Pedaling Through the Soul of Wyoming: The Best Backroads for Bicyclists

Wyoming is a land where the horizon stretches endlessly, and every turn on its backroads reveals another chapter in nature's grand narrative. For those who seek to explore not just new corners of this majestic state but also hidden facets of their own soul, there are few better ways than by bicycle. Here’s a guide to some of the best backroads that will take you through Wyoming’s wild, rugged beauty.

1. **Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (WY-296)**

*(Cody, WY 82414)*

Named after Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe, this road is more than just asphalt; it’s a journey into history and legend. Starting near Cody—where Buffalo Bill once roamed—you’ll ascend into Absaroka Mountains’ grandeur. Each pedal stroke here feels like an invocation to nature itself as you wind past Sunlight Creek Bridge and Dead Indian Pass.

The vistas are so sweeping they could have been painted by Frederic Remington himself—a fitting homage given his love for capturing the American West in all its raw splendor.

2. **Snowy Range Scenic Byway (WY-130)**

*(Saratoga, WY 82331)*

This route takes you through Medicine Bow National Forest—a place where Jack Kerouac might have found solace while writing "On The Road." As you climb towards Libby Flats Observation Point at over 10,000 feet elevation, you'll be greeted with panoramic views that defy description.

In summer months when wildflowers bloom in riotous colors against snow-capped peaks—it feels like cycling through one of Georgia O'Keeffe's vibrant canvases come to life.

3. **Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway (US-20)**

*(Thermopolis, WY 82443)*

Starting from Thermopolis—home to world-famous hot springs—this route plunges southward along Wind River Canyon’s dramatic cliffs carved by millennia-old waters. It’s easy to imagine Hemingway finding inspiration here amidst towering rock faces and roaring rapids below.

Cycling through tunnels blasted out during early railroad days adds an element both thrilling and humbling—as if riding alongside ghosts from America’s industrious past still echoing within these stone walls.

4. **Beartooth Highway (US-212)**

*(Cooke City-Silver Gate MT/WY Border)*

Though technically straddling Montana-Wyoming borderlands—the Beartooth Highway deserves mention due its unparalleled scenic drama which rivals any European alpine pass yet remains distinctly Western Americana at heart!

Ascending above tree line onto high tundra plateaus dotted with glacial lakes—it becomes evident why Charles Kuralt dubbed this the most beautiful drive in America. On two wheels however—the experience transcends mere driving; each mile conquered brings deeper connection between rider & landscape alike...

Conclusion:

These roads offer more than physical challenges—they provide spiritual awakenings too often lost amid modern life's hustle-bustle noise pollution distractions... So saddle up dear reader! Let your tires kiss pavement gravel dirt trails leading toward self-discovery enlightenment perhaps even transcendence awaiting beyond next bend curve summit peak horizon line unseen until now...

# Websites:

1. [Wyoming Tourism](https://travelwyoming.com)

2. [Adventure Cycling Association](https://www.adventurecycling.org)

# Twitter Handles:

1. @TravelWyoming

2. @AdvCyclingAssoc