Wyoming Invites You To Unleash Your Inner Maverick Outdoors

Earlier this year, Travel Wyoming began a campaign calling on brave Mavericks who wanted to explore and adventure in Wyoming. A Maverick to tackle the Wild West. People who aren't too chicken to climb, hike, camp, or ride through a summer of adventures in the Cowboy State.

The thing many people may be wondering is, what the heck is a Maverick? Sure, there are movies with the word "Maverick" in the title. Tom Cruise played the role of Maverick in the movie Top Gun.

What does that word mean, though? If I'm being challenged to be a Maverick, what characteristics am I obligated to have? Is there one particular thing I need to be able to do?

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a Maverick as:

an independent individual who thinks and acts differently from the crowd. The term refers to a nonconformist who refuses to follow group customs, standard rules, or traditional behaviors, often blazing their own trail.

The word originates from Texas rancher Samuel A. Maverick. He was a 19th-century lawyer and politician known for refusing to brand his cattle. Because his calves roamed the open range unbranded, any unbranded animal found in the area eventually became known as a "maverick". Over time, this term for a stray, unowned animal evolved into a metaphor for a free-spirited, rebellious, and independent person.

I think Wyoming is full of Mavericks, and there's a new state slogan on the horizon.

"Wyoming, where deer, antelope, bison, and Mavericks roam and beef for dinner."

Are you a Maverick? A lone wolf? A rebel without a cause? Known for going against the grain? If so, what are some ways for you to strut your stuff?

Climbing Devils Tower

Braving the rapids of the Snake River Canyon

Camping in the Shoshone National Forest

Hiking to the top of Laramie Peak

Mountain biking on the 224 trails around the state

ATV riding in the Killpecker Sand Dunes or on the 640 miles of trails

Entering one of the hundreds of rodeos across Wyoming

Hopping on a horse and becoming a cowboy for the summer

Honestly, this state is full of fun and adventure. What's your favorite way to be a Maverick in Wyoming? Let me know HERE.