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"What defines the West? Ask most folks and they'll likely wax nostalgic about colorful characters who ventured beyond the Mississippi in search of gold, land, adventure, and, above all, a fresh start. They'll tell you about hearty souls who thrived against the odds. Inspiring as these images are, however, comparing the Old West to modern times is as relevant as a Prairie Schooner on the freeway.
Progress has a way of paving over heritage and, thanks to a prevalence of cookie-cutter chain stores and an always on-the-go mentality, you'd be hard-pressed to tell Boise from Buffalo if you stand in the right spot. But a few remaining outposts of true Western spirit still thrive. Communities that celebrate their Western roots just in the way they go about their everyday affairs.
Opinions will vary, but whether you aim to wet a line in a wild river, enjoy a unique annual event, or explore living history in a place where it's never been forgotten, you can't go wrong with any of these choices.
Dubois, WY
Walk along the wooden boardwalk that lines Main Street, and it's easy to imagine Dubois in its 1800s-era heyday. Explore the town, then explore miles of horse trails and trout streams in the Wind River Mountains . Yellowstone is close, as are Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park . There's a regular rodeo series, and frequent Chuck Wagon dinner shows. "
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