Your Guide to the WYO Winter Rodeo
Chances are that you’ve seen the WYO Winter Rodeo unfold on your local news or social feed, where competitors fly down Sheridan’s Main Street.
However, the country’s wildest rodeo isn’t a rodeo at all. It’s actually one of the premier skijoring competitions in the West—a sport combining the thrill of the rodeo with the speed of skiing in one of the wackiest, most adrenaline-pumping snow-sports available today.
This short guide will lead you through the history of the rodeo and the basics of skijoring, and will also give you some of the best things to do in Sheridan after the day’s events are wrapped up.
The History of the Winter Rodeo
Founded in 2019, the WYO Winter Rodeo quickly became the premier winter event in Sheridan and the greater Bighorn region. The event draws thousands to the city, where they can cheer on competitors and enjoy the many characteristics that make Sheridan an excellent winter vacation destination, from local steakhouses and comfortable lodges to the stunning landscapes of Northern Wyoming.
Last year, the rodeo pulled in 7,200 attendees and 76 competitive teams, and it only continues to grow. In 2023, the event’s founders elected to move the races to the Sheridan County Fairgrounds to better accommodate the size and structure of the event.
Be sure to check the Winter Rodeo schedule for the latest information.
What is Skijoring?
Skijoring has come a long way from its humble beginnings in the Scandinavian countryside. The sport originated in the Scandinavian people’s method of navigating the snow-packed landscape, eventually turning the mode of transportation into what would become a unique and undeniably iconic racing competition.
Today, skijoring is a wacky and wonderful Western winter spot that has ascended into being a professional sport in states like Colorado, Utah, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming.
The Rules of Skijoring
Even though the very act of being towed on skis by a horse is spectacular enough, skijoring is a timed competition. However, participants are penalized for both missing jumps and failing to collect a series of rings throughout the course. The riders on horseback are also required to collect rings along the way; otherwise, the team will receive a time penalty for every ring missed.
Fans have the best job of all—bundle up, sit back, and enjoy the high-speed fun of equestrian skijoring.
Beyond the Rodeo
Once the races are over, you can head back into town for more fun. With the Bighorn Mountains in Sheridan’s backyard and a bustling restaurant and nightlife scene, there’s something for every visitor. Be on the lookout for special events celebrating the WYO Winter Rodeo throughout the week.
Restaurants and Nightlife
There’s no shortage of iconic businesses in Sheridan. The Mint Bar is a must-visit cowboy bar that’s served patrons since 1907, while Black Tooth Brewing Company slings beloved craft brews.
When your stomach starts growling, you’d be wise to visit one of Sheridan’s local steakhouses. But there are also plenty of bustling new-american grills and home-cooking hotspots waiting for you. The Cowboy Cafe is a time-tested staple and local favorite for American cooking, as is The Pony Grill & Bar and iconically unique P.O. News & Flagstaff Cafe.
Come winter, coffee is a necessity in Sheridan. Get that much-needed warmup—and caffeine kick—at one of the city’s local spots, like Bison Union Coffee Company, Java Moon, and Midtown Cafe.
Explore a Western History Heaven
You already know about the legendary Mint Bar, but your walk through Wild West history doesn’t end there. Downtown Sheridan is a living, breathing epicenter built on classic locations like the WYO Theater—an Art Deco masterpiece built in 1923.
There are 65 historic buildings on Historic Main Street, many of which are fully functioning storefronts, making a day spent admiring architecture from the warmth of local businesses well worth it.
You can leave downtown Sheridan to explore more buildings that reside on the National Register of Historic Places, like Trail End State Historic Site, the Historic Sheridan Inn, the Sheridan County Courthouse, and more.
Sheridan Hawks Hockey Game
After the thrill of skijoring comes to a close, head over to the Whitney Rink at M&Ms Center for a duo of Sheridan Hawks hockey games. On Friday, February 6, the Hawks face the Gillette Wild, and on Saturday, February 7, they square off with the Yellowstone Quake. Get your tickets here.
