10 Ways to Explore Washakie County

Looking for things to do in Tensleep and Worland? Washakie County, Wyoming is a hidden jewel right on the edge of the Bighorn Mountains. These towns might be small, but the opportunity for adventure is huge! These 10 activities will have you feeling like a real cowboy in no time. Be sure to add Washakie County to your summer road trip itinerary— trust us, you won’t be sorry.

This story was created in partnership with the Washakie County Tourism Council.

Watch a rodeo

Love the rodeo, but not quite willing to take on a bull yourself? Between the Tensleep 4th of July rodeo and the Washakie County Fair, there’s plenty of western rodeo action to see. Grab your boots, your hat, and your camera. You won’t want to miss it!

Ride the trails

Enjoy scenic views from a bike saddle on either the East Tensleep Lake Loop or the Willow Park Loop Trail. Mountain biking is an excellent way to get some exercise and see the mountains from a whole new perspective. Stop by Larsen’s Bicycles in Worland for any last-minute repairs or gear!

Hike the Bighorns

The Bighorn Mountains have it all. One way to see it all is to get into the backcountry and hike it! Explore high alpine meadows filled with wildflowers (typically in late June), cross rushing rivers filled with Brook Trout, and try to spot some wildlife.

Meet the locals at a festival

For a small town in the mountains of Wyoming, Washakie County sure knows how to party down! There’s the 4th of July parade and rodeo, the Climbers’ Festival, Nowoodstock Music Festival, and the Pepsi Wyoming Championship BBQ and Bluegrass Festivalall before summer’s end. With this lineup, there’s a festival for everyone.

Camp in the Cloud Peak Wilderness

Hike and camp in one of Wyoming’s most beautiful wilderness areas. Explore the east side of Cloud Peak, the region’s namesake, to see one of the area’s last remaining glaciers nestled in between the mountains. If solitude and quiet is what you seek, look no further than Cloud Peak. Be sure to follow all regulations, and register for the area. As always, leave no trace!

Climb in Tensleep Canyon

For the adventurous kind, be sure to take advantage of Tensleep Canyon’s world-class sport climbing! The pocketed limestone cliffs that line the canyon make for high quality climbing, ranging from beginner to expert. Pick up a guidebook at Dirty Sally’s grocery in downtown Tensleep and get ready to crush! Be advised: climbing is inherently dangerous. Proceed with caution and knowledge at your own risk.

Fish an alpine lake

Need some rest after all that activity? Take advantage of the excellent fishing the Bighorn Mountains have to offer at one of their many alpine lakes. Meadowlark Lake is one of our favorites. Before fishing, please update yourself on any and all seasonal rules and regulations, and be sure to purchase a fishing license!

 Enjoy a locally-brewed beer

The Tensleep Brewing Company creates craft beer in a homey environment. Tucked against the red rock hills, enjoy an adult beverage after a full day of activity and soak up the sun in their outdoor seating areas. They also have a camping area, frequent music throughout the summer, and food trucks on the weekends.

Golf at Green Hills

Hit the green at this reasonably-priced, beautiful golfing establishment. They feature 18 holes of family-friendly golf and they are open to the public! Enjoy the mountainous views around the course as you play, and be sure to stop at their restaurant and bar after a round or two.

Learn some history at the Washakie Museum

If you need some intellectual stimulation after all the physical exertion and excitement Washakie county has to offer, hit the Washakie Museum in Worland. The museum focuses on the relationship between the historic people of the area and the Bighorn Mountains they called home. Explore the archaeology of the region, and learn about ancient mammoth hunters!