Wyoming, the vast mountain state of the United States, has long been a dream destination for wanderlust souls eager to explore the unspoiled, majestic beauty of nature. With winding roads through towering mountains, world-renowned national parks, and a unique cowboy culture, Wyoming promises an unforgettable motorcycle touring experience. This article serves as a detailed guide to help you plan and embark on an exciting journey to conquer the American West.
Why Wyoming is an Ideal Destination for Motorcycle Touring?
Wyoming boasts numerous factors that make it a paradise for motorcycle travel enthusiasts:
- Spectacular Natural Landscapes: From the globally famous Yellowstone National Park with its geysers and magical hot springs, to the majestic Devil’s Tower, Bryce Canyon with its unique Hoodoo rock formations, and magnificent Zion National Park, Wyoming is a living natural museum. Every road you travel unveils picturesque scenery that will leave you in awe.
- Stunning Roads: Wyoming is renowned for its quiet, well-maintained roads winding through mountains, valleys, and vast prairies. Routes like Beartooth Highway, Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, and Highway 12 offer exhilarating and visually rewarding driving experiences. You’ll be immersed in nature, enjoying a sense of freedom and open space on your motorcycle.
- Distinctive Cowboy Culture: Wyoming is one of the states deeply rooted in American Western culture. You can experience the cowboy lifestyle in historic towns, participate in lively rodeo festivals, savor traditional cowboy cuisine, and explore the region’s history through museums and historical sites.
- Ideal Weather for Motorcycle Touring: Summer in Wyoming (from June to September) offers dry, sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and motorcycle touring. However, be prepared for unexpected weather changes in the high mountain regions.
Suggested Itinerary for a 7-Day Wyoming Motorcycle Tour
Below is a suggested 7-day itinerary focusing on Wyoming’s most prominent destinations, combined with some nearby attractions:
Day 1: Arrive in Denver, Colorado – Prepare for the Journey
- Fly into Denver International Airport (DEN), Colorado. Denver is a popular gateway to begin your motorcycle exploration of Wyoming.
- Rent a motorcycle in Denver. Numerous reputable motorcycle rental companies in Denver offer a variety of bikes suitable for long-distance touring.
- Check into your hotel and take time to inspect the motorcycle, prepare your luggage, and plan the details for the following days.
- Stroll around Denver, exploring this vibrant city before embarking on your Wyoming adventure.
Day 2: Denver – Cheyenne – Scottsbluff, Nebraska (Approximately 350 miles)
- Begin your journey north towards Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming.
- Stop in Cheyenne to visit the Wyoming State Museum to learn about the state’s history and culture.
- Continue to Scottsbluff, Nebraska, a small town near the Wyoming border.
- Overnight stay in Scottsbluff.
Day 3: Scottsbluff – Devil’s Tower – Gillette, Wyoming (Approximately 280 miles)
- The first destination of the day is Devil’s Tower National Monument. This is a unique volcanic rock column, towering majestically in the plains, holding spiritual significance for Native Americans.
- Spend time hiking around the base of the tower, admiring the magnificent Devil’s Tower, and learning about the legends associated with it.
- Continue your journey to Gillette, a dynamic city in eastern Wyoming.
- Overnight stay in Gillette.
Day 4: Gillette – Yellowstone National Park (East Entrance) (Approximately 320 miles)
- Today, you will enter Yellowstone National Park, one of the most famous national parks in the world.
- Travel west, crossing vast grasslands and gradually entering the mountainous region.
- Arrive at the East Entrance of Yellowstone and begin exploring the park.
- Visit Yellowstone Lake, the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 feet elevation in North America.
- Admire the unspoiled natural scenery and diverse wildlife in Yellowstone.
- Overnight stay inside or near the East Entrance of Yellowstone.
Day 5: Explore Yellowstone National Park
- Dedicate a full day to explore Yellowstone’s highlights.
- Witness the spectacular eruption of Old Faithful geyser.
- Visit Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States with vibrant rainbow colors.
- Explore Norris Geyser Basin, the most geothermally active area in Yellowstone.
- Admire the majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Lower Falls.
- Continue exploring other areas of Yellowstone according to your interests and time.
- Overnight stay inside or near Yellowstone.
Day 6: Yellowstone National Park (South Entrance) – Grand Teton – Jackson, Wyoming (Approximately 100 miles)
- Travel south of Yellowstone towards the South Entrance.
- Visit Grand Teton National Park, located just south of Yellowstone.
- Admire the magnificent Teton Range with its snow-capped peaks year-round.
- Drive along Teton Park Road, stopping at scenic viewpoints like Jenny Lake Overlook and Mormon Row.
- Arrive in Jackson, a famous tourist town in Wyoming, nestled at the foot of the Teton Range.
- Explore the town of Jackson, visit Town Square with its unique elk antler arches.
- Overnight stay in Jackson.
Day 7: Jackson – Denver – End of Journey (Approximately 480 miles)
- Begin your journey back to Denver.
- Enjoy the beautiful route from Jackson to Denver, crossing mountains and valleys.
- Return the motorcycle in Denver.
- Fly home or continue your exploration of the United States.
Note: This is just a suggested itinerary, you can adjust it to suit your time, interests, and riding experience.
Scenic view of Snake River Canyon in Wyoming
Useful Tips and Advice for Your Wyoming Motorcycle Tour
For a complete and safe motorcycle tour of Wyoming, keep the following in mind:
- Choose the Right Motorcycle: Select a motorcycle suitable for your riding experience and the road conditions in Wyoming. Adventure touring bikes or cruisers are popular choices for long-distance touring.
- Prepare Clothing and Personal Items:
- Clothing: Prepare clothing suitable for changing weather in high mountain regions, including waterproof jackets, thermal layers, gloves, full-face helmets, and specialized motorcycle riding boots.
- Protective Gear: Don’t forget to equip yourself with full protective gear such as DOT-approved helmets, riding jackets, riding pants, gloves, and protective boots.
- Personal Items: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, water, snacks, paper maps (in addition to GPS), basic motorcycle tool kit, and personal medications.
- Plan and Book in Advance: Especially during peak tourist season, it is advisable to book hotel rooms, national park entrance tickets, and other services in advance to ensure availability and good prices.
- Pay Attention to Traffic Safety: Always obey traffic laws, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, avoid speeding, and rest adequately to prevent fatigue.
- Check Your Motorcycle Regularly: Ensure your motorcycle is always in good working order by regularly checking tires, brakes, lights, and other components.
- Learn About Weather Conditions: Monitor the weather forecast before and throughout your trip to prepare accordingly. Weather in high mountain regions can change rapidly, especially in summer.
- Bring Paper Maps and GPS: While GPS is very useful, you should also bring backup paper maps, especially when traveling in remote areas or where cell phone service is unavailable.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to savor Wyoming’s distinctive cowboy cuisine such as grilled beef, bean soup, soda bread, and local beer.
Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Conclusion
Motorcycle touring through Wyoming is a fantastic experience for those who love freedom, exploration, and the wild beauty of nature. With careful preparation and an adventurous spirit, you will have a memorable journey, conquering the most beautiful roads in the American West and discovering world-famous destinations. Plan your trip today and begin your adventure in Wyoming!