Traveling from Brewster, Nebraska to Laramie, Wyoming: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
The open road beckons adventure seekers to embark on a journey that will take them across vast plains, rolling hills, and towering mountains. Traveling from Brewster, Nebraska, to Laramie, Wyoming is a route that is sure to leave you breathless with its scenic views, historical landmarks, and exciting activities. The half-way point of Julesburg, CO adds even more intrigue to this amazing trip. So, buckle up, hit the gas, and take a ride with us as we explore the best things to do on this unforgettable road trip.
Top Five Things To Do
1. Explore the Chimney Rock National Historic Site
Chimney Rock is a well-known landmark in western Nebraska, and an essential stop for history and nature lovers alike. The striking rock formation rises over 300 feet above the surrounding plain and was an important landmark for pioneers traveling along the Oregon Trail. Visitors can hike the trails up to the base of the formation for an up-close view of the region's natural beauty.
Interesting fact: Chimney Rock was one of the most mentioned landmarks noted in diaries kept by the pioneers on their journey along the Oregon Trail.
2. Take a dip in the Hot Springs State Park
Headwest to Thermopolis, Wyoming, the home of the world's largest mineral hot spring. The Hot Springs State Park offers visitors a chance to relax in the state's natural hot springs. The park features multiple indoor and outdoor pools and offers swimming and soaking opportunities year-round.
Interesting fact: The water in the hot springs flows from underground at a temperature of 135°F and cools down as to the pools are filled with it.
3. Visit the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site
Nestled between green peaks, Laramie, Wyoming is home to the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site. This historic prison, built-in 1872, housed various notorious criminals, including the infamous Butch Cassidy. Visitors to the site can view the cells and punishment blocks utilized during the prison's operating years.
Interesting fact: The prison buildings were constructed from sandstone quarried from a nearby mountain.
4. Hike to Medicine Bow Peak
If you have a passion for hiking and stunning views, Medicine Bow Peak is a place you must visit. The peak is the highest summit in the Snowy Mountains, standing at an elevation of 12,013 feet. The trailhead starts at the Lake Marie picnic area, from which visitors can embark on one of the network of trails in the beautiful Medicine Bow National Forest.
Interesting fact: The Snowy Mountain Range was named for the heavy snowfall the region experiences, which occurs year-round in some areas.
5. Visit the Overland Trail Museum
Located in Julesburg, CO, the halfway point of the trip, the Overland Trail Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history of life on the plains. The exhibits focus on the Overland Trail, which connected the East Coast to the West Coast during the pioneer days. Visitors can view the ruts left by wagon wheels along the trail, view exhibits, and watch demonstrations of early pioneer craftsmanship.
Interesting fact: The museum's site is located near the South Platte River, which pioneers followed during their travels along the Overland Trail.
Conclusion
This road trip from Brewster, Nebraska to Laramie, Wyoming is a must-do journey for travel enthusiasts who crave scenery, history, and outdoor adventures. The trip takes approximately 10 hours straight through, but the experiences gained are priceless. From the towering Chimney Rock to the mineral-rich hot springs and the historic prison, these stops are sheerly captivating. Nature lovers will get what they are looking for when they explore the region's many hiking trails and catch a glimpse of wildlife, backed by the stunning vistas!