THERMOPOLIS, Wyo. – May 7, 2026 – Construction on the boardwalk at Hot Springs State Park is scheduled to begin the week of May 11, with work expected to continue through late August.

The project will involve a full replacement of the existing boardwalk, which is approximately 25 years old. Over time, the structure has begun to deteriorate, reducing water flow across the park’s iconic mineral terraces.

For the safety of visitors and to allow for efficient construction, the boardwalk will be closed to the public for the duration of the project. Visitors are encouraged to follow all posted signage and respect closure areas while work is underway.

“This project is an important investment in preserving both visitor access and the natural features that make Hot Springs State Park unique,” said Chris Delay, superintendent of Hot Springs State Park. “We appreciate the public’s patience as we complete these necessary improvements.”

Hot Springs State Park remains open during construction, and visitors are encouraged to continue enjoying the park’s many amenities. Nestled along the Big Horn River, the park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including viewing the resident bison herd, relaxing in the State Bath House’s mineral waters, picnicking in designated areas, and accessing the river for fishing and other water activities.

The park features more than 6 miles of trails, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding landscape. Seasonal programs and interpretive offerings are also available throughout the year.

The park’s mineral hot springs produce more than 3 million gallons of water daily, maintaining a constant temperature of 128 degrees Fahrenheit. The free State Bath House offers therapeutic soaking at a comfortable 104 degrees and is open year-round. Starting May 15, the Bath House hours will be Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Sundays from noon - 7 p.m. 

Hot Springs State Park remains a vibrant destination for both relaxation and outdoor recreation, and Wyoming State Parks encourages visitors to explore all areas that remain accessible during construction.

For more information, please visit the Wyoming State Parks website at wyoparks.wyo.gov.

Figure 1: Views of the Big Horn River and Mineral Terraces at Hot Springs State Park. 

Contact: Chris Delay, (307) 864-2176; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

MOORCROFT, Wyo. – May 4, 2026 - The Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources will host a third public forum to update the public and gather feedback on a proposed visitor center at Keyhole State Park.

The proposed Visitor Center aims to enhance recreation and education opportunities at Keyhole State Park by providing improved visitor services, interpretive exhibits, and a community gathering space for local small groups, and to be a launch point for recreation at Keyhole State Park.  

This forum follows up on an April meeting at the Pine Haven Community Center that presented a revised concept for the Visitor Center proposal, building on feedback received in January 2026. The event will again invite conversation to guide next steps in the project development process and give park users and residents an opportunity to learn more about how the new facility will support visitor experiences and natural resource education at Keyhole.

The public meeting will be held:

Date: May. 12, 2026

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Location: Moorcroft Branch Public Library, 105 E. Converse Street, Moorcroft, WY 82721

“We are looking forward to continued conversations surrounding how a visitor center can better serve the local community and Keyhole State Park users,” said Carly-Ann Carruthers, planning manager for the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources. “We appreciate the dialogue fostered throughout this process and welcome continued engagement from our visitors and partners, including the Bureau of Reclamation, as we craft plans for enriching experiences at the park.”

Those unable to attend in person can review the presentation materials and submit feedback via an online public comment form at wyoparks.wyo.gov/keyhole under the Proposed Visitor Center tab.

For more information, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov/keyhole or contact Carly-Ann Carruthers, planning manager, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Misty Moore, district manager, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Contacts: 

Carly-Ann Carruthers, (307) 777-6968; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Misty Moore, (307) 620-0331; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ROCK SPRINGS, Wyo. – April 29, 2026 – The Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation and Wyoming State Trails Program, both part of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, are preparing to welcome attendees to the second-annual Mountain West Trails Conference, taking place May 19–20, 2026, at the Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs.

Bringing together trail professionals, advocates, and outdoor recreation leaders from across the region, the conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and experience Wyoming’s trail systems firsthand.

Early bird registration is available for $199 per person through May 11. Registration will remain open after that date, with pricing increasing to $225.

Day 1 is centered on hands-on workshops and field tours across the Rock Springs area, while Day 2 features keynote, general, and breakout sessions covering trail planning, stewardship, accessibility, and partnerships.

A highlight of the conference is its lineup of immersive field experiences. Attendees can explore Wyoming’s landscapes and trail systems through opportunities such as:

• Red Desert Old West History Tour & Honeycombs Hike
• OHV Tour of the Red Desert: A Historical and Scenic Adventure
• Hidden Waters of Flaming Gorge: A Lucerne Valley Boat Experience
• Adaptive, beginner, and intermediate mountain bike rides
• Trail signage and restoration projects
• Guided hikes and partner-led experiences

These field tours provide hands-on learning and real-world application, connecting participants directly to the work shaping trail systems across the Mountain West.

Important Registration Reminder

Conference registration does not automatically reserve a spot in field tours or workshops. Attendees must log back into the registration system to select and secure their sessions. Space is limited and expected to fill.

In addition to conference programming, the public is invited to attend a free film screening presented in partnership with the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, Wyoming State Trails Program, and Wyoming PBS. The screening will take place on Wednesday, May 20, at 7 p.m. at Western Wyoming Community College’s Western Theatre in Rock Springs.

