Places to Visit: Laramie, Wyoming & Medicine Bow Mountains

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Laramie, Wyoming & Medicine Bow Mountains

When exploring the Old West around Cody, Wyoming, you should make a side trip to Laramie, Wyoming, and the Medicine Bow Mountains which sit to the west of the city.

  • Stop in Laramie, Wyoming to experience the reality of the Old West
  • Tour the historic sites for a history lesson
  • Drive the Snowy Range Scenic Byway to see awesome mountain views
  • Outdoor recreation is abundant in the Medicine Bow Mountains
  • Only a little over 6 hours to Cody, Wyoming

Overview

Laramie, Wyoming is located in the southeast corner of the state, adjacent to the Medicine Bow Mountains and plenty of recreational opportunities. The city lies at the junction of Interstate 80 and US 287.

Hours/Seasons

Medicine Bow National Forest is open all year with two main roads through the park. Highway 130 is closed for the winter season but Highway 230 is open all year.

Fees/Cost

There is no charge for driving into Medicine Bow National Forest, but there is a parking fee of $5 for the day if you stop and take part in any of the activities available.

Highlights

With about 400,000 acres of public land available in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests near Laramie, Wyoming, you will find no better place to get out and enjoy some exciting recreation. You’ll find boating, hunting, fishing, hiking and camping.

Take the Snowy Range Scenic Byway across the mountains (from Memorial Day through the month of October) where you’ll reach an elevation of over 10,000 feet above the valley floor. Snow is here all year long, which accounts for its name. You will have the chance to spot some of the wildlife that makes their home here, such as moose, beaver, elk and more.

Be sure to visit the rocks of Vedauwoo while you are in the area. Another popular place for hiking and biking, Vedauwoo provides some lovely picnic sites.

The city of Laramie also offers much for the traveler to do, including some lively shopping and delicious dining. Visit the ruins of Fort Sanders, tour the Art Museum, attend an Old West rodeo or see the numerous historic sites throughout the city.

Getting Here

The fastest way to get to Cody, Wyoming from Laramie is to get on I-80 W and take exit 215 onto US 287. After about 123 miles, you will turn right onto WY 789, then continue on US 26 to WY 120 where you’ll reach US 14 taking you right into Cody. It’s a trip of about 6 hours but well worth it!