Thermopolis serves as a perfect weekend getaway or a strategic stop on a larger Wyoming road trip. Most travelers arrive via the Central Wyoming Regional Airport (RIW) in Riverton, followed by a scenic 60-mile drive through the Wind River Canyon. This two-day plan is designed to balance the townâs famous relaxation opportunities with its rugged outdoor adventures and prehistoric wonders, ensuring you see the highlights of the Big Horn Basin without feeling rushed.
Arrival and the Gateway Drive
Your journey begins with a flight into Riverton or a drive from gateway cities like Cody. If you are coming from the south, the 77-minute drive from the airport is an attraction in itself. You will pass through the Wind River Canyon, where the rock walls change color with the shifting sun. Take your time at the scenic pull-outs to read the geological markers. Upon arriving in Thermopolis, check into your accommodationâwhether it is a riverside lodge or a nearby campsiteâand head straight to Hot Springs State Park to get your bearings.
Start your trip with a gentle introduction at the State Bath House. A 20-minute soak in the 104-degree mineral water is the ideal way to shake off travel fatigue. Afterward, walk across the Swinging Bridge to see the Rainbow Terraces. As evening falls, enjoy a meal in the historic downtown area, where local diners and grills offer a taste of Wyoming hospitality. The pace in Thermopolis is slow, so embrace the quiet evening air.
Day 1: Prehistoric Giants and Sunset Bison
Dedicate your first full morning to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. Arrive early to beat the mid-day heat and spend several hours exploring the vast halls of skeletons and the active fossil prep lab. If you have booked a 'Dig for a Day' experience, this will take up most of your daylight hours, providing an unforgettable hands-on encounter with Jurassic history. For those sticking to the museum, the gift shop and educational displays offer plenty of engagement for all ages.
In the afternoon, head back to the state park for a drive through the bison pastures. The late afternoon light is perfect for spotting the herd as they move toward water sources. After your wildlife tour, take a walk along the Spirit Mountain trails for a view of the town from above. Finish the day with a second soak, perhaps at one of the private water parks in the area that offer outdoor slides and larger pools, which are especially fun for families. Watch the sunset over the red cliffs before heading back to your base.
Day 2: Canyon Rapids and Ancient Art
Start your second day with an adventure on the water. If the season is right (May through September), book a morning rafting trip through the Wind River Canyon. These guided tours provide a mix of thrilling rapids and calm stretches where you can learn about the history of the Wind River Reservation. If you prefer to stay dry, spend the morning at Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site. Located about 30 miles outside of town, this site requires a bit of a drive but rewards you with some of the best-preserved rock art in the West.
Return to town for a late lunch and a final stroll through the parkâs garden pathways. If you have extra time, the Hot Springs County Museum offers a deep dive into the townâs outlaw history, including a bar once frequented by Butch Cassidyâs Hole in the Wall Gang. Before you head out of town for your return flight or the next leg of your road trip, grab a local coffee and take one last look at the steaming Big Spring, the heartbeat of the community.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
Thermopolis is a small community, and services can be limited compared to larger cities. It is essential to keep your gas tank full, especially if you are heading out to Legend Rock or driving through the canyon toward Riverton. While there is no permit required to enter the state park itself, specific activities like fishing or visiting certain tribal lands in the canyon do require local permits and licenses. Always check the official NPS or Wyoming State Parks website before your trip to verify hours and any seasonal closures.
Water is your best friend here. The combination of high altitude and hot mineral soaks can lead to dehydration quickly. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink more than you think you need. For dining, keep in mind that many local spots close earlier than they might in a big city, so plan your evening meals accordingly. If you are visiting during the summer, sun protection is a must, as the Wyoming sun is intense at this elevation, and there is little shade in the geological areas.
Extending Your Stay
If you have more than two days, Thermopolis serves as a fantastic base for exploring the wider region. You could take a day trip north to the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area for stunning lake views and more hiking opportunities. Alternatively, heading west toward Cody will bring you closer to the eastern gate of Yellowstone National Park. The drive between Thermopolis and Cody takes about an hour and a half, crossing through the vast, open landscapes that define the Bighorn Basin.
For those interested in fishing, spending a full day with a guide on the Big Horn River is highly recommended. The stretch of river just north of town is famous for its trout populations and is a bucket-list destination for many anglers. If you prefer a slower pace, use the extra time to revisit the hot springs at different times of dayâearly morning when the steam is thickest is particularly peaceful. No matter how long you stay, the combination of mineral waters and ancient history tends to make time feel a little less urgent.
More ways to book Thermopolis
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare