The best cycling routes in Laramie County

There are 7 touring cycling routes available in Laramie County. These include 5 easy routes and 2 moderate routes, catering to various skill levels.

Laramie County offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find everything from relaxed paved paths along the Laramie River Greenbelt to routes traversing alpine forests, rugged peaks, and unique granite rock formations like those in Vedauwoo Recreation Area. The region blends mountain and prairie ecosystems, providing varied scenery and cycling experiences.

Yes, Laramie County offers several family-friendly options, particularly those with paved paths. The Laramie River Greenbelt, for instance, provides a relaxed, urban wilderness experience with 5.75 miles of paved trails. Routes like the Wyoming State Capitol loop from Cheyenne and the Allison Draw Greenway – Wyoming State Capitol loop from Laramie County Community College are also easy, mostly paved options suitable for families.

Several routes offer views of significant landmarks. For example, the Wyoming State Capitol loop from New Bedford & Commons provides views of the Wyoming State Capitol. You might also pass by Holliday Park, which is featured in routes like the Lake Minnehaha – Holliday Park loop from Vandehei & Prairie Hills. Other nearby attractions include the Cathedral of Saint Mary and the former Union Pacific Railroad station building.

The warmer months are generally best for touring cycling in Laramie County. While areas like Curt Gowdy State Park can be snow-free earlier due to lower elevation, the stunning Snowy Range Scenic Byway, for instance, is best enjoyed when it's clear of snow. Always check local weather conditions, especially for higher elevation routes.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Laramie County are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Lake Minnehaha – Holliday Park loop from Vandehei & Prairie Hills, the Wyoming State Capitol loop from New Bedford & Commons, and the Allison Draw Greenway – Wyoming State Capitol loop from Laramie County Community College.

The touring cycling routes in Laramie County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from easy paved paths to more challenging trails, and the beautiful natural features like alpine forests, granite formations, and prairie ecosystems.

The city of Laramie itself is bike-friendly and offers bike shops and outdoor stores staffed with knowledgeable enthusiasts who can assist with rentals, repairs, and gear. These resources are valuable for preparing for your touring cycling adventures in the region.

While many routes are shorter loops, the extensive trail systems and connections to areas like the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest and Pilot Hill Recreation Area offer potential for combining routes or exploring longer distances. The region's diverse landscapes provide ample opportunity for extended rides, especially when exploring the multi-use networks and scenic byways.

Beginners and those looking for an easier ride have several excellent options. The Wyoming State Capitol loop from Cheyenne is an easy, mostly paved route. The Allison Draw Greenway – Wyoming State Capitol loop from Laramie County Community College also offers an accessible experience. Additionally, the Laramie River Greenbelt provides a very relaxed, paved path within the city.

While specific public transport links directly to trailheads might be limited, the city of Laramie itself has public transport options. For routes starting within or near the city, such as those utilizing the Laramie River Greenbelt or departing from community colleges, public transport could be a viable option for reaching the starting point. For routes further afield, personal vehicle transport is generally recommended.

Generally, most public trails in Laramie County do not require specific cycling permits for day use. However, if you plan to cycle in designated state parks like Curt Gowdy State Park, there may be entrance fees or day-use passes required for vehicle entry. Always check the specific regulations for the area you plan to visit, especially for national forests or state parks.