Terry Bison Ranch | Cheyenne

The Terry Bison Ranch is a working cattle and bison ranch located south of Cheyenne, Wyoming. It encompasses approximately 10,000 acres of grassland and associated facilities.

Visual Characteristics

The ranch landscape consists of rolling plains with mixed grasses, interspersed with cottonwood trees along riparian areas. The primary structures include a large, red-painted barn, a visitor center, and various corrals and outbuildings constructed from wood and metal. The terrain is generally flat to gently undulating.

Location & Access Logistics

The ranch is situated approximately 15 miles south of Cheyenne, Wyoming. Access is via Interstate 80 East to Exit 14, then south on Horse Creek Road for 5 miles. The ranch entrance is clearly marked on the west side of the road. Ample parking is available on-site for personal vehicles. No public transport directly serves the ranch.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The ranch was established in 1994 by Michael and Brenda Terry, focusing on raising bison. The land itself is part of the high plains ecosystem, characterized by semi-arid grassland supporting native flora and fauna. The geological formation is primarily sedimentary rock and soil typical of the Laramie Basin.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include a 1.5-hour train tour through the bison herd, offering close-up viewing opportunities. Visitors can also participate in feeding the bison from the train. Walking tours of the ranch facilities are available. Horseback riding is offered on designated trails.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The visitor center provides restrooms and a gift shop. A restaurant, the "Bison Steakhouse," is located on-site, offering meals. Shade is available within the visitor center and restaurant. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available but can be intermittent in certain areas of the ranch.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun angle is lower, providing softer light. The months of May through October offer the most favorable weather conditions for outdoor activities. Bison are visible year-round.

Facts & Legends

The ranch is home to a herd of over 3,000 bison, making it one of the largest private bison herds in North America. A unique aspect of the train tour is the opportunity for visitors to feed the bison directly from the train car, a practice designed to habituate the animals to human presence.

Nearby Landmarks

• Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum (15km North)
• Wyoming State Capitol Building (16km North)
• Big Boy Steam Engine 4004 (18km North)
• Curt Gowdy State Park (35km West)