Cruise through history on Wyoming’s unique byway duo! Trace the footsteps of Native Americans along the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, traveling the second-highest mountain pass in the state. Witness breathtaking vistas of glacial lakes, meadows, and granite peaks. Journey through the Sierra Madre Mountains on the Battle Pass Scenic Byway, named for a legendary clash. Explore a rarely visited paradise, winding past ghost towns and soaking in panoramic views. Both Byways offer a scenic escape unlike any other, open from May to October. Experience the majesty of Wyoming’s mountains – plan your adventure today!
Snowy Range
Cruise through a breathtaking canvas on the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. Unwind as you navigate the heart of the Medicine Bow Mountains—witness crystal-clear lakes sculpted by ancient glaciers and vibrant meadows bursting with color.
Here, panoramic vistas unfurl before you, stretching to Colorado. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak up the serenity of this natural wonder from the comfort of your car.
The Snowy Range Scenic Byway isn’t just a drive; it’s a front-row seat to Wyoming’s majestic beauty.
Video
Snowy Range Scenic Byway Itinerary:
Snowy Range Scenic Byway: A Day Trip Itinerary
The Snowy Range Scenic Byway is a stunning 43-mile route that winds through the heart of the Medicine Bow Mountains in southern Wyoming. This itinerary is designed for a day trip, but you can easily extend it to include more exploring or outdoor activities.
- Start your day in Laramie, Wyoming, the eastern terminus of the byway. Grab breakfast at a local café and stock up on snacks and drinks for the drive.
- Head west on WY-130 and enjoy the views of the Laramie Plains as you leave the city behind.
- Your first stop will be the Snowy Range Visitor Center, located in Centennial. Here, you can learn about the area’s history, geology, and ecology and pick up maps and brochures.
- Continue the byway, stopping at scenic overlooks along the way to admire the stunning views of the mountains.
- As you climb higher in elevation, the scenery will change from grasslands to forests. Look for wildlife such as deer, elk, and moose.
- Reach the summit of Snowy Range Pass, the second-highest mountain pass in Wyoming at 10,847 feet. Take in the panoramic views from the Libby Flats Observation Point, which stretches to Colorado. Be sure to pull out at Lake Marie for a beautiful photo opportunity.
- Descend from the pass and continue west towards Saratoga. Stop at the Saratoga Ranger Station for information on hiking trails, fishing spots, and other outdoor activities.
- Enjoy a delicious lunch in Saratoga. Many great restaurants, such as Bella’s Bistro or The Malt, are located here.
- After lunch, take some time to explore the charming town of Saratoga, browse the shops, or visit the Saratoga History Museum. Be sure to stay the night at Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, a historic resort with multiple pools fed by natural hot springs, and let the steam care away for stress and worries after the day.
Battle Pass
Unveil a secret slice of Wyoming on the Battle Pass Scenic Byway. Traverse the Sierra Madre Mountains, a lesser-known yet awe-inspiring range. Journey back in time as the byway winds past remnants of historic mining towns, remnants of a bygone era.
Ascend to the Continental Divide, marking the boundary between east and west. From the summit, sweeping vistas unfold, showcasing the raw beauty of the surrounding peaks. This scenic escape offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history.
Embark on a road trip through time on the Battle Pass Scenic Byway.
Video
Battle Pass Scenic Byway Itinerary:
Battle Pass Scenic Byway: A Journey Through History and Nature
The Battle Pass Scenic Byway is a 57-mile scenic route that traverses southeastern Wyoming’s Sierra Madre Mountains.
- Start your day in Encampment, Wyoming, the eastern terminus of the byway. Grab breakfast at 307 Grub and Pub, a small restaurant that serves delicious home-cooked meals.
- Visit the Grand Encampment Museum to learn about the mining, agricultural, and timber industries that paved the way for the founding of the town of Encampment, Wyoming. View some of the 30,000 photos taken by the famous female photographer Laura Nichols Webb and experience life in Grand Encampment in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
- Fuel up your car and stock up on snacks and drinks for the drive.
- Head west on WY-70 and enjoy the views of the rolling hills as you leave Encampment behind.
- As you climb higher in elevation, the scenery will change from grasslands to forests. Watch for wildlife, such as mule deer, elk, and hawks.
- Reach the summit of Battle Pass at an elevation of 9,955 feet. Take in the panoramic views from the viewing area and imagine the historic battle that took place here.
- Stop at scenic overlooks along the way to admire the stunning views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and learn about the ecology of the landscape and the history behind the settlement of the area.
- Descend from the pass and continue west towards Baggs. Stop at the Little Snake River Museum to learn more about the fur trappers that settled the area and see replica buildings from the past.
- Enjoy a delicious lunch in Baggs at the Cowboy Inn.
