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ADVENTURES AROUND WYOMING

03/27/2025  /  Jasmine Ramirez
Two professors and a student sitting on the lake shore siteseeing.
Find your next adventure!

As summer is approaching, naturally we all just want to be outside and get as much sun as possible as we all know the winter here can feel so long! Whether you like to hike, camp, go mountain biking and much more. There are many beautiful places close by that might even leave you amazed.  

Western has outsourced and built a 2D interactive map for students and the public to highlight outdoor options near us. It has two main drop downs that can provide resources by type of adventure activities or by distance, in miles, from the College.  

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Here are my favorites sorted by distance since I love a variety of outdoor activities. Check them out!  

ADVENTURE WITHIN 1 HOUR 

  • The Green River Bike Park - this is an outdoor recreational mountain biking area, only 25 min away located in Green River, Wyoming. Whether you are an advanced rider or a beginner, there are trails for everyone!  
  • The Killpecker Sand Dunes - located just 32 miles from Rock Springs, Wyoming, you will think you are on a whole new planet! These sand dunes don't only offer a beautiful scenery, but recreational activities can also be done here such as hiking, horseback riding, and hunting.  

ADVENTURE WITHIN 2 HOURS 

  • Fremont Lake - This beautiful lake is located near Pinedale, Wyoming also being the state's largest natural lake. Here you can catch yourself fishing, hiking and camping. You'll find clear waters here which would be enjoyable on a hot summer day!  
  • Red Desert - If you are into the hunting life then the Red Desert is for you. This is located between Rock Springs and Rawlins via I-80 E. With a landscape of 9,320 square miles this is one of the best areas to find some antelope. Being a student here at Western you may be able to buy a hunting and fishing license. 

ADVENTURE WITHIN 3+ HOURS 

  • Park City Mountain – Located in Park City, Utah, not only is this a popular ski resort, but it also offers fun activities in the summer. Here you can catch yourself hiking, mountain biking, as well as outdoor festivals. The world–renowned Sundance Film Festival is also a hit in Park City, so make sure to plan your festival schedule if this sounds like you! 
  • Astoria Hot Springs – A natural hot spring located in the beautiful Jackson Hole, Wyoming is a relaxing and rejuvenating experience you won’t want to mis. Enjoy the beautiful, serene landscapes and mountains while you relax. After all this is part of self-care! Take a walk around the historic town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming while you are there and enjoy some shopping and delicious food.  

There are many adventurous places near Western with breath taking views. Whether it’s a summer trip that you take or a trip that you take during school breaks, it is important to take time for yourself outside of classes and homework. Mentioned above are only a few of the rich scenic landscapes in the area, so I encourage you to find your favorites. Take a selfie and let me know where you end up going by posting on #WesternWyomingOutsider page.

Want to learn more about us?

Our campus is nestled at the foot of White Mountain in the middle of the Red Desert and supports over 4,000 students a year. Western houses the natural history museum, art gallery, library, theater, fitness facilities, game room, and pool, all under one roof. Take a guided or self-guided tour!