The best running trails around Wyoming

Wyoming offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 130 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy paths to more challenging ascents, ensuring options for every skill level. You'll find approximately 20 easy routes, 100 moderate routes, and 19 difficult routes to explore.

Wyoming's diverse topography provides stunning backdrops for running. You can experience dramatic mountain ranges like the Tetons and Wind River, vast high plains and prairies offering expansive views, and extensive national forests such as Medicine Bow. Many routes also follow scenic greenbelt pathways along rivers and lakes, providing varied terrain and beautiful vistas.

Yes, Wyoming has numerous easy and beginner-friendly running options. Many towns offer accessible paths, such as the 7-mile Dry Creek Greenway in Cheyenne or the 37.5-mile Jackson Hole Community Pathway System. The Millennium Park Lake & Lake Leota loop is a moderate 3.7-mile trail that offers pleasant views and is a good starting point.

The running routes in Wyoming are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 8 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from mountain scenery to river greenways, and the variety of terrain suitable for different ability levels. Over 1000 runners have used komoot to explore Wyoming's varied trails.

Yes, many running routes in Wyoming are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Millennium Park loop via Kents Trail is a moderate 4.4-mile circular path, and the South Standale Trail loop is another popular 3.4-mile loop through parkland.

Absolutely. Many running routes in Wyoming are close to interesting landmarks and natural features. For instance, you can find routes near Millennium Park, which features a lake, or explore areas near the Blue Bridge in Grand Rapids. Other notable highlights include Reeds Lake and Gaslight Village, offering scenic points of interest along your run.

The Laramie region is particularly well-suited for runners. You can explore the 2.5-mile Jacoby Ridge Trail, the extensive Schoolyard Trail System (approximately 20 miles), or connect to the Happy Jack Recreation Area and Pole Mountain for even more options. Vedauwoo, with its unique rock formations, also offers 25 miles of trails that can link with Happy Jack for longer runs. Curt Gowdy State Park, near Laramie, provides roughly 25 miles of varying terrain.

Yes, many of Wyoming's greenways and park trails are suitable for families. The Jacoby Ridge Trail near Laramie is a 2.5-mile gravel loop suitable for all skill levels. City trails like the Laramie River Greenbelt Trail or the Jackson Hole Community Pathway System offer paved or well-maintained paths that are generally safe and enjoyable for families.

The best season for running in Wyoming largely depends on the elevation and specific location. Lower elevation areas and city greenways are enjoyable for much of the spring, summer, and fall. However, higher elevation areas, such as the Snowy Range, have a shorter running season due to snow, typically best in late spring through early fall. Always check local conditions, especially in mountainous regions.

For those seeking longer runs, Wyoming offers several options. The Medicine Bow Rail Trail is a 22-mile trail through the Medicine Bow National Forest. Additionally, the Millennium Park – Millennium Park loop from RiverTown Crossings is a challenging 22.6-mile (36.4 km) route, and the Grand Rapids Riverwalk – Grand Rapids Downtown View loop covers about 10.9 miles (17.6 km).

Many public lands and trails in Wyoming are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners practice responsible pet etiquette, including cleaning up after their pets. It's always a good idea to check specific park or trail regulations before heading out, especially in national parks or designated wilderness areas, as rules can vary.

For breathtaking views of the Tetons, the Jackson Hole area is ideal. The Elk Refuge Road offers flat, scenic runs with direct views of the Tetons and opportunities to spot wildlife. The Highway 89 Path, a mostly paved track, also runs along the edge of the Elk Refuge towards Jenny Lake, providing stunning mountain vistas.