Blog

If you're visiting Casper in central Wyoming, you won't want to leave without at least exploring some of the most ruggedly beautiful nature in the West. Here are five easy day hikes near Casper where you can jog or walk the trails within an afternoon. 1. Squaw Creek Trail Squaw Creek Trail is about 2 miles southwest of Casper. It's a 3.5-mile hike from end to end for a round trip of 7 miles. It features biking and hiking trails with dog-friendly tracks. The park also houses a dog run where you can let your dog run leash-free. The park is accessible all year-round, weather permitting, and because of its easy inclines and panoramic views, it offers an easy day hike any time of year. more 2. Morad Park Loop Morad Park Loop is a short hiking trail just outside of Casper that circles around to the trailhead in just under a mile. The park is open year-round, and the trail runs right next to a section of the Platte River. You can walk your dog along the trail, and there's a picnic area to relax and enjoy the rugged landscape of Casper. Take your dog for a run in the off-leash dog area, or your family can get out on the trail on your bikes. 3. Fliprock Trail Fliprock Trail is part of Rotary Park and Casper Mountain and sits just south of Casper at the base of the mountain. Fliprock Trail is about 3 miles all the way around the loop, and it's a great trail for all different difficulty levels of hiking. The trail runs through the forest of Casper Mountain, and if you want to explore further, you can make your way to Garden Creek Falls, where you can enjoy the picturesque waterfalls or picnic in the many recreation areas. 4. Bridle Trail Split Rock Loop Bridle Trail is also a part of the Rotary Park trail system. The 5-mile trail features easy and moderate hiking spots with a 1,200-foot rise in elevation, which offers beautiful views of Garden Creek Falls. For more easy-going hiking, you can stay on the short end of the loop on the west side of the park. To hike the whole loop, plan for at least three to four hours. The trailhead is in Rotary Park, so plan for a picnic to make this an all-day event. 5. Muddy Mountain Loop Trail Muddy Mountain is another looped trail system that's situated on the southern side of Casper Mountain. The trail is about 3.5 miles around the loop and is perfect for every skill level of hiking. You can bring your mountain bike for some easy to moderate riding. Camp overnight at Muddy Mountain's camping area where your dog is welcome too, as long as you keep it on a leash. Many of these parks are local to the Casper area and part of the national and state park system. With so many easy day hikes around, you're sure to find some amazing spots for a relaxing stroll or invigorating run wherever you turn. Image via Pixabay.com

When people think of wildlife in Wyoming, it's tough to ignore Yellowstone National Park. However, there are several amazing spots in and around Casper that are teeming with diverse wildlife, from birds and deer to the famous Pronghorn antelope and gray wolves. If you're in the area looking for something to do outdoors, check out these best places to see wildlife near Casper, Wyoming. Casper Mountain Casper Mountain in Central Wyoming boasts amazing nature and wildlife views within its forests, and outdoor enthusiasts can spot myriad native fauna, including bear, elk, red deer, foxes, and countless species of birds. Home to several nature walks, campgrounds, and activity areas, Casper Mountain has plenty to offer. It is also home to Garden Creek Falls and Rotary Park, where visitors can enjoy nature all year round. more Platte River Trails Platte River Trails is one of Casper's most-loved central Wyoming spots for birdwatching. On the trails, you can spot several types of birds of pretty, including bald eagles, red-tail and red-shoulder hawks, and owls. Set up a picnic in Platte River's many recreation areas or keep your eye out at one of the designated wildlife viewing spots to catch glimpses of Wyoming's legendary animals. You can also bring your dog on your hike or kayak on the Platte River. Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park, just 6 miles from Casper, is one of Audubon Wyoming's designated bird habitats. You can see around 100 different migratory species in a given season, and you can pick a spot from over 40 different picnic areas to relax and watch for Wyoming's native birds. Enjoy your hike along scenic trails and watch for whitetail and mule deer, antelope, prairie dogs, squirrels, and three different fox species. Little Red Creek Little Red Creek is a local nature hub for fishing enthusiasts in Natrona County, Wyoming. With a large variety of native freshwater fish, like river trout and freshwater bass, the stream offers some amazing fly fishing and catch-and-release opportunities. While you're waiting for a catch, keep a lookout for deer species, hares, foxes, bear, moose, and elk. Reshaw Park Reshaw Park in Evansville, Wyoming, is an 8-minute drive from Casper and has a long history spanning back to the days of