10 Fun Things To Do Near Saratoga, Wyoming (Carbon County Travel Guide)
If you’re dreaming about wide-open skies, natural hot springs, and classic Western scenery,
Saratoga, Wyoming should be on your radar. This tiny town in
Carbon County sits along the North Platte River and feels like the kind of place where time slows down, people still wave, and the night sky actually looks like a planetarium show.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape from Denver, a road trip stop on your way to Yellowstone, or a quiet couple’s getaway, here are
10 things to do in and around Saratoga, WY that mix relaxation, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm.
1. Soak in the Saratoga Hot Springs (Hobo Hot Springs)
If you do nothing else in Saratoga,
soak in the hot springs.
The famous
Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs are right in town and open
24 hours a day, year-round. And yes—they’re free.
The springs flow into a couple of pools:
- A hotter pool for serious soakers
- A slightly cooler pool that’s more comfortable if you’re not used to hot water
The water is naturally heated and rich in minerals. Locals swear it helps with sore muscles and stress. After a long day of driving or hiking, slipping into that warm water under a starry Wyoming sky is hard to beat.
Tip: Bring flip-flops, a towel, and a water bottle. In winter, bring something warm to throw on afterward—the walk back to the car can feel chilly.
2. Stay (or at Least Visit) the Historic Saratoga Hot Springs Resort
Looking for a classic Western lodge vibe? The
Saratoga Hot Springs Resort is one of the main attractions in town. Even if you don’t stay overnight, it’s worth a visit.
Here, you’ll find:
- Private and semi-private hot pools fed by the natural springs
- An on-site microbrewery and restaurant
- Rustic log-cabin charm with modern comforts
It’s a great home base if you want easy access to
hot springs, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and hiking while still having a comfy bed, good food, and a drink at the end of the day.
Personal note: This is the kind of place where you end up chatting with the table next to you about the best fishing spots or where the elk were crossing that morning. It has that “everyone’s in it together” mountain-town feel.
3. Go World-Class Fly Fishing on the North Platte River
If you like to fish (or want to learn),
Saratoga is a hidden gem.
The
Upper North Platte River runs right by town and is known for:
- Excellent trout fishing (brown, rainbow, and cutthroat)
- Clear water and beautiful scenery
- Long stretches of public access nearby
You can:
- Book a guided float trip with a local outfitter
- Fish from the bank in some accessible spots
- Wade into the river if conditions are safe
Not a pro? Guides are used to beginners. They’ll help with gear, casting, and reading the water. Think of it like a hands-on nature lesson where your classroom is a cold, clear Wyoming river.
Tip: Always check local regulations and get the proper Wyoming fishing license before you cast a line.
4. Paddle, Float, or Drift Down the River
Even if you’re not into fishing, the
North Platte River offers easy-going adventure.
Depending on the season and water levels, you can:
- Float in a raft with a guide
- Rent a kayak
- Try a mellow tubing trip in safer sections (ask locally about current conditions)
It’s a peaceful way to see
deer, birds, and classic Wyoming ranch country from the water. On a calm summer afternoon, drifting down the river feels like you pressed “pause” on regular life for a while.
Safety note: Mountain rivers can change quickly. Talk to local outfitters or residents about water levels and safe launch/take-out spots before heading out.
5. Explore the Snowy Range and Medicine Bow National Forest
Just a drive away from Saratoga, you’ll find the rugged beauty of
Medicine Bow National Forest and the
Snowy Range
Hike short trails to alpine lakes and viewpoints
Drive along scenic byways with mountain and forest views
Spot wildlife like moose, deer, and maybe even elk
In summer, wildflowers pop up along the trails. In fall, the aspen trees turn gold and the air gets that crisp, clean mountain smell.
Many trails are family-friendly and under a couple of miles, so you don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy the area.
Tip: Weather changes fast at higher elevations—always pack a light jacket, even in July.
