Affordable Jackson Hole Getaway with Stunning Outdoor Views and Western Charm

A Hidden Gem in Wyoming: Dubois, the Affordable Alternative to Jackson Hole

There are numerous mountain towns in America known for their breathtaking natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and unique local culture. However, many tourists tend to flock to well-known destinations. In Wyoming, one such town that stands out is Jackson Hole, which welcomes approximately 2.6 million visitors each year. Its popularity is well-deserved, as it offers a wide range of attractions and stunning scenery. But nestled among the snow-capped peaks of the Wind River Range lies another town—Dubois—that provides a more budget-friendly alternative.

Why Dubois Is a Budget-Friendly Destination

When it comes to cost, lodging and meals in Dubois are significantly cheaper than in Jackson Hole, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to save money without sacrificing quality. Unlike the more commercialized and tourist-heavy environment of Jackson Hole, Dubois offers cozy cabins, rustic gear shops, saloons, and a more laid-back atmosphere with fewer crowds. It has also earned recognition as one of the top mountain towns in Wyoming with the best quality of life.

Dubois exudes a strong Old West vibe, characterized by its frontier spirit, small-town friendliness, and endless outdoor opportunities. Here’s what makes this hidden gem so special and how it compares to Jackson Hole.

The Origins of Dubois: A Town with Rich History

Dubois began as a rugged frontier outpost in the late 1800s, shaped by fur trappers, homesteaders, and Scandinavian loggers who settled along the Wind River. Originally named “Never Sweat” due to its dry climate, the town was renamed Dubois in 1886 after the postmaster requested something more dignified. Despite the name change, the town retained its untamed spirit.

Today, Dubois feels like a true Western town, with weathered wooden storefronts, horse hitching posts, and a walkable Main Street. Strolling through the town reveals cowboy saloons, antique shops, and local diners serving hearty meals like elk burgers. The downtown area is free from traffic, flashing lights, or chain stores, enhancing its small-town charm. With a population of around 1,000, Dubois remains welcoming and perfect for those seeking a quieter, less crowded setting.

A Town Surrounded by Natural Beauty

Dubois is deeply connected to the land around it. Located between the Wind River and Absaroka ranges, it sits at the crossroads of high desert and alpine wilderness. This strategic location offers easy access to dramatic landscapes and trails. The surrounding area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, moose, and bald eagles, which can often be spotted just beyond the town limits.

Cost-Effective Living in Dubois

While the dramatic peaks surrounding both Jackson Hole and Dubois may seem similar, there are significant differences in cost and experience. Jackson Hole is situated at the base of the Teton Range, known for its iconic jagged peaks. Just east of Jackson lies the Wind River Range, where Dubois is located. The Winds are taller, more remote, and wilder than the Tetons, offering solitude that is hard to find near Jackson.

The lack of commercialization in Dubois is one of its greatest strengths. There are no luxury boutiques or spa hotels, and lodging options are far more affordable. For example, a night at Twin Pines Lodge and Cabins, housed in a restored 1930s log cabin, might cost around $100–$150, depending on the season. This is significantly cheaper than the $400–$800 range for a standard room in Jackson.

Dining in Dubois is also more budget-friendly. Visitors can enjoy hearty Western fare at places like The Cowboy Café or Nostalgia Bistro, where an 8-ounce steak dinner won’t break the bank. Other affordable options include Chinook Winds Motel and Stagecoach Motor Inn, both offering clean, comfortable stays under $120. For outdoor enthusiasts, Dubois/Wind River KOA and Falls Campground provide tent and RV sites with unbeatable views and fire-ring sunsets.

Activities in Dubois are also more affordable. Guided fishing trips, horseback rides, and wildlife tours come with lower fees and smaller groups, allowing for a more personalized experience. Additionally, the lack of competition for guides means more flexibility and opportunities for solitude when exploring the great outdoors.

Top Things to Do in Dubois

Dubois, one of the must-visit small towns in Wyoming, attracts travelers with its laid-back vibe, rich history, and unspoiled landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a curious history buff, or someone looking for a slower pace beneath mountain skies, Dubois has something for everyone.

The area is laced with trails ranging from peaceful day hikes to multi-day backcountry routes. One of the most iconic is the Old Glacier Trail, which leads hikers deep into the Wind River Range with breathtaking views of Dinwoody Glacier. This challenging trek offers solitude, alpine lakes, and jagged peaks far from the crowds.

Dubois is also home to several working ranches that offer unforgettable Western experiences. At places like CM Ranch and Lazy L&B Ranch, guests can saddle up for guided trail rides through wildflower meadows, aspen groves, and rugged foothills. Many ranches also offer overnight stays with hearty cowboy meals, campfire stories, and stargazing beneath wide-open skies.

The Wind River flowing through Dubois is a haven for fly-fishing enthusiasts, drawing anglers from across the region to cast for cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout.

History lovers can visit the National Bighorn Sheep Center, which provides insight into the ecology and conservation of the iconic bighorn sheep species found in the cliffs surrounding the town. Nearby, the Dubois Museum brings local history to life, allowing visitors to learn about indigenous tribes, fur traders, homesteaders, and modern ranchers.

Best Time to Visit Dubois

Spring (April–May): Melting snow opens up lower elevation trails, and rivers swell for fishing. Cool temperatures, wildflowers, and fewer crowds make this a great time to visit.

Summer (June–August): Peak hiking, fishing, and dude ranch season. Warm days and crisp nights create ideal conditions for backpacking and stargazing.

Fall (September–October): Perfect for golden aspen and cottonwood foliage. Cooler days are ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, especially during the bighorn sheep rut.

Winter (November–March): The quietest season, perfect for solitude and snowshoeing. While high trails are limited due to snow, the scenic beauty is unmatched.

Dubois, Wyoming, may not have the fame of Jackson Hole, but it offers equally stunning mountain scenery, authentic Western charm, and unbeatable affordability. With its rugged hikes, fly-fishing opportunities, and small-town hospitality, this town is perfect for travelers seeking adventure without the crowds or high costs.