The Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Riding in Wyoming
Wyoming offers some of the most breathtaking motorcycle rides in the United States, with its diverse landscapes ranging from towering mountains to expansive prairies. This guide will explore the best routes, essential laws, and key information for motorcycle enthusiasts planning to explore the Equality State on two wheels.
Top Motorcycle Roads in Wyoming
1. Beartooth Highway
The Beartooth Highway is often considered one of the most scenic rides in America. This 68-mile stretch of road connects northern Wyoming to the Montana border, offering riders an unforgettable experience.
- Location: Northern Wyoming to Montana border
- Distance: 68 miles
- Key features: Dramatic switchbacks, high alpine meadows, breathtaking vistas
- Difficulty: Challenging, suitable for experienced riders
- Best time to ride: May to mid-October
- Notable attractions:
- Peaks at 10,947 feet elevation
- Northeast entrance to Yellowstone National Park
The Beartooth Highway is known for its dramatic elevation changes and sweeping views. Riders should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and ensure their motorcycles are in top condition before attempting this challenging route.
2. Chief Joseph Scenic Byway
Named after the Native American chief of the Nez Perce tribe, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway offers a diverse riding experience through northwest Wyoming.
- Location: Northwest Wyoming
- Distance: 63 miles
- Key features: Diverse landscapes from alpine meadows to canyons
- Notable attractions: Connects Beartooth Highway to Yellowstone’s eastern entrance
This byway is less crowded than some other routes, allowing riders to fully immerse themselves in Wyoming’s natural beauty. The road features sweeping curves and elevation changes that make for an engaging ride.n 1877, they made a daring escape through this same region while fleeing from the U.S. Army, an event known as the Nez Perce War.
3.Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway
This scenic route takes riders through the heart of Wyoming’s cowboy country, offering stunning views and rich history.
- Location: Central Wyoming
- Distance: 52 miles
- Key features: Views of Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, wildlife spotting
- Notable attractions: Connects Cody to Yellowstone’s East Entrance
The Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway is named after the famous Wild West showman Buffalo Bill Cody. Riders can expect to see diverse wildlife and learn about Wyoming’s frontier history along this route.
4. Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway
For those seeking a more challenging ride, Wind River Canyon offers tight turns and steep grades along with stunning geological features.
- Location: Central Wyoming
- Distance: 34 miles
- Key features: Dramatic canyon carved by Wind River, geological wonders
- Difficulty: Challenging with tight turns and steep grades
The Wind River Canyon ride takes you through millions of years of geological history, with rock formations dating back to the Precambrian period. Riders should exercise caution on the winding roads and be prepared for potential crosswinds.
5. Snowy Range Road
The Snowy Range Scenic Byway offers a high-altitude ride through some of Wyoming’s most picturesque mountain terrain.
- Location: Southern Wyoming
- Distance: 98 miles
- Key features: Winding route through lush mountain terrain
- Notable attractions:
- 11,000-foot lookout
- Mountain lakes
- Hiking trails
This byway is typically open from late May to mid-October, depending on snow conditions. Riders can enjoy crisp mountain air and spectacular alpine scenery along this route.
Best Motorcycle Rides in Wyoming
1. Devils Tower Loop
This iconic ride circles one of America’s most recognizable natural landmarks.
- Location: Northeast Wyoming
- Distance: 80 miles
- Key features: Circles Devils Tower National Monument
- Routes: 24, 111, and 14
- Notable attractions: Devils Tower, gradual mountain climbs
The Devils Tower Loop offers riders a chance to view this unique geological formation from various angles. The surrounding Black Hills region provides a pleasant riding experience with gradual elevation changes and scenic vistas.
2. Yellowstone National Park Ride
No motorcycle tour of Wyoming would be complete without exploring Yellowstone National Park.
- Location: Northwest Wyoming
- Key features: Geothermal springs, diverse wildlife, natural wonders
- Recommended route: Start in Cody, take Dead Indian Hill Road
- Notable attractions:
- 3,500 square mile park
- Hundreds of bird species
Riders should be prepared for potential traffic and wildlife encounters within the park. Early morning or late evening rides can offer a more peaceful experience and better chances of wildlife sightings.
