Casper, Wyoming

The North Platte River, which runs around and through Casper, is perhaps the most iconic fly-fishing destination in the world. An amazing abundance of the right kind of bugs, a stunning ecosystem and consistent year-round water temperatures combine to make this the perfect waterway for the beloved trout that anglers seek. For those who don’t love fishing the river is not only a beautiful site but also a place to kayak and hike and relax on the daily.

A note for local about outdoor opportunity in Casper: There's a nice spot about 15-20 minutes out of Casper, Big Muddy Pond, that's a perfect spot to take your dogs. Easy access, established trails, relatively little foot traffic, a pond and river to fish or play in, open grassy fields, a little wooded area, and just a nice/scenic location overall. Even some bald eagles nest nearby you can regularly get a good look at.

Casper is rated one of the hardest cities in the country to start a career. Limited local businesses and very low population in Wyoming can make it an ideal place to visit but a hard place to get a job and build a career. If you’re considering moving here then best to do so with a job you can do remotely.

Here's a local with strong opinions on living in Casper: It's 50/50 for me. The wind is absolutely bonkers some days, but that's just a part of life in Wyoming in general. I really hate the oil field culture here. A majority of the population is oil workers with $70k trucks that drive like they're blind, and act like the world owes them a blow job. You know the type, the guys with white Oakleys, a thin blue line decal, and who think Five Finger Death Punch is the greatest band on earth.

The construction here goes at a snails pace, and like I noted before the drivers here are psychopaths. But there is a lot to do, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities, and there is a thriving little art scene here among musicians, photographers and painters.