Find serenity in scenic Wyoming
Do you like drives where, around every corner, a beautiful Western landscape slowly comes into view? And, instead of a long line of cars in front of you and a longer line behind, there are times when it seems you are the only vehicle on the road?
Then the scenic loop tours available near Sundance, Wyo., may be the perfect way to spend a few relaxing and refreshing hours in the Black Hills of Wyoming.
First, pick up a detailed map at the U.S. Forest Service office on the eastern edge of Sundance. Then, take your pick of one of the following three tours:
Devils Tower
A beautiful route that stays on hard-surfaced roads follows U.S. Highway 14 west from Sundance to Carlile Junction. From there, take State Highway 24 north to Devils Tower National Monument. Complete your loop by continuing on State Highway 24 through Hulett, where gas, food and other supplies are available. Continue east through the tiny town of Alva, then go to Aladdin. Consider a stop at the Aladdin store, which has been recognized as a National Historic Place. Follow State Highway 111 south to U.S. Highway 14 or I-90, and then west to Sundance. This drive is highlighted by some beautiful views of the Bearlodge Mountains, the prairie lands of Wyoming and, of course, Devils Tower.
Grand Canyon
Drive east from Sundance on along Interstate 90 to Moskee Road (Exit 191). Take this hard-surfaced road south to the end of the pavement and then on to National Forest Road 863. This graveled road winds along what is called the “Grand Canyon” by local residents, with magnificent views that will have you grabbing your camera. Another point of interest is the new Visitors Center at the Ranch A State Fish Hatchery. Continue on to Beulah, where gas and food are available, then west to Sundance along U.S. Highway 14 or Interstate 90.
Warren Peak
Drive west of Sundance on U.S. Highway 14, 2 miles past the west junction with Interstate 90. Take National Forest Road 838 toward Cook Lake for a real feel for the scenic Bearlodge Mountains. The road is paved for about 6 miles to the Warren Peak Lookout. Stop, climb the tower and visit with the lookout staff when they are working. Then, continue on to National Forest Road 843 and follow it to the Cook Lake junction. If you are in the mood for a picnic, take National Forest Road 842 to the lake. There is also a 3-1/2 mile loop trail at the lake for hikers. To return to Sundance, follow National Forest Roads 842 and 843 east to State Highway 111, then south to U.S. Highway 14 or Interstate 90.
Information
For information on the Bear Lodge Mountains:
Bear Lodge Ranger District, 121 S. 21st St., Box 680, Sundance, WY 82729-0680; telephone: 307-283-1361.
Or check the Web at www.sundancewyoming.com/bhnf.htm