Explore Southern Wyoming with
   VIP's
   SNOWY RANGE AND SIERRA MADRE
   MOUNTAIN RECREATION GUIDE

Outdoor Recreation | Maps | Snowy Range | Sierra Madre | Pole Mountain | Services | Travel Info

PRINT MAP

Click on printable maps below for more detailed information.
TOP LEFT | TOP RIGHT | BOTTOM

Technical Rock Climbing | Hiking, Mountain Biking, Skiing & Fishing

The Pole Mountain Range, locally known as Happy Jack and Vedauwoo, is known for it's abundance of unique rock formations and many beaver ponds. Pole Mountain offers climbers remarkable views of the northern peaks of Colorado and various other landmarks while ascending massive granite formations. Rock climbing is best May-September.

Technical Rock Climbing

While long traditional multi-pitch ascents can be found at Medicine Bow Peak in the Snowy Range, the real gem in this corner of Wyoming is Vedauwoo (pronounced vee-da-voo). Vedauwoo, derived from the Arapahoe language word meaning earthborn, is located 15 miles east of Laramie on Interstate 80 via exit 329, in the southwestern portion of Pole Mountain. The dramatic and abundant rock formations here are large, pink, mid-Proterozoic Sherman granite, dotted with colorful lichen. Vedauwoo has multi-pitch ascents, yet it offers some of the most rewarding and best crack climbing in the country. It is best know for its wide, grueling and often punishing routes, but there are routes for all levels of climbers.

Hiking, Mountain Biking, Skiing & Fishing

Pole Mountain also offers a vast network of hiking and mountain bike trails, which are highlighted on the printable maps above. Many of the trails double as cross-country ski and snowshoe trails in winter months. There are plenty of campsites and picnic areas, including the Vedauwoo Picnic Area Gazebo (right). The Vedauwoo Picnic Area Gazebo is available for rent for $25 for up to 20 people. A Special Use Permit is required for more than 20 people and can be obtained from the Laramie District Ranger Office at 307-745-2300.

Be sure to bring a fishing pole along on your next hike as there are lots of beaver ponds full of trout. Many songbirds are attracted to the wet, lush vegetation. These spongy grounds are also great places to view wildlife such as moose, deer, elk, and, of course, beavers. Fishing is often best early in the day or late evening.

Top of Page