Proximity to the Big Horn Mountains and Bighorn National Forest makes Sheridan (population 15,804) a good base for hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowmobiling, and fly-fishing, and the small city’s European-flavored cowboy heritage makes it an interesting stop for history buffs. Soon after trappers built a simple cabin along Little Goose Creek in 1873, the spot became a regional railroad center. Cattle barons, many of them English and Scottish noblemen, established ranches that remain the mainstay of the economy. Sheridan still has ties to Britain’s aristocracy; in fact, Queen Elizabeth II herself has paid the town a visit. Recently, coal mines and oil wells to the east have brought much-needed jobs and tax income to this community of 16,429 residents.
The biggest annual draw remains the Sheridan WYO Rodeo, held each July since 1931. It's more than the nightly rodeo exhibitions of calf-roping and bronc busting. The whole town opens up for events and amusements, including a giant carnival. Besides the high professional standards of the riders and ropers who come, what distinguishes this rodeo is that it's also an important Native American event. There's always a Native American Pow Wow and Dance as well as the World Championship Indian Relay Race. For rodeo aficionados, this is one of the year's highlights.
