The best running trails in Laramie County

Komoot features over 20 diverse running routes in Laramie County, catering to various skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy urban paths to more challenging trails with significant elevation changes.

Laramie County offers a wide variety of terrains for runners. You can find paved paths like the Cirrus Sky Trail and sections of the Laramie River Greenbelt, as well as extensive dirt trails in areas like the Schoolyard Trail System and Curt Gowdy State Park. Expect everything from flat, even surfaces to uneven terrain with hills, rocks, and roots, providing options for all fitness levels.

Yes, Laramie County has several options suitable for beginners or those seeking an easier run. The Cirrus Sky Trail and the Laramie River Greenbelt offer paved, relatively flat surfaces. For a gentle dirt trail, the 2.5-mile gravel loop of the Jacoby Ridge Trail is wide and suitable for all skill levels. You can also explore routes like Running loop from Cheyenne, which is rated easy.

Many outdoor areas and trails in Laramie County are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash and you clean up after them. The Cirrus Sky Trail, for example, is designed with dog waste bag stations. Always check specific park or trail regulations before heading out, especially in state parks or protected areas.

For breathtaking scenery, consider routes that take you through Vedauwoo Recreation Area with its unique granite formations, or trails within Curt Gowdy State Park which feature reservoirs and diverse landscapes. The Laramie River Greenbelt offers pleasant runs along the river with views of the Snowy Mountains. The Bent Rock and K-Lynn Cameron Loop is a popular choice known for its scenic views.

Yes, several routes are great for families. The paved and accessible sections of the Laramie River Greenbelt and the Cirrus Sky Trail are excellent for runs with children. For a slightly more adventurous but still manageable option, the Lake Marie Trail in the Snowy Range offers a gentle hike around an alpine lake, which can be enjoyed as a family run.

Yes, many routes in Laramie County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the Bent Rock and K-Lynn Cameron Loop, the Reynolds Hill Loop trail run, and the Stone Temple Trail loop from Curt Gowdy State Park.

Laramie County offers several points of interest. In Cheyenne, you can run past the historic Wyoming State Capitol or the impressive Cathedral of Saint Mary. The former Union Pacific Railroad station building is another notable historical site. For natural landmarks, the unique granite formations of Vedauwoo Recreation Area are a must-see, and Curt Gowdy State Park features beautiful reservoirs.

Most major trailheads and parks in Laramie County, such as Curt Gowdy State Park, Vedauwoo Recreation Area, and access points to the Laramie River Greenbelt and Cirrus Sky Trail, offer designated parking areas. For urban routes, parking might be available at nearby parks like Optimist Park for the Greenbelt.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for running in Laramie County. Summers are warm but often dry, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and vibrant scenery. Winter running is possible, especially on paved or well-maintained urban paths, but be prepared for snow and ice, particularly on higher elevation trails.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, trails in Curt Gowdy State Park can be quite demanding with rocky terrain and elevation changes. The Medicine Bow Peak Trail in the Snowy Range, while primarily a hiking trail, offers an extremely challenging ascent to the highest point in the range for experienced trail runners. The Wyoming State Museum – Wyoming State Capitol loop from Cheyenne is also rated as difficult.

Yes, Laramie County's diverse natural environments provide excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. Running in areas like Medicine Bow National Forest, Curt Gowdy State Park, or along the Laramie River Greenbelt increases your chances of spotting local wildlife such as deer, various bird species, and other small animals. Early mornings or late evenings are often the best times for wildlife viewing.