Wyoming's quietest mountain range, with free alpine camping at 10,000 ft and almost no one knows about it.
Between Laramie and Saratoga, the Snowy Range rises out of the high plains with granite peaks and alpine lakes — and zero crowds. The Medicine Bow National Forest dispersed camping along WY-130 and side roads is some of the easiest high-altitude free camping in the country.
Why it's special
Most people drive past it on I-80. You'll have a 10,000-ft alpine lake to yourself on a July weekend, which simply doesn't happen in Colorado.
Best time to go
July through early September. The scenic byway opens late and closes early.
Getting there
WY-130 (Snowy Range Scenic Byway) between Laramie and Saratoga.
Know before you go
- Byway closes mid-October to late May for snow.
- Black bear country; standard food storage.
- Quick weather changes; carry layers always.
- 14-day limit, free.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Mirror Lake and Lake Marie pullouts are postcards; pull off, walk 200 ft, dispersed sites everywhere on the access roads.
- Saratoga has free public hot springs — soak after camp.
- Cell service is real along WY-130 in places, dead off it.
- Bring trout gear; the lakes are loaded.
Combine with
Vedauwoo, Saratoga hot springs, Steamboat Springs.