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Nature at its Peak---The Snowy Range Scenic Byway

Contributed by: Deborah Erickson on 6/14/2007

As long-time residents of the Denver area, my husband and I have frequently driven to the nearby Rockies to enjoy Colorado's lofty peaks and spectacular forests. Often, however, the bumper-to-bumper traffic on Interstate 70 and the masses of visitors in the mountains put a damper on the outing. Now, when we feel the need to take a calming journey to the mountains, we travel north to Wyoming and enjoy the incomparable natural attractions--and few people--on the road called the Snowy Range Scenic Byway.

Without a doubt, the scenery between the Wyoming towns of Laramie and Saratoga is one of nature's most impressive displays. To reach this picturesque route, take exit 311 off Interstate 80 in Laramie and follow the road signs to Wyoming Highway 130, also known as the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. As we drive out of Laramie heading towards the small community of Centennial, nestled at the foot of the Snowy Range, we often see more antelope than we do automobiles. Is this because there are lots of antelope or very few cars? Actually, the answer is yes to both questions!

While traveling into the Snowy Mountains and to the summit of Snowy Range Pass (elevation 10,847 feet), it is often difficult to decide just where to look, for the unequaled beauty of this place encompasses a complete 360° vista. A stop at the Centennial Visitor Center--located on Highway 130 one mile west of the town of Centennial--will provide maps and other information about the many highlights awaiting visitors traveling the byway. The route is well-marked with signs that point to the area's many picnic spots, camp grounds, hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

Even in the middle of summer it is easy to see how the Snowy Range got its name, for fields of snow still crown the tops of the 12,000 foot high peaks. Landscapes of pine and aspen forests, jagged granite mountain faces, shimmering blue lakes and fields of sub-alpine flowers are to be slowly savored and never hurried. There are many places to get out of the car and enjoy the crisp mountain air, so take some time to delight in this panorama of Mother Nature's handiwork.


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Showing 1 of 1 comments
Submitted By: Laura Mayo
posted on 6/15/2007 @ 1:04:47 PM
Rated Story
Deborah-- I am from Wyoming and this was a great reminder of the beauty I grew up around. Thanks.
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CONTRIBUTOR INFORMATION

Deborah Erickson

Thornton , CO

Deborah Erickson has posted 5 stories and 0 comments since joining on 9/14/2005. Deborah Erickson 's average story rating is 5.
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