Laramie Peak Trail to be Close Intermittently

The U.S. Forest Service has announced that Laramie Peak Trail will be periodically closed over the next two weeks as the Wyoming State Trail Crew does some necessary safety upgrades and trail maintenance.

The trail is on the west side of Laramie Peak, in the Laramie Range of the Medicine Bow National Forest, Douglas Ranger District. It originates near Friend Park Campground and winds 4.2 miles to the summit of 10,200-foot Laramie Peak.

Visitors should be aware that from August 19th to August 30th, the trail may be closed intermittently based on the type of work being done, but will reopen by Labor Day weekend.

The trail work is being funded by the Wyoming State Off-Highway Vehicle Sticker Program.

The purpose of the trail work is to widen the trail in spots and create several pull outs so riders may turn around safely if needed or pull off to allow other traffic to go by. In addition to general trail maintenance, some rocks will be removed that are difficult to maneuver around with OHVs. Blasting will be required to complete the necessary work.

“This work is necessary for a variety of reasons, but primarily for the safety of riders who get in over their heads ability wise and need a spot to turn around or get out of the way of oncoming traffic,” stated Jody Nickerson, Douglas District Recreation Specialist. “The difficulty of the trail will remain at a high level and we recommend that only experienced OHV riders attempt to use this trail.”

Laramie Peak Trail is designed for Off-Highway Vehicles that are 50” or less and is open to hikers and horses as well. The trail work will not take away from the challenge of the trail and users are cautioned that expert riding ability is needed. The Laramie Peak Trailhead is a fee location, $5/vehicle or $2.50 for users with an America the Beautiful Pass.

More information is available from the Douglas Ranger District at (307)-358-4690.