If you’re dreaming about wide-open skies, wild rivers, and real Western charm,
is one of those places that sticks with you long after you leave. Tucked in
, this small town feels like a gateway to almost every kind of outdoor adventure you can imagine.
Whether you’re road-tripping through Wyoming, planning a family vacation, or just looking for a quiet mountain town with a fun downtown, you’ll find plenty of things to do in and around Lander.
Below are
to help you plan your trip.
1. Hike and Explore Sinks Canyon State Park
Just a short drive (about 10 minutes) south of downtown Lander,
Sinks Canyon State Park is a must-see.
Here, the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River does something wild: it actually disappears into a limestone cavern called “
The Sinks” and reappears about a quarter mile downstream at “
The Rise.” It feels like a science experiment in the middle of the mountains.
- Walk the easy trail to The Sinks overlook.
- Visit The Rise and feed the huge trout in the clear water.
- Check out short, family-friendly hikes right from the road.
If you’re not used to mountain driving, don’t worry. The road into Sinks Canyon is paved and simple to follow. Pack a light jacket—this canyon can feel cooler than downtown Lander, even in summer.
2. Chase Waterfalls at Popo Agie Falls
Inside Sinks Canyon, one of the best hikes near Lander is the
Popo Agie Falls Trail. It’s about a 3-mile round trip hike with some gentle climbing, but most people in reasonable shape can handle it if they take their time.
Along the trail, you’ll walk past pine trees, big rock walls, and beautiful canyon views. At the end, you’re rewarded with a series of cascades and pools.
Locals know there’s a natural waterslide here when water levels are right. Sliding down the smooth rock into the pool below is ice-cold but unforgettable. If you go:
- Wear sturdy shoes with good traction.
- Bring plenty of water—mountain sun is no joke.
- Be careful around wet rock; it can be slippery.
This is one of those hikes where you’ll probably say, “Okay, I could live here.”
3. Wander Downtown Lander: Shops, Coffee, and Local Flavor
Don’t just rush to the mountains.
Downtown Lander has a laid-back, Western main street you’ll want to explore.
You’ll find:
- Local coffee shops perfect for a pre-hike latte.
- Outdoor gear stores stocked for climbing, backpacking, and fishing.
- Art galleries and local crafts highlighting Wyoming artists.
- Casual restaurants and brewpubs with burgers, sandwiches, and craft beer.
Everything is walkable, and parking is easy. If you like people-watching, grab a table outside and soak in the mix of locals, climbers, and road-trippers passing by.
4. Climb World-Class Rock at Wild Iris and Sinks Canyon
Lander is a
rock climbing hotspot known far beyond Wyoming. Even if you don’t climb, it’s fascinating to see.
There are two main areas:
- Sinks Canyon – Steep limestone and sandstone cliffs right off the road, plus fun bouldering.
- Wild Iris – Just outside town on limestone cliffs at higher elevation, famous in the sport-climbing world.
If you’re already a climber, Lander should be on your must-visit list. If you’re not, you can:
- Hire a local guide service for a safe, beginner-friendly half-day on the rock.
- Hike beneath the cliffs and watch the climbers in action.
Climbing season really ramps up from late spring through early fall, and Lander even hosts an annual climbing festival that fills the town with energy.
5. Camp Under the Stars in the Wind River Range
If you’ve ever wanted to sleep under huge skies with no city lights, this is your chance. The
Wind River Range, just west and southwest of Lander, offers some of the best backcountry in the lower 48.
You don’t have to be a hardcore backpacker to enjoy it:
- Try a drive-in campground near Sinks Canyon or higher up the canyon road.
- Head out with a guided backpacking trip if you’re new to mountain camping.
- Look up at night for mind-blowing stargazing and clear views of the Milky Way.
Nights can get chilly, even in summer, so bring a warm sleeping bag and layers. The quiet out here feels almost unreal—just wind in the trees and the sound of the river.
6. Learn Local History at the Museum of the American West
To balance out all the outdoor action, spend some time at the
Museum of the American West in Lander. It’s a great way to understand the region’s past, from Native American history to early settlers.
You’ll often find:
- Historic buildings you can walk through.
- Displays of tools, clothing, and everyday items from the 1800s and early 1900s.
- Events and demonstrations, depending on the season.
It’s a good stop for families, and it helps give context to everything you’re seeing around Fremont County.
7. Take a Scenic Drive into the Wind River Mountains
If you’re short on time—or just don’t feel like hiking—consider a simple
scenic drive west and south of Lander.
A few ideas:
- Follow the Sinks Canyon road as it climbs up the canyon toward higher elevations.
- Continue onto the higher plateau (when the road is open in summer) for views of forests, meadows, and distant peaks.
Along the way, you’ll find pullouts where you can stop, snap photos, and breathe in that cool mountain air. It’s the kind of drive where you roll down the windows, turn off the radio, and just listen.
8. Explore Native American Culture in Fremont County
Fremont County is home to the
Wind River Reservation, shared by the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. While some areas are private or sensitive, visitors can still learn about Native history and culture in and around Lander and nearby towns like Riverton and Ethete.
Options may include:
- Attending a public powwow or cultural event if one is happening during your visit.
- Visiting nearby cultural centers or museums that share stories, art, and artifacts.
This side of Fremont County adds depth to a Lander trip. You’re not just seeing mountains—you’re learning about the people who have lived with them for generations.
9. Go Fishing on the Popo Agie and Nearby Waters
If you love to fish—or you’ve always wanted to try—Lander is a great base. The
Popo Agie River and other streams and lakes around Fremont County are known for trout.
You can:
- Fish right along the Middle Fork Popo Agie near Sinks Canyon (check local rules).
- Head to mountain lakes in the Wind River Range for a full-day adventure.
- Book a guided fishing trip with a local outfitter to learn the ropes.
Remember to pick up a
Wyoming fishing license and check current regulations. Even if you don’t catch anything big, standing in a clear Wyoming river with mountains around you is hard to beat.
10. Join Local Events and Festivals in Lander
For a small town, Lander knows how to have fun. Depending on when you visit, you may find:
- Rodeos with classic Western events like bull riding and barrel racing.
- Climbing festivals that draw outdoor enthusiasts from across the country.
- Holiday parades and community gatherings on Main Street.
These events are a great way to feel like part of the community, even if you’re only in town for a few days. Check local calendars or stop by the visitor center for current info.
Planning Your Trip to Lander, Wyoming
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for hiking, camping, and climbing. Winter brings snow and colder temps but also a quiet, peaceful feel.
- Altitude: Lander sits around 5,300 feet above sea level, and nearby trails climb even higher. Drink water, take it slow, and give yourself time to adjust.
- Weather: It can change fast. Pack layers, a rain jacket, and sun protection.
- Wildlife: This is real wilderness. Learn basic safety around bears and other animals, and always follow local guidelines.
Lander makes an excellent base if you’re exploring central Wyoming, visiting the Wind River Mountains, or heading toward Yellowstone and Grand Teton on a longer road trip.
Share Your Lander, WY Experience
Have you been to
Lander, Wyoming or anywhere else in
Fremont County?
- Which hike, drive, or viewpoint was your favorite?
- Did you discover a great local restaurant or coffee shop in downtown Lander?
- Any tips you’d give a first-time visitor?
Drop your stories, questions, or travel tips in the comments below—your experience might help someone else plan their own Wyoming adventure.
And if you found this list of
things to do near Lander, WY helpful, please
share it with a friend who loves road trips, the outdoors, or small Western towns.
Comments
Post a Comment