It provides a quality experience without the remoteness, extremity, or congestion of some of the more renowned areas. It offers a total wilderness experience that can impress the seasoned backcountry enthusiast or whet a newcomer's appetite with a most pleasant taste of being off the beaten path. Trailheads in the beautiful and undeveloped Laramie River Valley start at 8500 feet of elevation. Five to ten mile routes take hikers to campsites nestled immediately above and below treeline at elevations of 10,000'-11,400' with two dozen lakes interspersed to enhance the scenery. Trail routes can be arranged that provide loops for trips as short as three days, or more than a week without traversing the same trails.
Game is abundant, with moose being the most frequently sighted species in the region.
They are commonly seen in the valley, along the trails, and around timberline campsites. Elk herds, highcountry mule deer, and bighorn sheep are other notable residents. Panoramic vistas exceeding 100 miles are standard fare for those hiking the Medicine Bow Trail or climbing the stark granite of the Rawah Peaks. A three hour drive from Denver and its hub airport, and a two hour drive from our Masonville headquarters, makes the area readily accessible for those on a tight time schedule or desiring a minimum of travel effort. It makes a great initial experience for the backcountry novice since the majority of time and effort can be put into trail planning and preparation instead of travel to and from the trailhead.