By Speakman Realty Group
One of the greatest joys of life in Star Valley is just how easy it is to slow down and reconnect with the outdoors. Between the golf courses, the rivers, the lakes, and the seemingly endless mountain trails, there is truly no shortage of ways to unwind close to home. Knowing exactly where to go is honestly half the fun of living here. Here are our favorite ways to relax near Star Valley Ranch, gathered from years of living, working, and playing in this beautiful corner of Wyoming.
Key takeaways
- Star Valley Ranch offers a relaxing escape for every kind of day.
- Two local golf courses make for a peaceful afternoon.
- The rivers and Palisades Reservoir are perfect for time on the water.
- Nearby parks, trails, and natural wonders invite you outdoors.
Tee off at the local golf courses
Few things are more relaxing than a round of golf surrounded on all sides by mountain views. Star Valley Ranch is home to Cedar Creek, a full eighteen-hole course, and Aspen Hills, a scenic nine-hole course, both beautifully maintained and known for a peaceful, unhurried pace of play. After a round, the clubhouse and the Three Canyons Restaurant offer a wonderful spot to sit back and unwind over a good meal. It is genuinely one of our favorite ways to spend an easy afternoon in the valley.
What makes golf here special
A day on the local courses offers:
- Cedar Creek's full eighteen holes winding through the scenery.
- Aspen Hills' relaxed nine holes with mountain backdrops.
- A calm, unhurried pace of play.
- Well-kept greens in a beautiful setting.
- A clubhouse and restaurant to relax afterward.
Cast a line or float the rivers
The rivers of Star Valley feel as though they were made for slowing down. The Salt River runs right through the heart of the valley with several public access points, offering some of the most peaceful and productive fishing anywhere around. The nearby Snake River is another local favorite for casting a line or simply drifting along the water on a warm day. Whether you love to fish or just enjoy the steady sound of moving water, the rivers here are pure, uncomplicated relaxation.
Ways to enjoy the water
On the rivers, you can:
- Fish the Salt River at its public access points.
- Cast a line or float along the Snake River.
- Wade in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Pack a picnic and settle in along the bank.
- Simply sit by the water and take it all in.
Get out on the water at Palisades Reservoir
Just north of Thayne, Palisades Reservoir stretches for miles and miles of gorgeous mountain scenery. It is a wonderful place to spend a full day on the water, whether you have a boat, a kayak, or a stand-up paddleboard along for the trip. Several boat launches make access easy depending on the water levels through the season. Pack a picnic and make a whole afternoon of it, since few places anywhere feel more genuinely restorative.
How to spend a day here
At Palisades Reservoir, you can:
- Launch a boat and explore the expansive lake.
- Paddle a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
- Find a quiet spot along the shore for a picnic.
- Take in the stunning mountain scenery all around.
Take a walk in nature
Sometimes the best way to relax is simply to get outside and breathe the mountain air. Fox Run Park in Star Valley Ranch offers wide-open, pet-friendly space with trails and picnic areas and lovely views. For something more adventurous, the trails of the surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest, including the Green Canyon Trail, reward you with quiet and beauty. A walk here is good for the body and the mind alike.
Where to wander
For an easy escape outdoors, try:
- Fox Run Park for open space and picnic spots.
- The trails of Bridger-Teton National Forest.
- The scenic Green Canyon Trail for a bit more adventure.
- Any quiet path where you can soak in the views.
Chase a natural wonder
For a memorable outing, the Periodic Spring in Swift Creek Canyon near Afton is well worth the trip. This rare intermittent spring, one of only a handful in the world, flows in cycles and sits at the end of a peaceful canyon hike. The walk in is as rewarding as the destination, with beautiful scenery the whole way. It is a special reminder of just how remarkable this area is.
Making the most of the visit
When you go, plan to:
- Enjoy the scenic hike into Swift Creek Canyon.
- Time your visit to see the spring's natural cycle.
- Bring water and good walking shoes.
- Take your time and savor the surroundings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to relax near Star Valley Ranch?
It really depends on your mood that day. For an easy afternoon we love a round of golf at Cedar Creek or Aspen Hills, and for time out on the water, Palisades Reservoir is genuinely hard to beat anywhere in the region.
Are there free ways to unwind in the area?
Absolutely. A walk through Fox Run Park, fishing the Salt River, or hiking to the Periodic Spring are all wonderful ways to relax without spending much at all.
What natural attraction is a must-see nearby?
The Periodic Spring near Afton is a rare intermittent spring and a memorable outing, reached by a beautiful hike through Swift Creek Canyon.
Reach out to Speakman Realty Group
The relaxed, outdoor lifestyle here is a huge part of what makes Star Valley so special, and it is something we love sharing with everyone who calls it home. We know this valley inside and out, from its quiet trails to its favorite gathering spots.
Reach out to us,
Speakman Realty Group, whether you are just exploring the area for the first time or ready to make it your home for good. We would love to help you find your own place in this incredible valley and the lifestyle that comes with it.
