Lander Wyoming
Lying along the banks of the Popo Agie River are the stunning and majestic Wind River Mountains and the friendly town of Lander, Wyoming. With a population of about 6,900, Lander seems to epitomize the changing face of the state with its small homey feel and numerous locally owned businesses. Home to several organizations geared to the outdoors, including the National Outdoor Leadership School, Lander receives relatively mild winters and with its close proximity to the Wind River Mountains is a perfect starting place for mountain treks into the high country. Located approximately 166 miles southeast of Jackson, Lander is a great community to visit with its abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, unique dining and satisfying accommodations.
Book online or call direct. One of the newest hotels in the city, great rates & central location.Lander began in 1869 when the army established a small military post, Camp Augur (later Camp Brown), to protect Shoshone Indians from attacks by the Sioux and Arapaho Indians. In 1871, the post was transferred to Fort Washakie which was situated in a rich valley neighboring the Popo Agie River and proved to be ideal for irrigation and growing ample crops. Settlers moved here in the late 1870s from the dying gold mines of South Pass, which is located to the south. Lander got its name from Col. Frederick W. Lander, who surveyed the Oregon Trails Lander Cutoff. One of the towns early denizens was the outlaw Butch Cassidy, who frequented Landers poker tables and dance halls. Once the railroad arrived in 1906, Lander began its rapid growth. During the 1960s and 70s, Lander became a mining boomtown but the mine shut its doors in 1983.
Popular sights to see in Lander and the surrounding vicinity of Sinks Canyon include a handful of museums ranging from history of the American West to wildlife education. Partly because of its close proximity to the Wind River Mountains, Lander has become a center for environmental movement in the state. Lander is home to the Wyoming Outdoor Council, which stresses conservation education and environmental lobbying, and The Nature Conservancy, which has its state office here.
With many options to choose from when it comes to accommodations in Lander, you should have no problem finding a suitable place to rest your head and feet. From dozens of motels, lodges, bed-and-breakfasts and inns, to guesthouses and cabins, Lander is overflowing with places to stay. If youre looking for more rustic establishments that are set in the wilderness and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery, consider staying at one of the many guesthouses and cabins located in the area. Guest ranches are also available for those who plan on spending a significant period of time in the area. More than seven public campgrounds exist in and around Lander with some charging nothing at all.
Although Lander is a small town in a landlocked state, dont let that fool you when deciding on places to dine. Known for its excellent restaurants and eclectic dining choices, Lander has everything from barbecue beef to Hawaiian cuisine to authentic Thai food. A good number of bars litter the downtown area with some featuring live music nightly. A number of grocery stores and bakeries can also be found in town.
If youre looking to rock climb, Lander might be one of the best places to do so in the state, outside of the Jackson area and Devils Tower in northeast Wyoming. The area is suited for all ability levels. Get into the vertical world at such places as Sinks Canyon State Park, Wild Iris, Fossil Hill and Baldwin Creek. All are located a short car ride outside of Lander. Horseback and wagon treks, cycling and golf can also be found in the area.
Tons of festivals take place in Lander from spring to fall, including Pioneer Days, which is the towns largest event featuring parades, barbecues and nightly rodeos. The event is a three-day party around the Fourth of July. For more information, visit the Lander Chamber of Commerce while in town.
Other pages you might find helpful:
City of Lander, Wyoming
Official site for the City of Lander, Wyoming.
Lander Library
The Lander Library is a branch of Fremont County Libraries.
Lander Parks and Recreation
Information on the parks and recreation facilities of Lander, Wyoming.
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