Wyoming’s Snowy Range is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with plenty of space for summer and winter recreation. From its highest point at Medicine Bow Peak’s 12,013 feet to its crystal clear alpine lakes, the Snowy Range in southeastern Wyoming beckons visitors to come to enjoy its variety of activities.
1. Snowmobiling
Well-known for its abundant snowmobiling trails, the Snowy Range has 328 miles of groomed and ungroomed routes. With a name like the Snowies, it isn’t too surprising that the area gets more than 300 inches of snow per year, making this area a snowmobiler’s paradise.
2. Hiking
Hiking between alpine lakes in fields of wildflowers may sound like something only Maria von Trapp gets to do, but Snowy Range visitors do too. A stop at the Forest Service’s Centennial Visitor’s Center (one mile west of Centennial on Hwy 130), which is open June through September, gives visitors information about hiking trails. A favorite is the Medicine Bow Peak Trail that is 3.2 miles round trip and takes hikers to the highest point in the Snowies.
3. Camping
Camping under the stars and relaxing around the glow of a warm campfire is a Snowy Range tradition. Campers can take advantage of developed campsites or disperse camp in Medicine Bow National Forest. Some campsites still have snow through the middle of the summer, but a stop at the visitor’s center will give campers information about available campsites.
4. Fishing
When trout dream, they probably dream of a life in the Snowy Range. Trout fishing is a popular activity in the alpine and subalpine lakes of the area. Brook trout are the most common fish anglers might see, but keep an eye out for other species too. Check the U.S. Forest Service website for information about hiking, camping and fishing in the Snowies.
5. Skiing and Snowshoing
Snowy Range Ski Area is known for family-friendly, affordable downhill skiing. The resort is family-owned and located just 5.4 miles from Centennial on Hwy 130. Fans call it a great place for all skill levels and a place to spend more time on the slopes than waiting in lines. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers will find lots to love in the Snowies too.
6. Snowy Range Scenic Byway
The Snowy Range Scenic Byway is an auto tour along Hwy 130 that highlights stunning views, Wyoming wildlife and an abundance of mountain wildflowers. Along the way, visitors can visit a variety of attractions, such as the Nici Self Historical Museum in Centennial, the stunning Lake Marie, Libby Flats Observation Lookout or the Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs. The byway closes in the winter due to snow.
7. Out of the Box Lodging
Visitors to the Snowy Range will find a variety of western-experience lodging. The Spruce Mountain Fire Lookout is a former tower used to watch for forest fires that is now available to rent. The Keystone Ranger Station, tucked deep in the Medicine Bow Forest, is available for nightly rentals and was once the district headquarters of the Keystone Ranger District. Horseback riding and fishing in the summer and snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in the winter are just a few of the activities guest ranch or mountain lodge visitors should expect during their stay in places like the Medicine Bow Lodge and Adventure Guest Ranch or Brooklyn Lodge.
