Head northwest out of Rawlins on U.S. 287, watching for pronghorn leaping along the lightly traveled road. At Muddy Gap Junction, you might want to drive 12 miles east on state Highway 220 to see the Mormon Handcart Visitors Center and learn how a band of pioneers was surprised by an early blizzard at nearby Martin's Cove in October 1856, with tragic results.

Continue west to the intersection of state Highway 28 and follow the signs to South Pass City State Historic Site. This evocative old mining town is always worth wandering through, and its visitor center and some buildings stay open through September 30. Backtrack north on Highway 28 and enjoy fall camping in Sinks Canyon State Park, or get a room in Lander, Riverton or Dubois.