Neighbor TownsRanchester

The town of Ranchester is located 9 miles south of the Montana border beneath a panoramic central view of the Bighorn Mountains.

Est. 1911
Population: 974
Elevation: 3,763 ft.

Built on rails and ties, the Town of Ranchester is nestled deep in the heart of ranch country. Located between the City of Sheridan and the Bighorn Mountains, Ranchester sits just 9 miles south of the Montana state line.

History

Incorporated in 1911, Ranchester got its name from S.H. Hardin, who owned a local ranch encompassing several thousand acres. Town names in Hardin’s native England often ended in “chester,” so Hardin dubbed the town “Ranchester.” In addition to its namesake ranches, the town was the site of the loading dock for railroad ties hewn from harvested mountain timber and floated down the tie flume.


Ranchester Today

Ranchester boasts a new visitor’s center to welcome you when you are visiting their area. Connor Battlefield State Park is located within the town limits and offers great fishing opportunities, a playground area, and sites for overnight camping. Historic U.S. Highway 14 runs through the center of town, heading over the Bighorns via the Bighorn Scenic Byway, ending at the east gate to Yellowstone National Park. The Town of Ranchester has long served as a popular point of embarcation for hunters and snowmobile enthusiasts.

Accommodations include the Western Motel, and the Lazy R Campground and Cabins. Fine Wyoming fare and libations can be found at the Buckshot Saloon, the Silver Spur Bar & Lounge, and the new Innominate Coffeehouse & Bakery. Additional attractions include the T-Rex Natural History Museum, Big Bear Taxidermy, and Rahimi’s Taxidermy. The annual 4th of July celebration includes the Wyoming Wife Carrying Championship, live music, and fireworks show.


Ranchester Town Hall (307) 655-2283

Search & Book Accommodations

Explore
the Region

Interactive
Map

Tales & Trails
 

Media
Library

Can you feel it?