Lander Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in Lander, Wyoming using this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Lander

Lander is a beautiful small town located in Northwest Wyoming, in the Rocky Mountains, United States of America. Visitors can enjoy stunning natural scenery, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. The town is home to friendly locals who welcome visitors with open arms.

List of Places to Visit in Lander

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fremont County Pioneer Museum: Home to fascinating exhibits on Wyoming’s history and culture, including Native American artifacts and Western art.
  • Lander Children’s Museum: A family-friendly museum featuring hands-on exhibits on science, art, and music.
  • Lander Art Center: A contemporary art gallery featuring works by local and regional artists.
  • Museum of the American West: This museum showcases artifacts from the Old West, including items from famous outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Natural Attractions of Lander: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sinks Canyon State Park: Home to breathtaking views of the Wind River Range, this park features hikes, fishing, and rock climbing opportunities.
  • Shoshone National Forest: Visitors can explore this forest by hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on the many trails.
  • Popo Agie Falls: A picturesque waterfall located near Sinks Canyon State Park.
  • Red Canyon Wildlife Area: A prime location for wildlife watching, birding, and photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lander

Hiking

  • Loop Road to Fawn Pass Trail: A 14-mile hike offering stunning views of the Wind River Range.
  • Popo Agie Falls Trail: A moderate two-mile hike featuring a beautiful waterfall.
  • Sinks Canyon Overlook Trail: A 1.5-mile trail offering panoramic views of the canyon.

Biking

  • Brewery Loop Trail: A four-mile beginner-friendly trail that takes riders through scenic areas.
  • Lander City Loop: A five-mile intermediate level loop that offers some challenging hills and great views.

Best Things to Do in Lander: Activities and Tours

  • Lander Brewfest: A yearly event that showcases local craft beers and live music.
  • Fremont Lake: Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on this serene lake.
  • Lander Live Music Series: A series of concerts featuring local and regional musicians.
  • Narrated Walking Tour: Visitors can learn about Lander’s history and culture by taking a narrated walking tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lander

Day 1: Visit Fremont County Pioneer Museum and Lander Children’s Museum. Day 2: Explore Sinks Canyon State Park and Popo Agie Falls. Day 3: Go fishing at Fremont Lake. Day 4: Take a narrated walking tour of Lander and enjoy the Lander Live Music Series. Day 5: Discover Red Canyon Wildlife Area and the Museum of the American West. Day 6: Hike the Loop Road to Fawn Pass Trail. Day 7: Rest and relax.

Food and Drink Scene of Lander

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: A local specialty made from Wyoming-raised bison.
  • Trout: Freshly caught fish from the nearby rivers and lakes.
  • Huckleberry Ice Cream: A delicious ice cream made with locally picked huckleberries.

Local Beverages

  • Wyoming Whiskey: A whiskey made from 100% Wyoming-grown grains.
  • Sinks Canyon Brewery Beer: A local brewery that offers a wide variety of craft beer.

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

  • Holiday Lodge: A cozy and affordable motel that offers comfortable rooms and friendly service.
  • Rodeway Inn Pronghorn Lodge: This lodge features beautiful views of the Wind River Mountains and offers a continental breakfast.
  • Lander Mill Lodge: A historic bed and breakfast that features antique decor and a home-cooked breakfast.

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

  • Hiking Gear: Lander is home to many outdoor gear stores that sell hiking and camping equipment.
  • Bison Meat: Visitors can purchase bison meat from local farms.
  • Wyoming Crafts: Local artisans sell handcrafted pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Lander

Lander is home to a welcoming and inclusive community. Visitors should respect the natural beauty of the area by not littering or disturbing wildlife. The town is proud of its Western heritage and visitors should embrace the cowboy culture by checking out local rodeos and attending cowboy poetry readings.

Best Time to Visit Lander

The best time to visit Lander is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild and the outdoor adventures are plentiful. However, visitors can also enjoy the stunning fall color in September and the winter sports in December through March.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lander

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs.
  • Take care of the environment by not littering.
  • Embrace the Western heritage of the town.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife.
  • Trespass on private property.
  • Ignore the weather forecast.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lander

Lander is a safe town. Visitors should be aware of safety precautions while hiking, fishing, and camping in the wilderness surrounding the town.

Health in Lander

Visitors should bring any necessary prescription medication with them to avoid any potential health issues. Lander has medical facilities and pharmacies located nearby.

Getting to Lander: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lander

  • Jackson Hole Airport: A two-hour drive from Lander.
  • Riverton Regional Airport: A 30-minute drive from Lander.

Bus Stations Near Lander

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Rawlins, which is about a two-hour drive from Lander.

Other Options

  • Renting a Car: Visitors can rent a car at Jackson Hole or Riverton Regional Airport.

How to Get Around in Lander

The best way to get around Lander is by car or bike. Visitors can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service.

Where to Go Next from Lander: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yellowstone National Park: A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Lander, this park offers stunning natural wonders and wildlife.
  • Grand Teton National Park: A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Lander, this park features towering mountains and picturesque lakes.
  • Hot Springs State Park: A 45-minute drive from Lander, this park features hot springs pools a dinosaur exhibit.

Conclusion

Lander, Wyoming, is a hidden gem for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a small-town atmosphere. With its stunning natural wonders, friendly locals, and Western charm, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in the Wyoming area.