Thermopolis is a place where geology and history collide in the most relaxing way possible. Located in the heart of the Big Horn Basin, this town is famous for the mineral-rich waters that flow from the earth at a constant temperature. Beyond the soaking tubs, visitors will find a gateway to prehistoric worlds, dramatic river canyons, and the wild spirit of the American West. Whether you are traveling with family or seeking a quiet mountain retreat, Thermopolis offers a diverse range of outdoor and educational activities.
Soak in the World's Largest Mineral Hot Springs
The centerpiece of the town is Hot Springs State Park, home to Big Spring. The water here emerges from the ground at a searing 135 degrees Fahrenheit before being cooled to a comfortable 104 degrees for public use. The State Bath House offers a free soaking experience for visitors, adhering to a tradition that these healing waters should be accessible to everyone. The minerals in the water, including bicarbonate, sulfate, and chloride, are said to have therapeutic properties, making a long soak the perfect remedy for sore muscles after a day of hiking.
Beyond the pools, the park features a network of accessible boardwalks that wind past the colorful travertine terraces. These formations are created by mineral deposits over thousands of years, resulting in vibrant oranges, greens, and whites. Walking across the 'Swinging Bridge' over the Big Horn River provides a panoramic view of the rapids and the terrace falls, where the hot water spills over the cliffs and into the river below.
Discover Prehistoric Giants at the Dinosaur Center
Thermopolis is a world-class destination for paleontology enthusiasts. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center is a premier facility that features an incredible collection of fossils, many of which were discovered in the hills just outside of town. The centerpiece of the museum is a massive 'Supersaurus' skeleton, one of the largest ever found. Unlike many museums where you only see replicas, here you can view actual bones being cleaned and prepared in the active laboratory.
For those who want a more hands-on experience, the center offers 'Dig for a Day' programs during the summer months. Participants can head out to active quarry sites to help paleontologists uncover Jurassic-era remains. Even if you don't participate in a dig, the museum's walk through time offers a fascinating look at the creatures that roamed Wyoming millions of years ago. It is an excellent rainy-day activity and a must-do for families with children, providing both education and awe-inspiring displays that rival major metropolitan museums.
Drive and Raft Through the Wind River Canyon
Just south of Thermopolis lies the Wind River Canyon, a geological marvel where the river has carved a deep path through ancient rock layers. A scenic drive along Highway 20 takes you between towering walls that rise 2,500 feet above the canyon floor. There are several pull-outs where you can stop to admire the 'Great Unconformity,' a geological phenomenon where rock layers separated by hundreds of millions of years sit directly on top of one another. The sheer scale of the canyon is best appreciated at a slow pace, keeping an eye out for Bighorn sheep perched on the rocky ledges.
For the more adventurous, the canyon offers some of the best white-water rafting and fly fishing in the state. Because the canyon passes through the Wind River Indian Reservation, access is managed through specific permit systems or guided tours. Rafting trips range from gentle scenic floats to Class III and IV rapids, providing an exhilarating way to see the canyon from the bottom up. Fishing here is legendary, with the cold, oxygenated water supporting trophy-sized trout.
Encounter the Resident Bison Herd
Hot Springs State Park is not just about the water; it is also home to a managed herd of North American bison. These iconic animals can often be seen grazing in the pastures on the parkâs northern edge. A paved road allows visitors to drive through the bison territory for close-up viewing from the safety of their vehicles. It is a wonderful opportunity to see these massive creatures in a setting that mimics their natural habitat of the rolling plains and foothills.
When viewing bison, it is crucial to remember that they are wild animals and can be unpredictable. Stay inside your car and give them plenty of space if they approach the road. During the late spring, you might be lucky enough to see the reddish-brown calves, often called 'red dogs,' following their mothers through the grass. This experience provides a tangible connection to the wildlife history of the American West and is a favorite for photographers looking to capture the spirit of Wyoming without the heavy crowds of larger national parks.
Explore Legend Rock Petroglyphs
A short drive northwest of Thermopolis leads you to the Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site, a place of immense cultural and spiritual significance. This site contains over 300 individual petroglyphs carved into the sandstone cliffs, some dating back thousands of years. The carvings represent a variety of styles and time periods, depicting human figures, animals, and abstract symbols that tell the stories of the indigenous peoples who have inhabited this region for millennia. It is one of the most significant rock art sites in the Rocky Mountains.
The site is relatively remote, offering a quiet and contemplative atmosphere. Visitors can walk along a maintained trail to view the panels up close. Because the site is protected and sensitive, access sometimes requires picking up a key or arranging a visit through the state park office in townâalways check the official site for current access protocols. Visiting Legend Rock provides a deep sense of history and a reminder that the Thermopolis area has been a place of gathering and healing for much longer than the town has existed.