Business & Tourism | Cowboy State Daily

Bozeman Tenants United, one in a growing number of groups organizing in the face of rising rents in places like Bozeman, Montana.

Residential Rents Skyrocket In Idaho And Montana, Remain Stable In Wyoming

While residential rents for people in Wyoming remain relatively stable, they’re skyrocketing by more than 30% in neighboring Montana and Idaho.

David MadisonApril 18, 2025

PacifiCorps owns two-thirds of the Jim Bridger coal-fired power plant in Sweetwater County, Wyoming.

Politically Red Wyoming, Utah And Idaho Talk Break From Power Giant PacifiCorp

Officials in politically red states Wyoming and Utah are talking about teaming up with Idaho to rely more on fossil fuels to meet future electricity demands. They could break from PacifiCorps and its base in politically blue West Coast states.

David MadisonApril 18, 2025

Jurassic Fireworks is one of two Colorado-owned fireworks stands just north of the Wyoming-Colorado border in a dispute with Laramie County.

‘Obnoxious’ Fireworks Outlets Near Cheyenne Can Reopen, But Dad Has To Stay Away

The Laramie County Commission has finally approved fireworks permits for a pair of businesses near the Colorado border it had said were too “obnoxious.” But the owner’s father has to stay away from her businesses as part of the agreement.

Renée JeanApril 17, 2025

C.J. Box signs a barrel at Pine Bluffs Distilling last year that was used to blend the special Joe Pickett bourbon.

Joe Pickett-Inspired Bourbon Hits Shelves Friday, Only 1,000 Bottles Available

Only 1,000 bottles of bourbon inspired by Joe Pickett, the popular mystery-solving game warden created by Wyoming author C.J. Box, are available. It goes on sale at liquor stores Friday and a release party at Pine Bluffs Distilling on Saturday.

Dale KillingbeckApril 17, 2025

Snow King Mountain Resort Hotel in Jackson.

Jackson’s Snow King Hotel Sale A Boost For Ski Hill’s Revival

The Snow King Mountain Resort’s ongoing revival is getting a boost with Trailborn’s recent purchase of the Snow King Resort Hotel at the base of the ski hill.

Renée JeanApril 17, 2025

Naughton coal-fired plant along Highway 189 in Kemmerer, operated by Rockuy Mountain Power.

Another Double-Digit Rocky Mountain Power Rate Hike Approved, More Likely Ahead

Wyoming Public Service Commissioners reluctantly approved another double-digit rate increase for Rocky Mountain Power on Tuesday. That means another $14 a month on an average residential customer’s bill, and more rate increases are likely ahead.

Renée JeanApril 16, 2025

The prolonged closure of the Star Plunge hot springs venue is starting to impact the tourism industry in and around Thermopolis. There are fewer people staying in local hotels with the busy summer tourism season on the horizon.

Star Plunge Closure Hits Three Months, And Visitors Are Steering Clear

The Star Plunge hot springs venue has been closed for three months, which is starting to impact the tourism industry in and around Thermopolis. There are fewer people staying in local hotels with the busy summer tourism season on the horizon.

Renée JeanApril 15, 2025

Tabatha Coffey, center, poses with Cosmetology students at Central Wyoming College. Students from left are Lexi Baumann, Ashley Gomez, Karina Frederick and Grayce Fike.

Riverton Students Get Dose Of Tough Love From Celebrity Stylist Tabatha Coffey

Central Wyoming College students got a dose of celebrity stylist Tabatha Coffey’s signature tough love Thursday. Her non-nonsense style drove home that it takes more than dreaming big to make it big.

Renée JeanApril 13, 2025

West of Dubois, 17 Rocking Chair Ranch has all the amenities of a ranch with thousands of acres, but it sits on just 22. That makes it a more affordable Western retreat for prospective buyers.

Dubois Property Offers Big Ranch Amenities In A Small Package For $3.5 Million

West of Dubois, 17 Rocking Chair Ranch has all the amenities of a ranch with thousands of acres, but it sits on just 22. That makes it a rare affordable Western retreat for prospective buyers at $3.5 million.

Renée JeanApril 12, 2025

Mike Wandler, President of L&H Industrial, Inc., in Gillette, talked about what he's been doing with AI to boost productivity at his company during the Central Wyoming College's Innovation and Entrepreneurship Conference.

Wyoming And AI: L&H Chief Says Business Must Get Onboard Now Or Get Left Behind

Mike Wandler, president of Gillette-based L&H Industrial, says now is the time for Wyoming businesses to get onboard with artificial intelligence. If they don’t, they’ll get left behind.

Renée JeanApril 12, 2025

Eating Wyoming: Innards Are ‘In’ With Foodies, Homesteaders And Health Nuts

What many consider throw-away cuts of meat like tongues, tails and innards are becoming “in” in a big way. Foodies, homesteaders and health nuts are driving a trend that’s helping small Wyoming butcheries and bringing more unusual cuts to dinner plates.

Renée JeanApril 12, 2025

Timber from a U.S. Forest Service sale in Wyoming in this file photo.

Opening More U.S. Logging May Not Save Wyoming’s Last Two Large Lumber Mills

The USDA wants to open 59% more forest area to logging in the United States. It may not come fast enough to save one of Wyoming’s two remaining large lumber mills.

Renée JeanApril 12, 2025

Longhorn cattle graze a pasture near Devils Tower in northeast Wyoming.

Australia Sells $29B In Beef In America, Won’t Allow ‘One Hamburger’ In From U.S.

A recent dust-up in the U.S. Senate over Australian tariffs opens a discussion about unfair trade practices. Sen. John Barrasso says that while $29 billion of Australian beef has been sold in the U.S., “not one hamburger” from America is allowed there.

Renée JeanApril 11, 2025

Wyoming Housing Market ‘Overpriced,’ With 11% Of Buyers Paying Over List Price

Wyoming’s chief economist is reporting that it’s still tough for homebuyers in the state with an “overpriced” market. And Zillow reports a lack of available homes to buy also has about 11% of homebuyers paying more than list price.

David MadisonApril 10, 2025

A rendering of what Prometheus Hyperscale's Wyoming campus could look like at build-out.

Member Of Legacy Ranch Family Plans Huge 1-Gigawatt AI Data Center Near Evanston

Trenton Thornock’s family has been ranching in southwest Wyoming for six generations. Now he plans another use for the land — a huge 1-gigawatt AI data center near Evanston.

Renée JeanApril 09, 2025

Drinking Wyoming: Drinking Like Butch Cassidy, From Rock Springs To Sheridan

When he wasn’t breaking the law, Butch Cassidy was always up for a drink, and was even cited for public drunkenness in Sheridan. Despite that, not many places have laid claim to a rather obvious marketing ploy: Butch Cassidy drank here.

Renée JeanApril 06, 2025

As spring approaches, ranchers in Wyoming are on the alert for the green shoots of larkspur. This beautiful wildflower is deadly to cattle.

Beautiful But Deadly, Larkspur Kills Wyoming Cattle And Frustrates Ranchers

As spring approaches, ranchers in Wyoming are on the alert for the green shoots of larkspur. This beautiful purple wildflower is deadly to cattle and frustrating for ranchers.

Jackie DorothyApril 05, 2025

Wyoming Trade Schools Packed With Gen Z Students, AKA The Toolbelt Generation

Generation Z has grown up digital, and many aren’t choosing traditional colleges. They’re packing Wyoming’s trade schools, lured by shorter, cheaper programs and better job prospects. It’s earned these Gen Z’ers the nickname The Toolbelt Generation.

Renée JeanApril 05, 2025

Wyoming’s Eatons’ Ranch Is America’s Oldest — And No. 1-Ranked — Dude Ranch

Eatons’ Ranch in the Wyoming Bighorn Range is the nation’s oldest dude ranch, cowboying with folks since 1879. Now it’s also been named America’s No. 1 dude ranch in USA Today’s annual rankings.

Renée JeanApril 05, 2025

The Wildcat Creek Fire southeast of Wright, Wyoming, has burned thousands of acres last summer.

Last Summer’s Wildfires Still Devastating For Wyoming Ranchers

Wildfires burned up huge amounts of hay and forage for Wyoming ranches last year, and the aftermath is nearly as dire. Ranchers start a new season still devastated by the fires.

