The wide-open spaces and mountain ranges of the
rugged state of Wyoming are populated by a vast array of wildlife.
Animals far outnumber humans in the least populated state in the
country. Wyoming is a mix of Wild West frontier heritage and
spectacular scenery, with a few modern cities, overgrown cow towns,
and two spectacular national parks.
Yellowstone National Park is the oldest on the
planet. Its location on top of a volcanic crater has resulted in a
unique landscape of geysers, fumaroles, mud pots, alpine lakes, and
canyons. The towering granite peaks of Grand Teton National Park
further south provide endless opportunities for climbers, hikers,
and skiers.
Known as the 'Cowboy State', towns in Wyoming such as
Jackson and Cody exude the spirit of the Wild West with wooden
boardwalks, rodeos, restored shop-front facades, and staged
shoot-outs. As Buffalo Bill's hometown, Cody is well known for its
western-style wares and the Buffalo Bill Historical Center
detailing the history of the American West. Around the
sophisticated resort town of Jackson are numerous guest and working
ranches that are a reminder of the state's history, and everywhere
the hat-brandishing cowboy that is the state insignia preserves the
image of the romantic Wild West. Despite this picture of a rough,
male-dominated state, Wyoming was the first to allow women to vote
in 1869. The state has also recently featured as the spectacular
backdrop for the critically acclaimed film
Those who enjoy the outdoors will find a wealth of
recreational activities among the breathtaking scenery, especially
in the northwest where visitors can hike, kayak, boat, raft, fish,
climb, camp, and ski to their hearts' content.