1. Explore the Red Desert
One of the most iconic things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, is explore the vast and mystical Red Desert. Stretching across south-central Wyoming, this high-altitude desert is a unique blend of sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and sagebrush plains. Near Wamsutter, the desert becomes an open invitation for off-road adventures, hiking, and photography. The Killpecker Sand Dunes, part of this desert, are among the largest active dune fields in North America and make for an unforgettable sight.
The Red Desert is a place where silence reigns and natural beauty abounds. Wildlife such as pronghorn antelope, wild horses, and raptors add to the wild ambiance. Visitors seeking the best things to do in Wyoming will appreciate this lesser-known natural wonder. Bring plenty of water, a full tank of gas, and a spirit of exploration — the reward is pure, unspoiled Wyoming scenery.
If you’re into stargazing, the Red Desert near Wamsutter offers some of the darkest skies in the United States. The Milky Way seems close enough to touch, and meteor showers are breathtaking. Visiting the Red Desert is more than just a scenic stop — it’s a soul-stirring experience that ranks high among things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming.
2. Visit Bitter Creek Brewing in Nearby Rock Springs
While Wamsutter is a small town, it’s perfectly situated for access to some regional highlights, including Bitter Creek Brewing in Rock Springs. Located just under an hour west of Wamsutter, this local brewery offers handcrafted beers and hearty meals that reflect the local flavor of Wyoming. It’s one of the best things to do in Wyoming if you’re looking for a friendly atmosphere paired with great food and drinks.
Try their famous Boar’s Tusk Ale, named after the nearby volcanic formation in the Red Desert. The rustic decor and welcoming vibe make it a favorite among both locals and travelers. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the wild landscapes surrounding Wamsutter.
This short detour adds a flavorful twist to your Wamsutter itinerary. While technically in Rock Springs, Bitter Creek Brewing is often included in guides to things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, thanks to its proximity and popularity among travelers using Wamsutter as a base.
The brewery also hosts live music nights and seasonal events, giving visitors a chance to mingle with locals and enjoy a cultural slice of southwest Wyoming. For craft beer lovers, it’s an unmissable stop.
3. Discover the Wamsutter Welcome Center
A great first stop when arriving in town is the Wamsutter Welcome Center. It’s more than just a rest stop — it’s a portal into the local culture and landscape. Here, you can gather maps, talk to friendly locals, and learn about upcoming events or hiking areas nearby. As far as things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, go, this is a foundational one that sets the tone for the rest of your visit.
The Welcome Center is clean, modern, and provides insight into the local economy — largely driven by oil, gas, and railroad industries. It’s also a good place to learn about environmental conservation efforts in the Red Desert and surrounding lands.
Families traveling with kids will appreciate the restrooms, vending machines, and picnic tables. The center also features interpretive signs and exhibits explaining the unique geology and wildlife of the region. If you want to maximize your experience and not miss any of the best things to do in Wyoming, start here.
Even if you’re just passing through, this pit stop will help you see Wamsutter not just as a waypoint, but as a destination in its own right.
4. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Continental Divide Trail
One of the most scenic and inspiring things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, is to drive along or hike near the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). This world-renowned trail stretches from Mexico to Canada and cuts through the outskirts of Wamsutter. While many travelers hike portions of the trail, the area around Wamsutter offers accessible entry points for day hikes or scenic drives.
The views here are expansive and quintessentially Western — think vast horizons, sage-covered hills, and the occasional wandering antelope. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a picturesque spot to snap photos, the CDT offers some of the best things to do in Wyoming near Wamsutter.
If you’re lucky, you might even meet thru-hikers from all over the world who’ve chosen to take on this incredible trail. The shared camaraderie of adventurers and the unspoiled surroundings combine to create a moment of connection that’s rare and memorable.
Driving this area during sunrise or sunset offers breathtaking lighting conditions that make the landscape glow. Don’t forget your camera — this is Wamsutter at its most majestic.
5. Visit the Adobe Town Wilderness Study Area
Adobe Town is one of Wyoming’s most remote and rugged landscapes, located about an hour south of Wamsutter. As a top contender among the best things to do in Wyoming, this wilderness area is famous for its badlands, hoodoos, and multicolored rock formations that resemble a Martian landscape.
Visitors to Wamsutter often take a detour here for hiking, backcountry camping, photography, or wildlife spotting. You’ll need a high-clearance vehicle, as the roads can be rough, but the views are more than worth it. Few places offer such a profound sense of isolation and raw natural beauty.
