The best cycling routes in Carbon County

Embark on the TransAmerica Trail loop from Rawlins to Separation Point for a touring cycling adventure across Wyoming's vast, high-elevation prairie. This moderate route spans 43.1 miles (69.3 km), offering wide-open vistas where rolling foothills hint at the distant peaks of Medicine Bow National Forest and Huston Park Wilderness. You will experience a unique blend of dry, high desert beauty contrasting with alpine areas, gaining 1265 feet (386 metres) in elevation over an estimated 4 hours and 40 minutes of riding.

Planning is essential for this journey, as services are sparse along the way; always carry extra water to stay hydrated. Be ready for the challenge of strong winds, which are a significant factor in Wyoming and can greatly influence your ride. Checking weather forecasts before you set out will help you prepare for the conditions and ensure a more comfortable experience.

This loop offers a true sense of "big sky country," showcasing the expansive and rugged beauty of the American West. The route provides a glimpse into the unique ecosystem of Wyoming, where the high desert meets distant mountain ranges. It is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the natural environment and appreciate the scale of the landscape.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle journey along the TransAmerica Trail: Encampment to Colorado State Line, a difficult route spanning 51.9 miles (83.5 km). You will gain 2363 feet (720 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 5 hours and 6 minutes. As you cycle, you'll witness the landscape transform from vast grasslands into rolling foothills, signaling your approach to the higher peaks of the Medicine Bow National Forest and Huston Park Wilderness. The route also offers scenic views near the Encampment River, showcasing beautiful panoramas and wide valleys through desolate, dry, yet captivating Wyoming scenery.

When planning your ride, be prepared for the demanding conditions typical of Wyoming. Strong headwinds and crosswinds are common, which can make progress difficult even on downhill sections. You should also anticipate variable temperatures, ranging from hot, sunny days to cold, pelting rain. Remember that services are very limited between towns, so plan your provisions and stops carefully before you set out.

This section of the TransAmerica Trail takes you through Carbon County, Wyoming, offering a unique glimpse into the region's natural environment. The transition from open plains to the foothills of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest highlights the diverse ecosystems you'll encounter. It's a segment that truly tests your endurance while immersing you in the raw beauty of the American West, making it a notable part of the iconic TransAmerica Trail experience.

Embark on a touring bicycle journey along the TransAmerica Trail from Saratoga to the Encampment River. This moderate route covers 34.3 miles (55.2 km) with a total elevation gain of 1016 feet (310 metres), offering a relaxed ride that takes about 3 hours and 18 minutes to complete. You will cycle through diverse landscapes, transitioning from expansive grasslands to the gentle, rolling foothills that lead towards the Medicine Bow National Forest and the Huston Park Wilderness.

This segment of the TransAmerica Trail is primarily a well-paved road ride, making it ideal for your touring bike or bikepacking setup. The smooth surface ensures a comfortable experience, allowing you to focus on the scenic surroundings. No special permits or fees are required to access this route, providing straightforward planning for your visit.

As you approach the Encampment River, you will discover a charming natural backdrop, adding to the picturesque landscapes found throughout the ride. While other sections of the broader TransAmerica Trail might include unpaved roads, this specific portion stands out for its consistently smooth pavement, ensuring a pleasant and accessible cycling adventure.

Embark on a moderate touring cycling journey along Sage Creek Road, stretching 28.9 miles (46.6 km) from Rawlins to Teton Reservoir. You will experience Wyoming's high desert, gaining 1189 feet (362 metres) in elevation over an estimated 2 hours and 47 minutes. The route offers vast, open spaces dominated by sagebrush and tumbleweeds, creating a profound sense of solitude. As you approach Teton Reservoir, the landscape shifts, revealing striking desert buttes that add to the rugged beauty. This ride provides a unique perspective on the remote, expansive terrain.

Prepare for challenging conditions on this exposed route, as strong, gusty winds, sometimes reaching 50 miles per hour, are common and can make cycling difficult. The trail offers very little natural shelter from either the sun or the wind, so plan accordingly. While Teton Reservoir might seem like a water source, you will need an appropriate filter because of the water's alkaline nature. Ensure you carry enough water and sun protection for the entire journey. Starting early in the day might help you avoid the strongest afternoon winds.

This route offers a unique transition from paved roads near Rawlins to unpaved segments as you venture deeper into the high desert. The wide-open spaces are not just visually striking; they are home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for mule deer and different bird species that thrive in this environment. The journey highlights the raw, untamed beauty of Wyoming's remote landscapes, making it a notable experience for those seeking solitude and natural immersion.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Snowy Range Road, stretching 4.5 miles (7.2 km) from Lake Marie to Snowy Range Pass. This route offers a gradual ascent, gaining 409 feet (125 metres) in elevation, and can be completed in about 29 minutes. As you pedal, you will experience a scenic transition from forested areas to open alpine habitats, with stunning views of rugged peaks and the clear waters of Lake Marie reflecting the surrounding mountains. The journey provides a quick yet rewarding cycling adventure through high alpine landscapes.

Planning your visit requires attention to the seasons, as the Snowy Range Road is typically open from Memorial Day through October. Be aware that snow often closes the higher elevations for a significant part of the year, so check conditions before you go. While this specific segment is easy, the overall byway can present strong winds and more significant elevation changes, so prepare for varying conditions. This route is perfect for a short outing when the road is accessible.

