Make Afton your base camp for all of your western Wyoming adventures! Tucked into the heart of Star Valley, Afton is a charming destination known for its natural beauty, rich history, and abundant outdoor activities. But Afton isn't just a place to stop on your way to grander adventures—it's a perfect base for exploring stunning landscapes, hidden gems and unforgettable experiences, all within a short drive. Whether you’re a hiker, wildlife enthusiast or someone looking to simply relax in nature, Afton offers something for everyone.
Here are five stunning adventures within an hour of Afton that you won't want to miss.
1. Intermittent Spring: Nature's Hidden Gem
Just a short 10-minute drive from Afton lies one of Wyoming’s most unique natural wonders, the Intermittent Spring. This rare geological phenomenon is one of only a few periodic springs in the world. For much of the year, the spring’s flow stops and starts every 15-20 minutes, making it a fascinating spot for visitors to witness nature’s rhythms.
Getting there is half the adventure. After parking, you’ll take an easy 1.2-mile hike along Swift Creek, surrounded by towering cliffs and vibrant foliage in the fall. The trail is family-friendly and perfect for all skill levels, offering scenic views and peaceful sounds of the creek. At the spring, you can sit back and watch as the water ebbs and flows—a calming and mesmerizing experience unlike any other.
Why It’s Stunning: The combination of the unique natural phenomenon, the peaceful hike, and the surrounding landscapes make the Intermittent Spring a must-see adventure near Afton.
2. Bridger-Teton National Forest: A Hiker's Paradise
Less than an hour’s drive north of Afton, Bridger-Teton National Forest offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Wyoming. Covering over 3.4 million acres, this national forest is home to towering peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely nature walk or a challenging backcountry trek, there’s a trail for you.
One highly recommended trail is the Greys River Trail, a scenic route that follows the river and offers views of lush meadows, mountain peaks, and vibrant wildflowers in the summer. This area is also a hotspot for wildlife watching—keep an eye out for elk, moose, and even bald eagles.
In the fall, the forest bursts into color with shades of red, yellow, and orange, creating a stunning backdrop for your hiking or camping adventure.
Why It’s Stunning: With endless hiking trails, pristine rivers, and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, Bridger-Teton National Forest is an adventurer’s dream come true.
3. Star Valley Scenic Byway: A Drive Through America's Beauty
For those looking for a more relaxed adventure, the Star Valley Scenic Byway is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the region without leaving the comfort of your car. This 80-mile stretch of highway offers jaw-dropping views of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and snow-capped peaks, all while winding through charming small towns like Afton.
The byway follows US Highway 89 and runs along the western edge of the Salt River Range, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way. Popular stops include the Salt River, where you can fish for trout or simply enjoy a riverside picnic, and the Palisades Reservoir, a picturesque spot for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
As you drive through Star Valley, you'll be surrounded by open pastures and distant mountains, offering a sense of serenity and escape from the bustle of everyday life.
Why It’s Stunning: The combination of breathtaking mountain views, serene river scenes, and the charm of small-town Wyoming makes this scenic drive an unforgettable experience.
4. Elk Watching in the National Elk Refuge
Just over an hour from Afton, you’ll find one of the most significant wildlife conservation areas in the United States: the National Elk Refuge. This 25,000-acre refuge is home to thousands of elk that migrate through the region each year, particularly in the winter months.
From late fall to early spring, the refuge becomes a prime spot for elk watching. Guided sleigh rides offer an up-close experience with these magnificent animals, as well as opportunities to see other wildlife like bison, wolves, and trumpeter swans. The refuge also offers hiking, photography opportunities, and educational exhibits about wildlife conservation efforts in the area.
Why It’s Stunning: The sheer number of elk and the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat, surrounded by the stunning snow-covered peaks of the Teton Range, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
5. Salt River Range: A Wilderness Escape
For those seeking solitude and rugged adventure, the Salt River Range, located just east of Afton, offers miles of backcountry exploration. The Salt River Range is one of Wyoming’s hidden gems, boasting high mountain peaks, dense forests, and alpine lakes perfect for fishing, camping, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
One of the best ways to experience this range is by taking a day hike to one of its many hidden lakes, like Lake Alice or Sheep Creek Lake. These serene spots are surrounded by mountain scenery and offer excellent fishing opportunities. The range is also a fantastic place for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hunting.
For the more adventurous, there are challenging trails that lead to some of the higher peaks, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. No matter how you choose to explore, the Salt River Range provides a wilderness escape like no other.
Why It’s Stunning: The rugged, untouched beauty of the Salt River Range offers a sense of adventure and tranquility, making it the perfect spot for anyone looking to connect with nature.
Afton may be a small town, but it’s surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures in the country. From the mysterious Intermittent Spring to the towering peaks of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting for you within an hour’s drive. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature walk, a scenic drive, or a challenging wilderness trek, Afton is the perfect base camp for exploring the natural wonders of western Wyoming.
Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the stunning adventures that await just beyond Afton’s charming streets.
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