Gillette Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more with our guide to Gillette, Wyoming, USA. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to Gillette

Nestled in the northeast of Wyoming, Gillette is a hidden gem that offers plenty of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Known as the “Energy Capital of the Nation,” it is a gateway to the vast prairies and stunning landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. If you are a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Gillette is the perfect destination to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Gillette

Whether you want to explore the rich cultural heritage or bask in the scenic beauty of Gillette, there is a lot to see and do. Here are some of the must-visit destinations in Gillette:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Campbell County Rockpile Museum - It houses an exceptional collection of exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that illustrate the history of Northeast Wyoming’s coal, cattle, and oil industries.
  • Gillette Railroad Museum - Discover the history of transportation in Gillette with a visit to this museum. Located amidst Union Pacific’s main lines, the museum houses a vast collection of railroad artifacts and restored railway cars.
  • Devils Tower National Monument - One of the most iconic landmarks of the United States, Devils Tower National Monument is just a short drive away from Gillette. It has cultural and religious significance among Native American tribes.

Natural Attractions of Gillette: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Keyhole State Park - Located in the Black Hills region, it offers a wide range of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and hunting. It also has several hiking trails that offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area - This majestic canyon spreads across Wyoming and Montana and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Explore the canyon by boat, taking in the views of towering cliffs and spectacular rock formations.
  • Thunder Basin National Grassland - This vast natural area is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to several species of animals, including bison, coyotes, and pronghorn.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gillette

Gillette boasts some of the best trails in Wyoming, offering hiking and biking routes for all levels of experience. Here are some of the popular hiking routes in Gillette:

  • Overlook Trail - With panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, this trail is perfect for hikers of all levels of experience.
  • The Belle Fourche Riverwalk Trail - This is a picturesque trail that runs along the Belle Fourche River, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Eagle Creek Trail - This trail is a haven for bikers and hikers, with numerous trails that meander through deep forests and along crystal-clear streams.

Best Things to Do in Gillette: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are several other activities to do in Gillette. Here are some of the best things to do in Gillette:

  • Wildlife Watching - With vast grasslands and natural reserves, Gillette is a perfect destination for wildlife watching. Head to Thunder Basin National Grassland to spot the bison, pronghorn, and other majestic animals.
  • Fishing - Gillette is famous for its fishing opportunities. Whether you want to catch rainbow trout, walleye, or bass, there are several fishing spots in the area, such as Keyhole State Park or Lake DeSmet.
  • Watersports - If you are an adventure seeker, then you can try your hand at watersports such as kayaking, rafting, and paddleboarding.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gillette

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Gillette:

Day Activity
1 Explore Campbell County Rockpile Museum
2 Visit Gillette Railroad Museum and head to Keyhole State Park
3 Hike on Overlook Trail and explore nearby areas
4 Enjoy fishing at Lake DeSmet
5 Take a day trip to Devils Tower National Monument
6 Explore Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
7 End the trip with wildlife watching at Thunder Basin National Grassland

Food and Drink Scene of Gillette

Gillette has a variety of dining options that cater to every taste bud, from fast food to fine-dine restaurants. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Steak and Grill - If you are visiting Wyoming, you must try the famous Wyoming beef steak. Head to Gillette’s local restaurants for an unforgettable meat lover’s paradise.
  • Bison Burger - Another famous dish in Wyoming is the bison burger, which is a must-try for burger lovers.
  • Chili - Chili is another iconic dish in Wyoming, and several restaurants in Gillette offer different variations of this comforting dish.

Local Beverages

  • Wyoming Whiskey - Wyoming produces some of the best whiskies in the world. Try out local whiskey, which is distilled in Kirby.
  • Black Tooth Brewing Company - A popular brewery in Gillette, it offers a range of craft beers. It is a perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.

Where to Stay in Gillette: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gillette has several accommodation options for every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Gillette:

  • Best Western Tower West Lodge - Known for its comfortable rooms and friendly staff, Best Western is a perfect budget-friendly option for travelers.
  • Campbell County Inn - A mid-range hotel located near the Rockpile Museum, offering clean and spacious rooms.
  • Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - A top-end hotel with amenities that include an indoor pool and a gym, perfect for luxury travelers.

What to Buy in Gillette: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to take back a piece of Gillette’s rich culture and history, then you must buy some of these local products:

  • Coal Jewelry - Wyoming is famous for its coal mining, and several artisans in Gillette use coal to create unique pieces of jewelry.
  • Cowboy Hats and Boots - If you want to embrace the cowboy culture of Wyoming, then you should buy a cowboy hat and boots, which are a staple of Western clothing.
  • Wyoming Whiskey - Bring back a bottle of Wyoming whiskey as a souvenir for a friend who appreciates whiskey.