The event will feature the film “Headwinds: Bikepacking the Red Desert,” which highlights the unique landscape and trail opportunities of the very region hosting this year’s conference, along with an extended trailer of the forthcoming film “A Life Outside.” The screening is free and open to the public, offering an engaging look at outdoor exploration and the landscapes that define the Mountain West.

To explore the full schedule, field tour options, sponsorship opportunities, and speaker lineup—and to register—visit mountainwesttrailsconference.com. 

The Mountain West Trails Conference brings together participants from Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico to share best practices, strengthen partnerships, and advance trail systems across the region. The event highlights the role of trails in supporting recreation, tourism, health, and community connection throughout the Mountain West.

Contact: Mark Tesoro, (307) 679-2507; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

LANDER, Wyo. – April 29, 2026 – Fremont County Weed and Pest District, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and the Bureau of Land Management plan to conduct aerial cheatgrass treatment within Sinks Canyon State Park the week of May 4-8, depending on weather conditions. Conducting cheatgrass treatments is a continuing and shared commitment to manage healthy wildlife habitat and reduce wildfire risk.

“Treating cheatgrass in Sinks Canyon State Park is a high priority for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The area includes crucial winter range for mule deer and provides extensive habitat for a myriad of other species. All of these species depend on native plants for forage and cover. Cheatgrass inhibits these native plants as well as increasing chances for wildfire,” stated Amy Anderson, Wyoming Game and Fish Department terrestrial habitat biologist.  

Treatments will involve spraying the herbicide indaziflam (Rejuvra) from drones. Actual spray dates will depend on weather conditions, but could begin as early as May 4. Short-duration closures in Sinks Canyon State Park will occur during application.

“Historical wildfires on the south slopes in Sinks Canyon created an opportunity for cheatgrass to dominate, risking repeat fires and continued loss of important wildlife habitat. Rejuvra treatments will improve land health, benefiting wildlife while also reducing fire risk,” said

Aaron Foster, Fremont County Weed and Pest district supervisor. 

Spray areas will be flagged and marked with signs. The public is advised to use caution and avoid spraying operations if encountered. Once the spray has dried, areas will be reopened to the public. The Sunnyside Trail will be closed during the duration of the treatment. 

For more information, please contact Fremont County Weed and Pest District Supervisor Aaron Foster at (307) 332-1052 or Sinks Canyon State Park Superintendent Jessica Moore at (307) 332-6333.

Contacts: 

Aaron Foster, (307) 332-1052; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jessica Moore, (307) 332-6333; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

THERMOPOLIS, Wyo. – April 28, 2026 – The Wyoming State Trails Program’s Advisory Council will meet in Thermopolis on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. Members of the public are welcome to attend in person, watch virtually, or listen in by phone. 

The meeting details are as follows: 

Meeting Location: Hot Springs Hotel, 115 E. Park St,  Thermopolis, WY 82443. 

Video call link: meet.google.com/bft-brmu-ude 

Or dial:  ‪(US) +1 234-805-1090‬ PIN: ‪504 288 107‬# 

Agenda items include RTP Updates, the OHV Partnership, a presentation on a new Non-Motorized Grant opportunity, and updates from the State Trails Program and the Office of Outdoor Recreation.

The Wyoming State Trails Advisory Council is a ten-member recreational trail advisory committee appointed by the Governor to advise the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources regarding trail policies, functions, and priorities. 

If you have questions about the meeting, please call (307) 777-7446. You can also learn more about the Wyoming State Trails Program and Advisory Council by visiting wyoparks.wyo.gov. 

Contact: Naomi Lopez, (307) 777-7446; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – April 24, 2026 – The Wyoming Monuments and Markers Program preserves and interprets significant historic places, people, and events through a statewide system of monuments and roadside markers. The program highlights Wyoming’s diverse heritage, from Indigenous history and historic trails to community development and notable individuals, helping residents and visitors connect with the stories that shaped the state’s landscape.

A major focus of the program today is expanding public access through digital tools. The recently refreshed interactive Monuments and Markers Map modernizes how users explore Wyoming history by providing updated locations and improved usability. The map revamp strengthens heritage tourism, educational outreach, and public engagement, allowing users to discover historic sites across Wyoming anytime, anywhere. View the interactive map at Bit.ly/WyoMM. 

The program operates through collaboration with key partners, including Wyoming State Parks and the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office, both part of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, and the Wyoming Department of Transportation, the Wyoming Office of Tourism, local governments, tribal nations, historical societies, tourism organizations, and community volunteers. These partnerships support research, installation, and long-term stewardship of monuments and markers while ensuring historical interpretation remains accurate, accessible, and representative of Wyoming’s shared history.

Learn more about the Monuments and Markers program or other Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources programs and initiatives at wyospcr.wyo.gov. 

     ​

Figure 1: Custer Expedition Monument in Sundance, Wyoming. Figure 2: Sheep Mountain near Greybull, Wyoming. Figure 3: Art Gallery of Time in Sweetwater County, Wyoming.

