The valley has a rich and varied history. A large portion is presently occupied by the Wind River Indian Reservation, home of the Shoshone and Arapahoe tribes. The rendezvous of the mountain men was held in the south portion in the early 1800's. Gold mining in the Wind River and Absaroka Mountains has now yielded to oil, gas, uranium, molybdenum, and copper. The abandoned Oregon and Mormon trails are nearby and even today can be traced for great distances.
Recreational opportunities are unlimited.
Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Hot Springs State Park and extensive forested lands are within easy driving distance. Outdoor activities include skiing, snowshoeing, ice-skating, hiking, backpacking, hunting, fishing, photography, horseback riding, golfing and swimming.