Renée JeanApril 04, 2025

Microsoft, Cheyenne’s first data center, also received a key, business-ready matching grant from the Wyoming Business Council that helped the city build the business park where Microsoft is located.

Cheyenne Primed For More Huge Data Centers As Artificial Intelligence Explodes

A large data center logistics company is touting Cheyenne as the ideal home for the nation’s next major data center. That could position the city for an explosion of Artificial Intelligence and data centers.

Renée JeanApril 04, 2025

Tyrrell Chevrolet, located in Cheyenne, has seen an influx of customers due to auto tariffs that went into effect Wednesday.

Wyoming Auto Dealers Say Rush On To Buy Cars Ahead Of Price Jumps From Tariffs

Tariffs on cars and parts made in Canada and Mexico went into effect Wednesday, leaving a vanishing window to beat price jumps. Wyoming auto dealers say buyers are traveling across multiple states to find what they want now.

Renée JeanApril 02, 2025

Wyoming Crypto Miner Says Tariff Threats Spiking Prices For Equipment

Republican state Rep. Lee Filer runs a Cheyenne-based cryptocurrency mining operation, and that tariff threats with Canada are spiking equipment prices. “I didn’t think it would hit my business, but it did,” Filer said.

Leo WolfsonApril 02, 2025

David Belus is hoping for rain to help heal his ranch after 50,000 acres of it went up in smoke in Johnson County.

Wyoming Farmers Fear Potential For Devastation From Drought

Drought is hurting farmers in southeast and central Wyoming, and the USDA is offering emergency loans. Many farmers are hoping that more rain is ahead and that they won’t need the assistance.

Renée JeanApril 01, 2025

Family Fun Awaits This Summer in Southwest Wyoming

Sweetwater County’s abundant natural playgrounds offer all kinds of opportunities to get out and play. Beyond outdoor escapades, you’ll find exciting summer shows, chances to see desert wildlife and a historic look at the Great American West at a variety of museums.

April 01, 2025

60,000-Square-Foot Vertical Farming Lab In Laramie On Hold Amid Bankruptcy

Plenty Unlimited is bankrupt, and its huge vertical farming research lab in Laramie is on hold. The company will keep a smaller, existing research station in Laramie. Most of the $20 million it was awarded in grant money will revert back to the state.

Renée JeanMarch 31, 2025

Remedies Grill in Rock Springs has been serving craveable diner fare since 1958 known for its eclectic business model. A former pharmacy, it’s also a Wyoming gift shop and medical supply store.

Eating Wyoming: Remedies Grill Has Been A Rock Springs Go-To Spot Since 1958

Remedies Grill in Rock Springs has been serving craveable diner fare since 1958, and known for its eclectic business model. A former pharmacy, it’s also a Wyoming gift shop and medical supply store.

Tracie SullivanMarch 30, 2025

Cheyenne resident Hannah Snitko and her fiance both took DNA tests with 23andMe.

Wyomingites Who Gave DNA To 23andMe Left In Limbo With Company’s Bankruptcy

Wyoming 23andMe users are scrambling to delete their DNA data in the wake of the company announcing bankruptcy. Others say they hope a future buyer will use their genetic information to help develop medical cures.

Renée JeanMarch 30, 2025

Are Farmer’s Almanacs Still The First And Last Word For Farmers And Ranchers?

For generations, American farmers have lived and died by almanacs going back to 1792, but with current technology, are they still trusted? Scientific or not, getting a Farmer’s Almanac or Old Farmer’s Almanac is a treasured tradition.

Andrew RossiMarch 29, 2025

Why People Drive Hours For Chugwater Soda Fountain’s Upscale Supper

Chugwater Soda Fountain is already famous for being Wyoming’s oldest operating soda fountain. Now it’s becoming known for its upscale Supper at the Fountain — and people drive hours for a spot at a table.

Renée JeanMarch 29, 2025

Heather and Charles Maude, owners of Maude Hog & Cattle near Caputa, South Dakota, were each served with separate federal indictments over a fence line dispute with the U.S. Forest Service.

Wyoming Ranchers Ask Trump For Help In Family's Fence Line Fight With Feds

Wyoming ranchers have asked President Donald Trump to intervene in their daughter and son-in-law’s property dispute with the U.S. Forest Service in South Dakota.

Mark HeinzMarch 28, 2025

A Colorado-owned fireworks business at the border south of Cheyenne has again been denied a permit because county commissioners say it’s “obnoxious.” The manager says he’s “never going to stop” fighting.

‘Obnoxious’ Cheyenne Fireworks Warehouse Again Denied Permit

A fireworks business at the Wyoming-Colorado border south of Cheyenne has again been denied a permit because county commissioners say it’s “obnoxious.” The manager says he’s “never going to stop” fighting.

Renée JeanMarch 27, 2025

No More Non-Compete Agreements In Wyoming Starting July 1

Starting July 1, businesses in Wyoming won’t be able to require people to sign non-compete agreements. That’s because of a bill that passed during this past legislative session that largely flew under the radar of public attention.

Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2025

The exterior of the famous Bedford Castle in Wyoming is every bit a fairy tale, including appropriate architecture around the 40-acre grounds.

Need A Mansion? More Than 50 Wyoming Homes On The Market For At Least $10 Million

A collection of luxury properties are for sale just in time for the spring real estate buying season in Wyoming. Here’s a look at three unique homes that span the spectrum from a legacy Western spread to full-blown castle.

David MadisonMarch 26, 2025

Wyoming-based Custodia Bank, working with a Texas bank, has successfully sent U.S. dollars from an account into the digital realm and back again. The transaction is the first of its kind, says Caitlin Long, Custodia CEO.

Wyoming-Based Custodia Bank Is First To Send, Receive Digital U.S. Dollars

Wyoming-based Custodia Bank, working with a Texas bank, has successfully sent tokenized digital U.S. dollars from an account into the digital realm and back again. The transaction is the first of its kind.

Renée JeanMarch 26, 2025

After an anonymous complaint about its bingo night, the Wyoming Gaming Commission ended the game at three Cody bars, including Brewgards.

State Shuts Down Bingo Nights At Cody Bars After ‘Illegal Gambling’ Complaint

Popular bingo nights at three Cody bars have been shut down by the Wyoming Gaming Commission after an anonymous complaint of “illegal gambling.” The agency says it’s following the law, while the bars call the move “absolutely ridiculous.”

Andrew RossiMarch 24, 2025

Meaghan Peterson grew up on a ranch in Montana and said after college and before her equine bodywork business she worked at ranches across the West.

It's A Real Job: Horse Bodywork Therapist

Meaghan Peterson knows all about the 700 muscles that control a horse’s movement. The Thermopolis resident is a certified equine sports bodywork therapist. Her clientele is mostly between Cody and Casper although she does travel to other states too.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 23, 2025

First seen in 2022, the “Make Bozeman Montana Again” billboard is back, igniting debate on social media about the soul of Bozeman.

The Local Man Behind The “Make Bozeman Montana Again” Billboard

Derek Aspinwall told Cowboy State Daily that Bozeman, Montana, is changing to be more like an Aspen or Vail, Colorado. So he put up a billboard pleading with the community to slow the development and get back to its roots before it's too late

David MadisonMarch 22, 2025

Neon is a big part of the culture at Frontier Auto Museum in Gillette, Wyoming, and it's building a new Neon Park to celebrate the art of neon signage. The museum has been rescuing iconic signs from around the state that would otherwise have been trashed.

Gillette Museum Rescues Iconic Signs From Around Wyoming For New Neon Park

Frontier Auto Museum in Gillette is building a Neon Park to house neon signs it’s rescuing from around Wyoming. They already have the Holiday Lodge sign from Lander, the Cheyenne Motel sign, Fox Theater sign in Casper, and the Moorcroft Motel sign. More will be added when restored.

Andrew RossiMarch 22, 2025

Plenty of Ford F-150s, and other pickup models, are front and center at Cheyenne's Ford dealership, which makes sense because the F-150 is Wyoming's most popular vehicle.

Wyoming’s Top Ride? No Surprise, It’s The Ford F-150, Followed By Pickups And More Pickups

Whether the driver wears a cowboy hat or not, the seasons, roads and terrain of Wyoming mean pickups are the choice for drivers in the state. And the Ford F-150 is number one.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 22, 2025

The $52 million WYO Sports Ranch opened in January and has already hosted more than 10,000 visitors and sports participants.

