Central Wyoming Regional Airport

Overview

Central Wyoming Regional Airport (RIW) serves as the primary air transportation hub for the Wind River Basin and central Wyoming. Located in Riverton, the airport caters to a mix of commercial passengers, general aviation, corporate charters, and occasional military flights. It is an essential link for residents and visitors traveling to and from this relatively remote part of the state.

The airport is classified as a regional facility, meaning it handles shorter routes and smaller aircraft compared to major hubs. Commercial service is typically provided under the Essential Air Service program, connecting Riverton to larger airports such as Denver International Airport. Beyond scheduled flights, the airport is busy with private aircraft supporting the local energy industry, tourism, and ranching operations. For many travelers, Central Wyoming Regional is the first or last stop on a journey into the Wind River Mountains, Yellowstone National Park, or the outdoor recreation areas of Fremont County.

Location & Access

Central Wyoming Regional Airport is situated about 3 miles northwest of downtown Riverton, at the junction of U.S. Highway 26 and Wyoming Highway 789. The address is 9350 West Main Street. The airport sits on the flat floor of the Wind River Valley, with the Wind River Mountains visible to the west and the Owl Creek Mountains to the north.

By car, the airport is easy to reach. From Riverton, follow West Main Street (US 26) directly to the terminal. From Lander, head east on US 26 for roughly 20 miles. The driving distance from Casper, the largest city in central Wyoming, is about 130 miles (approximately two hours via US 20/26), while Jackson and Grand Teton National Park are about 150 miles northwest via US 26 and US 191.

Parking is available directly in front of the terminal building, and the car park is wheelchair-accessible. There is no public bus service directly to the airport, but taxi services, rideshares like Uber and Lyft (limited availability), and rental cars can be arranged. Many hotels in Riverton and Lander also offer shuttle services for their guests. For those picking up or dropping off passengers, the airport provides a convenient curbside zone.

Facilities

Central Wyoming Regional Airport keeps its passenger amenities straightforward and functional. The terminal building is compact but serves its purpose well.

Accessibility: The car park, entrance, and restrooms are all wheelchair-accessible. Travelers with reduced mobility will find the single-story terminal easy to navigate.

Restrooms: Separate men's and women's restrooms are available, both equipped with accessible toilets. The facilities are cleaned regularly and maintained to a good standard.

Wi-Fi: Complimentary wireless internet is provided throughout the terminal. While the connection is adequate for browsing and email, it may not support high-bandwidth streaming or large file transfers due to the remote location.

Other Amenities: The terminal has a small waiting area with seating. There are no restaurants, cafés, or shops on the airside or landside, so travelers should bring snacks and drinks if needed. Vending machines may be available, but this is not confirmed. For those waiting, the staff at the ticket counter can assist with local information.

Note that the airport does not offer baggage carts or a dedicated business lounge. However, the atmosphere is calm and uncrowded, typical for a regional airport.

About the Region

Central Wyoming is a landscape of wide-open spaces, high desert plains, and dramatic mountain ranges. The region is deeply tied to the Wind River Mountains—a subrange of the Rockies that towers to over 13,000 feet—and the Wind River Indian Reservation, which is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. The reservation covers nearly a third of Fremont County.

This area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Wind River Range offers world-class hiking, backpacking, fishing in alpine lakes, and climbing. In winter, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular. The nearby Red Desert to the south is known for its unique geology and wildlife, including pronghorn antelope and wild horses.

Riverton itself is a small city (population around 10,000) with services like hotels, restaurants, and shops. Lander, 20 miles southwest, is a gateway to the mountains and hosts the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). Thermopolis, about an hour north, features Hot Springs State Park with free public baths. For travelers headed to Yellowstone, the airport provides a closer alternative to Jackson Hole, especially when the southern entrances are open.

The region’s economy is driven by energy extraction (oil, gas, uranium), agriculture (cattle ranching and hay farming), and tourism. The airport plays a crucial role in supporting these industries, especially for business travel and emergency flights.

Practical Information

Airport Code: RIW
Address: 9350 West Main Street, Riverton, WY 82501
Phone: +1 307-856-7063
Website: centralwyomingairport.com

Operating Hours: The terminal is not open 24 hours. The building opens approximately one hour before the first scheduled flight and closes after the last arrival. Peak passenger times are typically around noon to 1 PM. It is advisable to confirm hours with your airline.

Airlines: Currently, service is provided by SkyWest Airlines operating as United Express with flights to Denver. Check the website for the latest schedule.

Car Rental: Avis and Hertz often have desks at the airport, but availability may vary. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.

Parking: Free parking is available in the lot directly in front of the terminal. Long-term parking is permitted, but there is no covered parking.

For any specific inquiries, the airport manager can be reached via the phone number above. The friendly, small-town atmosphere means you may even get help directly from airport staff upon arrival.