Mountain views and Bighorn River recreation in Thermopolis
Among the rolling plains of northern Wyoming, the rural town of Thermopolis lies between the Bighorn and Wind River mountain ranges. Named for the nearby hot springs, the charming Old West community dates back to the 1880s and has ample nearby offerings for outdoor recreation, whether it be fishing along the Bighorn River or exploring Hot Springs State Park. “The community is in the unique location of the Wind River Canyon,” says Rachel Vardiman, a local Realtor with Eagle Real Estate. “You’re surrounded by mountains. It’s a really beautiful part of the country, and people come from all over Wyoming and Montana to visit the hot springs.” Thermopolis has a rural, small-town atmosphere, with charming local businesses lining Broadway Street, and a herd of bison roaming the surrounding hills. Located in Hot Springs County, Thermopolis has a population of around 2,700, according to the United States Census Bureau’s 2023 estimate.
Mid-century cabins and ranch-style homes
Mid 20th century split-levels, log cabins and ranch-style homes can be found throughout the area, with lot sizes ranging from a quarter of an acre to 2 acres. The streets are quiet, and well-maintained sidewalks connect residents to downtown’s quaint shopping area. There have been few recent sales in Thermopolis, but according to Homes.com data, the median sales price is around $220,000 as of May of 2025.
Thermopolis public schools and community programs at Hot Springs County Library
Ralph Witters Elementary School serves kindergarten through fourth-grade students and has a B-minus overall grade from Niche. Thermopolis Middle School earns an A. The B-rated Hot Springs County High School has career and technical education courses on topics like journalism, agriculture and digital design. The Hot Springs County Library hosts a handful of monthly programs, including gardening workshops, book clubs and story times.
Natural hot springs and nearby hiking trails
The Bighorn River winds through the east side of town, with fishing spots and recreation areas along its banks. Water flows from the river over the natural terraces to the mineral hot springs of Hot Springs State Park. The park is home to a bath house, a swimming pool, picnic areas and beach volleyball courts. Visitors can also launch their boat from the state park for a day on the water or cast a line from shore. Across the river is the Thermopolis Disc Golf Course and the River Bend Bark Park. The town is also home to an 8-hole golf course and a driving range. There are several hiking trails surrounding the community, including the Round Top Mountain and T Hill Trails, both leading to scenic overlooks. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center is another local attraction that draws in travelers to the area. “It’s a really impressive museum, especially for being in such a small town,” says Vardiman. “There are tons of exhibits, and visitors can even participate in an active dig site.”
Local businesses on Broadway Street
Broadway Street serves as the business hub of Thermopolis, home to coffee shops, a clothing boutique and a quilt shop. “People rely on local businesses in Thermopolis,” Vardiman says. “You’re about an hour away from Riverton, which is the nearest place with a bigger shopping scene.” Black Bear Cafe serves breakfast and lunch fare from fluffy pancakes to crispy chicken sliders. The 7 Lazy S Cafe and Bar offers pub fare, draft beer and cocktails. Two doors down, One Eyed Buffalo Brewing Company is a local favorite with steak, seafood and burgers paired with craft beer. Mack’s Market has a small selection of groceries and essentials.
Taking the highway to Riverton
Wyoming Highway 789 spans around 35 miles north to Worland and roughly 55 miles south to Riverton. Additionally, the Central Wyoming Regional Airport lies on the western outskirts of Riverton.
Written By
Jillian Pillow
