Overview

View of the Wind River Canyon © Shiras Rajendran

The wide-open spaces and mountain ranges of the rugged state of Wyoming are populated by a vast array of wildlife, which far outnumbers humans in the least populated state in the country. A mix of Wild West frontier heritage and spectacular scenery, with a few modern cities, overgrown cow towns, and two spectacular national parks cover this part of the western United States.

Yellowstone National Park is one of the oldest on the planet and is located for the most part in Wyoming. Its situation 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 stand as reminders of the state's history, while the prevalence of the hat-brandishing cowboy - 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 was also featured as the spectacular backdrop for the critically acclaimed film Brokeback Mountain.

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.

Wyoming will transport those of a more romantic bent to the Wild West of old: a land of crisp morning air, fiery sunsets and hardy ranchers. A holiday in this majestic destination is highly recommended.

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