Contact: Savannah Daniels, (307) 777-6314; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – April 17, 2026 – The Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources is excited to announce the lineup of talented musicians for the 2nd year of the Tunes on the Trail summer series. This unique initiative combines live acoustic music with the stunning outdoor scenery of Wyoming's state parks and historic sites, offering an unforgettable experience for music lovers and nature enthusiasts.

The four selected Wyoming-based artists are Shawn Hess (Laramie), Box of Rocks (Laramie), The Tinderwoods (Lander), and Pathfinder (Casper). 

"We are beyond excited for the second year of Tunes on the Trail. This program saw incredible success last year, and we have amazing artists selected for 2026," stated Jamie Hansen with the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation. "It was a difficult selection process, and we greatly appreciate everyone who applied. We look forward to getting people outside and introducing them to Wyoming music and culture.”

Each artist will perform a 90-minute set, made unique by the custom backdrop of Wyoming's beautiful landscape. The experience begins with an optional guided hike, allowing attendees to explore the area before settling in for live music.

The summer concert series will kick off on June 6, 2026, with a performance by Shawn Hess at Guernsey State Park. Attendees are invited to join a hike at 4:30 p.m., followed by the performance from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. 

On July 11, 2026, Seminoe State Park will feature the band Box of Rocks. The schedule includes a 5:00 p.m. hike and a performance from 6:00 to 7:30p.m.

South Pass City State Historic Site will host The Tinderwoods on August 15, 2026. Participants can enjoy a hike at 4:30 p.m., with the performance set from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

The concert series will conclude at Hot Springs State Park on August 22, 2026, with the band Pathfinder performing. Hikers can start at 5:30 p.m., with the concert running from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.

While standard day-use fees apply for park entry at Guernsey State Park and Seminoe State Park ($7 per vehicle for Wyoming residents and $12 per vehicle for non-residents) and general admission applies at South Pass City State Historic Site ($4 for Wyoming residents, $8 for non-residents, with free admission for kids 17 & under) the Tunes on the Trail events are free to attend. Entry to Hot Springs State Park is always free. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and explore the park to make the most of their visit.

Tunes on the Trail is a program created in partnership by the Wyoming Arts Council, the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, and Wyoming State Parks, programs within the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources.

The Tunes on the Trail program is partially supported by the Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources Spark Tank program, an internal funding initiative for innovative agency projects and events, and is part of the Wyoming Arts Council's Wyoming Independent Music Initiative (WIMI), which aims to promote local artists and facilitate their performances throughout the state.

To stay updated on upcoming events, follow us on our Facebook pages: @WyomingArtsCouncil, @WyoRec, and @WyomingStateParks. You can also learn more about the diverse programs offered by Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources at wyospcr.wyo.gov.

Figure 1: Shawn Hess of Laramie, image courtesy of the artist. Figure 2: Box of Rocks of Laramie, image courtesy of the artist. Figure 3: The Tinderwoods of Lander, image courtesy of the artist. Figure 4: Pathfinder of Casper, image courtesy of the artist. 

Contact: Jamie Hansen, (307) 460-8794; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – April 17, 2026 – Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites, and Trails has officially released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for professional appraisal services to evaluate concession facilities at Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming.

These appraisals are mandated by 2026 Senate Enrolled Act 27, Section 335, which requires appraisals of the “capital investment” and “ongoing concern” for the businesses known as the Star Plunge and the Hot Springs Hotel and Spa. 

Qualified professional appraisers are encouraged to review the full requirements.  Proposals must be submitted through the State’s Public Purchase online bidding system by 2:00 p.m., May 18, 2026. To view the full RFP (Number 0270-M), please visit https://www.publicpurchase.com/gems/wyominggsd,wy/buyer/public/home. 

For additional information, contact Wyoming State Parks' Visitor Services Manager Stephanie Dillmon.

Contact: Stephanie Dillmon, (307) 777-5734; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – April 14, 2026 – The Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources will begin accepting applications for the 2027 Non-Motorized Recreational Trails Program (RTP) in May 2026. 

RTP provides competitive funding for projects that enhance non-motorized trail opportunities across Wyoming. Winter trail grooming projects shall remain eligible for reimbursement at a rate determined either on a per-mile or per-hour basis.

Approximately $550,000 is available statewide to support the maintenance, construction, restoration, and repair of trails and trailhead facilities.  Eligible applicants must be a land-managing agency or have a land use agreement in place. 

Pre-applications due September 1, 2026. Pre-applicants will receive feedback and guidance in accordance with the RTP guidelines, specifically regarding their eligibility and the prerequisites for proceeding to the full application, which must be submitted by October 1, 2026. All interested parties are encouraged to review the FY2027 RTP Grant Guidelines, available online, along with all application materials, at wyoparks.wyo.gov/index.php/rtp-grant-information-trails.

RTP grants are available through the Wyoming State Trails Program within the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources. Funded through the Federal Off-Highway Vehicle Gas Tax, RTP helps provide and improve recreational trail opportunities for the public throughout Wyoming.

For more information, contact Grants Specialist Naomi Lopez at (307) 777-7446 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You can also learn more about State Parks and Cultural Resources at wyospcr.wyo.gov.

Contact: Naomi Lopez, (307) 777-7446; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.