Turtle Rock Trail

June 30, 2018

Last time we visited Laramie, Wyoming, we hiked in the Vedauwoo Recreational Area along the Turtle Rock Trail.  We enjoyed it so much, that we made a point of hiking the same trail again on this visit with our daughter Maggie.

Time for another great hike!

Turtle Rock

The Vedauwoo Recreational Area is part of the Medicine Bow National Forest, but unlike a "forest", it consists of groups of unique granite rock formations.  One of the most famous being Turtle Rock. Legend states that the rocks were piled up by playful spirits and later the many nooks and crannies served as hideouts for western outlaws. Today many rock climbers practice their trade in the area and we saw a few during our hike.  Here are some of the "rock" pictures from our hike.

Ok, have to ask....is this Alfred Hitchcock or George Washington?

The 3.7 mile loop did not take long to hike, but when combined with picture taking and all the oohs and ahhs, it did take a few hours.  The best part about this loop trail is that you not only see various rock formations, but you also are treated to trails lined with wildflowers, marsh/pond areas where moose are sometimes seen, and other portions of the trail are rock or have a high desert feel.  A one word description for this trail (beside awesome) is "variety".  The Turtle Rock Trail has a little bit of everything and we once again really enjoyed this hike.

Our daughter Maggie leading the way on the trail

Trail shot

Wild Rose

One of the pond/marsh areas where moose can lurk

Having had some pretty hot temperatures over the past few days, our hike at Vedauwoo saw temps in the 60's and we finished our hike just as the rain storm started.  That's what we call great timing for a great hike! Of course after hiking the Turtle Rock Trail, we just had to go to the Turtle Rock Coffee & Cafe back in Laramie to sample their drinks and food.  That was just as good as the hike!

Trekking Together
Glenn & Carol