Wyoming : Safety by CityGuernsey, Wyoming, might not be on everyone’s travel radar, but it should be.
This charming little town sits along the North Platte River and blends rich history with stunning landscapes.
History buffs will love exploring Guernsey’s role in the westward expansion.
Register Cliff, just outside town, holds the signatures of pioneers who stopped here along the Oregon Trail.
Nearby, the wagon ruts carved into the sandstone at Guernsey State Park are a tangible reminder of the thousands who made their way west on the Oregon Trail.
The park itself, designed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, is a hidden gem with its stone structures and scenic hiking trails.
Guernsey offers a quieter, more intimate slice of Wyoming compared to the busier tourist spots like Yellowstone or Jackson Hole.
It’s perfect for those who want to dig into the state’s history or enjoy fishing, boating, or picnicking along the river without the crowds.
The town has a welcoming vibe that makes visitors feel like locals.
I took a pit stop in Guernsey on the way to Casper from Nebraska, opting to go off the Interstate and take the scenic drive on U.S. 26.
While it’s a town of fewer than 1,000 people, in this remote area, it’s a welcome sight on a road trip.
Warnings & Dangers in Guernsey
OVERALL RISK: LOW
The risk here is low, with most safety hazards coming from the weather or wilderness, not criminal activity. You'll need to appreciate a slower pace of life and wide open spaces to enjoy your time here.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Public transportation is minimal in Guernsey, so having a car is essential. The town is small, making it easy to navigate by vehicle. For those traveling without their own ride, options are limited to regional taxi services or private transportation apps, which may require planning and cost more than renting a car would.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
The risk is low, but use caution as you would anywhere. Small towns seem to prompt people to leave doors unlocked or purses unattended when people use the restroom - don't let your guard down like that.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Guernsey’s natural disaster risks are low but not nonexistent. The area isn’t prone to hurricanes or tornadoes, though occasional thunderstorms can cause flash flooding or spark fires. Wildfires can also occur during the dry summer months. Check weather forecasts and fire restrictions if you're planning outdoor activities.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
This is another low risk, but another reminder to not let that make you throw caution to the wind. Stay in well-lit areas and don't walk around unknown parts of town alone.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Terrorism risk in Guernsey is practically nonexistent. As a quiet town in rural Wyoming, it’s far removed from potential high-risk targets. However, it’s always smart to follow general safety practices and be aware of your surroundings when traveling anywhere.
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. Most scams will target residents, but never let your guard down.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Guernsey is generally safe for women travelers. Like any rural area, it’s wise to take basic precautions, especially if exploring solo. Stick to well-lit areas at night and let someone know your plans when hiking or visiting remote spots like Register Cliff or the park.
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. Stop by Guernsey Town Hall to read the latest copy of the report, as they are not provided online.
Safest Places to Visit in Guernsey
You can learn more about tourism on the Guernsey city website, but the Wyoming travel and tourism site will cover the region, too.
For the parks or historic sites, it’s best to use the state park or National Park Service sites to get the latest information.
You can also download the NPS app to get information and alerts.
Downtown Guernsey is small, spanning just a few blocks, and there’s not much of an intent to commercialize this quaint community.
You can enjoy authentic people, shops, and businesses while you’re there.
The river flanks the western edge of town; for a casual stroll, the North Platte Riverwalk offers a scenic way to enjoy the town’s natural beauty and connect with its quiet, small-town charm.
If you head a few miles north, you’ll be at Guernsey State Park.
This expansive park is known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking views.
Visit The Castle, an impressive picnic shelter with panoramic vistas. Guernsey Reservoir is perfect for kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing by the water.
The park’s extensive trail system offers hiking and mountain biking opportunities for all skill levels.
A short drive takes you to Wagon Ruts Historic Site, where deep grooves in sandstone mark the path of 19th-century wagon trains.
These ruts are some of the best-preserved on the Oregon Trail and offer a striking visual of the struggles faced by early travelers.
Guernsey’s central attraction is Register Cliff, a historic site where pioneers carved their names during westward expansion.
The Guernsey-Sunrise Historical Museum provides deeper insight into local history, featuring exhibits on the Oregon Trail and regional artifacts.
A visit to Fort Laramie from Guernsey is an easy 25-minute drive, offering a step back into 19th-century frontier life.
Explore preserved buildings and learn about their role as military posts and trading hubs.
Places to Avoid in Guernsey
Guernsey is too small to have a dangerous part of town or a bad neighborhood.
In fact, citizens have recently expressed concern that transients and travelers pose bigger risks than the people who live here.
That’s just a part of life when you live along a scenic highway.
While Wyoming is filled with small charming towns, Guernsey is hyper-focused on providing a supply location for those visiting the nearby park or historical sites.
Don’t expect the commercialized sites you might find in places like Cody.
I also want to tell you that you should avoid the website for “Visit Guernsey”.
