The Pilot Hill Project was a land swap completed in 2020 to connect the City of Laramie’s foothills directly to the 65,000 acres of National Forest to the east. This connection covering 9 square miles makes it possible to reach Pole Mountain and Happy Jack Recreation Area without use of the interstate, making it an ideal cycling, hiking, and equestrian public access route to the forest.
It also protects open space, wildlife habitat, and Laramie's aquifer recharge zone, providing the city with pristine drinking water.
As the Pilot Hill project has just launched, trail creation, signage, and amenities will be an ongoing undertaking over the next several years. A limited opening will allow new routes to be unveiled as they are created. See pilothill.org for volunteer opportunities.
Beginning in 2025, 6 new trails are on set to open.
2 MTB downhill only, advanced trails to add options for more challenging rides for our most avid mountain bike enthusiasts.
4 Multi-use, easy trails for all to enjoy whether you are a trail runner, hiker, bike or horse rider.
The 2025 trail work will add nearly 7 miles of new trails to explore on Pilot Hill, and build on the over 50 miles of trails that connect Laramie to the Medicine Bow National Forest, and the USFS trail systems at Happy Jack and Tie Siding. Visit pilothill.org for updates and trail happenings.
Click here to download a map outlining current and future routes on Pilot Hill, and review rules for access.
History
The area of Pilot Hill was working ranch land for Warren Livestock Company. The landowner graciously offered to sell this property to the people of Albany County to maintain the open space and create recreational non-motorized access.
Thanks to volunteers, wide public support, and community contributions, the land was secured via public land swaps.
This access point will maintain the wild, open nature of the Laramie landscape and preserve recreation into the future.
