Hot Springs County, located in north-central Wyoming, is known for its unique geological features, including the world-famous mineral hot springs in Thermopolis. Established in 1911, the county covers approximately 2,004 square miles, with much of the terrain characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and the dramatic Wind River Canyon. The county gets its name from the numerous natural hot springs in the region, which have been utilized by Native American tribes and later settlers for centuries due to their therapeutic properties.
Hot Springs County has a population of around 4,500 residents, making it one of the least populated counties in Wyoming. The county seat is Thermopolis, which is also the largest town and the main hub for tourism and commerce in the region. In addition to Thermopolis, there are smaller communities such as East Thermopolis and Kirby, each with their own historical and cultural significance. The county’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and natural resource extraction.
Cities and Towns in Hot Springs County
Thermopolis
Overview of Geography and History
Thermopolis is the county seat and largest town in Hot Springs County. The town is famous for being home to the world’s largest mineral hot springs, located in Hot Springs State Park. Thermopolis sits along the banks of the Bighorn River, surrounded by rolling hills and scenic landscapes. The town was founded in 1897 and quickly became a popular destination due to the healing properties of the hot springs, which were used by Native American tribes long before European settlers arrived. The springs were ceded to the U.S. government in an 1896 treaty with the Shoshone and Arapaho tribes, allowing for the creation of Hot Springs State Park.
Over the years, Thermopolis developed into a regional hub for tourism, ranching, and energy production, especially oil and gas. Today, it remains a charming small town known for its historical landmarks, outdoor recreation opportunities, and natural wonders.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Home of the World’s Largest Mineral Hot Springs”
- Area: 2.47 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,000
- Elevation: 4,331 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82443
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Thermopolis is accessible via U.S. Highways 20 and 789, which provide connections to major cities in Wyoming and neighboring states. The town is located just south of the stunning Wind River Canyon, a major transportation route through central Wyoming. For air travel, Thermopolis is served by the Hot Springs County-Thermopolis Airport, which handles private and general aviation. The closest commercial airport is located in Cody, about 80 miles to the north. The Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway (BNSF) runs through the town, supporting freight transport for local industries.
Famous Landmarks
- Hot Springs State Park: Home to the world’s largest mineral hot springs.
- Wyoming Dinosaur Center: A museum showcasing fossils and an active dinosaur dig site.
- Wind River Canyon: A dramatic canyon offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
East Thermopolis
Overview of Geography and History
East Thermopolis is a small town located just across the Bighorn River from the larger town of Thermopolis. Established as a separate community, East Thermopolis grew as an extension of Thermopolis in the early 20th century. The town is largely residential, with close economic and cultural ties to Thermopolis. Its location near Hot Springs State Park and along the banks of the river makes it a picturesque, peaceful community.
East Thermopolis benefits from its proximity to the amenities and attractions of Thermopolis, particularly the hot springs and state park, while maintaining a quieter, more residential character. The town has a history intertwined with that of Thermopolis, particularly in relation to the development of tourism and the oil industry in the region.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 0.13 square miles
- Population: Approximately 250
- Elevation: 4,331 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82443
- Area code: 307
Transportation
East Thermopolis shares much of its transportation infrastructure with Thermopolis, as it lies just across the river. U.S. Highways 20 and 789 provide easy access to the town, and residents typically use the same transportation routes as those in Thermopolis. The nearby Hot Springs County-Thermopolis Airport serves the area for private and general aviation needs, while commercial flights are available from Cody. Given the town’s small size, most travel within East Thermopolis is local and often done by foot or car.
Famous Landmarks
- Hot Springs State Park: East Thermopolis is adjacent to the park, with easy access to its attractions.
- Swinging Bridge: A pedestrian suspension bridge offering scenic views of the Bighorn River.
Kirby
Overview of Geography and History
Kirby is a small, unincorporated community located about 12 miles north of Thermopolis. Founded as a railroad town in the early 1900s, Kirby developed as a small agricultural community with a focus on ranching and livestock. The town remained small, never growing beyond a few dozen residents, but it has become famous in recent years due to the success of the Wyoming Whiskey distillery, which put Kirby on the map as a destination for whiskey enthusiasts.
Kirby’s history is tied to the expansion of the railroad and the cattle industry, but today, the town is best known for its whiskey production, which draws visitors from across the state and beyond. Despite its small size, Kirby plays an important role in the local economy, contributing to both agriculture and tourism.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 0.17 square miles
- Population: Approximately 75
- Elevation: 4,236 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82430
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Kirby is located along U.S. Highway 20, which connects the town to Thermopolis to the south and other communities in Hot Springs County. The town does not have its own airport, but the Hot Springs County-Thermopolis Airport is just a short drive away and serves general aviation needs. For commercial flights, residents travel to larger cities like Cody or Casper. Kirby’s location on the highway makes it easily accessible by car, and visitors frequently stop by for tours of the Wyoming Whiskey distillery.
Famous Landmarks
- Wyoming Whiskey Distillery: A popular tourist destination producing award-winning craft whiskey.
Lucerne (Unincorporated)
Overview of Geography and History
Lucerne is an unincorporated community located a few miles north of Thermopolis along the Bighorn River. Lucerne was historically an agricultural community, primarily focused on farming and ranching. The town was named after the alfalfa crop, which is commonly known as “lucerne” in some parts of the world. While Lucerne remains a small, rural area, its proximity to Thermopolis allows residents easy access to the amenities of a larger town while enjoying the quiet, agricultural life.
Although Lucerne has always been a small, close-knit community, it plays an important role in supporting the agricultural economy of Hot Springs County. The fertile land along the Bighorn River has made it a prime area for farming and ranching, and today, Lucerne remains a peaceful, rural area known for its agricultural heritage.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: Not officially designated
- Population: Fewer than 100
- Elevation: 4,356 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82443 (Thermopolis)
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Lucerne is located just off U.S. Highway 20, providing easy access to Thermopolis and other nearby communities. The town’s small size means that most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. For air travel, residents use the Hot Springs County-Thermopolis Airport or the larger commercial airports in Cody and Casper. Lucerne’s rural location, combined with its proximity to major highways, makes it a convenient place to live for those who appreciate a quiet, agricultural lifestyle while still being close to larger towns.
Famous Landmarks
- Bighorn River: Known for fishing, rafting, and scenic beauty, the river runs through the Lucerne area.