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This friendly little town in north-central Wyoming is right in the heart of the
, surrounded by wide-open skies, rolling hills, and real Western history.
Whether you’re on a road trip between Yellowstone and the Black Hills, visiting family, or just curious about small-town Wyoming, Worland makes a great base for exploring. Here are
that give you a taste of nature, history, and local life.
1. Step Back in Time at the Washakie Museum & Cultural Center
If you only have time for one stop in Worland, make it the
Washakie Museum & Cultural Center.
This well-done local museum tells the story of the Big Horn Basin, from dinosaurs and ancient fossils to homesteaders and ranch life. It’s small enough to enjoy in an afternoon, but packed with interesting displays.
Traveling with kids? This is an easy way to break up a long drive and still feel like you’re doing something educational and fun.
2. Enjoy the Outdoors at Riverside Rotary Park
Right along the
Big Horn River, Riverside Rotary Park is one of Worland’s nicest spots to stretch your legs.
You’ll find:
- Walking paths along the river
- Picnic tables and grassy areas
- Playground space for kids
It’s a simple park, but on a warm summer evening, you’ll see locals walking dogs, kids fishing along the bank, and families enjoying the sunset. If you’ve been driving for hours on Highway 16 or 20, this is a great place to unwind.
3. Fish the Big Horn River
If you love fishing, you’re in luck. The
Big Horn River near Worland is known for trout and other game fish.
You can:
- Try your luck from the bank near town.
- Look for public access points north and south of Worland.
- Bring waders or a small boat if you have one.
Always check
Wyoming fishing regulations and get the proper license. Locals will often tell you early morning and late evening are the best times to be out on the water. Even if you don’t catch anything, the quiet and the views are worth it.
4. Take a Scenic Drive Through Ten Sleep Canyon
About
30 miles east of Worland, the small town of
Ten Sleep might not look like much at first glance. But just past town, Highway 16 climbs into one of the most beautiful drives in Wyoming:
Ten Sleep Canyon.
This stretch of road leads over the
Big Horn Mountains and offers:
- Sheer canyon walls and dramatic rock formations
- Pullouts with amazing views
- Plenty of chances to spot wildlife
In summer, bring a picnic and stop at a campground or a riverside pullout. In fall, the colors along the creek brighten the whole canyon. If you’re road-tripping, this is a much more scenic option than just blasting down the interstate.
5. Go Camping and Hiking in the Big Horn National Forest
Keep driving past Ten Sleep and you’ll enter the
Big Horn National Forest, a huge area of forest, meadows, and alpine lakes.
From Worland, you can easily do a:
- Day trip to hike a short trail or enjoy a picnic.
- Weekend camping trip in one of the many campgrounds along Highway 16.
Popular activities include:
- Hiking to viewpoints and waterfalls
- Wildlife watching (deer, moose, and more)
- Summer picnics and photography
The higher elevation means cooler temperatures in the summer, which feels great after a hot day in the Worland valley.
6. Visit Legend Rock Petroglyph Site
One of the most fascinating places near Worland is
Legend Rock Petroglyph Site, about 30 miles northwest of town.
Here, on sandstone cliffs, you’ll find
hundreds of ancient petroglyphs carved by Native peoples over thousands of years. The figures include:
- Human-like shapes
- Animals and mysterious symbols
- Patterns that still puzzle researchers today
The site feels remote and quiet, and it’s easy to imagine how long people have been gathering in this landscape. Be sure to:
- Check current access rules and hours before you go.
- Respect the site: don’t touch the rock art or climb on the panels.
If you’re interested in history or photography, this is a must-do near Worland, Wyoming.
7. Explore Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis
About
35 miles south of Worland is the town of
Thermopolis, home to
Hot Springs State Park. This makes an easy half-day or full-day trip.
In the park you can:
- Soak in naturally heated mineral pools (some are free, some are private businesses).
- Walk across the swinging bridge over the Big Horn River.
- See the buffalo herd that lives in the park.
On a chilly fall or winter day, soaking in the hot springs with steam rising around you feels incredible. It’s one of the most relaxing things to do near Worland, especially if you’ve been hiking or driving a lot.
8. Discover Local Flavor in Downtown Worland
Worland’s downtown is small, but it has a few local spots that give you a feel for the community.
Stroll along Big Horn Avenue and nearby streets to:
- Grab a meal at a local café or diner.
- Pop into small shops and hardware stores that serve local ranchers.
- Chat with locals—people here are usually happy to talk about weather, cattle, and the latest high school game.
This is one of those towns where you can still find friendly, old-school service and real small-town charm. If you like seeing the “real” USA beyond big cities, you’ll appreciate Worland’s slower pace.
9. Hit a Local Event or County Fair
If you time your visit right, you might catch a
local festival, rodeo, or fair in Worland or somewhere else in Washakie County.
Events change year to year, but you might find:
- Rodeos with bull riding and barrel racing
- County fairs with livestock shows and 4-H exhibits
- Community events with live music and food vendors
These gatherings are some of the best ways to experience small-town Wyoming culture. Check community calendars or ask at your hotel or a local café what’s going on while you’re in town.
10. Take a Day Trip to Big Horn Canyon National Recreation Area
If you don’t mind a longer drive, consider a day trip north from Worland to
Big Horn Canyon National Recreation Area (plan on roughly 1.5–2 hours, depending on your route).
The payoff:
- Massive canyon walls plunging down to a winding reservoir
- Lookout points with wide, sweeping views
- Chance to see wild horses and other wildlife
It feels a bit like a quieter version of the Grand Canyon mixed with a mountain lake. Pack snacks, water, and a full tank of gas—services can be limited once you leave the main towns.
Tips for Visiting Worland, Wyoming
To make the most of your trip to Worland and Washakie County:
- Plan for changing weather: Summers can be hot in the valley and cooler in the mountains. Bring layers, especially if you’re heading into the Big Horns.
- Fill up on gas: Distances between towns can be long, and not every stop has a 24-hour station.
- Check road conditions: In winter and early spring, mountain roads like Highway 16 over the Big Horns can be icy or temporarily closed.
- Bring water and snacks: When you head out to places like Legend Rock or Big Horn Canyon, services are limited.
Why Worland Belongs on Your Wyoming Road Trip
Worland, Wyoming might not be a big-name destination, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a real working town surrounded by:
- Quiet rivers and open range
- Ancient petroglyphs and dinosaur history
- Mountain canyons and hot springs within easy driving distance
If you’re planning a
Wyoming road trip or driving between
Yellowstone National Park and other parts of the state, adding a night or two in
Worland lets you slow down, explore, and see a side of Wyoming many travelers just pass by.
Share Your Worland Experience
Have you visited
Worland, WY or
Washakie County?
Did you find a favorite fishing spot, café, or scenic overlook?
Share your tips and stories in the comments so other travelers can discover new things to do near Worland, Wyoming. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend planning a trip through Wyoming or save it for your next road trip.
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