The Snowy Range mountains and The Medicine Bow National Forest offer activities for just about every outdoor enthusiast.
Hiking- An inviting array of hiking and biking trails exist in the Snowy Range Mountains. From spectacular mountain headwater lake trails to awesome views from the top of Medicine Bow Mountain. you will find a trail perfect for you. Ask the staff for recommendations. Detailed information available from the Medbow Routt Forest Service: www.fs.fed.us/r2
Picnicking-
The forest has several day use picnic grounds with
fee and no fee. These picnic grounds are developed and usually have
all the essentials. See link above.
Camping-
Camping is usually enjoyed from June through September.
Camping in developed campgrounds is allowed for a maximum of 14
consecutive days. Most sites are available on a first come
basis. Camping outside of a campground is allowed. See above Forest Service link for more info.
Scenic Drives-
One of the most traveled and spectacular Scenic Byways in the West, Highway 130 was designated
as the second National Forest Scenic Byway in the United States
on August 26, 1988. Elevations of the byway range from 8,100
to 10,847 feet. The byway offers breath taking scenes, mountains as far as Colorado can be seen on a clear day. There
are numerous site seeing spots along the way as well as picnic grounds
and lakes to stop and take in the beauty. Note that the highway
is usually closed from November to May.
Biking-
There are several trails that make for great mountain
biking trips as well as trails that can be enjoyed for any biker.
These trails offer great views and often a chance to view deer,
elk, and small game animals.
Off Road Vehicle Trails-
There are a variety of primitive roads for the off-road
enthusiast. Most are very rough and few are maintained.
Fishing-
Secluded mountain lakes, rivers, and streams offer
fishermen some of the best trout fishing in the nation. A
fishing license is required for all fishermen and there are regulations
that must be followed. For a once in a lifetime treat visit Four Seasons Anglers at: www.fourseasonsanglers.com
Backpacking-
Many of the hiking trails are also suitable for backpacking.
Off trail backpacking can also be enjoyed and offers a chance to
get away from life and be with nature.
Nature Viewing-
While walking, hiking, backpacking, biking, driving,
or just relaxing in the forest enjoy the spectacular variety of wildflowers in the Rocky Mountains. Premiere flower season is early to mid July. Numerous species of wildlife can also
be seen including elk, deer, antelope, eagles,
yellow bellied marmots, pikas, crows, falcons, fox, moose, squirrels, and many others.
Hunting- The forest offers a variety of game. Some of the game animals include
elk, mule and white tail deer, antelope, bighorn sheep and black
bear. There are also numerous small game animals and birds. Call the
Wyoming Game and Fish Department, at 307-745-4046 for information
before hunting. On the web: www.gf/state.wy.us
Horse Trails-
Many trails are
suitable for horseback riding and horses are allowed on hiking
trails unless designed for foot travel only. Horses can
not be kept in campgrounds, but may be kept adjacent to them.
There are several places near by to rent horses.
Rafting-
Rafting can be done on the North Platte River, however
contact the North Park Ranger District for more information.
Visitor Center-
There is a visitor center located 1 mile west of the hotel on
HWY 130. It has information provided by the forest service
on near-by attractions and campgrounds.|
Laramie Ranger District # 307-745-2300: www.fs.fed.us/r2
Historic Sites-
There are several historic viewpoints along the highway between Laramie and Saratoga.
