30 Day Roadtrip

This blog post is part of my 30-day road trip to explore the stunning scenery and breathtaking national parks across the United States. Each stop on this journey showcases the incredible diversity of our natural landscapes, from the vibrant colors of Badlands National Park to the majestic peaks of the Rockies in Grand Teton National Parks. Join me as I uncover the beauty and wonder of these amazing destinations, one adventure at a time! Click here to see other blog posts on this trip.

Discovering Buckhorn, Wyoming: The Best Kept Secret

Tucked away in the vast expanse of Wyoming lies Buckhorn, a tiny community that boasts an unofficial population of just two—though this quaint locale is not even on the official census rolls. It may be small, but Buckhorn has a charm and character that are larger than life.

As my husband and I drove into town, I was struck by the vastness of the surrounding landscape. The area is dotted with expansive ranches, many over 5,000 acres, where the spirit of the American West thrives. It’s hard not to feel a sense of freedom here, with the open skies and rolling hills stretching as far as the eye can see.

A Taste of Local Life

One of the most fascinating encounters was with a local contractor who has made this area his home. He’s currently working on a new development and shared that he sees around 100 elk grazing on the land each day. His passion for this area is evident—he said he would never move and could never imagine leaving. It’s clear that this rugged land holds a special place in his heart.

This dedicated contractor makes a trip to the Buckhorn Bar and Grill for lunch, buying lunch for his workers on his job. This quaint little spot, has a warm and inviting atmosphere. The walls are adorned with dollar bills left by customers, each telling a story of their own. I could feel the community spirit as I watched locals come and go, sharing laughter and stories over hearty meals.

Taxidermy Mounts

Walking into this rural Wyoming bar felt like stepping into a wildlife museum, with a stunning variety of taxidermy mounts lining the walls. We were immediately captivated by a majestic deer with its impressive antlers, standing proudly next to a sleek cougar that seemed poised to leap at any moment. The sheer size of the elk, with its grand rack, dominated one area, while a formidable bear took center stage, its presence commanding the room. Each mount told a story of the wild landscapes surrounding us, and I found myself lost in admiration of the craftsmanship that brought these creatures to life. 

As we settled in with a drink, we struck up a conversation with the bartender, who shared tales of local hunting adventures by the owner and the significance of these mounts in the community. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of nature preserved in such an intimate setting, I felt a deep appreciation for both the artistry of taxidermy and the rugged spirit of Wyoming.

A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering

With its breathtaking landscapes, rich ranching heritage, and a sense of community that is hard to find elsewhere, Buckhorn truly stands out as one of Wyoming’s best-kept secrets. The stories and experiences found here are worth the journey. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a taste of the authentic Western lifestyle, Buckhorn has something special to offer.

So, the next time you find yourself exploring Wyoming, consider taking a detour to this hidden gem. You might just discover the charm and beauty of Buckhorn for yourself.

Debbi Marquette Photography is located in Upstate New York at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Debbi is an award winning and published travel, landscape and bald eagle photographer specializing in artistic, authentic, and memorable landscape and wildlife photography. She travels frequently, lives near the mountains and constantly has a camera in her hand to capture photographs so others can see the beauty of our world.

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