Wyoming Adventures: The Surprises of Unplanned Roadside Stops

Every road trip throws in a few unplanned stops that add color to the journey. On the way to Wyoming, a string of strange and delightful discoveries turned the trip into something memorable. The detour into Pringle, South Dakota wasn't on the itinerary at all — but the roadside sculpture welded entirely out of bicycles was too striking to pass. Kids ran through its arches and tunnels, the adults snapped photos, and a 10-minute stop turned into a small joy.

Next, near Sundance, Wyoming, along I-90, was the Quill windsock from the Atlas Obscura database — a 1950s Beech Bonanza airplane mounted on a 70-foot pole, spinning with the wind. After that came Devils Tower, Wyoming, rising from the plains like an alien object, sacred in Lakota tradition, with prayer flags fluttering at its base and climbers slowly working their way up its basalt face.

About 20 minutes from Devils Tower lies the old town of Hulett, and a sign reading "Deer Creek Taxidermy" was reason enough to stop. Atlas Obscura's database lists hundreds of taxidermy sites, and the community has plenty of curious notes on the craft. Inside, owner Bobby Butler gave a warm guided tour, the walls covered in mounted deer, elk, and bear.

The Wyoming trip's unplanned stops strung together a one-of-a-kind experience. Every pull-off felt like opening a door into a new little world full of unexpected wonder. Maybe that's the real charm of travel — the off-plan discoveries often make the most unforgettable memories. We should stay curious about the unknown, ready to pull over for whatever surprise the road throws our way, and embrace every accidental beautiful thing.

Related reading:

• The Forgotten English Astronomer: The Legend of Jeremiah Horrocks
• Little Rock, Arkansas's Legendary Mansion: Where Gilded-Age Luxury and Mystery Meet

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