Rawlins, WY
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions and Services
Rawlins, a historic city in south-central Wyoming, serves as the Carbon County seat. It's a unique crossroads where major transcontinental trails and the Continental Divide converge.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: City of Rawlins, Wyoming .
- Administrative Role: Rawlins is the county seat of Carbon County, the third-largest county in Wyoming . It is a key administrative and service hub for the region.
- Location: The city is located in south-central Wyoming, United States. The region is known for its high plains desert, historic ties to the transcontinental railroad, and its location along the Continental Divide .
Founding Date and Age
- Date of Origin: The city was named for Union General John Aaron Rawlins, who camped in the area in 1867 . Its growth followed the arrival of the transcontinental railroad.
- Current Age: Founded in the late 1860s, Rawlins is over 155 years old.
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 41°47′25″N 107°14′3″W (41.790397, -107.234297) .
- Natural Setting: Rawlins is situated in the rugged south-central plains of Wyoming, where the high plains meet the southern Rocky Mountains . The North Platte River winds through the area nearby .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 6,834 feet (2,083 meters) above sea level .
- City Type: Rawlins is a historic Western town and a crossroads community, serving as a gateway to outdoor recreation .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Primary Function: Rawlins functions as an administrative center (county seat), a historic tourism destination, and a transportation hub .
- Historic Significance: The city is a unique point where six major historic routes intersect: the Union Pacific Railroad's Transcontinental Rail Corridor, the Lincoln Highway, the First Transcontinental Air Mail Route, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, and the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail . This makes it a key stopping point for travelers and long-distance hikers .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2010 census, the population was 9,259. A 2019 estimate placed it at 8,510 .
- Population Class: Rawlins is a small city.
- Demographic Note: In 2010, 24.3% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino .
City's "Calling Card"
Rawlins is a unique crossroads community where the Continental Divide Trail meets historic wagon routes and the Lincoln Highway. It's a gateway to outdoor adventure and a place to experience authentic Western history, from the imposing Wyoming Frontier Prison to the vast landscapes of the Medicine Bow Mountains .
Geography
Mountains and Ranges
- Medicine Bow Mountains: Located a short drive from Rawlins, this mountain range offers scenic beauty with tall pine trees, alpine lakes, and ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping in the Medicine Bow National Forest .
- Ferris Mountains: This rugged mountain range is located near Rawlins and is known for its wildlife and dramatic landscape .
Water Bodies
- North Platte River: This river winds through the region near Rawlins. It is a popular spot for fishing, where one might catch trout, and for observing wildlife like osprey .
- Alpine Lakes: Within the nearby Medicine Bow National Forest, numerous alpine lakes offer pristine settings for recreation .
National and State Parks
- Medicine Bow National Forest: Located near Rawlins, this vast forest is filled with scenic mountain views, pine trees, and trails for hiking and wildlife watching. Its beauty changes with the seasons .
- Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT): The city is positioned at the midpoint of this 3,100-mile trail, making it a frequent stopping point for long-distance hikers. It is the largest community located directly on the trail .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Rawlins has a semi-arid climate (Köppen BSk) with low relative humidity . The weather is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers with plenty of sunshine .
Average Temperatures
- Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 83°F (28°C) and an average low of 52°F (11°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average high of 31°F (-0.5°C) and an average low of 14°F (-10°C) .
- Summer Average: 67.6°F (19.8°C) .
- Winter Average: 35.8°F (2.1°C) .
- Record High: 98°F (36.7°C) .
- Record Low: -36°F (-37.8°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Precipitation: 10.9 inches (277 mm) .
- Average Annual Snowfall: 41.5 inches (105 cm) .
- Wettest Month: May, with an average of 1.1 inches (28 mm) of rain .
- Snowiest Month: March, with an average snowfall of 2.7 inches (6.9 cm) .
Sun and Daylight
Rawlins enjoys a significant number of sunny days, especially in summer. The longest day of the year is in June with about 15.2 hours of daylight, while the shortest day in December has about 9.1 hours .
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Rawlins for warm-weather activities is from late June to late August . This period offers mild and pleasant conditions ideal for exploring the historic sites and the surrounding mountains and forests. July is the warmest month, perfect for hiking .
