Family-Friendly Off-Road Trails

Wyoming, with its wide-open spaces, stunning landscapes, and rich outdoor heritage, is the perfect destination for families seeking off-road adventures. With over 3,000 miles of designated off-road trails, the state offers endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor fun. Whether you’re navigating rugged forest trails or exploring serene backcountry byways, Wyoming offers something for adventurers of all ages. With options ranging from easy trails suitable for beginners to more challenging routes for the seasoned off-roader, the Equality State is an off-road paradise. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of Wyoming’s best family-friendly off-road trails and share tips for making your outing safe and enjoyable. Pack up the kids, load the Jeep, and get ready to create unforgettable family memories with activities like camping under the stars or spotting wildlife along the trails!

Trails Overview

Vedauwoo Recreation Area

Located near Laramie, the Vedauwoo Recreation Area offers a blend of stunning rock formations, lush pine forests, and accessible off-road trails. This area is perfect for families, with numerous short trails that lead to scenic picnic spots and camping areas.

• Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Key Highlights: Unique granite formations, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing.
• GPS Coordinates: 41.1586° N, 105.3928° W
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall.
• Navigation Tips: Use Forest Road 700 for the main access route and bring a detailed map of the area. Cell service may be spotty, so download offline maps in advance.
• Tip: Don’t miss Turtle Rock Trail for a short hike that kids will love.

Medicine Bow National Forest

Medicine Bow National Forest is a haven for off-road enthusiasts, offering trails that wind through alpine meadows and dense forests. This area has a mix of trails for all skill levels, making it an excellent choice for families.

• Trail Difficulty: Easy to challenging
• Key Highlights: Scenic lakes, wildflowers, and the iconic Snowy Range.
• GPS Coordinates: 41.3359° N, 106.2782° W
• Best Time to Visit: Summer months when the snow has melted.
• Navigation Tips: Stay on designated routes such as FS Road 100 and carry a compass or GPS device. Look for trail markers and avoid unmarked paths.
• Tip: Stop by Mirror Lake for a picturesque family photo op.

Bighorn National Forest

The Bighorn National Forest offers a network of off-road trails that provide breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for adventure. Families can enjoy routes that meander through rolling hills and dense pine forests.

• Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Key Highlights: Shell Falls, scenic overlooks, and abundant wildlife.
• GPS Coordinates: 44.4501° N, 107.2412° W
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall.
• Navigation Tips: Utilize FS Roads 16 and 10 for beginner-friendly routes. Always bring a topographic map to identify elevation changes and key landmarks.
• Tip: Visit the Shell Falls interpretive site for a quick educational stop.

Shell Falls Backcountry

For families who love waterfalls and scenic drives, Shell Falls Backcountry delivers in spades. The trail here is relatively easy and offers stunning views of Shell Canyon and the nearby falls.

• Trail Difficulty: Easy
• Key Highlights: Waterfalls, canyon views, and picnic areas.
• GPS Coordinates: 44.5584° N, 107.6281° W
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall.
• Navigation Tips: Follow US Highway 14 to reach the falls. Consider downloading offline maps as connectivity is limited in the area.
• Tip: Pack a lunch and enjoy the picnic area near the falls.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir

The Flaming Gorge Reservoir area is a fantastic destination for families, combining off-road trails with water-based activities. With its vast desert landscapes and crystal-clear waters, this area offers unique scenery.

• Trail Difficulty: Easy
• Key Highlights: Water activities, desert landscapes, and fishing opportunities.
• GPS Coordinates: 41.1557° N, 109.6490° W
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall.
• Navigation Tips: Use GPS to navigate Bureau of Land Management (BLM) trails and check for trail updates on the BLM website. Bring printed maps for backup.
• Tip: Bring fishing gear or kayaks for added fun.

Safety Tips for Family Off-Road Adventures

Traveling with Kids and Pets

1. Plan Breaks: Schedule regular stops to let kids stretch their legs and burn off energy.
2. Bring Entertainment: Keep children engaged with games, books, or nature scavenger hunts.
3. Secure Pets: Use a pet harness or carrier to ensure safety during the ride.
4. Stay Hydrated: Pack plenty of water and snacks to keep everyone energized.

