Curt Gowdy State Park | Laramie

Information

Landmark: Curt Gowdy State Park
City: Laramie
Country: USA Wyoming
Continent: North America

Curt Gowdy State Park, Laramie, USA Wyoming, North America

Curt Gowdy State Park is a state park located in Albany County, Wyoming, USA, approximately 24 miles west of Laramie.

Visual Characteristics

The park features three large reservoirs: Granite, Crystal, and North Crow. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, granite rock formations, and scattered pine and aspen forests. Elevations range from approximately 7,000 to 8,000 feet.

Location & Access Logistics

Access is via State Highway 230 (Happy Jack Road) from Laramie. The park entrance is approximately 24 miles west of Laramie. Parking is available at designated lots near the reservoirs and trailheads. No public transport services the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in 1971 and named after Curt Gowdy, a Wyoming native and prominent sports broadcaster. The area's geology is primarily Precambrian granite, shaped by glacial and erosional forces over millennia. The reservoirs were created through dam construction.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include fishing in Granite, Crystal, and North Crow Reservoirs, with species such as rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon present. The park offers over 35 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Boating (non-motorized and electric motors only) is permitted on the reservoirs.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at various locations throughout the park, including campgrounds and day-use areas. Picnic tables and shelters are provided. Cell phone signal is intermittent and generally unreliable within the park. No food vendors are located within the park boundaries; visitors should bring their own supplies.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for visiting are typically May through October, offering the most favorable weather for outdoor activities. Summer months (June-August) provide the warmest temperatures. Fishing is often productive in spring and fall. Dawn and dusk offer optimal lighting for photography of the rock formations and water.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the park is its designation as a International Dark Sky Park, recognized for its exceptionally clear night skies, ideal for stargazing. The granite formations are estimated to be over 2.5 billion years old.