Landmarks
Wyoming Frontier Prison
One of Rawlins' most iconic landmarks, the Wyoming Frontier Prison operated for over a century and is now a museum open for tours. Visitors can explore the old cell blocks, the prison yard, and learn about the history of Wyoming's criminal justice system and the lives of its inmates .
Carbon County Museum
The Carbon County Museum preserves the rich history and culture of the region. Its exhibits cover Native American heritage, the impact of the railroad, and the stories of early settlers and outlaws. A notable, if macabre, artifact includes shoes allegedly made from the skin of the lynched outlaw "Big Nose" George .
Historic Downtown and Rawlins Railroad Depot
Downtown Rawlins features charming shops, local restaurants, and historic buildings with classic Western storefronts . The historic Rawlins Railroad Depot speaks to the city's deep railroading roots and is a key piece of its architectural heritage .
Rawlins Uplift Overlook
This overlook offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate the vast open spaces and rugged terrain that define the area .
Carbon County Courthouse
This sandstone-faced building is a point of civic pride and a fine example of local architecture, reflecting the city's status as the county seat .
Miller Hill Historic Site
This site provides another perspective on the region's history and development .
Parks and Recreation
- Old Penitentiary Park: A park located on the grounds of the historic prison .
- Tully Park and Riverside Park: These parks offer shady picnic spots, winding trails, and playgrounds, providing spaces for relaxation and community gatherings .
- Carbon County Fairgrounds: The fairgrounds host annual events like rodeos and fairs that celebrate the region's ranching traditions .
Transport
Airports
- Rawlins Municipal Airport (RWL): Located about 2 miles northeast of the city, this airport is primarily used by general aviation and air taxi services .
- Nearest Commercial Airports: Rawlins does not have direct commercial airline service. The nearest airports with scheduled flights are in Casper, WY (CPR), about 87 miles away, and Denver, CO (DEN), about 184 miles away .
Highways and Roads
- Interstate 80 (I-80): This major east-west interstate highway passes through Rawlins, connecting it to Cheyenne to the east and Rock Springs to the west .
- U.S. Route 287 (US 287): This highway branches off from I-80 in Rawlins and heads north, providing a route to Laramie .
Bus Service
- FlixBus: Provides intercity bus service from a stop at the Travel Centers of America on South Higley Boulevard, connecting Rawlins to other cities like Rock Springs .
Rail
- Union Pacific Railroad: The historic transcontinental rail corridor of the Union Pacific Railroad passes through Rawlins, a legacy of its founding, though there is no current passenger rail service .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While Rawlins itself is a small city, its dining scene reflects the hearty tastes of Wyoming with a surprisingly strong influence from regional favorites and authentic international options. You'll find that the local culinary identity is shaped by classic American steakhouse fare and the flavors brought by families who have made Carbon County their home.
Local Favorites and Dining Spots
Anong's Thai Cuisine is a true local gem. This friendly spot is the original location of a small Wyoming chain and was founded by Anong, who is originally from Thailand . It offers a taste of authentic Southeast Asian flavors right in the heart of southern Wyoming, a delightful surprise for travelers on Interstate 80.
For a special evening out, locals and visitors alike head to The Aspen House. Housed in a charming Victorian home, it's considered the fanciest restaurant in Rawlins . The menu focuses on hand-cut steaks, seafood, and pasta, with a few interesting Asian fusion dishes mixed in, providing a classic fine-dining experience.
Su Casa, located just six miles east in the tiny refinery town of Sinclair, is widely regarded as one of the best Mexican restaurants in Wyoming . A major draw is its green chili, a flavorful and spicy staple that keeps people coming back.
A Hidden Gem for Authentic Mexican Food
La Abuelita is a charming and cozy Mexican restaurant located right in Rawlins at 304 E Cedar St . It's considered a hidden gem, offering a warm and friendly atmosphere that complements its authentic cuisine .
The menu features all the classic dishes, from tacos and burritos to enchiladas and fajitas . A standout dish is their barbacoa tacos, which are packed with tender, juicy meat that has been slow-cooked to perfection . Another must-try is the shrimp tacos, known for being bursting with flavor and packed with fresh seafood . For breakfast, you can start your day with traditional dishes like Chilaquiles or Huevos Rancheros .