the Oregon Trail. With historical Fort Clay and the Reshaw Bridge within the park, nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike will fall in love with the beautiful landscape. You can spot a multitude of Wyoming's native and migratory bird species and pronghorn antelope, deer, elk, and even grizzly bears and gray wolves. Martin's Cove Martin's Cove is another awesome historical site for nature and history enthusiasts. With over 933 acres of rugged landscape, you can explore the legend of the Mormon and Oregon Trails. Watch for antelope, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, bears, foxes, and the many bird species flying in Wyoming's open skies. It may be a 55-mile trek outside of Casper's city limits, but Martin's Cove in Natrona County is something you won't want to pass up. Image via Pixabay.com

If you love the outdoors you're probably always looking for a new place to explore. Here's a look at some great places around Casper, Wyoming, where you can stretch your legs, breathe the fresh air, and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer. Casper Mountain This is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Wyoming. It's located just 30 minutes south of Casper and is a cornucopia of outdoor activity. Whether you enjoy a leisurely stroll through the woods, a serious hike in the hills, or a killer mountain bike single track, Casper Mountain has it all. more Head to the Casper Mountain Trails Center atop Casper Mountain. From here you can enjoy over 50 miles of trails of various difficulty. Mountain biking, fat biking, and hiking are popular during the warmer months. Winter brings excellent snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Trail use is free, except in winter when a trail pass must be purchased. If you're looking for some downhill ski fun you can pop over to Hogadon Basin Ski Area. They offer 27 trails for skiing and snowboarding. You can also enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and fat biking, the latest in mountain biking that uses extra-wide tires to go through the snow. Casper Mountain is also home to the Beartrap Summer Festival. Held atop the mountain in Beartrap Meadow and Park, the festival hosts hundreds of people annually as they enjoy music, food, and fun in the great outdoors. Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park Located along the shores of the North Platte River 15 minutes east of Casper, the Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park is a beautiful outdoor retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park is home to miles of trails that will take you through stately cottonwood trees, flowery meadows, and by wetland areas, all rich with wildlife. You can ride horses, hike trails, fish in one of several ponds, swim, or enjoy a lazy day in the sun. There are over 40 picnic areas, a fishing pier, playgrounds, horseshoe pits, and volleyball courts for everyone to enjoy. Park officials offer geocaching excursions that help you learn about the land. They also offer wildlife viewing trips where you can see deer, antelope, and over 100 species of birds. Rotary Park Located south of Casper at the foot of Casper Mountain you'll find Rotary Park. This park is a favorite destination for picnicking, hiking, and horseback riding. The park is also home to the picturesque Garden Creek Falls. You can spend the day hiking the Bridle Trail or exploring the waterfall and surrounding cliffs. If you like, you can bring your mountain bike and enjoy some of the best mountain biking around. When you're ready for a break you can cool off by the falls, fire up one of the grills, and make lunch. Winter is the perfect time for snowshoeing here. Fire pits are available for when it's time to warm those burgers and brats. There is so much to see and do around Casper, Wyoming. The next time you feel like some outdoor fun you should visit one of these great places. Image via Pixabay.com

With spring just around the corner, it's time to start planning a hiking excursion so you can enjoy the warmer weather and beautiful scenery of Casper, Wyoming. Here are five excellent hiking spots in the Casper area. 1. Platte River Trail Platte River Trail is the jewel of Casper's community trail system. It stretches along 11 miles of the North Platte River Corridor. The trail is suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities. The trail also accommodates cycling, rollerblading, disc golf, nature viewing, as well as fishing and boating access. While hiking the trail, be sure to keep an eye out for area wildlife, including mule deer, beaver, and geese. Another highlight is the Tate Pumphouse, a beautiful place to stop and have a picnic. more 2. Rotary Park Inside Rotary Park, you'll find the gorgeous Garden Creek Falls and the Bridle Trail trailhead. The trail has two loops. The main loop is 5 miles long and rises 1,200 feet up Casper Mountain. It features a tunnel called "split rock." While intermediate hikers can tackle the main loop in just under three hours, it is not suitable for anyone with health issues or low stamina. There is a shorter loop on the west side of Rotary park ideal for inexperienced hikers. 