Washakie County is situated in north-central Wyoming, bordered by the Bighorn Mountains to the east and characterized by wide-open plains, rivers, and agricultural land. Established in 1911, the county is named after Chief Washakie of the Shoshone people, a respected leader known for his diplomacy and peaceful relations with settlers. Washakie County covers approximately 2,239 square miles and has a population of around 7,800 people as of the most recent census. The county’s economy historically revolved around agriculture, particularly livestock ranching and farming, as well as oil production in more recent years.
Washakie County is home to two incorporated municipalities: Worland, the county seat and largest city, and Ten Sleep, a small town located near the entrance to Ten Sleep Canyon. These cities, along with a few unincorporated communities, play essential roles in the local economy and culture, with Worland serving as the primary commercial hub. The county is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and proximity to the Bighorn Mountains.
Cities and Towns in Washakie County
Worland
Overview of Geography and History
Worland, the county seat and largest city in Washakie County, is located along the banks of the Bighorn River in the heart of the Bighorn Basin. The city is surrounded by fertile agricultural land, supported by irrigation from the river, and framed by distant mountain ranges. Worland was established in 1900, named after Charles H. Worland, an early settler who helped establish a post office and trading post in the area. The city grew rapidly due to its strategic location on the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad, which provided vital connections to markets for local farmers and ranchers.
Worland became the economic and administrative center of Washakie County after the county’s creation in 1911. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy, but oil production and related industries have also played a significant role in the city’s development. Worland has a strong sense of community and is known for its charming downtown area, historical landmarks, and access to outdoor activities in the nearby Bighorn Mountains.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of the Bighorn Basin”
- Area: 4.56 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,100
- Elevation: 4,065 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82401
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Worland is well-connected by road and air. U.S. Route 16 and U.S. Route 20 pass through the city, providing access to nearby towns, including Basin to the north and Thermopolis to the south. These highways connect to Interstate 90, making travel to larger cities like Billings, Montana, relatively straightforward. Worland Municipal Airport, located just outside the city, offers regional air service, including flights to larger hubs in Wyoming and neighboring states. Rail service in Worland is primarily used for freight, supporting the city’s agricultural and industrial sectors.
Famous People
- John B. Kendrick: Former U.S. Senator and Governor of Wyoming.
Ten Sleep
Overview of Geography and History
Ten Sleep is a small town located at the base of the western slopes of the Bighorn Mountains, near the entrance to Ten Sleep Canyon. The town is nestled in a picturesque valley and is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. The name “Ten Sleep” originates from the Native American tradition of measuring distances by the number of nights, or “sleeps,” it took to travel between locations. Ten Sleep was ten sleeps from important destinations such as Fort Laramie and Yellowstone.
Founded in the late 19th century, Ten Sleep has long been a gateway for travelers and a base for ranching activities. Over the years, the town has remained small, with a close-knit community that thrives on tourism, ranching, and local craftsmanship. The Bighorn Mountains and nearby Ten Sleep Canyon are major attractions for climbers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, while the town itself is known for its charm and hospitality.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the Bighorns”
- Area: 0.24 square miles
- Population: Approximately 260
- Elevation: 4,426 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82442
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Ten Sleep is primarily accessed via U.S. Route 16, which connects the town to Worland in the west and Buffalo, Wyoming, to the east. This highway runs through the scenic Ten Sleep Canyon, making the drive one of the most beautiful in the region. While the town does not have its own airport, residents and visitors can use the Worland Municipal Airport, located about 25 miles west, for regional flights. The lack of rail service or major highways ensures Ten Sleep retains its quiet, rural character, while still being accessible to tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Famous People
- Dick Cheney: Former Vice President of the United States, owned property near Ten Sleep.
Manderson (Unincorporated)
Overview of Geography and History
Manderson, an unincorporated community in Washakie County, is located along the Bighorn River just north of Worland. The town sits on the edge of the Bighorn Basin, with flat plains and agricultural land surrounding it. Originally known as Alamo, the community was renamed Manderson after it was incorporated in 1912, taking its name from Senator Charles Manderson of Nebraska. The town served as an important agricultural and railroad hub in its early years, with sugar beet farming being a significant industry.
Despite its promising start, Manderson’s growth slowed in the mid-20th century, and it was eventually unincorporated in the 1970s. Today, it is a quiet, rural community with deep historical roots. Manderson’s location along the river has preserved its agricultural focus, with farming and ranching still playing central roles in the local economy.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: Not officially designated
- Population: Approximately 100
- Elevation: 3,944 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82432
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Manderson is accessible via U.S. Route 20, which connects it to Worland and other communities in the Bighorn Basin. The nearest airports are in Worland and Basin, both of which are within 30 minutes by car. While Manderson does not have rail service anymore, its proximity to major roads allows easy transportation of goods to and from the region’s farms. The community’s transportation needs are largely supported by its rural road network and proximity to larger hubs like Worland.
Famous People
- None notable at present
Hyattville (Unincorporated)
Overview of Geography and History
Hyattville is a small, unincorporated community in the northeastern part of Washakie County, nestled at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains. This quiet ranching town is situated along Paint Rock Creek and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes of rolling hills and mountain vistas. Hyattville was founded in the late 1800s and was named after one of its early settlers, Nate Hyatt. The town developed as a center for cattle ranching and farming, supported by irrigation from the nearby creek and the surrounding fertile land.
Although Hyattville has remained a small community, it has become known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly as a base for exploring the nearby Bighorn Mountains and Bighorn National Forest. The town’s history is tied to the region’s agricultural traditions, and it continues to be a quiet, rural community.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: Not officially designated
- Population: Approximately 75
- Elevation: 4,641 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82428
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Hyattville is located off Wyoming Highway 31, which connects it to U.S. Route 16 and the rest of Washakie County. The town’s remote location means that most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation, with the nearest larger town being Worland, about 25 miles to the southwest. The nearest airport is in Worland, offering regional flights. Hyattville’s rural road network supports its agricultural needs, and while the town does not have direct rail service, its proximity to Worland allows for easy access to larger transportation hubs.
Famous People
- None notable at present