3. Big Horn Mountains Loop
The Bighorn National Forest offers a high-elevation ride with vast wilderness views.
- Location: Northeast Wyoming
- Key features: High elevation ride, vast wildlife views
- Best time to ride: Spring, summer, and autumn
- Notable attractions: Climbs to heights over 10,000 feet
This ride takes you through diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to alpine meadows. Be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations, even during summer months.erse conditions.
4. Flaming Gorge Loop
The Flaming Gorge Loop offers riders a chance to experience the stunning scenery of southwest Wyoming and northern Utah.
- Location: Southwest Wyoming
- Distance: 143 miles
- Key features: Circles Flaming Gorge country, spectacular reservoir views
- Routes: Includes UT-44 and WY-530
This ride takes you around the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, known for its red rock cliffs and clear blue waters. The route crosses into Utah, offering a chance to experience the diverse landscapes of both states.
5. Ten Sleep to Buffalo Ride
This route takes riders over the Bighorn Mountains, offering spectacular views and challenging roads.
- Location: North-central Wyoming
- Distance: 64 miles
- Key features: Ride over Bighorn Mountains, views of wildlife and canyons
- Route: U.S. 16
The Ten Sleep to Buffalo ride offers a diverse range of scenery, from the prairies around Ten Sleep to the forested slopes of the Bighorn Mountains. Riders should be prepared for potential wildlife encounters and rapidly changing weather conditions at higher elevations.
Motorcycle Laws in Wyoming
Before embarking on your Wyoming motorcycle adventure, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the state’s motorcycle laws:
- Helmet Law: Wyoming does not have a universal helmet law. Only riders and passengers under 18 are required to wear helmets.
- Eye Protection: All riders must wear eye protection unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.
- Lane Splitting: Lane splitting is not explicitly prohibited but is generally discouraged.
- Insurance: Motorcycle insurance is mandatory in Wyoming.
- Licensing: A specific motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license is required to operate a motorcycle in Wyoming.
For more detailed information on motorcycle laws in Wyoming, visit https://themotoblog.com/motorcycle-laws-in-wyoming/.
Tips for Riding in Wyoming
- Weather Preparedness: Wyoming’s weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Pack layers and rain gear.
- Wildlife Awareness: Be alert for wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
- Fuel Planning: Gas stations can be far apart in rural areas. Plan your fuel stops accordingly.
- Altitude Considerations: Higher elevations can affect both riders and motorcycles. Stay hydrated and be aware of potential motorcycle performance changes.
- Off-Season Riding: Many scenic routes are closed during winter months. Check road conditions before planning your trip.
Neighboring States
Wyoming’s location in the heart of the American West makes it an ideal starting point for exploring neighboring states:
- Montana: To the north, Montana offers equally stunning mountain scenery and routes like the Beartooth Highway continue into “Big Sky Country.”
- Idaho: To the west, Idaho provides additional opportunities for scenic rides through the Rocky Mountains.
- Utah: Southwest of Wyoming, Utah offers red rock landscapes and numerous national parks for motorcycle enthusiasts to explore.
- Colorado: The southern neighbor, Colorado, is renowned for its high mountain passes and scenic byways.
- South Dakota: To the east, South Dakota’s Black Hills region offers iconic rides like those around Mount Rushmore and the Badlands.
Each of these states has its own unique motorcycle laws and scenic routes. For more information on riding in these areas, check out our guides:
- Best Motorcycle Rides in Montana
- Best Motorcycle Rides in Idaho
- Best Motorcycle Rides in Utah
- Best Motorcycle Rides in Colorado
- Best Motorcycle Rides in South Dakota
Conclusion
Wyoming offers motorcycle enthusiasts a wealth of scenic routes, challenging rides, and unforgettable experiences. From the iconic Yellowstone National Park to the lesser-known gems like Wind River Canyon, there’s something for every rider in the Equality State. Remember to ride safely, respect local laws and wildlife, and take the time to fully appreciate the natural beauty that Wyoming has to offer. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended tour of the American West, Wyoming should be at the top of your motorcycle bucket list.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
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Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
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