If you’re dreaming about a small-town Wyoming escape with mountain views, friendly locals, and plenty of outdoor fun,
is a great pick. Tucked in the beautiful Star Valley, Afton is the kind of place where you can slow down, breathe in fresh mountain air, and still find plenty to do within a short drive.
Whether you’re road-tripping through western Wyoming, heading to Jackson, or just looking for a quiet getaway, here are
that are worth adding to your list.
1. Walk Under the World’s Largest Elkhorn Arch
Right in downtown Afton, you’ll find its most famous landmark: the
World’s Largest Elkhorn Arch. It stretches across Main Street like a wild, western version of a fancy entrance gate.
This massive arch is built from thousands of elk antlers and is a fun, quick stop for photos and a short stroll. If you’re doing a
Wyoming road trip, this is the kind of quirky roadside attraction you’ll want to brag about later.
Tips:
- Best time for photos is early morning or around sunset when the light is soft.
- Grab a coffee or ice cream from a nearby shop and enjoy a slow walk down Main Street.
2. Hike to Intermittent Spring (Periodical Spring)
Just a few miles east of Afton lies one of the most unique natural wonders in the region:
Intermittent Spring, also called
Periodical Spring. It’s one of the largest cold-water intermittent springs in the world.
What makes it special? The water actually
starts and stops flowing several times an hour in late summer and fall. You can watch the stream rise, slow down, and almost shut off like someone turned a natural faucet.
What to expect:
- Short hike (usually less than a mile one-way) along a creek.
- Family-friendly trail with some rocks and roots but generally easy.
- Best time to see the stop-and-go effect is late August through October.
If you love unique nature spots, this is one of the
top things to do near Afton, Wyoming.
3. Explore Scenic Star Valley Backroads
Afton sits in the heart of
Star Valley, a long, green valley wrapped in mountains. One of the best ways to experience it is to simply drive. Roll down the windows, cue up your favorite playlist, and go exploring.
Take a drive along:
- Highway 89 through Afton and nearby small towns like Thayne and Etna.
- The backroads that follow the Salt River and weave past ranches and farms.
You’ll see:
- Open fields dotted with cattle and horses.
- Snowcapped peaks (especially in spring and early summer).
- Big Wyoming skies that turn pink and gold at sunset.
If you’ve ever pictured the “classic West,” this area feels exactly like that.
4. Go Fishing on the Salt River
If you enjoy casting a line, you’ll love the
Salt River, which flows through Star Valley not far from Afton. It’s known for:
- Cutthroat trout
- Brown trout
- Rainbow trout
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just like to throw in a line from time to time, the quiet banks and clear water make it a peaceful place to be.
Good to know:
- You’ll need a valid Wyoming fishing license.
- Local shops and outfitters in Star Valley can point you toward good access spots.
- Early mornings and evenings tend to be best for both fishing and avoiding the heat in summer.
Even if you don’t catch anything, sitting by the river with the mountains around you feels like time well spent.
5. Hit the Trails in the Bridger–Teton National Forest
Afton is close to the western edge of the
Bridger–Teton National Forest, which means you’re just a short drive from tons of hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
You’ll find:
- Easy walks through forests and meadows.
- More challenging hikes that climb into higher country.
- Chances to see deer, elk, moose, and lots of birdlife.
Trail tips:
- Bring layers. Weather in the mountains can change quickly.
- Carry water, snacks, and basic safety gear, even on shorter hikes.
- Always follow local advice about bears and wildlife.
If you’re looking for
outdoor things to do near Afton, WY, a day in the national forest should be near the top of your list.
6. Spend a Day on Palisades Reservoir
About an hour’s drive northwest of Afton, crossing briefly into Idaho, you’ll come to
Palisades Reservoir. It’s a large, scenic lake surrounded by mountains and is perfect for a summer day trip.
Popular activities:
- Boating and kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Fishing for trout and kokanee salmon
- Picnicking along the shore
If you’re traveling as a family or with friends, this is a great way to mix up your trip: a day on the water followed by a quiet dinner back in Afton.
7. Explore Local Shops and Cafés in Downtown Afton
For a small town,
downtown Afton has a surprising amount of charm. You’ll find:
- Western-themed shops
- Local cafés and diners
- Spots to grab ice cream or a burger
On a road trip through Wyoming, sometimes the best moments come from slowing down and talking to locals. Ask someone at a café where they like to hike, fish, or watch the sunset. You’ll almost always get a friendly answer—and sometimes a great story.
If you enjoy supporting small businesses while you travel, wandering Main Street in Afton is a simple pleasure you don’t want to skip.
8. Visit Nearby Star Valley Ranch & Thayne
Just a short drive north of Afton are the communities of
Star Valley Ranch and
Thayne. While small, they help make up the wider Star Valley area and offer more ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Play a round of golf with mountain views.
- Go hiking or biking on local trails.
- Enjoy community events, markets, or small-town celebrations.
If you’re staying in Afton for several days, exploring up and down the valley gives you a fuller picture of life in Lincoln County.
9. Stargaze Under Wyoming’s Dark Skies
One of the most underrated things to do near Afton doesn’t cost a thing:
look up at the night sky.
Away from big cities, Star Valley offers:
- Very little light pollution.
- Bright views of the Milky Way on clear nights.
- Great chances to see shooting stars, especially during meteor showers.
Drive just a few minutes out of town, turn off the car lights, and let your eyes adjust. Bring a blanket, lie back, and soak in the stars. It’s a simple experience, but it’s often one people remember long after the trip is over.
10. Use Afton as a Quiet Base for Bigger Adventures
Another smart way to enjoy Afton is to use it as a
home base for exploring a wider region of western Wyoming and eastern Idaho.
From Afton, you can plan easy day trips to:
- Jackson, Wyoming – about 1.5–2 hours north, depending on route.
- Alpine, WY – a scenic small town where the Snake River and Greys River meet.
- More remote sections of the Bridger–Teton National Forest and nearby wilderness areas.
Afton is usually quieter and more budget-friendly than big tourist hubs, so you can enjoy calmer evenings while still reaching well-known destinations during the day.
Planning Your Trip to Afton, Wyoming
A few quick pointers as you plan your visit to Afton in Lincoln County:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for hiking, fishing, and Intermittent Spring; winter if you enjoy snow and quiet.
- Altitude: Afton sits over 6,000 feet above sea level. Drink water and take it easy your first day if you’re coming from lower elevations.
- Weather: Even in summer, evenings can get cool. Pack layers and a light jacket.
If you like small towns, open spaces, and easy access to outdoor adventures, Afton, WY, is a spot that deserves a place on your travel list.
What Would You Do First in Afton?
Would you head straight to
Intermittent Spring? Hunt for trout on the
Salt River? Or just wander under the
elkhorn arch with a coffee in hand?
I’d love to hear your ideas and experiences.
- Have you visited Afton or Star Valley? Share your favorite things to do in the comments.
- Planning a Wyoming road trip? Drop your questions below—I’m happy to help you think through your route.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to Wyoming or save it for your next adventure. The more people discover places like Afton, the more these small towns can thrive—while still keeping their quiet, local charm.
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