This segment of the Snowy Range Road is part of a larger byway that winds through the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, offering a unique perspective on the region's natural beauty. You will pass Libby Flats, which marks the highest point on the byway, providing expansive panoramic views of distant mountain ranges. The route's accessibility and relatively gentle grade make it a popular choice for those looking to experience the alpine environment without a strenuous climb, showcasing the area's distinct geological features and high-altitude ecosystems.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle journey along the TransAmerica Trail, covering 42.5 miles (68.4 km) from Saratoga to the I-80 junction. You will gain 1152 feet (351 metres) in elevation, a ride that typically takes around 4 hours and 4 minutes. The route begins across wide-open grasslands, gradually transitioning into rolling foothills as you approach the majestic Medicine Bow National Forest, offering a scenic shift from high desert to more alpine environments on mostly paved surfaces.

When planning your ride, be prepared for the challenges common in Wyoming, such as strong headwinds and long distances between services. It is essential to plan your stops carefully and carry extra water to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. You will find opportunities for resupply in charming communities like Riverside and Encampment along the way.

This segment is a quintessential part of the iconic TransAmerica Trail, offering a taste of long-distance cycling across varied American landscapes. The route is notable for its dramatic natural beauty and the distinct transition in scenery, making it a memorable experience for cyclists looking to explore the heart of the country.

Prepare for a demanding touring bicycle journey on the Snowy Range Road, a difficult 17.4-mile (28.0 km) route that climbs 2153 feet (656 metres) from Ryan Park Campground to Silver Lake Campground. You can expect to complete this ride in about 2 hours and 2 minutes. As you pedal, you will experience a dramatic shift in scenery, moving from open sagebrush into thick lodgepole pine and spruce-fir forests, eventually reaching spectacular alpine vistas. Keep an eye out for crystal-clear lakes like Mirror Lake and enjoy panoramic views from high points such as Libby Flats.

Planning your visit requires attention to the season, as the Snowy Range Road is typically only open from late May or Memorial Day through October due to heavy snow closing the higher sections. This route presents a significant challenge with sustained climbing and high altitude. Be ready for strong winds and thinner air at higher elevations, which can make the physical exertion more intense. Always check local conditions before you head out.

This route takes you deep into the stunning Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, offering more than just a physical challenge. The changing elevations provide unique opportunities to observe wildlife, including mule deer or moose, especially in the higher alpine areas. The byway itself is a notable feature of the region, known for its scenic beauty and the distinct ecological zones you traverse as you gain elevation.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride up the east side of the Battle Pass Scenic Byway, a climb that takes you through diverse landscapes. As you ascend, the scenery transforms from gentle rolling hills into thick pine and aspen forests, eventually leading to the summit. This 12.5-mile (20.2 km) route challenges you with 1429 feet (435 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 26 minutes. From the top, you can enjoy expansive panoramic views of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range, a rewarding vista after your effort.

Plan your visit between Memorial Day and October, as the byway is subject to snow closures outside these months. While the route is mostly paved, be aware that some segments may be unpaved. You will find light traffic and wide shoulders, making it a suitable option for touring cyclists. Always check local conditions before you go to ensure the pass is open and clear.

This route offers a unique opportunity to experience the changing high-altitude environment within Medicine Bow National Forest. In autumn, the aspen trees along the byway, particularly in areas like Aspen Alley, burst into vibrant colors, creating a spectacular backdrop for your ride. The journey to Battle Pass provides a memorable exploration of Wyoming's natural beauty.

Cycle the west side of the Battle Pass Scenic Byway, a moderate touring bicycle route that offers a rewarding climb. This 9.3-mile (15.0 km) section gains 1013 feet (309 metres) in elevation, taking you through rugged Sierra Madre Mountains and lush pine forests. You can expect to complete the ride in about 1 hour and 3 minutes. As you ascend, you will enjoy expansive views, with the highlight being the panoramic vistas of surrounding peaks and valleys from the Battle Pass summit.

Plan your touring bicycle trip between Memorial Day and October, as the byway is generally open during these months. The route is well-paved and features wide shoulders, making it a comfortable ride for cyclists. Consider starting early to make the most of the daylight and avoid potential afternoon winds.

This section of the byway winds through the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, offering a true high-altitude experience. The journey provides a chance to immerse yourself in the natural environment of the Sierra Madre Mountains. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as elk and moose, which are often seen in the area.

The TransAmerica Trail: East from Rawlins offers a moderate touring cycling experience across 44.0 miles (70.8 km) with an elevation gain of 826 feet (252 metres), typically taking about 4 hours and 19 minutes. As you cycle, you will immerse yourself in Wyoming's vast, open landscapes, feeling the essence of the "Wild West." The route begins in a dry, high desert environment, gradually shifting towards more alpine scenery as you head east. You will notice this transition as you approach the TransAmerica Trail Rawlins to WY 130/230 junction, marking a change in the terrain. This journey provides a deep connection to America's heartland, showcasing expansive views.

When planning your ride, be aware that you will encounter unpaved sections that demand extra effort. Longer stretches between services are common in Wyoming, so remember to carry ample supplies like water and snacks. The high elevation can affect some riders, so allow yourself time to acclimatize before tackling the route. Also, a 15-mile section briefly joins I-80, which has heavy traffic, though a wide shoulder is available for cyclists.

This segment of the TransAmerica Trail is perfect if you want to explore Wyoming's unique and expansive landscapes. You will experience the subtle yet profound shift from a high desert environment to more alpine settings as you progress towards Colorado. The journey itself is a significant part of the larger TransAmerica Trail, offering a chance to connect with the diverse natural beauty and history of America's heartland.