Worland, WY

Worland, Wyoming is a small city located in Washakie County in the north-central part of the state. It is situated along the Big Horn River and has a population of approximately 5,500 people as of 2021. The history of Worland is closely tied to the development of the region and its economic activities.

Native Americans, including the Shoshone and Crow tribes, inhabited the area long before European settlers arrived. The Bighorn Basin, where Worland is located, was used as a hunting ground by these tribes.

The first European settlers arrived in the area in the late 1800s. In 1900, Charles Henry Worland, a civil engineer, established a homestead near the future site of the city. He was involved in the construction of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, which passed through the area. The city was named after him in recognition of his contributions to the region's development.

Worland grew steadily as a result of agriculture, particularly dryland farming and cattle ranching. The discovery of oil in the nearby Salt Creek Oil Field in the 1910s also brought economic growth to the area. The oil industry became a significant driver of the local economy, attracting businesses and workers to the region.

The construction of the Buffalo Bill Dam and Reservoir, located upstream from Worland, started during the 1910s and was completed in 1919. This project allowed for irrigation and helped boost agricultural production in the area. The reservoir created by the dam also became a popular recreational spot for fishing and boating.

As Worland continued to grow, it became the county seat of Washakie County in 1911. The city has since developed educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and a vibrant downtown area.

Today, Worland remains an agricultural center, with farming, ranching, and livestock production playing a crucial role in the local economy. The oil and gas industry also remains a significant employer, as does retail and tourism. Worland's location near the Bighorn Mountains provides recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Worland has preserved its history through the Washakie Museum, which showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits related to the region's past. It also hosts events such as the Washakie County Fair and Rodeo, highlighting the area's agricultural heritage.

Overall, the history of Worland, Wyoming reflects the resilience of its early settlers and their ability to adapt to and thrive in a challenging environment. The city continues to evolve while maintaining its agricultural roots and appreciation for its natural surroundings.

Washakie Museum and Cultural Center

A museum showcasing the history, culture, and art of the region.

Hot Springs State Park

Features numerous mineral hot springs and a free bathhouse for visitors to enjoy. The park also has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a suspension bridge.

Miracle Mile Fly Fishing

A popular spot for fly fishing enthusiasts in the North Platte River.

Ninety-Foot Stone

A historical landmark marking the spot where Captain William Clark carved his name during the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Ten Sleep Brewing Company

A local brewery known for its craft beer and friendly atmosphere.

Big Horn Basin Geoscience Center

Offers exhibits on the unique geology and fossil record of the Big Horn Basin.

Worland Aquatic Center

A community swimming pool with water slides, diving boards, and a lazy river.

Worland Golf Club

A scenic golf course with challenging fairways and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Chugwater Creek

A nearby scenic area where visitors can go hiking, fishing, or have a picnic by the creek.

The Jackalope Statue

A large statue of the mythical creature located outside the Washakie Rexall Drug Store, a popular photo spot for visitors.

Worland, Wyoming experiences a semi-arid climate with moderately cold winters and warm, dry summers. The city is located in the Big Horn Basin, which is surrounded by mountains, influencing its weather patterns.

Winters in Worland are typically cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Average high temperatures range from the mid-30s°F (1-4°C) in December and January to the mid-40s°F (4-7°C) in February. Low temperatures can fall into the single digits Fahrenheit (-10 to -6°C) during the coldest months. Snowfall is common, typically occurring between October and May, with January being the snowiest month.

Spring in Worland is mild, with temperatures gradually increasing. March and April bring average high temperatures ranging from the mid-40s°F (7-9°C) to the low-60s°F (15-18°C). However, temperatures can still drop below freezing at night during this season.

Summers in Worland are warm and mostly dry. June, July, and August are the hottest months, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s°F (27-30°C) to the low-90s°F (32-35°C). Occasionally, heatwaves can cause temperatures to reach the upper 90s°F (around 37°C). Rainfall during the summer is infrequent, with most precipitation occurring as isolated thunderstorms that provide brief, heavy downpours. July is typically the wettest month.

Autumn in Worland sees temperatures gradually cooling off. September and October have average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s°F (24-26°C) to the mid-50s°F (12-14°C). Nights become increasingly cooler, occasionally dropping below freezing as autumn progresses.

Overall, Worland, Wyoming has a relatively dry climate with a moderate amount of snowfall in winter. The city experiences distinct seasons, with cold winters, warm summers, and mild spring and autumn seasons.

Worland, Wyoming is a small town located in Washakie County. While the town itself is relatively small, it still has a few distinct neighborhoods that offer different amenities and qualities of life. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Worland:

Downtown

The heart of Worland, Downtown is the commercial and cultural hub of the town. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and local businesses. It is a walkable area with a charming small-town atmosphere.

North Worland

Located north of Downtown, the North Worland neighborhood is primarily residential. It consists of older homes mixed with some newer developments. It is a quiet and family-friendly area, with many parks and schools nearby.

Riverside

Riverside is situated along the banks of the Big Horn River, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. It is a mix of residential areas and open spaces, with some of the town's larger attractions, such as Riverside Park and the Worland Community Center Complex.

West Worland

This neighborhood is located west of Downtown and is considered one of the more affluent areas of the town. It features larger homes with spacious yards and is known for its well-maintained streets and well-established trees.

East Worland

Situated east of Downtown, East Worland is a predominantly residential area with a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. It is close to schools, the Washakie Medical Center, and various recreational facilities.

South Worland

The South Worland neighborhood is a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is home to the Southgate Shopping Plaza and various industrial sites. This area offers easy access to nearby highways and amenities.

While Worland may not have as many clearly defined neighborhoods as larger cities, each area still contributes to the town's charm and close-knit community feel. Overall, Worland is a peaceful and welcoming town with a strong sense of community.