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Social Distancing Road Trip

By Leah Veinbergs

Social distancing got you down? Don’t worry, this Social Distancing Road Trip itinerary will get you locals out of the house while still doing your part to flatten the curve. Laramie has many great opportunities to experience history, art, food, and nature—often without even having to leave the comfort (and safety) of your own car. So, grab your mask and your hand-sanitizer and check out these fun and safe ideas.

 

Road Trip Stops Without Leaving Your Car

It is easy to develop a little “cabin fever” with all the social distancing these days. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun too. There are many things to see in Laramie and the surrounding area that don’t even require you to step foot outside your car.

 

Downtown Mural Tour

The Laramie Mural Project is a city-wide art endeavor featuring dozens of talented local artists. Some of the murals were even contributed to by community members. To get the full experience of these magnificent art works, follow the tour laid out by the Laramie Mural Project. A brochure of the murals can be downloaded on our webpage.

Many Hands Make Work Play mural

 

Downtown Historic Tours

 Step back into the wild west of Laramie’s past, see the buildings and hear the stories that made Laramie what it is today. Many of downtown Laramie’s historic buildings date back to the 1800s. From the beautiful turn-of-the-century architecture to the dramatic tales of days gone by, this is a fun tour for anyone who appreciates history. Learn more about the Historic Downtown Laramie Tour here. 

 

The Old Lincoln Highway Tour

Another great Social Distance Road Trip itinerary idea is the Old Lincoln Highway. The Lincoln Highway was established in 1913 as the first coast-to-coast highway. The original route traversed the country from Times Square, New York City to Lincoln Park, San Francisco. A portion of the highway went right through Laramie Basin. While the highway has changed significantly since days gone by, there is still so much history to appreciate. For more information on the Old Lincoln Highway and to download a tour brochure, please visit our website.

snowy-range-scenic-byway

Along the Snowy Range Scenic Byway (photo credit: Leah Veinbergs)

 

Snowy Range Scenic Byway

The Snowy Range Scenic Byway, the second-highest pass in Wyoming, began as a humble wagon road in the 1870s. Today, drivers can cross the majestic Snowy Range mountains on the well-maintained, paved Wyoming Highway 130. The byway passes through about 29 miles of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest and treats visitors to stunning vistas, rocky mountain peaks, and pristine lakes. Many scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and U.S. Forest Service roads can be accessed from the byway. Be sure to check that the byway is open (usually by Memorial Day) before planning a drive. Download a map and tour brochure here.

Food with Curbside Pick-Up

Laramie has so many fantastic restaurants, and the majority of them are now offering curbside pick-up or even delivery. Here are a few favorites that are currently offering curbside pick-up.

Get great breakfast food at The Good Egg–the bennies are insane. Try Sweet Melissa’s for amazing vegetarian dishes.  Or try one of the many different options available at Alibi Woodfire Pizzeria and Bakery, Altitude Chophouse and Brewery, The Library Sports Grille & Brewery, Cavalryman Steakhouse, Cask 307, or Lovejoy’s. Then, satisfy your sweet tooth at The Sugar Mouse Cupcake House or The Chocolate Cellar.

There are so many more fantastic eateries it’s hard to choose. See our Where to Dine page for more restaurants, many of which offer take-out or delivery.

Cubano Sandwich

Mouth-watering Italian Cubano Sandwich (photo credit: Alibi)

Stops to Stretch Your Legs

What could be better for a Social Distancing Road Trip than some true distances? After practicing safe social-distancing in your car for a while, you will probably need to stretch your legs. Luckily, the Laramie area’s wide-open spaces make it easy to get out while still being safe. Due to state restrictions, picnic and restroom facilities may be closed. Also, if you do meet a fellow adventure on the trails, make sure to keep a minimum of 6-feet distance!

vedauwoo

Vedauwoo Recreation Area (photo credit: Leah Veinbergs)

 

 

Vedauwoo Recreation Area

Despite being only 20 miles from Laramie, Vedauwoo Recreation Area has the appearance of another world. The incredible rock formations attract photographers, rock climbers, and hikers. A favorite hiking path is the Turtle Rock Loop. This hike offers a beautiful view of the singular “Turtle Rock” as well as many other aspects of the Vedauwoo area. Download a brochure on Vedauwoo and the surrounding area here.

 

Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge

First established in 1932 as a refuge for migratory birds, the Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge now encompasses 1,968 acres of protected habitat. The wildlife to be seen on the refuge include 146 species of birds and 29 species of mammals. This is a great place to spot pronghorn, golden eagles, white-faced ibis, prairie dogs, and a host of other animals. There is also a wide variety of plants, including wildflowers. The refuge can be best experienced on the 2.6-mile hiking trail. Download a Hutton Lake Species Checklist here.

hutton-lake

A pronghorn doe and twin fawns at Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge (photo credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

Snowy Range mountain meadow stroll

Snowy Range mountain meadow stroll (photo credit: Leah Veinbergs)

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest in the Snowy Range mountains almost needs its own itinerary. It is the destination for unparalleled hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and a host of other outdoor activities. With scores of trails and ample parking, there is easy access to this breathtaking wilderness. Pristine mountain lakes, stunning views, and rugged landscapes await. For more information on how to best explore this area see the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest webpage.

Without a doubt, Laramie and the surrounding area have plenty of great opportunities for day trips and exploring, while still maintaining social distancing. Keep in mind these fun and safe destinations to beat the quarantine blues.

Note: Leah Veinbergs is an independent writer and the author of the blog Two Little Time. She is contracted by Visit Laramie. Views and opinions expressed here are her own and do not reflect those of the Albany County Tourism Board.