3. Eadsville Trail Although the Eadsville Trail is a 3-mile trek at the top of Casper Mountain, it has a moderate rating due to minimal elevation gain. The trail starts at Skunk Hollow and traverses through beautiful pine forests. There are also stunning mountain views. You also might see a mule deer or two. 4. Pathfinder Dam Interpretive Trail The 1.7-mile Pathfinder Dam Interpretative Trail travels up, down, and around Pathfinder Dam. As you hike along the trail, you'll see rock formations of igneous and granite. Area wildlife includes golden eagles, hawks, and Canada geese. Keep an eye out for lizards, chipmunks, and snakes. A swinging bridge was built in the early 1900s to connect the dam with the engineer's camp. It was rebuilt in 1995 and is one of the more fascinating stretches of the trail. After you cross the bridge, you'll notice foundations marking where the engineering offices and residences once stood. There is one building still standing on the site, which historians believe once served as a jail. Once you've passed the camp, be sure to take the 0.2-mile overlook trail to the canyon rim. 5. Muddy Mountain Environmental Education Area The Muddy Mountain Environmental Education Area features a 2-mile interpretative nature trail connecting the Lodgepole and Rim campgrounds. The trail is handicap accessible and is limited to hiking. Two overlooks provide incredible views of Muddy Mountain Valley. The trail traverses through forest, sagebrush, and grasslands that serve as a habitat for fox, antelope, and elk. Another trail, located inside a 700-acre nature area, is open to hikers, mountain bikers, and those traveling by horseback. These are just some of the fantastic hiking spots around Casper. No matter which one you visit, you're sure to have a wonderful time. Image via Pixabay.com

If you're looking for a great place to fish this winter, look no further than Casper, Wyoming, which is situated beside the North Platte River and the perfect place to float, wade, or fly fish for trout no matter what time of year it is. Named the number one Big Fish Destinations by American Angler Magazine, Casper offers beauty and abundant fishing that make it the destination on most anglers bucket lists. Wintering fish feed on a hardy mixture of insects and make nymphing productive this time of year. Consider streamer fishing Miracle Mile or dry-fly fishing Grey Reef. Winter fishing draws fewer crowds and calm conditions make the potential for big catches worth it. While you're in Casper this winter, check out some of the best fishing spots located in Wyoming's rugged country. The trout may be biting year-round, but winter fishing promises an unforgettable experience. more North Platte River Located in town, the historic North Platte is a freestone river whose abundant bug life and ecosystem make it an ideal location for fly fishing year-round. A great river for novice and expert anglers, the North Platte boasts an average of 4,000 fish per mile. In winter, wade fishing is great here since less windy conditions make for easier casting. Locals recommend checking out the stretch downstream from the Tate Pumphouse. Miracle Mile The name is deceiving since this section of the North Platte runs anywhere from 5.5 to 15 miles depending on water levels. Featuring plenty of camping and access points, this fertile tailwater is sandwiched between the Seminoe and Pathfinder reservoirs. Located in isolated, rugged country, the Miracle Mile offers year-round catches, but fly fishing for brown or cutthroat trout is best in late October through December. Pathfinder Reservoir Surrounded by granite canyon and 117 miles of rocky shoreline, the Pathfinder Reservoir is an ideal location to fish for brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, ohrid trout and walleye. A popular ice fishing destination, Pathfinder hosts the annual HAWG ice fishing derby in January. Grey Reef A little farther out of town is the Grey Reef section of the North Platte River. Come here in February to wade fish for rainbow trout or fly fish April through June. Grey Reef is situated in desert country with little cover from the elements, so come prepared for changing conditions. Grey Reef offers plenty of access points for fishing and nearby lodging if it gets too chilly. Alcova Reservoir Covering over 2,470 surface acres and located 35 miles southwest of Casper, Alcova Reservoir is home to some of Wyoming's best ice fishing. Anglers find plenty of rainbow and brown trout, kokanee salmon and walleye in these waters. Find shelters and restrooms at Black Beach, or head downstream via boat, kayak or canoe to fish Fremont Canyon. Casper, Wyoming offers some of the best trout fishing in the lower 48, and some of the best fall and winter fishing around. This winter, pack your tackle box and load your rod to take advantage of Casper's abundant catches and breathtaking scenery. Image via Pixabay.com