Huge 150,000-Square-Foot Sports Facility Brings $1M To Casper In First Weeks

In its first weeks of operation in Casper, the huge 150,000-square-foot WYO Sports Ranch has made a $1 million economic impact on the community. It’s already drawing attention to host state and national tournaments.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 21, 2025

Reid Rasner: The Visionary Behind the Bold TikTok Acquisition Bid

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the financial and technology sectors, Reid Rasner, CEO and Founder of Omnivest Financial, has emerged as the leading force behind a $47.45 billion bid to acquire TikTok.

Nebraska Town Offers $50,000 House Down Payment If People Move There

To stem the stream of locals and businesses leaving town, Pawnee City, Nebraska, is offering a $50,000 incentive to move to the hometown of Larry The Cable Guy. The money is a down payment on a house for people who move there.

David MadisonMarch 17, 2025

The Seven Wonders of Casper are, clockwise from top left: Spiral staircase to nowhere, Gravity Hill, the Egg Beater Tower, Natrona County Library echo chamber, murals around town, Lookout Point and the clock that doesn't tell time.

Casper’s ‘Seven Wonders’ Are Odd, Unusual And Gravity-Defying

While the Seven Wonders of Casper may not be as famous as other landmarks in Wyoming like Old Faithful, Devils Tower or Independence Rock, they are unusual, interesting and worth seeing in a couple of hours, scavenger hunt style.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 16, 2025

CleanSpark is standing up a new Bitcoin mining facility on Venture Drive in Cheyenne. The site is in addition to the one the company is building at a site near F.E. Warren Air Force Base that was previously owned by a Chinese company.

Rural Cheyenne Residents Have A Noisy New Neighbor — A Bitcoin Miner

A noisy new bitcoin mining operation is disturbing its rural Cheyenne area neighbors who moved outside the city for peace and quiet. The company says it’s working on mitigating the issue.

Renée JeanMarch 16, 2025

For 64 years, Joe’s Liquor and Bar has been the go-to watering hold for generations of Rock Springs locals. One of only two Wyoming spots in the Dive Bar Hall of Fame, Joe’s has closed for good.

After 64 Years, Saying Goodbye To Joe's Liquor And Bar In Rock Springs

For 64 years, Joe’s Liquor and Bar has been the go-to watering hole for generations of Rock Springs locals. One of only two Wyoming spots in the Dive Bar Hall of Fame, Joe’s has closed for good.

Tracie SullivanMarch 16, 2025

Ski-Lift Accident Kills Montana Skier But Experts Say Fatalities Are Rare

A Billings skier died earlier this week after he fell out of a ski chair lift in Red Lodge, Montana. One expert told Cowboy State Daily that although accidents do happen, statistics show "chairlift fatalities are very, very, very rare."

Clair McFarlandMarch 14, 2025

Country music stars Chancey Williams, left, and Toby Keith perform Keith's smash hit "Should've Been a Cowboy" at Cheyenne Frontier Days.

Bot Attack Crashes First Day Of Cheyenne Frontier Days Concert Ticket Sales

A bot attack on Thursday crashed the first day of ticket sales for Cheyenne Frontier Days’ nighttime concerts, causing the organization to shut off ticket sales and postpone them until next week.

Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2025

Rocky Mountain Power says wildfires are a driving force behind its most recent request for a double-digit rate increase. The Elk Fire was one of the worst from last season, buring nearly 100,000 acres across the eastern face of the Bighorn Mountains, threatening the small town of Dayton.

Wildfires Big Driver Behind Rocky Mountain Power’s Double-Digit Rate Hike

Wyoming’s wildfires have spurred higher insurance costs so much, Rocky Mountain Power says it's proposing another double-digit rate increase. It’s also considering self-insurance.

Renée JeanMarch 12, 2025

The Wyoming Public Service Commission meets in Cheyenne on March 11, 2025, to hear testimony about a proposed electricity rate hike from Rocky Mountain Power.

Rocky Mountain Power Makes Case For Rate Hike, Says Large Users Will Pay More

At a Tuesday public hearing for Rocky Mountain Power’s latest double-digit rate increase request, the company said residential customers won’t pay as much. Large power users like data centers would pay more.

Renée JeanMarch 12, 2025

Laramie County residents Sandra Merrill and Alex Kelly are both restricting their egg purchases to once a month. Merrill said she sometimes skips breakfast altogether these days, in part due to the high cost of everything and in part because she's never been big on breakfast anyway.

Wyoming Egg-Eaters Say Investigation Into High Prices Can’t Come Soon Enough

Wyoming senior citizens say they’re giving up on eggs for breakfast, or in some cases skipping breakfast altogether. They say an investigation into what’s happening with egg prices can’t come soon enough.

Renée JeanMarch 11, 2025

Rocky Mountain Power Wants Another Double-Digit Rate Increase

The Wyoming Public Service Commission has a hearing Tuesday for another double-digit rate increase request for Rocky Mountain Power. If approved, RMP rates will have increased more than 30% since 2024.

Renée JeanMarch 11, 2025

David Knudson converted his garage to accommodate equipment like a reverse osmosis machine for his business, Montana MapleWorks.

Montana’s ‘Maple Man’ Taps 300-Plus Trees To Make Maple Syrup In His Driveway

Known as “Maple Man,” a Missoula, Montana, resident taps 300-plus trees around town to grow his urban syrup business. He’s the state’s only commercially licensed maple syrup maker, and does it all in his driveway.

Anna-Louise JacksonMarch 09, 2025

Chad Madsen rides a horse named Doc as he sorts animals from his 2,500-head herd in Afton, Wyoming.

Chad Madsen Of Afton Owns Wyoming's Largest Horse Herd — And Knows Them All By Name

Chad Madsen runs a herd of 2,500 horses, the largest in Wyoming, on ranches in Pavilion and Afton. The horses end up at outfitters and dude ranches across the state as rentals for tourists and hunters. And Madsen says he knows them all by name.

Renée JeanMarch 08, 2025

Glen Chavez (right), Marcus Gallizzi (center), Rich Trujillo (left)

Cheyenne Barber Predicts Weeks Of Misery Because Of Daylight Saving Time

Longtime Cheyenne barber Glen Chavez was upset on Friday that the semi-annual time change was happening again on Sunday morning. Chavez says that 99.9% of the customers at Trujillo's Barbershop want the tradition ended and the "clocks locked."

Jimmy OrrMarch 08, 2025

Farmers and ranchers in eastern Laramie County are worried about whether huge data centers springing up in Cheyenne will leave them with enough water for their cattle and crops.

Cheyenne Farmers Worry Huge Data Center Will Suck Up Their Irrigation Water

Farmers and ranchers in eastern Laramie County are worried that a massive Facebook (Meta) data center, along with similar future projects, will suck up the water they need. Cheyenne's mayor reassures them it won't.

Mark HeinzMarch 07, 2025

The Frontier Bar, Montana’s unofficial hub of cold beer diplomacy.

Along Montana-Canada Border, Tariffs Could Spike Prices For Beer, Fishing Lures

A lot of commerce flows across the 545 miles of border between Montana and Canada. With promised 25% tariffs going into effect Tuesday, locals expect prices for all kinds of things to spike, including beer and fishing lures.

David MadisonMarch 04, 2025

President Donald Trump said Monday, March 3, 2025, there’s no more delaying 25% tariffs that will go into effect on Canada and Mexico on Tuesday. That’s expected to impact Wyoming, which does more business with Canada than any other foreign country.

Wyoming Businesses Wait To See Impact Of Tariffs, Going Into Effect Tuesday

President Trump on Monday said there’s no more delaying 25% tariffs that will go into effect on Canada and Mexico on Tuesday. That’s expected to impact Wyoming, which does more business with Canada than any other foreign country.

Renée JeanMarch 04, 2025

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, left, and U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis.

Lummis, Hageman Hail Trump’s Halt To ‘Burdensome’ Disclosures On Small Businesses

Sen. Cynthia Lummis and Rep. Harriet Hageman are cheering a Sunday decision by President Trump’s Treasury secretary to halt “burdensome” disclosure rules for small businesses. They call the move a “major win” for small businesses across Wyoming.

