AREA HISTORY

The Big Horn Basin has a long and fascinating history. The region was shaped by ancient volcanoes, glaciers, and forces of erosion, leaving behind stunning rock formations, canyons, and waterways. Many prehistoric animals inhabited the region, including various dinosaurs and early mammals. Later, Native American tribes such as the Crow, Shoshone, and Arapaho called the area home for thousands of years.

By the late 1800s, both Worland and Thermopolis had been established, mainly as ranching and mining towns. But by the early 1900s, Thermopolis had become quite the tourist destination due to its hot springs, which were thought to have healing properties. Today both towns and the basin are still vital hubs for agriculture and tourism, and the region’s rich history can be explored through numerous museums, historic sites, and cultural events.