10 Historic Sights You Can't Miss
Pick Your Spring Plans
The snow is melting, and the sun is coming out! One of our favorite ways to enjoy the season? Exploring the history of the American West. And you don't have to look too far to find the quintessential American West vacation in Sweetwater County. Whether you want to take in history about settlers, archaeology, biology or geology, you can encounter treasures that have existed for hundreds—even thousands—of years, right here.
1. Lake Gosiute
Lake Gosiute covered the Green River and Red Desert basin areas during the Eocene Epoch, 56 to 33 million years ago. In some parts of the ancient lake bed, you can find evidence of a mass extinction of sea creatures. Countless years of sediment compacted and created beautiful glass-like rocks, which were prized by native inhabits and often made into tools. Search for fossils with your family while you hike this alluring panorama, but please respect the historic area (and the law) by leaving fossils where you find them.
2. White Mountain Petroglyphs
Created over 30 million years ago, White Mountain is a marker of the Green River Formation. Here, you'll find hundreds of awe-inspiring carvings in the rock face. Some of the etchings are up to 1,000 years old and depict elk, bison, birds, handprints, and geometric figures, as well as the daily life of American Indians. Since the Petroglyphs were once covered in water, you can also hunt for seashells! Please keep in mind that this historic area must remain undisturbed, so please leave seashells at the site.
3. Killpecker Sand Dunes
A Pleistocene age masterpiece, the Killpecker Sand Dunes is an outdoor adventurer's most desirable destination. Be sure to bring your camera to spot herds of rare desert elk and capture the scenery. Only a few miles from Rock Springs, the dunes comprise 11,000 acres and reach heights of 100 feet. Bring your ATV or dirt bike for the off-road vehicle area, hiking boots to explore on foot, or even a sand board or surfboard to glide down the smooth, silt peaks.
4. Rock Formations
Plot your road trip through Rock Springs and Green River to see the amazing rock formations created over millions of years by wind storms and slowly accumulating sediment. Each has their own individual history and geological features. Check out our guide and find out what makes each rock formation in Sweetwater County not only fascinating, but memorable.
5. Museums
You want to learn about history, but you want to stay out of the dirt? We've got you covered. Sweetwater County is home to a surprising assortment of educational opportunities. The Rock Springs Historical Museum will give you a great background on the region's origins and immigrant history. Plan a stop at the Sweetwater County Historical Museum to learn about western expansion through the eyes of American Indians, trappers, traders, pioneers, and mining industrialists. WWCC Natural History Museum is home to Mesozoic-era dinosaur displays, originally uncovered in 1800's Wyoming. Learn about these ancient creatures and their habitat for free!
6. Famous Trails
Can't get enough history about the settlers of this great nation? Neither can we. Luckily, we know just where you can get your fix for a time gone by. During the 1800s, hundreds of thousands of people, animals, and wagons made their way across the nation and through Sweetwater County. These still-visible trails are a humbling sight to behold.
7. Rock Springs, Green River, and Superior Historical Districts
A great way to catch some lovely scenery while following in the footsteps of our ancestors is visiting one of Sweetwater County's many historic districts. Rock Springs was a favorite stopover for pioneers, and it's still a favorite for modern-day travelers! >Take a self-guided tour of its historic downtown, bike a nearby historic pioneer trail, or learn about the area's archaeological past at The WWCC Natural History Museum.
If you're looking for a city with contemporary recreation and a multitude of historic experiences, Green River is for you. Experience life as a pioneer, outlaw, industrialist or Native American at the Sweetwater County Historical Museum. Catch a fascinating tour at the Reliance Tipple or hike through stunning rock formations.
Built under the expanding Union Pacific rails and over coal-rich lands, Superior was once a bustling mining town. One of the most captivating features of the ghost town is its large concrete arrows, used by early 20th century transcontinental pilots to navigate and deliver mail. While you're searching for these aviation relics, swing by the beautifully restored Union Hall or visit the largest working mine of its time — the D.O. Clarke.
8. Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop
This off-road trip is a truly a unique experience. Almost impossible to see anywhere else in the U.S., this scenic loop is populated with wild horses. These desert stallions, mares, and foals are descendants of horses brought to the area during the 1800s. You can also visit the Rock Springs Wild Horse Holding Facility, where many are kept before adoption.
9. Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge
The animals who reside at Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge have traveled in the same patterns for hundreds of years, making them not only residents, but also a part of the local culture. During the spring and summer months, Seedskadee's vast 27,230 acres is saturated with migrating animals and blossoming plants. In this picturesque, rustic landscape you can take a guided tour, explore on foot, or leisurely drive many routes throughout the park. However you choose to explore, it's a great way to get out and enjoy the springtime sunshine!
10. Lake Flaming Gorge
In 1896, explorer Major John Powell named Flaming Gorge for the way the sun reflects a prism of colors on the nearby peaks. Nowadays, the lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, jet skiing, hiking, camping, mountain biking, parasailing, and many more recreational activities. Located above 6,000 vertical feet and with over 42,000 acres of water to explore, you'll see why the lake is a local gem.
Top your springtime visit off by attending one of our rodeos, arenacross events, BMX and more. View our full events calendar here.