Sean BarryMarch 04, 2025

Two Wyoming Trona Mines Bought For $1.4B To Create World’s Largest Producer

London-based WE Soda has bought Genesis Alkali’s two trona mines in southwest Wyoming for $1.4 billion. It makes WE Soda the No. 1 producer of natural trona in the world.

Renée JeanMarch 03, 2025

The Hotel LaBonte continues to be a destination for travelers, tourists seeking out historic hotels, and Converse County oilfield and construction workers temporarily in the region.

After 110 Years, Hotel LaBonte In Douglas Keeps The Old West Alive

Fifth-generation Converse County rancher Keith Moore and his wife Macey bought the Hotel LaBonte in Douglas 10 years ago because of their affinity for old buildings and downtown revitalization. Its past includes a historic old west shootout and plenty of ghostly happenings.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 02, 2025

An illustration showing what the front of the Field and Stream Lodge could look like.

New Field & Stream Branded Hotel To Launch In Montana

A new Field & Stream-themed lodge is being launched in the middle of hotel boom in Bozeman, Montana. It promises guests a throwback summer camp experience filled with the magazine’s outdoors nostalgia.

David MadisonMarch 02, 2025

A home for sale in Cheyenne in this file photo.

Montana, Wyoming Top List Of Fastest-Selling Real Estate Markets

A new real estate report shows Wyoming, Montana, and Alaska are the fastest-selling real estate markets in the nation. Inventory in Wyoming is very low -- ranging from 1.79% in Natrona County to 2.05% in Sweetwater County to 5.63% in Park County.

David MadisonMarch 02, 2025

At 84 inches by 84 inches, the Wyoming king bed is more than the size of two queen-sized mattresses combined. Few people have heard of the Wyoming king, but that's changing.

So What Exactly Is A Wyoming King Bed And How Big Is It?

Everyone knows about California King beds, but there’s a relatively new item in oversized mattresses. The Wyoming King is in the middle of the oversized mattress variants. It's bigger than a Texas King but smaller than an Alaskan or Alberta King.

Andrew RossiMarch 01, 2025

At 72, Gary Dickinson continues to pursue a passion for classic cars. His “The Junkyard” in Glenrock specializes in “classic” cars and car parts.

Glenrock Man Has 5 Acres Of Rusted-Out Vintage Cars That Have Potential To Be Jewels

Gary Dickinson has 5 acres of rusted-out vintage cars that some might call a graveyard of junk. The Glenrock man says they’re half right — his old cars are junk, but they have the potential to become jewels.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 01, 2025

Drinking Wyoming: Frosty’s, A True Casper Dive Bar Proudly Serving Horrible Liquor

Frosty’s in Casper, is a typical dive bar in many ways — and proud to serve one of the most terrible tasting liquors. It’s one of the few places outside Chicago with Jeppson’s Malort, a rite-of-passage drink people say tastes like old socks.

Renée JeanMarch 01, 2025

A Montana state agency is moving ahead with restoring passenger service to southern Montana, and rail advocates in Laramie sees promise in a new report from the Federal Rail Administration. This Union Pacific train hauls people from Denver to Cheyenne Frontier Days in this file photo.

New Study Adds Momentum To Return Of Passenger Rail To Wyoming, Montana

A January report from the Federal Railroad Administration recommends restoring Amtrak routes across the West, including through Cheyenne. It specifically recommended passenger train travel across southern Wyoming and a north-south route to Billings.

David MadisonMarch 01, 2025

A Cyclone Drilling crew working Rig 38 hit 6,000 feet in 24 hours, a new record at the time in July 2017.

Why Wyoming’s Oil And Gas Industry Isn’t Yet “Drill Baby Drilling”

Optimism is high in Wyoming’s oil and gas sector with President Donald Trump's promise to "drill, baby, drill." But there’s also uncertainty about how more drilling will impact prices.

Renée JeanMarch 01, 2025

Interstate 80 is one of the busiest — and most dangerous — east-west routes across Wyoming and the nation.

Trucking Fatalities Have Increased Since Feds Stopped Suspending Truckers Who Can’t Read English

Fatalities involving large commercial trucks have been on the rise since 2016. That was the year the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued a memorandum telling safety inspectors not to suspend commercial drivers for failing to communicate well in English.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 28, 2025

Wyoming’s lumber industry isn’t huge, but is heartened to hear Trump say America doesn’t need lumber from Canada. But the industry needs more than tariffs to save it — like changes to forest management. Here, logging trucks collect usable timber harvested while fighting the Elk Fire in the Bighorn National Forest in fall 2024.

Trump Says US Doesn’t Need Canada’s Timber, And Wyoming’s Lumber Industry Agrees

Wyoming’s lumber industry isn’t huge, but was heartened to hear President Trump say America doesn’t need timber from Canada. The industry says it needs more than tariffs to save it — like changes to forest management.

Renée JeanFebruary 28, 2025

Wyoming Grows Lead In Race For Rare Earths Thanks To Bigger Haul From Huge Deposit

Wyoming Rare (USA) Inc. is reporting even better returns at its Halleck Creek rare earth mining site. That helps grow Wyoming’s lead in the race for domestic production — and processing — of critical rare earth minerals.

Renée JeanFebruary 26, 2025

Dr. McGinley and Lochie Hughes at an elite racer training facility, Pit Fit, in Indianapolis, IN. Dr. McGinley was there educating racers and their teams about common orthopedic injuries and the latest treatments.

Wyoming’s McGinley Clinic Gains National Spotlight with Indy NXT Sponsorship

A Wyoming-based medical clinic is making waves on the national and international stage, drawing top-tier professional athletes to Casper and Gillette for world-class orthopedic treatment.

Wyoming’s Oldest General Store In Aladdin Loses Its 127-Year-Old Post Office

The tiny outpost of Aladdin in northeast Wyoming is home to the state’s oldest general store, which has also served as a local post office since 1898. But no more. The Postal Service has discontinued its contract with the Aladdin General Store.

Renée JeanFebruary 25, 2025

For 50 years, Jerry Kintzler has been designing flower arrangements from his store, Jerry’s Flowers, in downtown Riverton, Wyoming.

Meet Jerry Kintzler: 55 Years Of Designing Flower Arrangements — And Saving Lives

Jerry Kintzler has been designing flower arrangements for 55 years in Riverton and has even saved lives with his flower knowledge. At least twice, he warned people that premature dead flowers were a sign they had gas leaks in their homes.

Jackie DorothyFebruary 23, 2025

Rooftop systems are less prone to breaking than ground-based systems, according to Creative Energies out of Lander a company thats been in Wyoming since 2001.

Not All Solar Panel Systems Are Nightmares For Their Owners

Several Cowboy State Daily readers wrote in to talk about their experiences with solar panels after a Happy Valley family living near Cheyenne shared their nightmare experience. They also shared tips on how to select the right system.

Renée JeanFebruary 23, 2025

Sun Valley Resort in Idaho is recognized as a world-class ski area. A recent Idaho Supreme Court ruling against Sun Valley stopped ski industry watchers in their tracks and raised concerns about an avalanche of liability lawsuits.

‘Nuclear Verdicts’ Against Big Ski Resorts Could Price Mom-And-Pop Areas Out Of Business

A widow suing the world-famous Sun Valley Resort in Idaho over the death of her husband could end with a “nuclear verdict” that could spike insurance rates across the industry. That could price mom-and-pop areas like those in Wyoming out of business.

David MadisonFebruary 23, 2025

Six Degrees And Snowing At 7:30 p.m. And Nate Ditto Is Cutting Down A 50-Foot Tree

Arborist Nate Ditto was trying to beat the clock by cutting down a 50-foot tree before a snowstorm hit Cheyenne last week. To make things more interesting, it was six-degrees and snowing at 7:30 p.m. and he was still at it. He says he likes the adrenaline he gets from his job.

Renée JeanFebruary 23, 2025

Clock Ticking Again For Small Businesses To Report Ownership

Small business owners now have until March 21 to file forms disclosing their ownership. But even the federal agency in charge isn’t firm on that deadline with legislation and a court case pending.

Renée JeanFebruary 20, 2025

Wyoming Native Reid Rasner Puts Together $47.45 Billion Offer To Buy TikTok

Casper native Reid Rasner has put together a $47.45 billion bid to bring the popular social media app TikTok to Wyoming, which he said would keep the app away from China and boost the state’s economy.

