The best traffic-free bike rides around Laramie

There are a few dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Laramie, offering a mix of easy and more challenging options. Currently, you can explore 4 routes, with 3 rated as easy and 1 as difficult, ensuring there's something for various skill levels.

The no-traffic touring routes around Laramie offer diverse terrain. You'll find paved paths like sections of the Laramie River Greenbelt, ideal for relaxed rides. Other routes, such as the Pilot Hill Recreation Area loop from Laramie, venture onto gravel or dirt roads, providing a more rugged touring experience with significant elevation changes. The broader Laramie area, including places like Happy Jack and Pole Mountain, also features winding fire roads and singletracks suitable for touring bikes with wider tires.

Yes, Laramie offers excellent family-friendly no-traffic cycling options. The Laramie River Greenbelt Trail is a paved, 5.75-mile path along the Laramie River, perfect for all ages. Within our curated routes, the Laramie River loop from Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site is an easy, mostly flat ride that follows parts of the Greenbelt, making it suitable for families.

The best times for no-traffic touring cycling in Laramie are generally late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer offers warm, sunny days, while fall brings beautiful foliage, especially in areas like the Snowy Range. Curt Gowdy State Park, at a slightly lower elevation, often becomes snow-free earlier than higher areas like Vedauwoo or Happy Jack, extending the cycling season.

Yes, several no-traffic touring routes around Laramie are designed as loops. For an easy ride, consider the Laramie River loop from Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site or the Bike loop from Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site. For a more challenging circular route, the Pilot Hill Recreation Area loop from Laramie offers a difficult, longer option with significant elevation.

Laramie's no-traffic routes offer opportunities to experience diverse natural beauty and wildlife. Along the Laramie River Greenbelt, you might spot local river wildlife. In areas like Happy Jack and Pole Mountain, cyclists often see marmots, elk, or moose. The broader region, including Medicine Bow National Forest, features alpine scenery, clear lakes like Lake Marie and Mirror Lake, and rugged peaks.

Yes, several interesting landmarks and attractions are accessible or visible from these routes. The Laramie River loop from Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site starts near the historic Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site. Other nearby points of interest include LaBonte Park and the University of Wyoming. The scenic Roger Canyon Road, known for its low traffic, also offers gorgeous views.

Parking is generally available at trailheads or designated access points for these routes. For routes starting near the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, parking is typically available there. For routes in areas like Pilot Hill Recreation Area, specific parking lots are provided. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

Generally, no specific permits are required for casual touring cycling on the listed no-traffic routes within Laramie or in areas like Pilot Hill. However, if you plan to venture into specific state parks like Curt Gowdy State Park or certain areas of Medicine Bow National Forest, day-use fees or permits might be necessary for vehicle entry or specific activities. Always check with the relevant park or forest service for the most current regulations.

Elevation gains vary significantly across the no-traffic touring routes. Easy routes, such as the Laramie River loop from Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, have minimal elevation gain (around 18 meters). More challenging routes, like the Pilot Hill Recreation Area loop from Laramie, involve substantial climbs, with an elevation gain of approximately 277 meters, offering a good workout and rewarding views.

While our current selection focuses on day trips, the broader Laramie region does offer potential for multi-day no-traffic touring. The Laramie Mountains Loop, for example, is described as an extreme multi-day cycling adventure through remote, mountainous areas. These longer routes often incorporate sections with very low traffic, providing an immersive experience away from busy roads.