Wyoming tourism director pitches 'Mavericks Wanted' campaign and visitor-management tools to Big Horn County

D. Bravo, director of the Wyoming Office of Tourism, told the Big Horn County Commission on June 2 that the department plans to roll out a new marketing push called "Mavericks Wanted" and pursue a visitor-management system that provides route-based suggestions for travelers. He said the office will also prioritize supporting large-scale events and expanding foreign tourism to draw visitors to rural communities.

Why it matters: The tourism office’s approach could shape how visitor flows are directed through Big Horn County and how local lodging tax revenues are used alongside state destination development funds. Bravo said he will request additional funding for destination development programs so communities can pair those dollars with local lodging tax investments.

Details: Bravo said rural communities are a personal priority and that the department will work with local partners to support destination development. He noted the office is coordinating with the Search and Rescue Foundation to help manage rescue demand associated with increased visitation. Bravo also mentioned that the office has found "Mind Trip A.I." to be a useful tool in planning and promotion.

Local concerns and next steps: County staff and local partners discussed wayfinding signage and route guidance, with Greene noting continued concern about routing visitors away from smaller roadways. L. Morrison of the Lovell Chamber of Commerce described a chamber map and a strategy to encourage tourists to use Lovell or Greybull as basecamps for trips to Yellowstone. Bravo said destination development funds might be used for wayfinding projects and that he will follow up on funding requests. The commission took no formal action during the presentation; Bravo indicated he will pursue funding requests at the departmental level.