Renée JeanFebruary 20, 2025

The Wyoming Highway Patrol Association voted last week to buy bitcoin, which has exploded by 400% over the last five years. The association is the first law enforcement group in the United States to invest in bitcoin.

WHP Association May Be First Law Enforcement Group In Nation To Buy Into Bitcoin

The Wyoming Highway Patrol Association voted last week to buy bitcoin, which has exploded by 400% over the last five years. The association says it may be the first law enforcement group in the United States to invest in bitcoin.

Renée JeanFebruary 18, 2025

Wildfires Help Push 40,000 Head Drop To Wyoming’s 2024 Cattle Production

Despite a 3% decrease in cattle production in 2024, Wyoming ranchers expect 2025 will bring back a strong cattle market. The Wyoming Stock Growers Association says part of the reason for the 40,000-head decrease was the severe wildfire season.

Jackie DorothyFebruary 18, 2025

Wyoming And Montana Legislators Seek To Ban Lab-Grown Meat

Allusions to “Frankenstein” and “The Matrix” punctuate discussion of bills designed to protect “food traditions” and ban the sale of meat created in a laboratory. Wyoming and Montana are among states trying to ban it.

David MadisonFebruary 17, 2025

Are you ready for the zombie apocalypse? You could be with the help of Zombie Tools, a Montana business that makes custom weapons.

Montana Man Has Spent 20 Years Forging Weapons To Stave Off A Zombie Uprising

Joey Arbour has made as many as 10,000 custom blades and knives since he started his Montana-based company Zombie Tools. His blades have been featured in television and movies like “Dune.”

Anna-Louise JacksonFebruary 16, 2025

The Fools’ End Club was founded in 2016 to provide Missoula’s cigar aficionados with discriminating tastes and a wish for exclusivity a private club where they can come to enjoy camaraderie and a good leaf of tobacco,” according to promotional materials. Recent proposed legislation wafting through the Montana Capitol Building currently aspires to make it easier to open public cigar bars.

Cigar Bars Making A Comeback In A Post-Smoking World

Rocky Mountain states see stogie smoke rising around a growing trend of opening more cigar bars and protecting local cigar shops with tax breaks. Wyoming and Montana both are pushing forward to promote the industry.

David MadisonFebruary 16, 2025

Willie Banks preparfes eggs on the grill at Diamond Horseshoe Cafe in Cheyenne.

Egg Prices Have Restaurants Scrambling When It Comes To Breakfast

Wyoming restaurants are facing higher and higher egg prices amid an outbreak of the bird flu. Because of the huge increase in prices, some Wyoming restaurants say they are closing down temporarily.

Renée JeanFebruary 15, 2025

Google tapped Wyoming outdoor wildlife guide Adam Lackner for its Super Bowl ad campaign, showcasing all 50 states. The Cowboy State’s ad shows off wild Wyoming, as well as one of the state’s leading outdoor guide businesses.

Google Hired Yellowstone, Grand Teton Wildlife Guide For Super Bowl Ad

Google tapped a Wyoming outdoor wildlife guide for its Super Bowl ad campaign, showcasing all 50 states. The Cowboy State’s ad shows off wild Wyoming, as well as one of the state’s leading outdoor guide businesses.

Renée JeanFebruary 12, 2025

The University of Wyoming spending $2 million to run a 30-second ad during the Super Bowl featuring newly minted NFL MVP and UW alum Josh Allen created quite a buzz. But it’s still “too early to say” whether it will pay off in higher enrollments .

UW Says It's “Too Early To Say” Return On $2 Million Josh Allen Super Bowl Ad

The University of Wyoming spent $2 million to run a 30-second ad during the Super Bowl featuring newly minted NFL MVP and UW alum Josh Allen to create a buzz. The university says it's “too early to say” whether the strategy will pay off in higher enrollments.

Dale KillingbeckFebruary 11, 2025

This office building used by Registered Agents Inc. in Sheridan is the official address for about 120,000 LLCs registered in Wyoming, Fremont County Assessor Tara Berg estimates.

Already No. 1 For LLCs, Can Wyoming Attract The Huge Companies Leaving Delaware?

Tesla, Meta, Dropbox are a few of the huge tech companies leaving Delaware for other states like Texas and Nevada. Why not Wyoming, which has surpassed Delaware for No. 1 in business incorporations per capita?

Renée JeanFebruary 11, 2025

The Cabin That’s Almost A Mansion On Last Chance Road In Jackson Hole

For a mere $11.5 million, resort-style life awaits in a cabin that’s almost a mansion in Jackson Hole. With a 720 credit rating and a $2.7 million downpayment, financial calculators put your monthly payments at just $54,000, for a 30-year loan.

Renée JeanFebruary 10, 2025

Caitlin Youngquist (right) teaching a compost workshop for Wyoming Dept of Environmental Quality

The Art Of Turning Manure To Compost

Manure management is one of the biggest problems faced by feedlots. One soil scientist is helping a feedlot in Worland make better use of their manure by creating more compost for local farmers and gardeners.

Jackie DorothyFebruary 09, 2025

It's Not Your Imagination: The Jerky Meat Industry Is Exploding

Riverton's Brian Tucker saw the writing on the wall in the booming jerky industry. His company, which focuses on the do-it-yourself jerky-makers, is one of the largest in the world. It's a $6 billion industry and could grow to $10 billion in the next 7 years.

David MadisonFebruary 09, 2025

After 100 Years, Cavalryman Steakhouse Closes, Moves To Special Events Model

If you've spent any time in Laramie, you know the Cavalryman Steakhouse. It just celebrated its 100th anniversary and is moving to a special events model. The historic restaurant will only be open for special occasions like holidays, weddings, football games and the like.

Renée JeanFebruary 09, 2025

Summertime Reservations Going Fast At Lodges in Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Teton

Reservations for the in-park lodges at Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park are starting to fill up for the summer tourism season, though some of the most sought-after lodging options are already booked.

Anna-Louise JacksonFebruary 09, 2025

Several fossils and minerals on display in the Geoworld showroom during the 2025 Tucson Gem and Mineral Show.

Wyoming's Everywhere At The World-Renowned Tucson Gem and Mineral Show

Hundreds of vendors from dozens of countries converged in Tucson, Arizona, for the annual Gem and Mineral Show, where the best and most impressive gems, minerals, and fossils turn the past into profit. And everywhere you looked, Wyoming was represented.

Andrew RossiFebruary 08, 2025

Pete Bass talks about his life with Cowboy State Daily at his coffee shop in Evanston, For Pete's Sake, where he likes to say he serves good coffee and bad puns.

The Coffee Comes With Redemption At Pete’s Sake In Evanston

"For Pete's Sake" coffee shop in Evanston serves more than just coffee. For owner Pete Bass, it's a mission. That mission is to tell his story of redemption to anyone who feels like they need a second chance. Prison, he says, was God’s way of offering him another chance -- every time.

Renée JeanFebruary 08, 2025

A Natrona County Board of Commission hearing on a solar farm and battery storage project drew a crowd of residents in opposition Tuesday night.

Casper-Area Solar Farm Killed After Dozens Of Residents Speak Out Against It

Natrona County commissioners on Tuesday voted 3-2 against a 2,000-acre solar farm proposal on private ranch land 30 miles west of Casper. Dozens of area residents spoke out against it during a 7 1/2 hour meeting that ended around midnight.

Dale KillingbeckFebruary 05, 2025

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman talks with students at Wind River Job Corps in Riverton, Wyoming.

Learning Trades Isn’t Just Landing Wyoming Youth Good Jobs, It’s Saving Lives

The teens and young adults in the Wind River Job Corps in Riverton usually get there out of desperation. But the trades there can lead to great-paying jobs. Plus, it's the only job corps in America that offers training for petroleum technicians.

Jackie DorothyFebruary 02, 2025

A driver in Cheyenne, Wyoming, uses the large internet-connected system on his Tesla Cybertruck in this file photo.

Like With Smartphones And Tablets, There Are Many Ways Your Car Spies On You

Your smartphone, tablet and other devices are spying on us. Your car does the same thing. You may want to read the user agreement. Nissan, for example, includes things like: “sexual activity, health diagnosis data and genetic information."