This region is part of the Red Desert ecosystem and supports a wide range of wildlife, including golden eagles, bobcats, and mule deer. It’s also a prime area for fossil hunting — though actual collection is restricted, you may spot ancient formations and layers of history in every cliffside.
The remote serenity of Adobe Town makes it one of the more adventurous things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, for those who crave solitude and spectacular scenery. Bring supplies and let someone know your route — then get ready to be amazed.
6. Experience a Sunset at Boar’s Tusk
While Boar’s Tusk isn’t located directly in Wamsutter, it’s close enough to count among the top things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, especially for nature lovers and photographers. This dramatic volcanic neck juts out of the desert like a sentinel and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the region.
Visiting at sunset is a visual treat. The surrounding Red Desert comes alive with color, and the long shadows cast by Boar’s Tusk create a surreal, almost otherworldly effect. It’s a popular site for stargazing, too, given the area’s lack of light pollution.
Whether you’re capturing it on camera or simply soaking it in, Boar’s Tusk is unforgettable. It’s a site that perfectly encapsulates the rugged, untamed spirit of the West — one of the best things to do in Wyoming that remains relatively untouched by mass tourism.
Make sure your vehicle can handle dirt roads, and always check the weather before venturing out. The trip may require some planning, but the reward is a truly iconic Wyoming experience.
7. Wildlife Watching on the Sagebrush Steppe
Wamsutter is located within a vast sagebrush ecosystem, home to a surprising diversity of wildlife. One of the most peaceful and engaging things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, is wildlife watching. Pronghorn antelope are common sightings, as are coyotes, rabbits, hawks, and even the occasional elk.
Bring binoculars and head out at dawn or dusk for the best chances of seeing wildlife. The open landscapes make it easy to spot animals at a distance, and the stillness of the environment adds a layer of calm to the whole experience.
This activity is especially great for families or nature enthusiasts looking to connect with Wyoming’s native fauna. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture dramatic wildlife portraits against wide-sky backdrops.
Conservation efforts are underway to preserve these vital ecosystems, making your visit both enjoyable and meaningful. If you’re searching for quiet, natural things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, this should be on your list.
8. Enjoy Local Events and Community Activities
Despite its small size, Wamsutter hosts several community events throughout the year that give visitors a chance to connect with local culture. Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a local craft fair, or a holiday celebration, these gatherings are welcoming and lively.
One of the best things to do in Wyoming is to experience small-town life firsthand, and Wamsutter is the perfect place to do just that. Local schools, churches, and the town hall often organize public events that are open to visitors.
Check the bulletin board at the Welcome Center or ask around town to find out what’s happening during your visit. You might be surprised by the warmth and hospitality of Wamsutter’s residents.
These moments of connection can become the most memorable parts of your journey. It’s not just about sights and landscapes — it’s about stories and people, too.
9. Camp Under the Stars
One of the most underrated things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming, is simply camp under the vast, star-filled sky. Whether you’re in an RV or pitching a tent on BLM land, the area offers a true escape from modern life.
There are a few designated campgrounds nearby, or you can opt for dispersed camping in the Red Desert. The peace and quiet are unparalleled, and the night skies here are among the clearest in the country.
Camping near Wamsutter also gives you front-row access to sunrise hikes, wildlife sightings, and the sounds of nature unfiltered. If you’re looking to disconnect and recharge, this is the place to do it.
Bring your own supplies and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this pristine environment. For outdoor lovers, this is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Wyoming.
10. Take a Historical Journey through Union Pacific Railroad Culture
Wamsutter owes much of its existence to the Union Pacific Railroad, and you can still feel that history in town today. Exploring the town’s railroad heritage is one of the more educational and intriguing things to do in Wamsutter, Wyoming.
While there’s no formal museum, old rail cars, industrial structures, and local anecdotes paint a picture of the town’s gritty past. Ask locals about Wamsutter’s role in helping the railroad industry expand westward — the stories are fascinating.
Rail fans will enjoy spotting trains along the tracks that still run through town. The rhythmic sound of locomotives serves as a nostalgic reminder of the role railroads played in shaping the American West.
Understanding this history adds context to your visit and deepens your appreciation for this often-overlooked Wyoming town. For those who enjoy blending education with exploration, this is one of the best things to do in Wyoming that you won’t find in guidebooks.
