Dubois

Dubois, Wyoming (pronounced 'Doo-boys,' a local quirk), is a town where the spirit of the Old West remains palpable. It rests along the upper Wind River, framed by the dramatic Wind River and Absaroka mountains. This small community, with a population around 911 (though it nearly doubles in summer with part-time residents), offers a unique blend of rugged wilderness and authentic cowboy culture. It's often considered a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, yet it holds its own as a destination rich in outdoor adventure and a slower pace of life.

From its rustic log buildings lining Main Street, reminiscent of its late 1800s settlement, to the vast, unspoiled wilderness of the surrounding Shoshone National Forest, Dubois invites visitors to step back in time. The area presents striking contrasts, from the multi-hued badlands to the east to the high peaks that dominate the south, north, and west. Whether you're drawn by the promise of world-class fly fishing, extensive hiking trails, or simply the charm of a town that still embraces its frontier heritage, Dubois offers a memorable escape.

From Ancient Paths to Tie Hacks

The Wind River Valley, home to present-day Dubois, has been a land of passage and seasonal residence for thousands of years. The Mountain Shoshone natives, also known as the Sheepeaters, followed seasonal migration routes, establishing villages high in the mountains during summer and often wintering in the valleys. Evidence of their long presence, including stone tools, hunting traps, and numerous prehistoric petroglyphs, can still be found throughout the area.

The first Europeans to traverse the valley were fur traders and explorers in the early 1800s, with permanent settlers beginning to arrive around 1870. The initial homestead claim was filed in 1889, laying the foundation for a community built on ranching and, later, the burgeoning timber industry. The town's early days saw attempts to name its post office 'Neversweat,' a nod to its dry climate, or 'Tibo,' an affectionate Shoshone nickname for a local Episcopal missionary. However, the U.S. Postal Service ultimately named the town Dubois in 1914, after Idaho Senator Fred Dubois, a decision the locals famously defied in their pronunciation.

Dubois' growth was significantly shaped by the Wyoming Tie and Timber Company, which established log milling operations in 1914 and became the nation's largest producer of railroad ties. This era, dominated by 'tie hacks' who cut and shaped logs, lasted until 1949, with a sawmill continuing operations until 1988. The demanding work of the tie hacks even saw an unexpected workforce during World War II, when German and Austrian prisoners of war volunteered their labor.

Beyond its industrial past, Dubois has a deep connection to the romanticized Old West. Charles Moore opened one of the nation's first 'dude' ranches west of Dubois in 1909, catering to visitors seeking an authentic Western getaway—a tradition that continues today with several historic guest ranches. Even the notorious outlaw Butch Cassidy had ties to Dubois, owning ranch property and frequenting Welty's General Store. Today, Dubois preserves this heritage through its museums, weekly rodeos, and the enduring character of its log cabin-style main street.

Dubois offers a range of attractions that celebrate its natural beauty and storied past. Begin at the Dubois Museum: Wind River Historical Center, where you can explore seven historic cabins and artifacts spanning from the Precambrian Era to the 1980s timber industry. Just southeast of town, the National Museum of Military Vehicles is a world-class institution showcasing nearly 500 fully restored military vehicles, artillery, and aircraft, with immersive exhibits on American conflicts.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the National Bighorn Sheep Center provides education and outreach for the conservation of wild sheep and wildlife. You might even spot bighorn sheep near the red rocks or along Trail Lake Road. Explore the striking Dubois Badlands on the outskirts of town, characterized by delicate red, white, and tan sandstone cliffs and spires, perfect for hiking and photography. Do not miss the Dubois Scenic Overlook for panoramic views of the town, surrounding mountains, and badlands, and a rare opportunity to see evidence of volcanic, tectonic, and glacial mountain-building processes from one spot.

For a taste of local culture, stroll down Main Street with its rustic log buildings, visit The Honey House for local treats, or capture a unique memory with 'Old Time Photos' at Neversweat Photography. Check out the Dubois Town Park for a picnic, playground, or a stroll along the Wind River. For a truly Western experience, catch the Dubois Friday Night Rodeo from mid-June to mid-August.

The ideal time to visit Dubois is from June through September, when the weather is most comfortable for outdoor activities. Summer offers warm temperatures, low humidity, and abundant sunshine. Early fall, particularly September to mid-October, brings crisp air, golden aspens, and active wildlife as animals prepare for winter, including the dramatic bighorn sheep rut. Crowds are also lighter during this shoulder season.

Winters in Dubois are cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from 4°F to 22°F in December. However, winter offers opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing. Spring brings transitional weather with moderate temperatures.

Dubois is approximately an hour's drive from Jackson and Riverton, and about 130 miles southeast of Yellowstone's south entrance. The nearest commercial airports are in Riverton, Casper, and Jackson, with some Dubois motels offering shuttle services from Riverton and Jackson airports where car rentals are available. Dubois also has a blacktop airport for private planes.

While Dubois maintains a rustic charm, it offers a variety of accommodations, including historic guest ranches, motels, and cabins. Dining options are available, and a stroll down Main Street reveals log buildings, saloons, and quaint shops. Dress in layers, as Wyoming weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains. For local information and assistance, the Town Hall is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Remember that the formations of the Red Rocks are on Wind River Reservation land, and require a permit and guide to walk around in, though they can be viewed from the highway.