Wyoming : Safety by CityDubois, Wyoming, is one of those places where the past and the present feel like they’re in constant conversation.
It is part of the Wind River Valley, named after the Wind River, which also gets its name from the steady breeze through this rugged landscape.
Long before settlers arrived, this area was home to the Mountain Shoshone people, known as the Sheepeaters, who thrived here for centuries.
Petroglyphs are still scattered throughout the region.
The town itself carries a bit of a misnomer.
Originally called “Never Sweat” because of the dry, breezy climate, it was renamed Dubois (pronounced “DEW-boys” by locals, despite its French spelling) in honor of a Wyoming senator.
Dubois feels like the kind of place where time slows down, not because it’s stuck in the past, but because the rhythm of life here is dictated more by the seasons and the land than by any clock.
Cowboys, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts all find common ground, creating a laid-back yet hardworking vibe.
Just a short, scenic drive from Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Dubois is a gateway to some of the most iconic landscapes in the West.
Yet it retains an off-the-beaten-path charm, making it feel like a discovery.
It’s Wyoming at its most authentic—quiet, resilient, and undeniably wild.
Fewer than 1,000 people live here, giving small-town charm mixed with Old West vibes.
As a bonus, you don’t have to deal with the large crowds in places like Cody or Jackson.
Warnings & Dangers in Dubois
OVERALL RISK: LOW
The risk is low from a crime standpoint, but the wilderness, weather, and wildlife risks largely depend on how prepared you are. Once you know the basics, you're going to love all this outdoor recreation design has to offer.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Dubois has no formal public transportation system. Visitors rely on rental vehicles to navigate the town and its surroundings. Nearby airports and towns offer limited shuttle services, but renting a car is essential for full access to the area’s natural attractions and remote locations. It's worth noting that the MRTA system on the Wind River Reservation does not extend to Dubois.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
This is a low risk, with annual thefts you can count on one hand. However, you need to know bear safety here, as bears will take your belongings by theft or force if you leave food or other scented items improperly stored.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Dubois faces medium natural disaster risks, particularly wildfires during dry summers and heavy snowstorms in winter. Flooding from mountain runoff is possible in spring. Visitors should monitor local weather and fire conditions, especially if exploring the nearby wilderness or traveling during extreme weather periods.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Robberies are few and far between in Dubois, giving this another low risk. That's never a sign to let your guard down. Always use smart safety steps, even in a very safe community.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
As a small, remote town, Dubois has an extremely low terrorism risk. Its location and population size make it an unlikely target. Weather concerns are far greater than the terrorism risk.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Check local police department and sheriff’s office social media sites for the latest scams. That will help keep the risk low. You might find that some ranches or rentals don't have a robust website presence, given how remote this area is - but you can always verify the legitimacy of a rental or organization through the Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Dubois is a safe place for women travelers, with a low crime rate and a friendly, small-town vibe. As with any remote area, women should take standard precautions, especially when exploring wilderness areas alone.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1. There's a low risk after looking at the 2023 Dubois report, which shows full compliance and no violations.
Safest Places to Visit in Dubois
The Wind River Valley tourism website covers Dubois, Hudson, Lander, Riverton, Shoshoni, and the reservation.
To get specific information about Dubois, visit the Destination Dubois or the Dubois Chamber of Commerce websites.
Downtown Dubois feels like stepping into a living postcard of the Old West.
The main street is lined with wooden storefronts housing cozy cafes, quirky shops, and local businesses where friendly faces welcome you in.
The Dubois Museum offers an intimate look at the area’s rich history, with exhibits on the Mountain Shoshone people, early settlers, and the timber industry that shaped the town.
Nearby, the National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center dives into the lives of the iconic Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, spotlighting the massive herd that winters in Whiskey Basin.
For those interested in military history, the National Museum of Military Vehicles is a must-see, featuring hundreds of meticulously restored vehicles and artifacts that tell the story of America’s armed forces.
In winter, the town transforms into a snowy wonderland.
Snowmobiling is a favorite, with miles of groomed trails leading through the stunning Togwotee Pass area.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are equally popular, offering serene routes through the nearby Shoshone National Forest.
The Whiskey Mountain area, home to the largest wintering bighorn sheep herd, is great for wildlife viewing.
Winter solo trips are magical, but using an outfitter ensures safety in unpredictable mountain weather.
When the snow melts, Dubois becomes a hub for summer adventures.
Hiking and horseback riding trails snake through the Wind River Mountains and Absaroka Range, with spectacular views of peaks and alpine lakes.
Anglers flock to the Wind River and its tributaries for trout fishing.
Fall and summer are also perfect for exploring the vast expanses of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, both just a couple of hours away.
For safety, especially in bear country, consider a guide or outfitter.
Places to Avoid in Dubois
You don’t have to worry about bad parts of town or dangerous neighborhoods here.
The town is very small, everyone knows everyone, and its economy is dependent on tourism.
Some of the places you’ll likely want to visit might be places to avoid, depending on the risk at any given time.
Dubois is home to both black bears and grizzly bears.
Black bears are more common but can still be unpredictable.
Grizzly bears are typically found in higher elevations or near wilderness areas like the Wind River Range.
This means you should carry bear spray.
You also need to know about the avalanche, wildfire, and weather conditions before you go into any wilderness area.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Dubois
- Dubois does have a local police department, but you won’t find them on social media. Contact the city at (307) 455-2345 if you want to get in touch with the police department to ask specific questions.
