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For centuries the Saratoga-Encampment Valley was loved
and enjoyed by many tribes of Indians. It was not until the early
years of the 19th century that white men began to penetrate the area.
In the 1800's, the American headed west in droves, and, in the course of time,
thousands came through on their way to the Pacific. Jim Bridger picked
the road; however, very few used this route until Ben Holladay constructed a
road for the Overland Stage Company.
The white immigrants found it windy, cold, disagreeable, barren, ugly and a
good place to leave behind. As time went on, some hearty people took
time to enjoy the magnificent vistas, the lush valley, the tremendous herds
of big game, the incredible fishing in the Platte River, and the hot
springs.
The vast and remote land set the bounds on the
community's early growth and because of its very character, agriculture
became the leading industry. In the past, Saratoga relied on timber
milling, copper mining, sheep herding, and a local supply depot.
Ranching, however, took the lead and remained in that position until well into
the next century.
In 1884 Fenimore C. Chatterton named the town of Saratoga after an Iroquois
Indian word Sarachtoue, which translates to "place of miraculous
water in the rock." Saratoga still sits atop one of the most active
mineral hot springs in Wyoming.
Today, Saratoga is a popular destination spot for
tourists, hunters, birdwatchers, fisherman and shoppers. Saratoga has
quality shops that offer the best and most unique items.
The Hot Springs is a major draw for the area. People drive for
hundred of miles to take advantage of the free hot springs.
Saratoga has the best blue ribbon trout in the country with over 100 miles
of freestone river flowing throughout the Platte Valley. With several
public accesses along the river, you can fish on your own or hire one of our
outfitters to take you.
Breathtaking views attract artists, photographers and nature lovers alike.
Surrounding Saratoga are several mountains including Elk Mountain, the Snowy
Range mountains and the Sierra Madre mountains. Hundreds of mile of
hiking trails for the novice and experienced are scattered throughout the
Medicine Bow Routt National Forest. For winter sportsman, the
snowmobile trails are second to none. With over 300 miles of trails to
choose from, you can snowmobile all day without feeling crowded.
When you are ready to relax, choose from a fine
assortment of restaurants that are sure to please even the choosiest of
taste buds. Our restaurants offer the finest meals and service in the
area.
Several local events are favorites with
visitors from the entire region, such as the
Ice Fishing Derby and
Chariot Races in the winter months and the
Woodchopper's Jamboree and
Rodeo and
Steinley Cup
Microbrew Festival in the summer months. If you don't want
to miss a thing, be sure to check our
calendar.
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