Aaron TurpenFebruary 02, 2025

Casper Doctor Now Official Orthopedic Partner, Provider For Pro Motocross Racing

Dr. Joe McGinley has climbed the tallest mountains on six of seven continents and invents medical devices. But before that, he had a passion for motocross, giving it up for medical school. Now the Casper doctor is back as the official orthopedic partner and provider for Pro Motocross racing.

Renée JeanFebruary 02, 2025

Students in the Manufacturing Industrial and Technology Department at Western Wyoming Community College.

Nuclear Power Tech Poised To Explode As Wyoming’s Next Six-Figure “It” Job

The wages for nuclear power techs are expected to range into the six figures, and it’s a good thing because Wyoming will soon need hundreds of these techs. Western Wyoming Community College is training people for this emerging career.

Renée JeanFebruary 01, 2025

The Lou Taubert sign really stands out at night when its neon in in its full glory.

Race On To Save Lou Taubert Neon Sign, Last Remnant Of Casper’s “Little Las Vegas”

The Lou Taubert neon sign that towers over Center Street in Casper, Wyoming, is in desperate need of repair. It’s the last remnant of Casper's historic street of neon that earned it the nickname “Little Las Vegas.”

Jackie DorothyFebruary 01, 2025

Governors, Famous Author Fans Of 2025 BIG WYO Winner Diane Shober

Diane Shober is 2025’s BIG WYO winner after 21 years as the Wyoming Office of Tourism director. That had a long line of people, including governors and New York Times best-selling author C.J. Box saluting her drive to promote Wyoming.

Renée JeanJanuary 29, 2025

Along the Interstate 90 corridor to and fron Sturgis, South Dakota, Devils Tower is a busy place during the annual motorcycle rally.

Even At Nearly $5B A Year, Wyoming Tourism Not Close To Potential, Industry Says

At nearly $5 billion a year, tourism is Wyoming’s second-leading economic driver. Even so, the state’s tourism industry says it’s just scratching the surface of Cowboy State tourism’s true potential.

Renée JeanJanuary 29, 2025

The Wyoming Hospitality and Travel Coalition is introduced in the state Senate on Monday, where all four balconies were stacked with people representing Wyoming's tourism industry.

Tourism Industry Is Gearing Up To Take On A New Legislature

With 28 lawmakers who are either new or in new roles, tourism is gearing up for a charm offensive. It started with a show of force at the Capitol on Monday, but the lobbying effort is going to continue throughout the year.

Renée JeanJanuary 28, 2025

Bowling is making a comeback in a big way thanks to a high-tech video game-style makeover.

Can Bowling Become Cool Again? Cheyenne's Derby Lane Says "Absolutely."

Bowling has been in a decline since the ‘80s, but a high-tech video-game approach is changing that. The new style is what the recently opened Derby Lanes in Cheyenne is all about.

Renée JeanJanuary 26, 2025

The newly re-opened Isdell Mercantile Co. in Pony, Montana.

Arrival Of 2 New Businesses Means There’s More Than A Bar In Tiny Pony, Montana

The remote former mining town of Pony, Montana, went bust more than 100 years ago. But the recent arrival of two new businesses downtown, this picturesque outpost at the foot of the Tobacco Root Mountains is experiencing a new kind of boom.

David MadisonJanuary 25, 2025

It takes some next-level marketing and effort to sell exclusive multimillion-dollar Jackson Hole properties to billionaires.

How To Sell Jackson Hole Real Estate To Billionaires

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to sell exclusive multimillion-dollar Jackson Hole properties to billionaires, Latham Jenkins can tell you. It’s next-level effort that goes far beyond just walking potential buyers through a building.

Renée JeanJanuary 25, 2025

David Lynch was a Hollywood legend with scores of credits to his name. So how did a small Montana stationary story land Lynch to voice over a TV ad — for free — that aired during the Super Bowl?

How A Small Montana Business Landed A Free Super Bowl Ad With A Hollywood Legend

Filmmaker David Lynch, who died last week, was a Hollywood legend. One of his last projects landed close to his hometown. For no charge, he was the voice behind a commercial for a small Montana stationary store that aired during last year's Super Bowl.

Anna-Louise JacksonJanuary 25, 2025

Chef Zoilan Ruiz is a huge reason why Le Reve Restaurant and Raw Bar in Sheridan, Wyoming, has been named a semifinalist for a James Beard Award for best new restaurant.

Sheridan’s Le Reve Makes Exclusive James Beard List Of Best New Restaurants

What happens when you hire filmmaker George Lucas' chef for your brand new restaurant? You get noticed. After just four months in operation, Le Reve Restaurant and Raw Bar in Sheridan has made the exclusive list of James Beard Award semifinalists for best new restaurant in the nation.

Renée JeanJanuary 25, 2025

Guns for Christmas owner of Frontier Arms IMG 1905 12 23 copy

Wyoming Shooters Say They Don’t Support Eliminating Sales Tax On Guns, Ammo

A proposal to eliminate sales tax on guns and ammo in Wyoming is a nice gesture, some sportsmen say, but cutting taxes across the board would be better.

Mark HeinzJanuary 25, 2025

Danny and Sean Higgins said they will continue to network with filmmakers and lobby lawmakers in Helena, Montana, in 2025, hoping to pass the kind of tax incentive legislation that failed in Wyoming in 2023.

Wyoming Filmmakers Join Campaign To Increase Montana Production Tax Incentives

After failing to convince Wyoming lawmakers to enact tax incentives for filmmakers, two brothers from Sheridan are taking their plans to build a production studio to Montana.

David MadisonJanuary 22, 2025

A line of people wait at the Cheyenne Post Office while other customers access their P.O. boxes in the background.

End Of USPS-UPS Deal Could Mean Faster Rural Delivery, But More Expensive

Rural packages are likely to get to where they’re going faster now that contract negotiations between the U.S. Postal Service and UPS have fallen apart for last-mile service. But it’s also likely to be more expensive.

Renée JeanJanuary 21, 2025

Historic One-Of-A-Kind Property For Sale Near Sunrise Once Home To Early Pioneer

A five-bedroom house near the abandoned company mining town of Sunrise, Wyoming, in the Hartville area is chock-full of history — and for sale, listing for $809,000. It was home to an early pioneer, and the sale includes the Guernsey Cabin.

Renée JeanJanuary 20, 2025

The historic Johnson’s Corner restaurant about an hour south of Cheyenne is closed for a refresh and rebranding. It won’t be Johnson’s Corner anymore, but the cinnamon rolls that made it famous will still be on the menu.

Iconic Johnson’s Corner Along I-25 Closed, To Become Chain Restaurant

The iconic Johnson’s Corner restaurant about an hour south of Cheyenne is closed for a refresh and rebranding. It won’t be Johnson’s Corner anymore, but the cinnamon rolls that made it famous will still be on the menu.

Anna-Louise JacksonJanuary 19, 2025

A starter castle designed to mimic the luxurious Amangani resort next door is turning heads, even in swanky Jackson Hole. The “Petite Aman” can be yours for a cool $18 million.

Even In Jackson Hole, Listing For $18M “Petite Aman” Estate Is Turning Heads

A starter mansion designed to mimic the luxurious Amangani resort next door is turning heads, even in swanky Jackson Hole. The “Petite Aman” can be yours for a cool $18 million.

Jake NicholsJanuary 19, 2025

First United Methodist Church in Casper, Wyoming.

Service Project On MLK Day Seeks Hygiene Items, Winter Clothing For Homeless

A Casper service project sponsored by ServeWyoming for Martin Luther King Jr. Day needs hygiene items and winter clothing for the homeless. A project to bag the items for distribution is planned for noon Monday at First United Methodist Church.

January 19, 2025

The bartender at Le Reve Restaurant and Raw Bar adjusts the flow of water from an ornate fountain, part of the ritual involved in serving a glass of absinthe.

Drinking Wyoming: Absinthe, Spirit Of Murder And Madness, Is Back In Wyoming

Absinthe was illegal for nearly a century, branded by the wine industry as a spirit of murder and madness. But it’s making a comeback, and a handful of Wyoming venues serve this once-forbidden liquor.

