The geothermal hot springs at Thermopolis, Wyoming.

Thermopolis, Wyoming,
A Quaint Town in the State's Core

by: Bobby McDonald

The town of Thermopolis, Wyoming, as you might expect, is home to many thermal hot springs, laden with  minerals, that have been touted as a healthy experience for bathers. The town, located in Hot Springs County, serves as the county seat and boasts as having the world's largest mineral hot spring, as part of the Hot Springs State Park. The springs are open free to the public, as a result of an 1896 treaty, signed with the Soshone and Arapaho Indian tribes.

The quaint town of Thermopolis, is home to just over 3,000 residents and depends on tourism for a major portion of the economic base. A state maintained buffalo herd is available for viewing in Hot Springs State Park and two hot mineral water concessions, the Teepe Pools and Star Plunge, are located within the park, as well as hotel facilities, for your convenient access.

Also, in the area is the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, the Old West Wax Museum, and the Wind River, that offers whitewater rafting, picnicing, and scenic adventures. The Hot Springs County Museum and Cultural Center also offers a wonderful collection of early pioneer memorabilia, from the 1890-1910 era. Currently, they are planning a special exhibit on "Tim McCoy," a local rancher, who built the High Eagle Ranch, located approximately 45 miles west of the town. McCoy worked for many years in Hollywood, as a western movie cowboy actor.

You're sure to find many activities in Thermopolis, from dinasaur and paleontology digs, to soaking-up the mineral water, to feel healthy. The area around Thermopolis offers a unique experience and some outstanding mountain terrain, unlike any other in the state of Wyoming.

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