The best road cycling routes in Albany County

The Laramie to Roger Canyon Road offers a delightful road cycling experience through the high-altitude Wyoming plains. You'll encounter open terrain, gentle hills, and unique geological features like red hills and sagebrush, with the route eventually leading towards the dramatic bends of Roger Canyon. From certain points, you can even catch a panoramic view of Laramie itself, making for a scenic and engaging ride.

This easy route covers 19.3 miles (31.0 km) with a manageable 686 feet (209 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 18 minutes. It's an excellent choice for cyclists of all abilities, providing a well-paved surface and accessibility directly from Laramie. Always check the weather, as Laramie's 7,220-foot elevation can bring quick changes.

Beyond its scenic appeal, this route is one of the most popular cycling trails in the Laramie area, known for its uncrowded feel and dramatic skies. The road itself leads to Roger Canyon, a limestone canyon famous among climbers, adding a layer of local interest to your journey through this historically rich region.

Embark on a truly memorable road cycling journey along the Snowy Range Road, a difficult 80.1-mile (128.9 km) route that carves its way through the majestic Snowy Range Mountains. You'll experience a dramatic landscape shift, climbing from the treeless plains near Centennial into dense forests, past pristine high alpine lakes like Lake Marie, and eventually reaching panoramic viewpoints at Libby Flats. With a substantial 7486 feet (2282 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 6 hours and 35 minutes, this ride is a serious test of endurance, offering incredible scenery for those with good to very good fitness.

Planning your ride on this iconic route requires attention to the seasons. The highest sections of the road are typically closed from November until late May or early June due to heavy snow, often reopening around Memorial Day weekend. Strong winds are common, particularly in the more exposed areas, so be prepared for variable conditions. Always check the latest road status before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Known as the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, this route is celebrated for its exceptional beauty and status as Wyoming's second-highest mountain pass. Beyond the challenging cycling, the area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, with elk, deer, and moose often spotted in the mountain meadows. The road itself has a rich history, originally serving as a wagon route in the 1870s before being paved in the 1930s, adding a layer of historical significance to your high-country adventure.

The Downtown Laramie loop offers a delightful blend of urban exploration and natural scenery, making it one of the most popular bike trails Laramie has to offer. You'll pedal past historic storefronts and 32 hand-painted murals in the vibrant downtown area, then transition to the peaceful Laramie Greenbelt Trail, which hugs the Laramie River. The route is entirely on well-paved surfaces, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.

This easy road cycling route is a manageable 16.3 miles (26.3 km) with only 377 feet (115 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 17 minutes. It's an ideal choice for families or anyone seeking a relaxed ride without significant physical demands. You can easily find parking in the downtown area, and the circular nature of the loop means you finish right where you started.

What sets this route apart is its seamless integration of Laramie's cultural heart with its natural surroundings. You'll get glimpses of the University of Wyoming and distant mountain vistas, all while enjoying the convenience of a fully paved path. It's a fantastic way to experience the city's charm and riverine landscape in one go.

The Laramie to Cheyenne century ride offers a sweeping tour across Wyoming's high plains, connecting two major cities with a challenging road cycling experience. You'll navigate rolling terrain, passing by scenic points like Curt Gowdy State Park and the Happy Jack Recreation Area, all while soaking in vast, open landscapes. The route culminates near the Wyoming State Capitol in Cheyenne, providing a sense of accomplishment after a long day in the saddle.

This difficult 100.3-mile (161.3 km) ride, with its 5364 feet (1635 metres) of elevation gain, is a serious undertaking, typically requiring around 7 hours and 12 minutes to complete. Cyclists should be prepared for significant climbs, including one stretch of 8.8 miles with a 1,447-foot gain. It's vital to have very good fitness and be aware that some sections of Happy Jack Road can be narrow, and riding on Interstate 80 is not advised due to heavy truck traffic.

This century ride is a testament to Wyoming's growing appeal for cyclists, forming part of a region actively expanding its trail systems. The route highlights the unique blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks found between Laramie and Cheyenne, making it a notable achievement for any dedicated road cyclist.

Experience the vast, open beauty of Wyoming's high plains on the Laramie to Plains Lakes road cycling route. This moderate 40.6-mile (65.4 km) ride offers a smooth journey across well-paved surfaces, showcasing the unique high-altitude landscape. You'll enjoy picturesque views, including the expansive Lake Hattie Reservoir, making it a rewarding ride for those seeking scenic, open-road cycling.

Planning your ride is straightforward, though it's wise to consider the season. Spring is generally the best time for road cycling in Laramie to avoid winter conditions like snow and gravel. Always carry sufficient water, as amenities are limited once you're out on the plains. Parking is typically available in Laramie, where the route begins.

This route is a great way to explore the Laramie area's road cycling potential, moving beyond its reputation as a mountain biking hub. It's particularly notable for its representation of the unique Wyoming plains environment, offering a different perspective on the region's diverse landscapes. The minimal 192 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 2 hours and 58 minutes makes it accessible for many.

The Barber Lake Road and Snowy Range Road loop offers a truly memorable road cycling experience, rated moderate, covering 9.0 miles (14.4 km) with 1226 feet (374 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 54 minutes. You'll climb through thick forests, eventually breaking out above the treeline to reveal dramatic granite peaks and alpine lakes like Lake Marie. The route combines the less-trafficked Barber Lake Road with the challenging climbs of the Snowy Range Road, providing diverse terrain and breathtaking views for cyclists exploring the Snowy Range Mountains Wyoming.

Planning your visit requires attention to the calendar, as the high-elevation sections of Snowy Range Road are closed by snow for much of the year. This scenic byway usually opens from late May or Memorial Day weekend through October. Given the significant elevation gain and high altitude, ensure you're prepared for changing weather conditions and bring plenty of water. Parking is generally available near the start in Centennial, making it a convenient access point for this popular route.

This loop is notable for traversing the second-highest mountain pass in Wyoming, offering a unique perspective on the Medicine Bow National Forest. Beyond the stunning vistas, the area is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, and marmots, so keep an eye out. In spring and early summer, wildflowers carpet the landscape, while autumn brings spectacular colors from the aspen trees, making the best time of year to cycle Barber Lake Road Snowy Range Road a matter of personal preference for scenery.