Easy hikes and walks in the Medicine Bow Mountains

The Little Laramie Trails offer a delightful, easy hiking experience through a varied landscape of forests and open meadows in the Medicine Bow National Forest. You'll find yourself wandering past lush greenery, sparse lodgepole pine, and vibrant wildflowers like spring beauties and gentians during the warmer months, especially near the North Fork Little Laramie River. The trail provides a peaceful escape with the pleasant sounds of rushing water and picturesque rock formations, making it a truly scenic outing.

This 2.6-mile (4.3 km) route, with a modest 307 feet (94 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes around 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete. Trailheads are easily accessible off Highway 130, and many offer convenient amenities like vault toilets. While generally well-maintained, some sections feature rolling terrain with short, steep inclines, adding a little character to your walk. It's a great choice for a relaxed hike, especially in summer when the meadows are in full bloom.

Beyond its beauty, the Little Laramie Trails system is notable for its versatility, accommodating hikers, mountain bikers, and even snowshoers in winter. It's a prime location for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of deer and moose, as well as various mountain birds. The presence of the Little Laramie River also makes parts of the trail attractive for anglers, offering a diverse outdoor experience for all visitors to this Wyoming gem.

The Gap and Shelf Lakes Trail offers a fantastic, easy introduction to the high-alpine beauty of Wyoming's Snowy Range. You'll hike through varied terrain, from rocky paths to areas of stunted trees, all while enjoying spectacular views of prominent peaks like Medicine Bow Peak and the pristine, blue-green waters of South Gap Lake. This route provides a genuine taste of the region's dramatic white granite formations and glacial lake district.

Planning your visit requires attention to seasonal considerations; the road to the Lewis Lake Trailhead is typically inaccessible from mid-fall until early-to-mid-July due to snow. A day-use fee is usually required at the trailhead, though federal passes are accepted. Remember that even this easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike, with 305 feet (93 metres) of elevation gain, takes place at over 10,700 feet, so be prepared for the high altitude.

This trail is part of a larger network in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, offering connections to other paths for those seeking longer adventures. The area is renowned for its numerous alpine lakes, some of which are known for fishing, including rare golden trout in the Shelf Lakes. It's a perfect choice for experiencing stunning mountain vistas without committing to a full-day trek, taking about 1 hour and 21 minutes.

The Gap Lakes Trail offers a condensed but incredibly scenic alpine experience in the Medicine Bow National Forest. You'll hike through varied terrain, past forested sections, and arrive at the beautiful South Gap Lake, all while enjoying panoramic views of the rugged Snowy Range. Keep an eye out for small wildlife like picas among the rocks. This easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike with 243 feet (74 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 39 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick, high-impact outing.

Planning your visit is straightforward, but keep the high altitude in mind, as the parking area sits around 10,725 feet. The best time to hike is usually from July through September, avoiding the challenges of winter runoff and early season wet conditions. While the trail is generally well-maintained, be prepared for rocky sections and potentially muddy spots, especially if you visit earlier in the season. Parking is available at the trailhead, which can get busy, so an early start is often a good idea.

What makes this trail stand out is its accessibility to stunning alpine lakes and its continuous, spectacular views, serving as a true high-altitude experience. It's also a gateway to other adventures, connecting to longer trails and offering the chance for extended loops around the northern crest of the range. Despite its popularity, you can often find solitude further along the path once past the initial sections.

The Coyote Valley Trail offers a delightful and universally accessible journey through the scenic Kawuneeche Valley in Rocky Mountain National Park. As you stroll along the wide, hard-packed crushed stone path, you'll enjoy continuous views of the Colorado River and the impressive Never Summer Mountains. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, including elk and moose, which are frequently spotted in this lush habitat, making it a prime spot for wildlife viewing and scenic viewpoints.

This easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) out-and-back route involves a mere 44 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 29 minutes to complete, making it perfect for all ages and abilities. You'll find restrooms and convenient parking at the trailhead, and the trail's accessibility means it's suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. For the best experience, consider visiting in spring for wildflowers or in winter for cross-country skiing, and check the Coyote Valley Trail length and duration to plan your day.

What makes the Coyote Valley Trail truly special is its commitment to accessibility, being one of only two wheelchair-friendly trails in the entire Rocky Mountain National Park. Interpretive signs along the way provide fascinating insights into the area's ecology and history, enriching your experience. It's an ideal choice for families seeking beginner hiking trails and a fantastic way to introduce children to the park's natural wonders.

The Gap Lakes Trail offers a journey through Wyoming's stunning Snowy Range, leading you past pristine alpine lakes and through diverse terrain. You'll experience forested sections giving way to open, panoramic vistas, with the highlight being the beautiful North Gap Lake and South Gap Lake. This easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) hiking route, with 337 feet (103 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it a rewarding option for those who love dramatic scenery without an overly strenuous climb.

When planning your visit, be aware that the area is popular, so arriving early for parking is a good idea. If you're considering a hike in early summer, specifically June or early July, be prepared for potential soft snow and mud on the trail, as the trailhead might not be fully accessible. Always check local conditions and be ready for unpredictable weather, including sudden electrical storms, which are common in the high-altitude Snowy Range.

This trail is a fantastic starting point for exploring the broader lake district, a remnant of ancient glaciers, and connects to other routes like the Lost-Glacier Lakes Trail. The area is known for its excellent wildflowers in summer and striking fall colors, offering a different experience depending on the season. Beyond the main lakes, you can access Shelf Lakes, which are known for golden trout, making it a great spot for anglers or those looking for further exploration.