6. Drive the Scenic Route Through Carbon County
One of the best things to do near Saratoga, Wyoming is simply… drive
Rolling plains that stretch for miles
Distant mountain ranges
Old barns and ranches that look straight out of a movie
Consider:
- Looping toward Encampment and Riverside for river and valley views
- Driving toward Elk Mountain or Sinclair for changing landscapes
- Timing your drive for sunrise or sunset for amazing colors
If you’re used to city life, the lack of traffic alone makes this feel like a luxury.
Road-trip tip: Fill up on gas in town, bring snacks and water, and download maps offline—cell service can be spotty in some stretches.
7. Discover the Small-Town Charm of Downtown Saratoga
Saratoga isn’t big, but that’s part of its appeal. Take some time to explore downtown on foot.
You’ll find:
- Local cafes and diners serving hearty, comfort-style meals
- Western-style bars where locals gather
- Shops with Wyoming-made goods, gifts, and outdoor gear
Pop into a coffee shop or sit at the counter of a diner and you’ll likely overhear talk about the weather, cattle, or the latest fishing stories. It’s everyday life, but it feels like a slice of the “real West” that many travelers are searching for.
Idea: Spend a slow morning—coffee in hand, a simple breakfast, maybe a stroll down to the river afterward. No rush, no schedule.
8. Play a Round of Golf with Mountain Views
Yes, this little town has a golf course—and the backdrop is pretty incredible.
The Saratoga Hot Springs Resort operates an 18-hole course that winds through open land with mountain views on the horizon. Even if you’re not a serious golfer, it’s a fun way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Why try it?
- Fresh air and wide-open fairways
- A relaxed pace—this isn’t big-city golf
- The chance to spot wildlife around the course
You can rent clubs if you didn’t bring your own, making it easy for travelers who just want to hit a few balls and enjoy the scenery.
9. Visit Nearby Encampment and Riverside
Just south of Saratoga are the small communities of Encampment and Riverside, both in Carbon County and worth the short drive.
Things to do there include:
- Walking along the Encampment River
- Checking out local museums (like the Grand Encampment Museum, when open)
- Exploring more fishing and hiking options in the area
The drive itself is beautiful, and these tiny towns give you another glimpse of life in rural Wyoming—quiet streets, friendly people, and outdoor adventures right out the back door.
Tip: If you love photography, the old buildings and river scenery around Encampment make for great shots.
10. Experience True Wyoming Winter: Snowmobiling, Skiing & More
If you’re visiting in winter, Saratoga turns into a snow lover’s base camp.
Nearby areas in Carbon County and the Snowy Range offer:
- Snowmobiling on groomed trails
- Cross-country skiing through quiet forests
- Snowshoeing for a peaceful, low-impact adventure
After a day out in the cold, you can:
- Warm up in the hot springs (one of the best winter experiences you’ll ever have)
- Enjoy a hot drink and a meal in town
- Sleep like a rock under heavy blankets while the snow falls outside
If you’ve ever wanted to experience a true Western winter instead of just hearing about it, this is your chance.
Planning Your Trip to Saratoga, Wyoming
To make the most of your visit, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Best time to visit:
- Summer and early fall for hiking, fishing, paddling, and scenic drives
- Winter for snowmobiling, skiing, and hot-spring soaking in the snow
- What to pack: Layers, a hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, swimsuit for the hot springs, and a reusable water bottle.
- Altitude: You’re at a higher elevation than many places in the USA. Drink plenty of water and give yourself a little time to adjust.
Saratoga might not be the biggest name in Wyoming travel, but that’s exactly why people fall in love with it. It’s quiet, friendly, and full of simple, authentic Western experiences—from soaking in hot mineral water to watching the sun sink behind the hills.
What Would You Do First in Saratoga?
Would you head straight to the Hobo Hot Springs? Book a fly fishing trip? Or maybe just wander downtown and see where the day takes you?
Share your thoughts in the comments—what sounds most like your style of Wyoming adventure?
And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s always up for a road trip or a new small town to explore. Your shares and comments help more travelers discover the hidden charm of Saratoga, Wyoming.
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