- Fremont County Sheriff’s Office is on Facebook @FCSOWY, but they don’t update that often. Call (307) 332-5611 if you want to ask about other resources you’ll need while visiting this region.
- For up-to-date road conditions or closures, visit the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s website (WYDOT) or call 511. These resources provide real-time updates on weather-related closures, construction, and road hazards, helping you plan a safe trip.
- Review the Fremont County emergency evacuation plan so you’re prepared in case flooding or wildfires force a quick exit. There are limited ways to escape this region. Knowing ahead of time will help when seconds matter most.
- Bookmark the WSFD Interactive Fire Map to see nearby wildfires or distant fires that might impact air quality. Pair that with an app like IQ Air to get air quality updates.
- If you encounter any livestock, like a horse or a bull, don’t try to approach them. Call law enforcement and let them help wrangle it. Spotting wildlife doesn’t need to be reported unless the animal is posing a risk to lives. Don’t feed any animal, wild or domestic.
- Fishing licenses for Wyoming can be purchased online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website or at local vendors in Dubois, like sporting goods stores. Always check regulations for specific water bodies to ensure compliance with seasonal and catch limits.
- Understand how altitude sickness can impact your health, breathing, and even the food you cook while visiting this region. Always give yourself at least a day to acclimate before going higher than 8,000 feet. Some medications can help you adapt, which must be prescribed by a doctor. Stay hydrated and limit alcohol intake.
- If you plan to visit Yellowstone from Dubois between November and May, you should know that Yellowstone’s south entrance is closed to vehicular traffic at that time. The same goes for the east entrance. You can get entry on foot or by taking a guided tour. The only Yellowstone entrance open to cars in winter is through West Yellowstone, Montana.
- When driving scenic routes, please don’t stop on the side of the road unless it’s an emergency. Use the scenic pullouts for the views, photos, and picnic areas. Give plenty of space to semi-trucks on this route. If you are going slower than the flow of traffic, use a pull-out lane when you can to let faster cars go by.
So... How Safe Is Dubois Really?
Fremont County has about 40,000 people, while Dubois’ population hovers around 1,000.
The unfortunate part about crime data is that the sheriff’s office hasn’t supplied official crime data since at least 2021.
Dubois saw its police department reinstated in August 2023, which means it will be a few years before we have comparable data to look at.
However, we do in 2023 that just two violent crimes (aggravated assaults) were reported in those final months of the year.
Three thefts were reported between August and December 2023.
Near the end of 2024, five violent crimes were reported, along with three thefts.
Before 2023, law enforcement came from the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office.
However, no matter how you look at it, historically, this area hasn’t had major crime concerns.
The new police department is already making a difference with a drug unit that helps fight the opioid epidemic.
“When we believe in something, we are certain of its success,” Dubois Police Chief Blaine Clark said.
“Continued support from our mayor, city council, manager and, most importantly, our citizens, thus allowing us, the City of DuBois Police Department to continue to lead and succeed the Tri-County area with the war on illegal drugs.
That is why we have stability that makes our city safe.”
The wilderness risks far outweigh the criminal risks, but hopefully, you now have a more well-rounded approach to safety in this region and be able to enjoy its raw beauty.
How Does Dubois Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Dubois | 78 |
| Boston | 67 |
| Washington DC | 56 |
| New York City | 67 |
| Detroit | 56 |
| San Diego | 67 |
| Miami | 55 |
| Buenos Aires (Argentina) | 60 |
| Vancouver (Canada) | 82 |
| Cordoba (Argentina) | 61 |
| Toronto (Canada) | 81 |
| Melbourne (Australia) | 80 |
| Montreal (Canada) | 81 |
Useful Information
Visas
All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You can also download the CBP One mobile app to help on the go. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.
Currency
Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee. Credit cards, not debit cards, offer the best fraud protection.
Weather
Dubois sits at 6,946 feet, resulting in cold winters with significant snow, especially in higher elevations. Summers are mild, with highs in the 70s and 80s. The area gets around 80 inches of snow annually, making it a favorite for snowmobiling and other winter sports.
Airports
The closest commercial airport to Dubois, Wyoming, is Jackson Hole Airport, about 85 miles west, offering flights from major hubs. Central Wyoming Regional Airport, around 70 miles away, has limited service. Both require a scenic drive, with car rentals being the easiest option for reaching Dubois.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance protects the cost of baggage loss/theft, delays, cancelations, and emergency health issues. Rental car insurance should include roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive insurance offers the best peace of mind. Consider adventure insurance if you are doing more risky activities in the wild.
Dubois Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 2 | 2 | 7 | 11 | 16 | 22 | 27 | 26 | 21 | 13 | 6 | 1 |
| Low °C | -11 | -11 | -8 | -4 | 1 | 4 | 7 | 6 | 2 | -3 | -7 | -11 |
| High °F | 36 | 36 | 45 | 52 | 61 | 72 | 81 | 79 | 70 | 55 | 43 | 34 |
| Low °F | 12 | 12 | 18 | 25 | 34 | 39 | 45 | 43 | 36 | 27 | 19 | 12 |
Wyoming - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Afton | 82 |
| Alpine | 83 |
| Casper | 80 |
| Cheyenne | 81 |
| Dubois | 78 |
| Gillette | 83 |
| Guernsey | 78 |
| Hulett | 79 |
| Laramie | 85 |
| Lusk | 82 |
| Rock Springs | 81 |
| Saratoga | 78 |
| Sheridan | 84 |