Snowshoeing is a great activity that keeps you active even in the dead of winter. It's also more cost-efficient than some other winter sports and there's an abundance of places to go. Whether you're new to the area or a seasoned pro looking to expand your list, we have some great spots to check out. Here are the five best places to go snowshoeing in Casper. 1. Bridle Trail Lace up your boots and hit up the Bridle Trail. The trail begins at the waterfalls at Rotary Park. Beautiful views will surround you as you make your way through the 4.5 miles of the Casper Mountain mountainside. You'll find scenic overlooks for some great photo opportunities, cabins, and streams. The top of the trail ends at Split Rock which is a famous local landmark that helps you make your way through the actual side of the mountain. This is a kid-friendly and well-maintained trail that is perfect even for beginners. Plan to set aside half a day to complete this one if you want to see it all. more 2. Casper Mountain Trails Center If you've snowshoed before and are looking for a longer path to take then you should visit the Casper Mountain Trails Center, whuch has 26 miles of trails to adventure on just a short drive from the city. Located at Casper Mountain you'll find a trailhead for activities both day and night. The more popular parts of the trail are illuminated by lights until 10 p.m. You'll need to purchase a trail pass to access the trails for snowshoeing. 3. Braille Trail While the Braille Trail is catered towards the visually impaired, it is a great snowshoeing spot for all kinds of people. This would actually make a great spot to take kids or for beginners. There are guide ropes to help you along the trail. The area is accessible from the Strube Loop Road. 4. Casper Mountain Outdoor Center The newest attraction to the area is the Casper Mountain Outdoor Center. There are over 24 miles of trails to explore here that are perfect for snowshoeing. You'll find a wide variety of trails ranging from open, flat trails to more challenging trails that are great for those who are more advanced. The Casper Mountain Outdoor Center is located at McMurry Mountain Park and the trailhead can be accessed at 1110 East End Road. 5. Platte River Trail If you live in town and want to go snowshoeing without leaving town then you can head to the Platte River Trail. This 11-mile trail surrounds the Casper community and is best accessed when the snow is fresh and untouched. Enjoy views of both urban and natural landscapes such as the local mountains and rivers. The area is beautiful with the snow and the lights of the city. The trail is clearly marked with signs and wildlife information so you'll stay informed about where you are at all times. We hope that you choose one of these great places to spend the day outside in the snow.  They are perfect for your next snowshoeing adventure. Image via Pixabay.com

Casper, Wyoming, offers access to some of the state's most appealing ski resorts. Whether you live in the area or you intend to visit as a guest, be sure to plan to spend at least a day or two on the slopes to enjoy the beautiful powder. Hogadon Basin Ski Area One of the top ski resorts in the Casper area is Hogadon Basin Ski Area, which is open to both skiers and snowboarders. It typically opens in November, as long as it has received enough snow, and usually remains accessible to visitors until April. This resort is also one of the most affordable options in the state of Wyoming, allowing visitors to enjoy a full day on the slopes for under $50 each. Children ages five and under and seniors ages 70 and over get in for free. more Hogadon Basin's ski area includes 60 acres of slopes designed for skiers and boarders of all ages and skill levels. You can coast down any of the 28 runs — which rank from beginner to expert — or explore the terrain park. This ski resort also offers ski and snowboard rentals, and a snow sports school with lesson programs centered around the fundamental skills for skiing or snowboarding. Their food options include a concessions stand with burgers, chicken, hot dogs, soup, salads, pizza, and sandwiches. On the premises of this ski resort, Slalom Sam's Bar offers beer, wine, and cocktails. Pine Creek Pine Creek Ski Resort is near Cokeville, so it's a bit of a drive from Casper. But it's worth visiting if you want to enjoy some family-friendly winter fun. This resort ranked high on Flight Network's “North America's Best Kept Secret Ski Resorts” list because of its short lines and great snow. In addition, Pine Creek features a vertical drop of 1,400 feet and varying terrain for those who want a quiet, calm skiing experience. You can access any of the 30 lifts from the single chairlift at this small ski area. It's perfect for beginner to intermediate-level skiers as most of the slopes aren't too steep. This spot also provides a relaxed, local vibe and hosts several events each year. Pine Creek recently renovated its lodge; now, you can sit back and enjoy a hot drink and a meal after a day on the