That one focuses on the Channel Islands island off the coast of France.
There are no islands, crashing waves, or green countryside in this part of Wyoming.
Be sure you add the word “Wyoming” to any search for “Guernsey.”
Guernsey, Wyoming, was named after Charles A. Guernsey, a prominent local rancher and businessman who played a significant role in the town’s early development.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Guernsey
- Guernsey has a local police department, but it looks like the only social media for the police stopped being used in 2023. You can always call (307) 322-2331 to ask specific safety questions.
- Sign up for Platte County’s CodeRED emergency alert system to stay updated on severe weather or community emergencies. Visit the county website or call local offices to register and receive notifications via text, call, or email.
- You can report any suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers at 307-836-2400. This number allows you to remain anonymous while still being eligible for a reward.
- Before traveling, check Wyoming road conditions at wyoroad.info or by calling 511. This ensures you’re prepared for weather-related closures or hazards, especially during winter months when icy roads are common.
- Purchase a Wyoming fishing license online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website or at local retailers in Guernsey. Be sure to follow state regulations for fishing in the North Platte River and Guernsey Reservoir.
- Stick to designated trails in Guernsey State Park to avoid hazardous terrain. Pack water, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear. Always let someone know your hiking plans and be cautious of sudden weather changes, which are common in the high plains.
- While wildlife encounters are rare, be aware of snakes, particularly rattlesnakes, in rocky areas. Avoid leaving food out, as it can attract animals. Respect all wildlife by maintaining a safe distance for your safety and theirs.
- Fire risk is high in summer. Check fire bans before visiting and avoid campfires in restricted areas. Carry a fire extinguisher or water bucket if camping, and report any smoke or fire to authorities immediately.
- Cell service in Guernsey and the state park can be spotty. Download maps and save important numbers ahead of time. A physical map is also helpful for navigating the more remote areas.
- As you’ll read in the next section, there are concerns about transients living on the edge of the river. If you see a homeless camp, do not approach or attempt to help people. Always call the police to take care of those types of situations. It’s best to stick to river access points in state parks or public lands to avoid the potential for these interactions.
So... How Safe Is Guernsey Really?
Guernsey, Wyoming, is generally considered a safe and peaceful community.
While official crime statistics for every recent year have been published, a search of news reports and public records shows serious crimes are infrequent.
In fact, a community group calling itself the Platte River Posse is forming a neighborhood watch of sorts due to “increased serious crimes,” like vehicle thefts and trespassing.
Now, some communities don’t consider those crimes a big deal, but in Guernsey, this was once a place where people left their doors unlocked or left bikes in the yard – something that can’t happen anymore, organizers of the Platte River Posse say.
“Transients have been being forced out of bigger cities, and you can see their camps as you float the river…it’s going to get worse in time,” Jeremiah Fields said, adding, “I’ve seen people coming from Torrington and Hartville – walking – but people have a right to travel and go where they please.”
“We want to get people to know this (the neighborhood watch) is out there,” Shawna Reichert, another organizer, said.
“We are working with the town, but this group is not connected to them.
This is our own thing: we’re concerned citizens helping protect ourselves.”
The reassuring part of this community initiative is that they work in tandem with police to keep the community safe.
Most towns plagued by crime have a disconnect between residents and law enforcement.
How Does Guernsey Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Guernsey | 78 |
| Atlanta | 58 |
| St. Louis | 58 |
| Los Angeles | 56 |
| Oakland | 57 |
| New Orleans | 57 |
| Baltimore | 56 |
| Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) | 43 |
| Sofia (Bulgaria) | 73 |
| Siem Reap (Cambodia) | 63 |
| Phnom Penh (Cambodia) | 61 |
| Niagara Falls (Canada) | 87 |
| Calgary (Canada) | 82 |
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 for 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
At 4,400 feet elevation, Guernsey experiences dry, High Plains weather. Summers hit highs around 90°F, while winter lows dip into the teens. Snowfall averages 30 inches yearly, so pack accordingly for winter trips. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities at Guernsey State Park.
Airports
The closest commercial airport to Guernsey is Casper/Natrona County International Airport, which is about a two-hour drive away. Alternatively, Cheyenne Regional Airport is roughly the same distance. Both offer connections to major hubs like Denver so that travelers can get in and out of Guernsey with a bit of planning.
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.
Guernsey Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 5 | 6 | 12 | 17 | 21 | 29 | 32 | 31 | 27 | 19 | 11 | 6 |
| Low °C | -11 | -9 | -4 | 0 | 6 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 7 | 1 | -6 | -10 |
| High °F | 41 | 43 | 54 | 63 | 70 | 84 | 90 | 88 | 81 | 66 | 52 | 43 |
| Low °F | 12 | 16 | 25 | 32 | 43 | 52 | 57 | 55 | 45 | 34 | 21 | 14 |
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 |
