The best walks and hikes around Cheyenne

Yes, Cheyenne has several options perfect for families. For an easy walk within the city, the Lions Park loop from Cheyenne is a great choice. It's a flat, 3.1-mile (5.0 km) path in the city's largest park. For more of a nature outing, Curt Gowdy State Park, a short drive away, offers a variety of well-maintained trails suitable for all ages.

Many trails in the Cheyenne area are dog-friendly, but rules vary. In city parks like North Cheyenne Community Park, dogs are often welcome. In state parks and national forests, dogs are generally required to be on a leash. Always check the specific regulations for the area you plan to visit, such as Curt Gowdy State Park or Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, before you go.

For a beautiful waterfall hike, head to Curt Gowdy State Park, located about 24 miles west of the city. The Crow Creek Trail is a popular 3.6-mile out-and-back route that leads to the picturesque Hidden Falls. The trail winds through a forest and offers lovely scenery along the way.

For more rugged and scenic hiking, there are two premier destinations a short drive from Cheyenne:

Curt Gowdy State Park: A highly-regarded local favorite, this park features over 35 miles of trails around three reservoirs, with options for all skill levels. It's known for its varied terrain, from rolling foothills to forested paths.

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest: This vast area includes two key spots. Vedauwoo Recreation Area is famous for its massive granite rock formations, while the Pole Mountain area offers 55,000 acres of expansive terrain perfect for longer hikes.

While Cheyenne's immediate trails are mostly easy, you can find more challenging and longer hikes in the surrounding region. The Pole Mountain area within Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest has extensive trail networks, like the Headquarters Trail, that allow for longer-distance trekking through the vast Wyoming landscape. You can connect various trails to create a full-day adventure.

The scenery varies greatly. Within the city, you'll find pleasant parkland trails. Just a short drive west, the landscape transforms into the rolling foothills of the Laramie Mountains. A highlight is the Vedauwoo Recreation Area, known for its dramatic and unique Precambrian granite formations that create a stunning backdrop for any hike.

Yes, winter hiking is possible, though you should be prepared for snow and cold conditions. Trails in places like Curt Gowdy State Park and the Pole Mountain area can be used for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. It's essential to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out and to wear appropriate gear.

Curt Gowdy State Park is the best destination for hiking near water. The park is home to three reservoirs: Granite, Crystal, and North Crow. The Shoreline Trail is a popular option that meanders around the crystal-clear lakes, offering beautiful water views throughout your hike.

Vedauwoo is a paradise for hikers who enjoy unique geology. The trails here wind through and around massive, ancient granite rock formations. While popular with rock climbers, the area offers a variety of hiking paths that allow you to explore this stunning landscape up close. The trails vary in difficulty, from easy walks at the base of the formations to more strenuous scrambles.

Curt Gowdy State Park caters to all abilities, with approximately 35-50 miles of trails divided into seven distinct sections. You can find everything from easy, gentle strolls along the reservoirs to challenging, expert-level treks through the foothills of the Laramie Mountains. Trail markers indicate the difficulty, so you can easily choose a route that matches your fitness level.

The routes in Cheyenne are highly rated by the komoot community. While the number of reviews is small, the average score is 5.0 stars. Hikers particularly enjoy the accessibility of the city's urban trails and the stunning, rugged beauty of nearby destinations like Curt Gowdy State Park and Vedauwoo.

For the most current information on park fees, trail conditions, and regulations for Curt Gowdy State Park, it's best to consult the official source. You can find details on the Wyoming State Parks website at wyoparks.wyo.gov.