slopes. Jackson Hole Although it's a few hours from Casper, Jackson Hole is one of the top ski and snowboarding resorts in Wyoming. This playground has offered more than 2,500 acres of terrain to adventure-seekers for fifty years, making it a top destination for legendary athletes, first-time skiers and snowboarders, and families who want to enjoy the snow. Most of the slopes are rated high-intermediate to expert, so it's ideal for those who wish to access more challenging terrain. The world-class resort has over 130 named trails, and about 13 of them are for beginners. This winter, make time to hit the slopes near Casper to make the most of the natural beauty of this area of Wyoming. You can find ski and snowboarding resorts with the amenities you want for your snow day experience. Image via Pixabay.com

Casper, Wyoming is a beautiful place full of all kinds of outdoor activities for people of all ages and ability levels to enjoy. If you are a mountain bike enthusiast, check out these spots in the area. Each is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face while you get out and enjoy some fresh air away from the demands of daily life. 1. Muddy Mountain Trail Muddy Mountain welcomes outdoor adventure seekers of all ages and ability levels. It is about 45 minutes from town and lets you completely disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with your bike and the outdoors. To get to the trail, you have to drive off the paved road onto a dirt road that can be tricky if the weather has been less than ideal. more There are two sections to the trail. The descent is all single track for speed and fun for inexperienced riders. However, the return trip up the mountain is a rocky fire road that takes some technical knowledge to enjoy. There are logs to ride over. As you make the return climb, take a moment to enjoy the view. A technical rock climb greets you near the top of the trail. 2. Crossroads Park Trail If you are looking for a ride in the city that is easily accessible, check out the Crossroads Park Trail. You can reach the trail from the Platte River Parkway. The single-track trail is based on the flat bottom of the North Platte River. For those that enjoy the sand, it dominates the sub straight but is pretty firm throughout the track. Stay aware as you ride because the track runs into a rustic disk golf course. It also passes a good fishing spot if you want to combine two passions into one fun day. If you are trying to choose a bike for this ride, consider a drop bar gravel bike or cross country mountain bike. 3. Eadsville Trail The Eadsville Trail is perfect for the mountain biker looking for an extreme cardio workout. The Eadsville Trail is the flagship trail for the Casper Mountain Nordic Center. It was the first trail built by the Casper, Wyoming Trails Alliance, and named after the old Eadsville mining town. The trail is a single track Nordic loop with intermediate difficulty. It is approximately 3.5 miles long. The trail is well marked and features a variety of terrain. You can reach the trail from the lower parking lot of the Nordic Center. Follow the blue trail markers that leave the parking lot between "Strube's Loop" and the warming hut. As always, when biking, remember to wear proper safety gear. Nothing ruins a good trip like a bad injury. Bring a friend with you to enjoy the location together. If you are planning on going alone, make sure someone knows where you are going and roughly what time you plan on returning. Keep your cellphone charged not just for pictures, but in case an emergency arises. Image via Pixabay.com

Whether you're someone who walks to stay in shape daily or someone who is just starting off, and whether you live in or are traveling to the Casper area, you're in luck. The city is home to many different outdoor experiences that are great for everyone to enjoy. We've gathered a list of some of our favorite places to get out and enjoy a walk in Casper, WY. Rotary Park This picturesque park can be found just south of Casper. Here you'll find many different trails ranging in lengths. One of the more popular trails is the Bridle Trail loop. This particular trail is nearly 5-miles long and takes you to elevations of over 5000 feet. You can also find Garden Creek Falls which provides gorgeous views year-round. This is an easy walk and would even be great to take the kids on to create memories that will last forever. more Yesness Park Another park on our list is Yesness. It has plenty of places for you to get out and enjoy a walk while also taking in some beautiful scenery. The views seem to go on for miles in every direction. You'll also enjoy a nice little pond, along with beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The park can be accessed all year long for a nice walk, literally, in the park. You can find Yesness Park at 4100 SW Wyoming Blvd. Morad Park This park is great if you're wanting to take your four-legged friend out for a daily walk. Morad Park is extremely dog-friendly and even has a nice water hole for them to