Renée JeanJanuary 18, 2025

More Funerals Include Casket Branding, The Most Cowboy Way To Say Goodbye

A growing trend in Western funerals is for family and loved ones to put hot cattle brands to wooden caskets. It’s the most cowboy way for ranching families and others in the West to say goodbye.

Andrew RossiJanuary 18, 2025

Fire air operations drop fire retardant on flames from the Palisades Fire along Mandeville Canyon in the Brentwood community of Los Angeles, Calif.

Why California Wildfires Could Spike Already-High Wyoming Insurance Rates

The wildfires devastating residential areas of Southern California aren’t only going to impact those homeowners. Wyoming residents also can expect to see a spike in their already-high insurance rates.

Renée JeanJanuary 18, 2025

The Granite Creek Ranch, which was listed for nearly $9 million in Jackson, Wyoming, has been bought by billionare Joe Ricketts.

Billionaire Joe Ricketts Plans Luxury Resort With Teton County Ranch He Bought

Billionaire Joe Ricketts has announced his plans for the Granite Ranch in Teton County, which he bought last fall. It will be a swanky luxury resort, echoing many of the same themes as his abandoned Homestead Resort project in Bondurant.

Renée JeanJanuary 15, 2025

Star Plunge water park and hot springs in Thermopolis closed Tuesday, a day earlier than expected as a dispute continues between the state and the facility's owners/operators. Here, Roland Luehne turns away Joy Erickson, son Dayton Yaple and Annette Withinton, Lander customers who misunderstood that the pool was closed.

Soakers Show Up To Find World Famous Star Plunge Closed Sooner Than Expected

The world famous Star Plunge pool and hot springs in Thermopolis, Wyoming, has been on a legal collision course with the state. It had been expected to close Wednesday, but soakers showed up Tuesday to find it suddenly closed earlier.

Renée JeanJanuary 14, 2025

A new policy has gone into effect at Denver International Airport where people can't pay for parking with cash.

DIA Stops Taking Cash As Payment For Parking At Airport Lots

DIA has stopped accepting cash at its parking lots to speed up the exit process. The airport joins an increasing number of businesses and services that are doing away with cash, including the National Park Service and the University of Wyoming.

Justin GeorgeJanuary 13, 2025

In the fall, a side shelf was added called the Jam Stand which includes a variety of canned items.

Honor System Works For Tiny Unmanned Worland Roadside Farm Stand

A cabinet full of products on the side of a road, trusting people not to steal everything in it may seem naïve in today’s world. But it works in Worland where a tiny unmanned roadside farm stand is thriving on the honor system.

Amber SteinmetzJanuary 12, 2025

Java Moon owner Megan Cook makes a specialty coffee drink at her Sheridan cafe.

Inside Sheridan's Java Moon Coffee Shop Where Mooncakes Are King

Somewhere over the Java Moon in Sheridan is where you’ll find Megan Cook. The former financial accountant took a moonshot leap of faith from a comfortable job to owning her own business. It’s been a roller coaster, but she has no regrets.

Renée JeanJanuary 12, 2025

Blue Federal Credit Union location at East 7th Street and Warren Avenue in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

No, Jimmy Carter’s Funeral Didn’t Delay Workers From Getting Their Paychecks

Some Blue Federal Credit Union customers in Cheyenne woke up Friday to shock that their paychecks hadn’t been deposited. Although told it was because the Federal Reserve was closed for Jimmy Carter’s funeral, it was an electronic transfer glitch.

Renée JeanJanuary 12, 2025

Grain Weevil Robot Aims To Keep Farmers From Risking Their Lives In Grain Bins

A Nebraska company has developed a pioneering robot called a Grain Weevil that can do everything in a grain bin a human with a shovel might need to do. Wyoming farmers say it could be a revolutionary development for safety.

Renée JeanJanuary 11, 2025

Like It Or Not, Self-Driving Semi-Trucks Are Inevitable; Montana Company Leading The Way

Self-driving technology for the trucking industry is evolving quickly. Many of those advances originate in Montana through a company that researched autonomous trucking technology on the treacherous Lone Peak in Montana.

David MadisonJanuary 11, 2025

Gaslight Social customer John Lee, center, believes the Surgeon General should look at the substances banned by Europe and allowed in the United States rather than go after an updated alcohol warning label. With him at left is Cave Derell of Casper, and right, Charlie Chapin.

Wyomingites Not Thrilled With Surgeon General's Call To Add Cancer Warnings To Beer

Most Wyomingites Cowboy State Daily interviewed scoffed at the U.S. surgeon general's call to add cancer-labels to beer cans. Sen. John Barrasso, a doctor, said labeling beer cans is not the answer.

Dale KillingbeckJanuary 11, 2025

Since September, thousands of rural ZIP codes have been paying a surcharge on packages that has been quietly put into U.S. Postal Service merchant agreements with companies like eBay.

Wyomingites Pay More For Rural Postal Service Deliveries Through Sneaky Surcharge

The U.S. Postal Service has quietly initiated a surcharge on package deliveries to rural areas, which includes much of Wyoming. The up-charges have been quietly slipped into Postal Service agreements with merchants like eBay.

Renée JeanJanuary 10, 2025

A large U-Haul facility in east Cheyenne, Wyoming.

People Keep Leaving California, But Fewer Moving To Wyoming, U-Haul Reports

Fewer newcomers made their way to Wyoming and Montana in 2024, but the stream of transplants continues into Idaho. That’s according to data reported by U-Haul, which also reports California is the place people most want to leave.

David MadisonJanuary 08, 2025

South Dakota-based Aerostar is testing high-altitude balloons with NASA and the U.S. Forest Service for supporting wildland firefighting efforts by giving cellphone service and other observations and data.

Those Aren't Chinese Balloons Over Wyoming, They're Helping Firefighters And More

Some of the balloons people see floating over Wyoming aren’t Chinese spy efforts, they’re from South Dakota. One balloon was a floating cellphone tower for a demonstration project that could dramatically improve logistics for wildland firefighters.

Renée JeanJanuary 07, 2025

Ski Patrol members at Park City Mountain picket in Park City, Utah, on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025.

Park City Ski Patrol Strike Has Divided Ski Industry In Western States

Striking ski patrol workers at the upscale Park City Mountain Resort in Utah have skiers who want to pay big bucks for a luxury experience crossing a picket line. It’s also divided the ski industry in Western states, including Wyoming.

Leo WolfsonJanuary 07, 2025

Along with a main house, there are a handful of other homes and residences on the Antlers Ranch.

Two Multimillion-Dollar Wyoming Properties Are In Top 5 Most-Viewed Luxury Listings

Two multimillion-dollar Wyoming properties have made Mansion Global’s annual list of top five viewed luxury listings for 2024. The $9 million Granite Creek Ranch in Jackson Hole is No. 1, while the $85 million Antlers Ranch near Meeteetse is No. 4.

Renée JeanJanuary 06, 2025

Even when it's 20 degrees and snowy outside, the business in Mort's Bagels in downtown Cheyenne, Wyoming, is brisk on a Sunday morning, Jan. 5, 2025.

Bagels Are Temperamental, But That Hasn't Stopped Couple From Running Bagel Shop

Any cook who’s ever tried to make bagels can tell you just how temperamental they can be. A Cheyenne couple who purchased Mort's Bagels found that out the hard way. But they've learned that lesson and love running their own business.

Renée JeanJanuary 05, 2025

"Can I take your order?" Margaret Lovato asks with a smile at Diamond Horseshoe Cafe in Cheyenne, where she has worked for almost 50 years.

Margaret Lovato Has Been Serving Customers For 50 Years At Cheyenne's Diamond Horseshoe

Regulars at the Diamond Horseshoe Cafe describe it as Cheyenne’s Cheers, a place where everyone knows your name. At the center of that is Margaret Lovato, who’s been serving customers there for almost 50 years.

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

City National Pawn's coin master Joe Bohlinger looks at the tail feathers of a 2000-P Sacagawea coin, to see if it is a "Cheerios" coin. It wasn't, but if it had been, it would have been worth around $6,600 if in mint condition.

Pocket Change Can Be Worth Big Money If You Know What to Look For

While many of the most valuable coins aren’t in circulation anymore, there are still millions of coins changing hands every day. A Wyoming coin dealer says there’s big money in pocket change if you know what to look for.