Packing Essentials for Family Outings

• Navigation Tools:
  • Use reliable GPS devices such as Garmin Overlander or apps like Gaia GPS.
  • Bring physical maps as a backup in case of electronic failure.
  • Familiarize yourself with trailhead markers and landmarks.
• First Aid Kit: Include items for both kids and pets.
  • Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for minor injuries.
  • Pet-specific supplies like paw balm and flea protection.
• Weather-Appropriate Gear: Layers for varying temperatures and rain gear if needed.
  • Insulated jackets and blankets for unexpected cold weather.
• Trail Supplies: Recovery gear, tire repair kits, and extra fuel.
• Comfort Items: Blankets, sunscreen, and bug spray.
• Food and Drinks: Easy-to-carry snacks like granola bars, fruit, and water bottles.

Navigation and Communication Tips

• Offline Maps: Always download offline maps of the area before heading out. Apps like AllTrails, OnX Offroad, and Gaia GPS are excellent options.
• Cell Signal: Be prepared for limited or no cell service in remote areas. Carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergencies. Examples of reliable devices include the Garmin inReach Mini and SPOT Gen4, which provide two-way communication and SOS functionality.
• Communicate Plans: Share your itinerary, including expected return times, with a friend or family member.
• Two-Way Radios: Equip your vehicle with a CB radio or handheld walkie-talkies to stay connected with other members of your group.
• Navigation Devices: Consider using dedicated off-road navigation devices like the Garmin Overlander or Magellan TRX7, which are specifically designed for rugged terrain and include detailed trail maps.
• Trail Signs: Pay close attention to trail markers and follow designated routes to avoid getting lost or damaging sensitive ecosystems.
• Offline Maps: Always download offline maps of the area before heading out. Apps like AllTrails, OnX Offroad, and Gaia GPS are excellent options.
• Cell Signal: Be prepared for limited or no cell service in remote areas. Carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergencies.
• Communicate Plans: Share your itinerary, including expected return times, with a friend or family member.
• Two-Way Radios: Equip your vehicle with a CB radio or handheld walkie-talkies to stay connected with other members of your group.
• Trail Signs: Pay close attention to trail markers and follow designated routes to avoid getting lost or damaging sensitive ecosystems.

Conclusion

Wyoming’s diverse landscapes and accessible trails make it an ideal destination for family-friendly off-road adventures. Each trail offers something unique for families to explore and enjoy:

• Vedauwoo Recreation Area: Marvel at the striking granite formations and enjoy kid-friendly hikes like Turtle Rock Trail.
• Medicine Bow National Forest: Traverse scenic alpine meadows and visit Mirror Lake for memorable family photos.
• Bighorn National Forest: Discover breathtaking views, abundant wildlife, and educational stops like Shell Falls.
• Shell Falls Backcountry: Experience the awe of cascading waterfalls and serene picnic spots in Shell Canyon.
• Flaming Gorge Reservoir: Combine off-road fun with water-based activities like kayaking and fishing in a picturesque desert landscape.

By incorporating proper planning, navigation tools, and safety measures, your family can experience the best of Wyoming’s great outdoors with peace of mind.

Have you explored Wyoming with your family? Share your favorite trails, tips, or even photos and stories in the comments below! For more off-road inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the best trails and gear for your next adventure.

Wyoming’s diverse landscapes and accessible trails make it an ideal destination for family-friendly off-road adventures. From the granite formations of Vedauwoo to the serene waters of Flaming Gorge Reservoir, there’s a trail for every family to enjoy. By incorporating proper planning, navigation tools, and safety measures, your family can experience the best of Wyoming’s great outdoors with peace of mind.

Have you explored Wyoming with your family? Share your favorite trails, tips, or even photos and stories in the comments below! For more off-road inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the best trails and gear for your next adventure.