In southern Wyoming, you’ll discover a string of towns that make up Carbon County.

They’re woven together by ranching, coal, oil and a growing wind turbine industry. Break up your drive by stopping at some of these small-town attractions.

1. Soak in Hot Springs

In Saratoga, choose between two different hot springs experiences. The Hobo Hot Springs are free mineral pools and open 24 hours a day. At Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, only guests can access the teepee-covered mineral pools and 70-foot mineral hot spring pool.

2. Drive Scenic Byways

The 73-mile Seminoe-Alcova Back Country Byway brings you by a patchwork of prairie country and high desert en route over the Seminoe Mountains. The south end starts in Sinclair and ends in Alcova about 30 miles southwest of Casper. Or enjoy the solitude you’ll find on the 29-mile Snowy Range Scenic Byway, which travels along Hwy. 130 through the Medicine Bow National Forest.

The mountain range got its name from the sugary-white quartz that reflects the sunlight and looks like snow year-round. (The above photo shows real snow, not the illusion.) This drive is prone to road closures during the winter. Check conditions before you head out. www.wyoroad.info

3. Spend the Night in a Historic Hotel

Spend the night at the historic Hotel Wolf and Restaurant in Saratoga, which was built by Frederick Wolf in 1893. Grab a regional microbrew and the best burger around in the saloon.

4. Enjoy Local Food

Hit Lollypops in Saratoga for breakfast or ice cream and to connect to WiFi. For fine dining, stop by the Aspen House Restaurant, established in 1905 in downtown Rawlins for blackened ribeye or vegetarian dishes. Buck’s Sports Grill and Anong’s Thai Cuisine in Rawlins also are popular among locals.