splash in on a hot day. The pathway runs in a circle that will lead you back to the parking lot so it's simple and convenient. This is definitely one of the best parks we have been able to find that welcome dogs with open arms and without the restriction of rules. Morad Park is located at 2800 SW Wyoming Blvd. Downtown Area If you're looking for a place to take a walk that also includes some different places to see or areas to visit, then Downtown Casper should be on your list. You can walk from wherever you decide to park your car to the different clothing or book stores to window shop or even pick up some fun gifts for yourself. You can also find different restaurants or coffee shops to visit on your walk. Take a day for just you and visit Downtown Casper for an easy, evenly paved walk. Historical Eadsville Trail If you are wanting to take on a more challenging walk with some off-the-beaten-path trails, visit Eadsville. The loop is about 3-miles long with its highest elevation reaching 8,075 feet. You'll find great views of the mountain and the forest that surrounds it. You may also see some wildlife so don't forget your camera. We hope that on the next beautiful day you get to enjoy one of these places to take a walk. Enjoy your outdoor time and remember to take a few pictures! Image via Pixabay.com

If you're in search of a great book to read, there are several wonderful bookstores in the Casper area. Let's take a look at some of these stores and what they have to offer. 1. Wind City Books Wind City Books has been a Casper favorite since 2007. The store sells a wide range of books, from the hottest best-sellers to lesser-known works. A great selection of audiobooks is also available, as well as a variety of children's books and educational toys. If you can't find it on the shelves of Wind City, the friendly staff is happy to order it for you. The store also plays host to book signings by Wyoming authors and writers' workshops. Wind City Books has become a place for the Casper community to come together to celebrate a love of reading. more 2. The Book Exchange The Book Exchange prides itself on selling gently-used books at a fair price. While you'll find popular novels among the merchandise, you're also likely to stumble upon a rare, out-of-print gem. You can also bring your used books to The Book Exchange and trade them in for something new to read. 3. The Knowledge Nook The staff at The Knowledge Nook believe that the best way for children to learn is through reading and play, which is why they've created a store that encourages both. You can find a wide range of books suitable for all ages from infant to young adult. The Knowledge Nook also carries a wide variety of educational toys that encourage children to exercise their imaginations as well as educational supplies for teachers. The store plays host to a variety of activities including book signings, workshops for educators and students, and storytime. If your child has a birthday coming up, The Knowledge Nook staff is happy to host that as well. 4. Wonder If you're looking to explore the spiritual side of life, Wonder is the perfect destination. In addition to books that are both enlightening and educational the store also carries a selection of unique gifts. For that special someone, consider buying a beautiful guardian angel statue or a blessing jar. They might also appreciate a calming crystal, candle, or wind chime. Whatever you need to soothe your soul, you're sure to find it at Wonder. The friendly staff is happy to answer any questions you might have on your spiritual journey. 5. Blessed Are They Blessed Are They is a religious bookstore that caters to a Christian audience. While the store carries a variety of books to help those seeking to grow in their faith, it also sells religious jewelry and pendants, inspirational posters, and even coffee mugs. The friendly owners will make you feel truly blessed with their kind and graceful service. Whether you're looking for a gift suitable for a Catholic or Protestant-leaning friend, they're happy to help you find something that's just right. These are just some of the great bookstores in Casper. Whatever you're looking for, there's a store that's right for you. Image via Flickr by Spidere

Trails are in abundance in Casper, Wyoming. But if you've already hiked and biked enough green-circle, family-friendly trails, you should try some of the great challenging adventures in the area. Explore Wyoming's natural beauty and get in a solid workout at these challenging trails you should try near Casper. 