Casper is Wyoming’s sweet spot for fall travel.
Think blue-ribbon fishing, rock climbing, camping, mountain biking and horseback riding, all set against the stunning and incredibly scenic backdrop of the season’s changing color palette.
“It doesn’t get any more beautiful than that,” said Amanda Scherlin, marketing manager for Visit Casper. “We are always encouraging people to take advantage of our city in the fall if their schedules allow. For one thing, it’s less congested and the weather is absolutely perfect, allowing visitors to still enjoy the warm weather activities before the snow arrives.”
Hiking the Bridle Trail on Casper Mountain
Hikeable or drivable scenic views abound
But first, the scenery. The golden and orange hues of fall burn brightest in mid-September/early October, when a scenic hike or drive can put one’s camera into overuse. Pack a lunch, bring a jacket and head up to the aspen trees on Casper Mountain where the green lodgepole pines mix beautifully with the golden landscape. Make sure to stop at Lookout Point on the way up. The colorful seasonal hues can also be viewed on the Platte River Trails through town, at Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park and at Beartrap Meadow on Casper Mountain. Hiking and mountain bike trails and uncrowded urban paths provide some pretty incredible views during the fall months.
If on foot, grab some hiking boots and hit the Bridle Trail at Rotary Park, one of the most beautiful trails in Wyoming during the fall. The nearly five-mile rocky and rugged loop, rising 1,200 feet, offers plenty of Instagram-worthy views of the city below. For longer hikes, visit Casper Mountain Trails Center, which is a starting point for nearly 26 additional miles of groomed trails in all directions.
With kids and mini-tykes in tow looking for a little more amazement, hike through the corn mazes, pumpkin patch and petting zoo at Green Acres Corn Maze, just outside of Casper. Kids can participate in an apple blaster, gemstone mining and much more.
Fly Fishing on the North Platte River
Prime season for fishing and hunting
As for fishing, Scherlin said trout and fly-fishing are extremely popular for both novice and experienced anglers during the fall. Named the No. 1 Big Fish Destination by American Angler Magazine, Casper offers plenty of casting locations, too, including the North Platte River, Fremont Canyon and Alcova and Pathfinder reservoirs. The Casper native said a “reel” bucket list item for most fisherman is a stretch of the North Platte River that has earned a reputation for its isolated location, hearty trout and ever-changing conditions.
For hunters, the fall is a prime season to schedule a trip to Casper. With millions of acres of public land and licensed outfitters and guides galore, hunters delight in the abundance of antelope, elk, deer, duck, pheasants, turkey and more. Bird-hunting outfitters are also available to schedule packages for individuals and groups. So, get your game on.
After your outdoor adventure, head to downtown Casper where you will find a charming vibrancy that dates back to the late 1800s when the town was in the middle of an oil boom. Restaurants, music venues, distilleries, breweries and boutique shops offer a well-earned respite to the adventure-savvy visitors. And with crowds at a minimum, everyone can enjoy the amenities at their own pace.
There isn’t a sweeter spot around in the fall. Plan your visit at visitcasper.com.


