 I'm in a valley once known as Little Switzerland. Any ideas? No, I'm not in the wind rivers of the Tetons. I'm in Star Valley. Star Valley was once likened to Switzerland because of its thriving dairy industry. Star Valley is located in extreme western Wyoming, south of Jackson, and west of the Salt River range on the Idaho border. The valley has short, cool summers and amazing views, and for a good part of the 20th century was well known for its dairies. Daring began soon after white settlers reached the valley, and at the industry's peak there were hundreds of dairies and at least nine creameries. Because of the distance from major markets and the travel involved, Star Valley dairies produced large quantities of cheese, which was easier to store and transport. Swiss cheese from Star Valley was shipped throughout the U.S., and other Star Valley cheeses also appeared throughout the country. Due to consolidation, falling prices, and changes in transportation, daring in the valley has declined over the years. The last cheese factory in the valley closed in 2005. So next time your travels take you through Star Valley, remember to keep an eye out for one of the remaining dairies and appreciate western Wyoming's cheesy history. From the University of Wyoming Extension, I'm Mae Smith, exploring the nature of Wyoming.