Local Culture and Customs of Gillette

Wyoming is known for its cowboy culture, and Gillette offers a glimpse of it. Here are some customs and etiquette tips that will come in handy while visiting Gillette:

  • Ranching Culture - You will see several ranches while traveling in Gillette. It is essential to respect the property and privacy of the ranchers and their land.
  • Cowboy Attire - It is common to see people wearing cowboy hats and boots in Gillette. You can embrace the local culture by taking part and wearing these items yourself.
  • Friendliness - People in Gillette are friendly and hospitable; it is customary to greet people with a smile and a wave.

Best Time to Visit Gillette

The best time to visit Gillette is from June to August when the weather is sunny and warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, then visiting in spring or early fall is ideal.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gillette

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind while traveling to Gillette:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Pack for all types of weather conditions.
  • Follow the trail etiquettes while hiking.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave the trails dirty.
  • Get too close to the wildlife.
  • Ignore the weather warnings.

Safety and Health

The safety and health precautions to consider while traveling to Gillette include:

Safety in Gillette

  • Always follow the trail etiquettes while hiking and camping.
  • Keep yourself updated with the weather warnings.
  • Be aware of the wild animals while traveling in the natural reserves.

Health in Gillette

  • Stay hydrated while hiking and exploring.
  • Apply sunscreen when you are out in the sun.
  • Carry a first aid kit while hiking and camping.

Getting to Gillette: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gillette is well-connected by air and road.

Airports Near Gillette

  • Gillette - Campbell County Airport - The airport is located just outside Gillette and is serviced by multiple airlines.

Bus Stations Near Gillette

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - The bus station is located in Gillette and has services to nearby destinations.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals - You can rent a car from the Gillette - Campbell County Airport or a rental agency in Gillette.

How to Get Around in Gillette

The best way to get around in Gillette is by car. You can rent a car from the airport or a rental agency in Gillette, which offers the freedom to explore the area at your pace.

Where to Go Next from Gillette: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations that are perfect for day trips from Gillette:

  • Devils Tower National Monument - Located just an hour’s drive from Gillette, it is a must-visit destination.
  • Hot Springs State Park - Located in Thermopolis, it is famous for its hot springs and stunning scenery.
  • Yellowstone National Park - The iconic Yellowstone National Park is just a few hours’ drive from Gillette, making it a perfect day trip destination.

Conclusion

Gillette is a hidden gem that promises to offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you want to explore the history and culture or get lost in the natural beauty, Gillette is an ideal destination. With this guide, plan your trip to Gillette and experience the beauty of Wyoming.

At the visitor overlook platform next to Eagle Butte Mine you can see one of the most visible jobs at a working coal mine in an industry that employs nearly 6,000 people in the area. At the visitor overlook platform next to Eagle Butte Mine you can see one of the most visible jobs at a working coal mine in an industry that employs nearly 6,000 people in the area. Guns and hunting have always been part of the culture of Gillette. In the past the great antelope roundup drew hunters from around the country. Guns and hunting have always been part of the culture of Gillette. In the past the great antelope roundup drew hunters from around the country. Highway 59 is one of the main roads through Gillette and is one of the busiest during the evening. Highway 59 is one of the main roads through Gillette and is one of the busiest during the evening. This retired haul truck at the Energy Equipment Park is 18 feet tall, 23 feet wide, 65 feet long, and weighs 235,000 pounds. It is small in comparison to modern-day haul trucks in use at the mines. This retired haul truck at the Energy Equipment Park is 18 feet tall, 23 feet wide, 65 feet long, and weighs 235,000 pounds. It is small in comparison to modern-day haul trucks in use at the mines. If you need to get away and relax go to Dalbey Memorial Park even if it's winter. If you need to get away and relax go to Dalbey Memorial Park even if it's winter. Downtown Gillette is the historic area of the city and it's lined with local shops and art. Many of the street events take place here. Downtown Gillette is the historic area of the city and it's lined with local shops and art. Many of the street events take place here. The police make their presence known at night especially when the bars let out. Vehicles speeding with out of state plates will find an extra set of eyes on them because of previous drug runners caught passing through. The police make their presence known at night especially when the bars let out. Vehicles speeding with out of state plates will find an extra set of eyes on them because of previous drug runners caught passing through. You can't miss Campbell County Memorial Hospital, just look on the hill for the large off-white blocky building. You can't miss Campbell County Memorial Hospital, just look on the hill for the large off-white blocky building. As you visit and leave Gillette keep an eye on the haystack topography of buttes that are everywhere. Carved by ancient water sources they are topped with rocks called clinker changed by burning coal on the top. As you visit and leave Gillette keep an eye on the haystack topography of buttes that are everywhere. Carved by ancient water sources they are topped with rocks called clinker changed by burning coal on the top.