders on their own!
Flickr / Charles Willgren
The Swinging Bridge is a must-see! The view of the Bighorn River is impressive.
Flickr / Don Barrett
Be sure to track down the Teepee Fountain! This feature is a combination of natural process and human intervention. Back when the park was first founded, people created a pipeline for hot water to create this unique terrace.
Flickr / J Stephen Conn
What good would a Hot Spring park be without an actual hot spring to enjoy? Luckily, guests can soak in the naturally heated waters at Star Plunge.
Flickr / Charles Willgren
This unique mineral waterpark offers swimming pools, slides, and soaking areas where you can really wash away all of your stresses and soreness.
Facebook / Star Plunge
Not many people realize that Legend Rock, a petroglyph site just north of the city, is part of Hot Springs State Park, too! Make time to visit to peek back in time at artwork from Wyoming’s earliest residents.
Flickr / Richard Brinhammer
For more information about Hot Springs State Park, visit the park’s website, here. You can get all the details about swimming at Star Plunge on their page, here.
Flickr / Sam Beebe
Flickr / Charles Willgren
Flickr / Don Barrett
Flickr / J Stephen Conn
Facebook / Star Plunge
Flickr / Richard Brinhammer
What are your favorite places in Wyoming? Are there any that deserve to have the spotlight for a day? Let us know and we’ll be sure to check them out!
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Address: Hot Springs State Park, 220 Park St, Thermopolis, WY 82443, USA
