Uinta County is located in the southwestern corner of Wyoming, bordering Utah to the south and Idaho to the west. Established in 1869, Uinta County is one of the original five counties of Wyoming Territory. The county has a rich history tied to the development of the Union Pacific Railroad and early western expansion, as well as the fur trade and ranching industries. Evanston, the county seat, emerged as a hub for the railroad and remains a central part of the county’s identity.
As of the latest census, Uinta County is home to around 20,000 residents. The county encompasses several cities and towns, each with its unique history, geography, and cultural significance. There are three main population centers in Uinta County: Evanston, Lyman, and Mountain View, which are the focus of this guide.
Evanston
Geography and History
Evanston is the largest city and the county seat of Uinta County. It is located near the Bear River, providing a scenic backdrop with the Uinta Mountains to the south and the Wasatch Range to the west. The city was founded in 1868 during the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad and served as a key maintenance point. Over time, Evanston developed into a significant commercial hub, benefiting from its proximity to Utah and Idaho.
Evanston’s early economy was driven by the railroad, and the town’s history is still reflected in its architecture and landmarks, such as the Evanston Roundhouse and Railyards. Over the years, Evanston has evolved into a vibrant community with a diversified economy that includes industries like oil and natural gas.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Gateway to Wyoming”
- Area: 10.32 square miles
- Population: Approximately 11,600
- Elevation: 6,749 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82930, 82931
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Evanston is well-connected by road and rail. The city is situated along Interstate 80, one of the major transcontinental highways, making it easily accessible to travelers and commercial traffic alike. U.S. Route 189 also runs through Evanston, providing a direct route to Jackson Hole and other parts of northern Wyoming. The Union Pacific Railroad continues to play a role in the region’s freight movement.
Although Evanston does not have a commercial airport, it is served by the Evanston-Uinta County Burns Field Airport, which caters to general aviation. The nearest major airport is Salt Lake City International Airport, located approximately 90 miles away.
Famous People
- Chris LeDoux: Country music singer and rodeo champion
- Jim Bridger: Famous frontiersman and explorer who had significant ties to the region
Lyman
Geography and History
Lyman is a small town located to the east of Evanston, along the Blacks Fork River. Established in the late 19th century, Lyman was initially a farming and ranching community, taking advantage of the fertile land and access to water from the river. Its rural setting and agricultural roots remain a prominent feature of the town’s identity.
Lyman’s growth has been steady but modest, preserving its small-town atmosphere. Over the years, Lyman has become known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, with access to nearby reservoirs, mountains, and forests that attract outdoor enthusiasts.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Small Town, Big Heart”
- Area: 2.02 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,100
- Elevation: 6,717 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82937
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Lyman is accessible via U.S. Highway 414, which provides a direct connection to the neighboring town of Mountain View and Interstate 80. This highway also links Lyman to other rural parts of southwestern Wyoming. Due to its proximity to I-80, residents and visitors have relatively easy access to major cities like Evanston and Salt Lake City.
The town does not have an airport, but the nearby Fort Bridger Airport provides general aviation services. For commercial flights, residents typically use Salt Lake City International Airport.
Famous People
- Clarence Addison Brimmer, Jr.: Federal judge and Wyoming native
Mountain View
Geography and History
Mountain View is a small, close-knit community located southeast of Evanston and near the Uinta Mountains. The town was established in the early 1900s and, much like Lyman, has a history rooted in agriculture. Mountain View’s proximity to the mountains has made it a popular spot for outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
Mountain View has a serene, rural atmosphere with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The town’s community spirit is evident in its local events and tight-knit population, which has remained small but steady over the years.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of the Valley”
- Area: 0.99 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,300
- Elevation: 6,706 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82939
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Mountain View is connected to nearby towns and cities via U.S. Highway 414, which runs through the town and links to both Lyman and Interstate 80. Residents of Mountain View also use this highway to access Evanston for larger commercial needs or medical services. Like other small towns in Uinta County, Mountain View does not have a commercial airport but relies on general aviation services from the Fort Bridger Airport.
Given its rural location, residents typically rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The nearest commercial airport is Salt Lake City International, around 130 miles away, which serves as the primary gateway for air travel.
Famous People
- Jack H. Zane: Noted local historian and conservationist
Fort Bridger
Geography and History
Fort Bridger is not a city or town but an unincorporated community with significant historical importance. Located between Evanston and Lyman, it was established in 1842 by mountain man Jim Bridger as a trading post on the Oregon Trail. The fort became a vital resupply point for emigrants traveling westward.
Today, Fort Bridger is a popular historic site, preserving the fort’s buildings and artifacts for public education. The Fort Bridger State Historic Site offers insights into the region’s role in the fur trade, pioneer migration, and military history.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the West”
- Area: Not applicable (unincorporated)
- Population: Approximately 400
- Elevation: 6,668 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82933
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Fort Bridger is located near Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 30, providing easy access to Evanston, Lyman, and other towns in Uinta County. While it does not have an airport, general aviation services are available at the nearby Fort Bridger Airport. The area is a popular stop for tourists visiting the historic site, with road access being the primary means of transportation.
Famous People
- Jim Bridger: Renowned mountain man and founder of Fort Bridger