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

Embattled Star Plunge Park Remains Open Ahead Of Jan. 14 Deadline

While many media outlets reported the historic Star Plunge would close Dec. 31, it remains open. While its lease expired then, the facility has an extension through Jan. 14 while negotiations for its sale and a court case continue.

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

When billionaire Joe Ricketts bought White Pine Ski & Summer Resort near Pinedale, Wyoming, people speculated the goal was to turn it into an upscale Jackson Hole-like resort. So far, fans of the ski area say it hasn’t changed yet.

Fans Say White Pine Unchanged So Far In First Season Under Billionaire Ricketts

When billionaire Joe Ricketts bought White Pine Resort near Pinedale, Wyoming, people speculated the goal was to turn it into an upscale Jackson Hole-like resort. So far, fans of the ski area say it hasn’t changed yet.

Renée JeanDecember 30, 2024

Artillery World is one of at least a half dozen fireworks warehouses off Interstate 25 just across the Colorado border.

Most Of Wyoming’s New Year’s Fireworks Sales Are To Folks From Other States

Wyoming fireworks stands report steady business from Colorado ahead of New Year’s Eve, but some stores say the upcoming New Year’s holiday is a dud.

David MadisonDecember 30, 2024

Kayleen Harding has been an EMT with Frontier Ambulance since November 2022. She recently began working to improve communication between EMS professionals and members of the Wind River Reservation.

Riverton Woman “Dumbfounded” To Be Named One Of The Best EMTs In The Nation

Kayleen Harding is dedicated to saving lives in Fremont County and the Wind River Reservation as an EMT for Frontier Ambulance in Riverton. She said she was "dumbfounded" to be awarded as one of the best EMTs in the nation.

Amber SteinmetzDecember 29, 2024

Uphill travel and ambitions continue to expand at Montana’s Big Sky Resort, where the new Lone Peak Tram and Powder Seeker Six Pack try to thin crowds by quickly dispersing skiers around the resort.

Montana’s Big Sky Resort Surges Ahead Of Jackson Hole In Lift Capacity Race

Big Sky Resort in Montana continues to compete with nearby Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for upscale ski clientele. It has surged ahead of its Wyoming neighbor with the opening of Madison 8, the longest eight-place chairlift in the world.

David MadisonDecember 29, 2024

Casper’s Backwards Distilling Co. makes its own liquors, then turns them into show-stealing cocktails. Many of the creations — and atmosphere — are inspired by the circus.

Drinking Wyoming: Cocktails Steal The Show At Casper’s Backwards Distilling Co.

Casper’s Backwards Distilling Co. makes its own spirits, then turns them into show-stealing cocktails. Many of the creations — and atmosphere — are inspired by the circus.

Zakary SonntagDecember 29, 2024

Scissorbills Saloon in Big Sky, Montana.

Gallatin County, Montana, Is Drunkest County In America

A new CDC study shows that 27% of people who live in Gallatin County, Montana, drink to excess, making it the drunkest county in America. Nearby Teton County in Wyoming isn't far behind, dubbed the booziest in the Cowboy State.

David MadisonDecember 28, 2024

Beef steers graze on a ranch in Dillon, Montana. The machine nearby releases a seaweed supplement while also measuring the cattle's methane emissions.

Rupert Murdoch Feeds His Montana Cows Seaweed To Make Them Burp And Fart Less

Cattle are a gassy lot, but seaweed has been shown to reduce the methane in their burps and farts on Rupert Murdoch’s Montana ranch. The Fox News mogul is testing the approach on a mix of Angus and Waygu cattle.

David MadisonDecember 27, 2024

Wyoming Businesses Don’t Have To Disclose Owners After Whiplash Court Ruling

The on-again, off-again mandate for small businesses to disclose their ownership is off again after a Thursday whiplash ruling by a federal court. It halts the Corporate Transparency Act, which calls for jail time, $10,000 fines for noncompliance.

Renée JeanDecember 27, 2024

The Megamillions lotto drawing Friday, Dec. 27, 2024, has an estimated jackpot of $1.15 billion.

Ticket Sales Explode As $1.15B Lotto Jackpot Has Wyomingites Feeling Lucky

There’s nothing like a jackpot pushing past $1 billion to make people start feeling lucky — or at least greedy. Ticket sales for Friday’s $1.15 billion Mega Millions jackpot are exploding around Wyoming.

Greg JohnsonDecember 27, 2024

Lines were long at the U.S. Postal Service office at Capitol Avenue in Cheyenne in this file photo.

Wyoming Mail Goes Hundreds Of Extra Miles Before Delivery

Wyoming mail is getting ping-ponged around the region, traveling hundreds of extra miles before finally being delivered. Tracking packages online is leaving customers beyond frustrated. Meanwhile, the U.S. Postal Service says it will look into the issue.

Renée JeanDecember 27, 2024

Small businesses make up the backbone of Cheyenne's downtown district.

Wyoming Business Owners Could Get Jail, $10,000 Fine For Not Disclosing Ownership

Small business owners face jail time and fines of up to $10,000 for not reporting who their owners are. They have until Jan 13, but Chuck Gray wants Wyoming to fight the rule in court.

Renée JeanDecember 26, 2024

Jim and Paulette Moss roping together at the 2004 USTRC Finals in Oklahoma City. After Jim hurt his shoulder in a roping event, Paulette roped another eight years before she realized he wasn’t coming back. She retired and focused on their magazine.

The WRANGLER Magazine: A Couple's Nearly 40-Year Love Affair With Wyoming And Cowboy Life

You may not know Jim and Paulette Moss, but chances are you know their work. As publishers of The WRANGLER magazine, they shared their love affair with Wyoming and cowboy life for nearly 40 years.

Jackie DorothyDecember 25, 2024

Enjoying an evening in the Old Faithful Snow Lodge at Yellowstone National Park.

Christmas In Yellowstone 2024: No Better Place To Celebrate

Cowboy State Daily's Andrew Rossi had the tough assignment of spending Christmas in Yellowstone. Without crowds and the park transformed by snow and winter, it’s become a holiday tradition for families seeking an unforgettable experience.

Andrew RossiDecember 24, 2024

Toy Town, an independent toy store in Casper was full of shoppers on Monday seeking last-minute gifts.

Josh Allen Collectibles Among Hot Christmas Items At Casper Toy Store

Casper’s Toy Town was full of last-minute shoppers Monday, and even this close to Christmas there were still some plumb items available. That includes a Funko pop culture collectible of former UW quarterback and Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen.

Dale KillingbeckDecember 23, 2024

Bird Flu Is Making Christmas Dinner More Expensive In Wyoming

While the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed that human infections of bird flu are rare, the most recent outbreak is affecting Wyoming’s grocery prices — and people’s holiday dinners.

Jackie DorothyDecember 23, 2024

Can 95-Year-Old Wort Cabin Survive Jackson’s Skyrocketing Real Estate Market?

The tiny Wort Cabin in downtown Jackson started in 1929 as a bakery, and has remained an active commercial space since. Now the local historic preservation board hopes it can survive the skyrocketing real estate valuations of the Jackson market.

Andrew RossiDecember 22, 2024

Newcastle, Wyoming, author Scott Haynes is enjoying success with his “Roadie the Ranch Dog” books.

Meet The Wyoming Truck Driver Behind “Roadie The Ranch Dog” Children's Books

The face behind the popular “Roadie the Ranch Dog” series of children’s books is a 49-year-old truck driver from Newcastle. Scott Haynes grew up on a ranch and wanted to create authentic ranch stories for kids. He recently published his seventh “Roadie” book.

Dale KillingbeckDecember 22, 2024

Neo is a 4-month-old Highland bull calf that's available after a buyer backed out of a sale.

Need A Last-Minute Gift? How About A Shaggy Hippie-Cow?

Highlands are the cute, shaggy hippies of cattle, and it seems everyone wants one or two. One Wyoming ranching family says they’re also cleaner, love people and taste great.

Andrew RossiDecember 21, 2024

Outrage Over Daniel Wolf Abuse Didn’t Impact Wyoming Tourism In 2024

Global outrage and calls to boycott Wyoming over the abuse and killing of a wolf in Daniel in February didn’t impact Cowboy State tourism in 2024. Lodging tax collections are up almost across the board.

Renée JeanDecember 20, 2024