Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Devils Tower National Monument are just some of Wyoming’s most beautiful and spectacular national parks and monuments. What do these locations have in common? They are top destinations for motorcyclists because the roads leading to and from them provide some of the most scenic routes in the country. But they’re also a long drive from Cheyenne.
Motorcyclists in Cheyenne, Wyoming, can enjoy magnificent sites on roads that are closer to home without having to plan a day-long ride. But if you’ve got the time, a little effort can take you on some of the most scenic routes in the country. Keep reading to learn more about scenic motorcycle routes in Wyoming and how to stay safe when you’re riding.
Scenic Routes for Cheyenne Motorcyclists
Here are just a few of the top motorcycle routes for Cheyenne riders:
- Happy Jack Road – Begin this short trip in Cheyenne and take Happy Jack Road (Highway 210) to Laramie. You’ll pass windmills, and ride through Curt Gowdy State Park. You may even see moose on this 50-mile ride. You might encounter light gravel in some areas, so ride with caution.
- Laramie-Wheatland Road – For a two-hour getaway that takes you past streams and through lush forests, takes Highway 30 and then Highway 34 from Laramie to Wheatland on this 75-mile ride.
- The Snowy Range and Woods Landing Loop – This route loops you through Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests in a 180-mile trip past grasslands, granite cliffs, alpine forests, and breathtaking views. Starting in Laramie, take Highway 130 to Saratoga. Then use Highway 230 to ride back to Laramie and explore the southern section of the loop.
- From Casper to the Tetons – Starting in Casper, head west along Highway 20, Highway 26, and then Highway 191 to Jackson, just south of Grand Teton National Park. You’ll encounter incredible Rocky Mountain views and a range of wildlife. This is a long one, but probably one of the best rides you’ll ever do.
- Devil’s Tower to Yellowstone – A rider looking for a longer adventure can travel all the way from Devil’s Tower National Monument in Northeast Wyoming to Yellowstone National Park in Northwest Wyoming, via Highways 14, 60, and 20. Riders will see spectacular mountain vistas, impressive limestone canyons, and diverse wildlife on a route that almost extends 400 miles. Make sure to pack a lunch.
- Chief Joseph Scenic Highway – While you’re in the northwest corner of Wyoming, consider exploring the 46-mile long Chief Joseph Scenic Highway, one of the most beautiful rides in the nation. The road has tight turns, so drive carefully.
Safety Tips for Riding in Cheyenne, WY
Regardless of the route you take or the distance you travel, be sure to follow all of the rules of the road to help prevent a dangerous accident. Also, keep a few safety tips in mind as you prepare for your trip:
- Make sure your motorcycle is ready to ride. Be sure to inspect your motorcycle before every ride by remembering T-CLOCS. It stands for tires and wheels, controls, lights and electrics, oil and other fluids, chassis, and stands. Checking these six areas before you ride is recommended by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to ensure there are no equipment or mechanical hazards.
- Bring an emergency kit, just in case. Every motorcyclist should carry an emergency kit in case something goes wrong. At a minimum, the equipment should include:
- First-aid supplies
- Water and protein bars
- Cell phone
- Flashlight
- Rain gear
- Multi-tool pocketknife
- Basic repair tools
- Do not overload your motorcycle. Overloading your motorcycle can cause handling and braking problems, extra tire wear, and strains on components such as the suspension, brakes, drive train, etc. So, don’t overload your motorcycle. How do you know how much weight is safe? Check the owner’s manual or the VIN plate for the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This is the manufacturer’s recommended total weight. When calculating GVWR, be sure to include your weight, and any passenger’s weight, along with the cargo and fuel. You can figure fuel weight at six pounds per gallon of gasoline.
- Be prepared for the possibility of strong winds. Wyoming and wind are inseparable. Windy conditions can cause riders to adjust their lane position, riding position, and speed almost continuously. These maneuvers can quickly lead to muscle fatigue. When riding your motorcycle in windy conditions, be prepared to stop occasionally to relax and give your mind and muscles a break. Also, try to ride behind the windscreen as best you can. If the wind is coming from behind, be aware that you may need extra stopping distance as the wind might push you forward.
- Let someone know your trip plan. Always let someone know your trip plan. If possible, go with a buddy. You might also consider carrying a personal locator beacon. Accidents can occur for many reasons, including changing weather and road conditions. If someone knows your trip plan, your chances of surviving an accident or breakdown are significantly increased.
- Utilize apps to make your ride smoother and safer. From route planning, GPS navigation, weather forecasting, volume control, fuel, and mileage tracking, theft notification, crash detection, and more, some apps can help make your ride smoother and safer. Check them out and utilize them to help keep you safe on the road.
Cheyenne, WY Lane-Splitting Laws
Lane-splitting is the practice of riding your motorcycle between lanes through stopped or slow-moving traffic. It’s important to know that lane-splitting, also called white-lining or stripe-riding, is illegal under Wyoming law.
Wyoming Motorcycle Legal and Safety Resources
The Wyoming Department of Transportation and the Wyoming Motorcycle License Manual are two good legal and safety resources for motorcycle riders in Wyoming. In addition, attorney Sean Olson and his team at the Olson Law Firm, LLC are available to help with motorcycle safety and legal concerns.
How Our Cheyenne Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help You
After a motorcycle accident in Wyoming, you can rely on the motorcycle lawyers at Olson Law Firm, LLC to treat you with respect and compassion while fighting for the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Don’t hesitate to contact our Cheyenne personal injury law firm today for a no-obligation, no-fee consultation. We’re always happy to answer questions you have about your case.
