Winter is one of the coolest (pun intended) times of year to plan a trip to Casper, Wyoming. With abundant snowfall on Casper and Muddy mountains, there is no shortage of winter activities in Casper. And if you're looking for things to do in Wyoming in the winter, this mountain town has lots, from winter events to things to do both indoors and outdoors.
A Western Winter Outdoors - Casper Mountain
When the snow falls, Casper transforms into a winter wonderland. In Wyoming, it often feels like the outdoors are practically begging you to come outside and play. And with Casper's location at the foot of Casper Mountain and along the banks of the North Platte River, it's easy to soak up the outdoors, followed by enjoying the many offerings in downtown.
If you're ready to head up Casper Mountain, here are things to do during the winter on one of central Wyoming's most legendary landmarks.
Cross-country ski the 26 miles of groomed Nordic trails on Casper Mountain. Snowshoeing is also popular here, with plenty of marked trails that make it feel like you're in your very own snow globe. The Casper Mountain Trails Center is a great place to start and end your day on cross-country skis and snowshoes. While you're there, be sure to check out the newly rebuilt lodge at the Casper Mountain Trails Center. For more on-the-snow fun, plan to ski or snowboard at Hogadon Basin Ski Area. An upside-down ski area, Hogadon overlooks the city of Casper. Hogadon's on-mountain lodge offers sweeping views through its floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as a restaurant, bar, ski school and rentals. Additional winter activities on Casper and Muddy mountains include fat biking and snowmobiling.
Tales As Old As Time - Indoor Fun
Casper’s museums and historical sites provide visitors with a look into Wyoming and Western history and while they're excellent stops year-round, they're especially welcoming during the winter if you want to get out of the cold.
Start your journey at Fort Caspar, where you can take a deep dive into the founding of modern-day Casper, Wyoming. Walk through reconstructed buildings and exhibits that tell the story of the town's first 100 years. Set aside a couple of hours to explore life on the California, Oregon, Pony Express and Mormon trails at the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center. The Interpretive Center has immersive displays that share the area's abundant history and is a great way to learn about the four historic trails that go through the heart of Casper. It also offers an incredible view of Casper and Casper Mountain. A few other museums to put on your must-visit list: the Nicolaysen Art Museum, Tate Geological Museum and the Werner Wildlife Museum.
Downtown Delights
There’s a unique dualism found in downtown Casper. Here, it's easy to tap into the urban elements of Casper with charming boutiques, cool breweries, a hip distillery and delicious restaurants, while also finding yourself enamored with our Western shops, museums and historical landmarks scattered throughout the area. Downtown is full of things to get into, from trivia nights to shopping and rubbing elbows with the locals. Plus, in winter, it's easy to see the snow-covered downtown and its architecture and offerings in a new way.
The hub of downtown, David Street Station has an outdoor stage and open spaces. And while during the summer months it houses a splash pad, in the winter that area is turned into a quaint ice skating rink. With its location in the heart of downtown, it's easy to grab a hot cocoa, dinner or drinks and then go skate under a tapestry of lights.
If you're looking for adult libations while you're in Casper this winter, Backwards Distilling Company is a family-owned and managed distillery, with a tasting room in downtown. It's a great place to meet friends or try a created-right-here cocktail while you're visiting. From David Street Station, it's an easy walk to a handful of local restaurants, including Racca's Pizzeria, The Branding Iron, Rib & Chop House and The Railyard. Check out more dining options here.