Whether you are strapping on cross country skis or fueling up the snowmobiles, winter adventures await in northeast Wyoming’s Devils Tower Country.
Here are some of our favorite spots and suggestions for winter recreation in Crook County:
Winter Recreation in the The Bear Lodge Mountains
Reuter Campground/Trailhead, located northwest of Sundance, is a popular parking and launching off point for Nordic skiers and snowmobilers. The parking lot is an access point to the 67 miles of snowmobile trails through the Bear Lodge Mountains. Trail maps can be viewed online, or obtained at the Forest Service Office, located at 101 21st Street in Sundance.
The snow depth ranges from 1 to 4 feet and the snow conditions are wonderful! You will experience high elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The typical season ranges from December through March in this area with February generally boasting the best conditions. Temperatures range from +40° F to -20° F.
Nordic Skiing in the Carson Draw Trails System
Nordic skiers, via Reuter Campground, can access the Carson Draw Trails system. Ranging in elevation from 5,400 to 6,200 feet with a difficulty rating of “moderate,” the trails are a popular destination for cross-country skiing. Within the area, says the Forest Service, skiers can expect to find smooth, fast and fairly steep descents as well as tranquil and level stretches. The Forest Service grooms a five-mile loop of the trail when conditions are favorable.
Of the Carson Draw trail system, the Forest Service says, “The Carson Draw Trails are four-season, non-motorized trails that wind through Carson Draw. They are “off the beaten path” and offer solitude to those searching for a more primitive trail experience. Pine, aspen, and oak surround the trails and provide habitat for the abundant wildlife in the area.”
Ice Fishing in Keyhole State Park
Keyhole State Park is a wonderful place for winter sports with some of the best Ice fishing available. The lake is 14,000 acres of frozen ice open to cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice skating.
Wyoming Snowmobile Permits
If you plan on snowmobiling in Wyoming you need a snowmobile permit. The cost is $35 per year and your permit must be displayed on your snowmobile. Here's how to get one.
1) Order by phone or online by calling 877-996-7275 or online here: https://wyomingstateparks.reserveamerica.com/pos.page
2) Visit a local vendor for over-the-counter permits. Some places to obtain them in Crook County include the Rapid Stop Conoco and Sundance Travel Center in Sundance.
For more information visit: https://wyoparks.wyo.gov/index.php/snowmobile/snowmobile-permits-fees-trails
Winter Events
One of the most popular winter events in Crook County is held in Sundance, Wyoming and is a uniquely western way to celebrate the winter season. If you are looking for a wild western good time schedule your visit around the annual Sundance Winter Festival which features a Ski-Joring event where a cowboy on a galloping horse pulls a skier or snowboarder through an obstacle course complete with snow jumps! There are other great events you can compete in as well if this kind of heart pounding action isn't for you!