Took a more leisurely start to our day this morning in Casper. After breakfast we decide to visit The National Historic Trails Visitor Center.
This marvelous museum is perched with a fantastic view of Casper and the mountains behind the town. Four major trails (Oregon, California, Mormon, and the Pony Expressway ) all went through Casper crossing the North Platt River.
This museum had wonderful displays showing the life and trial these emigrants led. It also felt with the Native American life, and how the settlers mostly negatively effected them. Learned many interesting stories and information dealing with that time in our history. A must see if you are in Casper!
Had some time before our next activity, so off to downtown Casper.! Since it was Sunday, some businesses were closed, but Lou Taubart Ranch Outfitters was open! This multi level store sells all sorts of cowboy clothing and accessories including saddles!
Left the downtown to make our way to the Central Wyoming Fairgrounds and our next event, Horse Nations Championship Indian Relay Races.
Now we were uncertain what this event actually was. Entered early for some food and libations, and up to our seat where the pre race activities included Indian and drum dancing, multiple speakers from every organization involved, color guard and prayer, and even a bidding auction on the championship riders!
Then the fun began, the races our done with one rider who has a team that helps him. He or she, yes there were women teams as well as children and some teen team as well, races around the track bareback, then mist jump off the horse and jump onto another horse and race around the track. Men do it 3 times, women twice. It’s very exciting to watch, and we had great seats up front where we could see the switch, which is the key to the race.
Amazing! The 60 Minutes team with Bill Whitaker was even there!
After all that excitement, decided to go to Oil City Brewing that had a food truck . Unfortunately we were too late for the truck, but enjoyed the beer and had a lovely chat with the bartender who gave us some good information for tomorrow’s drive. Found a charming diner for dinner, and then back to the hotel. Tomorrow brings driving to Thermopolis and the Wind River Canyon, eventually stopping at Pinedale.