The restaurant prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients, ensuring each dish is authentic and flavorful . The service is top-notch, with a friendly and attentive staff that makes everyone feel at home . If you're passing through and craving authentic Mexican food, La Abuelita is a must-visit destination.
Museums
Carbon County Museum
The Carbon County Museum, located at 904 West Walnut Street, is the premier institution for understanding the rich and colorful history of the region . Its collection includes over 30,000 artifacts that tell the story of Carbon County through exhibits on American Indians, outlaws, ranching, mining, railroads, and geology .
The museum is famous for its connection to one of Wyoming's most notorious outlaws. A truly unique and macabre artifact on display is a pair of shoes made from the skin of outlaw George "Big Nose George" Parrot . After his failed lynching and eventual hanging in Rawlins in 1881, his skin was tanned and used to make a pair of medical boots and a medicine bag for Dr. John Osborne, who later became the Governor of Wyoming .
Other highlights include the original, hand-painted Wyoming state flag, a 1920s La France Fire Truck, a 1920s Essex Race Car, an authentic sheepherder's wagon, and the Sweetwater one-room school house . The museum also features exhibits on Dr. Lillian Heath, Wyoming's first licensed female doctor, who assisted in the autopsy of Big Nose George .
Admission:
- Adults: $6
- Children (Ages 3-15): $4
- Seniors (65+): $3
- Veterans: $2
- Children Under 3: Free
- Donations are always accepted
Wyoming Frontier Prison
One of the most significant historical landmarks in Rawlins is the Wyoming Frontier Prison. This imposing facility served as the state's primary penitentiary from its opening in 1901 until it was decommissioned in 1981 . Today, it operates as a museum, offering guided tours that take you through the cell blocks, the "Death House," and the Yard, providing a chilling and fascinating glimpse into Wyoming's criminal justice history . The cold steel and concrete corridors offer a powerful and immersive historical experience.
Sport and Sports Legends
Sports in Rawlins are centered around community and school spirit, with the local high school teams, known as the Outlaws, being the primary focus for residents.
High School Athletics
Rawlins High School fields teams in various sports, including cross country and track and field . The cross country team, coached by Hayden Hohnholt, has shown strong growth in participation and performance in recent years, competing in meets across the state like the Wyoming Invite and the Kelly Walsh Bear Trap Invitational . The school's track and field team is also active, participating in a full schedule of meets each spring, culminating in the WHSAA 3A State Track & Field Championships .
The team's nickname, the "Outlaws," is a direct nod to the region's wild and lawless frontier history, including the infamous stories of figures like Big Nose George Parrot. This connection gives local sports a unique and memorable identity.
Universities and Educational Institutions
University of Wyoming Outreach
While Rawlins is not home to a four-year university campus, it hosts an outreach center for the state's sole public university. The University of Wyoming has a presence in the city at 215 W Buffalo St . This center provides local access to university services, resources, and potentially some academic programs, aiming to support students in Carbon County with their educational and research endeavors . This allows residents to connect with a major research institution without having to leave the community.
Healthcare Institutions and Services
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County
The primary healthcare provider in Rawlins is the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County, located at 2221 West Elm Street . It is designated as a Critical Access Hospital, a status given to facilities in rural areas to ensure healthcare access. The hospital is a government-owned, locally-operated facility with 25 beds .
It offers a comprehensive range of inpatient and outpatient services to the community. These include a 24/7 Emergency Department, a Designated Trauma Center, and a Surgical ICU (Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit) . Clinical services span from Anesthesia, Diagnostic Radiology (including CT Scan and MRI) , and Clinical Laboratory to specialized care like Obstetrics / Child Birth, Pediatric Care, and Inpatient Surgical services . For rehabilitation, the hospital provides both inpatient and outpatient services, including Physical Therapy (PT) and Respiratory Care, and its rehabilitation programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) . The hospital also has its own Pharmacy on-site .
Skilled Nursing Facility
For long-term and post-acute care, RAWLINS SNF OPERATIONS, LLC operates a skilled nursing facility at 542 16TH ST . This facility provides non-acute medical and skilled nursing care, therapy, and social services on a 24-hour basis for patients who require restorative care above the level of intermediate custody . Services available at the facility include occupational, physical, and speech-language therapy .