The Happy Jack Road in Wyoming features numerous attractions, including a mountain recreation area with a trail network of routes for motorcycle riders of all skill levels. Prepare for challenging terrain, spectacular mountain views, and glimpses of diverse wildlife along this scenic route.
Heading Out on the Happy Jack Tour
The Happy Jack Road got its name from “Happy” Jack Hollingsworth, a settler from Wyoming’s frontier days. In 1868, Jack set up a ranch near the Albany County border. According to legend, he always sang while working, hence the nickname “Happy Jack”.
To reach the Happy Jack Road in Wyoming, head east on the I-80 if you’re starting from Laramie, or west if you’re starting from Cheyenne. The exit to the Happy Jack Road, a.k.a Wyoming Highway 210, is about seven miles to the east of Laramie.
Make sure to check the weather forecast before you head out, and gear up appropriately. July to September are easily the best months to explore Wyoming, especially along the higher-elevation mountain trails that snow and ice can block in the winter.
Exploring the Happy Jack Recreation Area
The recreation area near Pole Mountain is a major highlight of the Happy Jack Road, Wyoming. The Happy Jack recreation area features several interesting trailheads. Stop when you visit the recreation area headquarters for a map.
Keep in mind that while some trails in this recreation area are suitable for beginner riders, many require at least intermediate riding skills, while some single track roads are challenging. You’ll encounter a lot of uphill riding, winding curves, and rocky patches.
Curt Gowdy State Park
If you start your ride from Laramie, after you finish exploring the Happy Jack recreation area and get back on the road, you’ll reach Curt Gowdy State Park. We recommend getting off your bike and exploring on foot for a bit or even camping for a day or two — it’s well worth your time.
The 3,395-acre park offers majestic open-sky views and features three water reservoirs: Upper North Crow, Granite Springs, and Crystal. All three are suitable for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The variety of fish in the reservoirs includes kokanee salmon, trout, and grayling.
The Curt Gowdy State Park hosts many campsites and gives visitors plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife. If you’re lucky, you may spot elk, mule deer, ground squirrels, chipmunks, and more.
Wrapping Up the Happy Jack Tour
Riding east from Curt Gowdy State Park will eventually take you to Cheyenne, where you can rest, fuel up, and plan other scenic motorcycle routes.
To make sure you have a safe and fun road trip in Wyoming, we recommend that you:
- Check your bike before heading out. Inspect wheels and tires, lights, controls, oil, and other essentials to make sure your motorbike is in top shape for a long ride.
- Prepare for windy riding. You can hardly escape wind in Wyoming, so be ready to adjust your position and speed for windy conditions.
- Bring an emergency kit that includes first-aid supplies, a raincoat, a flashlight, and some basic motorbike repair gear.
- Get a GPS unit if you plan to ride in areas with poor cell phone coverage.
Law Tigers: The Legal Team for Bikers From Coast to Coast
Whether you explore the Happy Jack Road in Wyoming or pursue any other adventures on your motorbike, Law Tigers are always here to protect your rights if you ever suffer a motorcycle accident. We have been representing riders and their families for over three decades and have recovered over $800 million for our clients to date.
Call us at 1-888-863-7216 for a free case evaluation. You pay no fee unless we win.