1. Casper Mountain If you're looking for the most trails in one location, head to Casper Mountain. Go to the Casper Mountain Trails Center for a quick lunch before exploring the nearly 26 miles of trails nearby. Whether you're into cross-country skiing, trail-running, mountain-biking, snow-shoeing, or plain-old hiking, this is the headquarters for those looking for trails. Every visit to Casper Mountain can be as new as you want to be. Try a new trail, or find your new repeatable favorite. more 2. Bridle Trail Bridle Trail at Rotary Park, which is almost 5 miles long and sees a 1,200-foot elevation change, is one of the most challenging mountain bike trails you'll find in the area. The ride lasts from an hour to 90 minutes and covers many types of terrains. The trail is well-marked, so you can focus on getting through the challenging course without getting lost. Take on the thrilling declines as fast as your skill level allows, and get in a serious workout as you travel up 1,300 feet over 1.6 miles. This trail is open to hikers and joggers, so make sure you give them a safe space or watch for oncoming cyclists if you're in the first group. Enjoy a beautiful day with views of Casper and Garden Creek Falls at this top-level trail. 3. Eadsville Trail Looking for something less challenging than the Bridle Trail? Check out the Eadsville Trail. It's a moderate-level path that runs for 2.9 miles and has a 321-foot elevation gain. You can start hiking this trail at the Nordic Center or Skunk Hollow. It's open to hikers, bikers, snowshoers, and trail runners. It's a loop trail and is open year-round. 4. Twin Peaks Trail If you want to get the blood pumping, head to the nearby Twin Peaks Trail. It's 5.9 miles long, has a 1,778-foot elevation gain, and is perfect if you're looking for a challenging trail. This out-and-back-style trail is mainly occupied by hikers. It offers some great opportunities to see some wildlife, including antelope, chipmunks, and birds. 5. Glendo State Park For a challenging trip, try Glendo State Park. It has over 45 miles of single-track mountain bike trails for you to explore. The difficulties range from moderate to expert, so you can find a trail that suits your skill level or pushes your boundaries. These trails are also open to hikers who want to spend some time outside. One of the best parts of the Casper area is the huge number of outdoor experiences available nearby. Get outside and enjoy nature at these trails, or explore to find your own. No matter how you like to take on the trail, the possibilities are endless. Image via Flickr by markturnerimages

Now that warmer weather has finally arrived, it's the perfect time to plan a fishing trip. Luckily, there are lots of great fishing spots around Casper for residents and visitors to enjoy. Let's take a look at some of these spots and what they have to offer. 1. Bryan Stock Trail Pond Located along Bryan Stock Trail road just north of the North Platte River, the Bryan Stock Trail Pond is a fishing oasis within the Casper city limits. You'll find a wide variety of fish in the pond, including channel catfish and rainbow trout. It's a great spot for beginning fishermen as well as old pros. While gas motors are not allowed on the pond, motor-less boats are welcome or you can try out an inflatable fishing tube. more 2. Fremont Canyon As you venture into Fremont Canyon, you'll find a stretch of great fishing that starts at the Pathfinder Dam and continues on to the power plant just above Alcova Reservoir. This part of the North Platte River is heavily populated by rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Midges, baetis, caddis, and tricos all hatch here and are a popular choice of bait for locals. Nymphing, dry-fly, and streamer fishing are the best techniques to use in the canyon. In addition to an incredible fishing experience, the Fremont Canyon also provides beautiful scenery. Country music fans may recognize it from the music video "Huntin', Fishin' and Lovin' Everyday" by Luke Bryan. 3. North Platte River - Casper The stretch of the North Platte River that runs through town is another great spot for trout fishing. Dozens of rainbows have been spotted near the Tate Pumphouse and the I-25 train tresses. Water levels and clarity of the river may vary depending on your location, the time of day, and the weather. However, when the water is clear, the fishing is incredible. 4. Miracle Mile Located just below the Seminoe Reservoir Dam, the 5.5-mile stretch of the North Platte River known as the Miracle Mile is packed with trout and walleye. With a population of 4,000 fish per mile, you're sure to catch the trophy size fish of your dreams. In fact, when the river is frozen during winter months, the Hawg Ice Fishing Derby, one of the largest ice fishing derbies in the country, is held here. During liquid months, you can try your luck in one of the area's walleye tournaments. There are several camping spots along the banks, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. 5. Grey Reef The Grey Reef section of the North Platte River is considered one of the best spots for rainbow trout fishing in the country. On average, your catch will weigh between three and six pounds, but a lucky few have been known to catch a 20-pounder. If you don't own a boat, there are several great access spots for wading and bank fishing. These are just some of the best fishing spots in Casper. No matter which one you choose to fish, you're sure to have a great time. Image via Flickr by USFWS Mountain Prairie