Vedauwoo natural area. Sherman Granite. Medicine Bow-Routt National Park.

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is a sprawling landscape of mountains, rivers, wilderness, and history. Located in southeastern Wyoming and northwestern Colorado, this forest complex encompasses more than 2 million acres that combine three distinct areas: Medicine Bow National Forest, Routt National Forest, and Thunder Basin National Grassland. Together, they create one of the most diverse public lands in the American West.

Whether you are drawn to alpine peaks, legendary ski slopes, or windswept grasslands, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest offers a landscape as varied as it is vast.

A Forest of Many Origins

Looking Out Over Melting Snow on a Meadow in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Wyoming

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest was officially unified in 1995, but its story begins much earlier. Established as a forest reserve in 1902, the forest gained its name from Native American tribes who once gathered mountain mahogany here to craft bows and perform healing rituals. Routt National Forest, named for Colorado’s first governor John Routt, followed a few years later in 1905. Thunder Basin National Grassland, a sea of open prairie in northeastern Wyoming, was added as part of the combined management.

Today, the forest and grassland together cover 2,222,313 acres, divided among six ranger districts with headquarters in Laramie, Wyoming.

The Majesty of the Medicine Bow Mountains

Snowy Range in Wyoming's Medicine Bow Wilderness, with views of Lake Marie and Medicine Bow Peak.

The Medicine Bow section spans over a million acres in southeastern Wyoming and is home to the dramatic Snowy Range. This alpine wonderland features Medicine Bow Peak, the tallest summit in the range at 12,013 feet. From the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, travelers can take in panoramic views of high-altitude lakes, jagged cliffs, and carpets of summer wildflowers.

Highlights of the Medicine Bow Area

Snowy Range Scenic Byway: A high mountain pass topping 10,847 feet, open seasonally for breathtaking drives.
Vedauwoo: Famous for its giant granite formations, this climbing and hiking haven lies just off Interstate 80.
Wilderness Areas: Encampment River, Huston Park, Savage Run, and Platte River Wildernesses each offer trails, backcountry camping, and wildlife sightings.

Laramie, Saratoga, and Douglas serve as gateways to the Medicine Bow National Forest, with ranger stations and visitor services for travelers.

Routt National Forest: Colorado’s Mountain Playground

South of the Wyoming border, Routt National Forest spreads across northwestern Colorado. Encompassing more than 1.1 million acres, it is split by the Continental Divide, with one side draining into the North Platte River and the other into the Yampa River. This section of the forest is famous for winter sports and summer recreation.

Must-See Spots in Routt National Forest

Steamboat Ski Resort: Located on Mount Werner, this ski area draws winter enthusiasts from around the world.
Mount Zirkel Wilderness: A rugged backcountry region perfect for hikers and backpackers.
Sarvis Creek Wilderness: Known for its solitude and pristine waterways.

The Routt National Forest also borders iconic destinations like Rocky Mountain National Park and Dinosaur National Monument, making it an ideal stop for travelers exploring northern Colorado.

Thunder Basin National Grassland: Wide-Open Wyoming

An old windmill on Thunder Basin National Grasslands in Wyoming.

In contrast to the forested peaks, Thunder Basin National Grassland offers a windswept expanse of prairie in northeastern Wyoming. Covering more than 547,000 acres, this landscape is primarily used for cattle grazing but is also rich in wildlife and birdwatching opportunities.

Here, visitors will find rolling hills, wildflower-studded valleys, and big skies that stretch to the horizon. While much of the land is a mix of public and private ownership, respectful access for hiking, hunting, and camping can be arranged with landowner permission.

Outdoor Adventures Await

People enjoying the scenery at the shore of Lake Marie, Wyoming. Editorial credit: venuswix / Shutterstock.com

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is a four-season playground. In winter, snow blankets the higher elevations, transforming them into hubs for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. In summer, the snow melts to reveal hiking trails, fishing lakes, and scenic drives.

Popular Activities Across the Forest

Hiking: From alpine treks in the Snowy Range to gentle grassland trails, hikers of all levels will find something to enjoy.
Fishing and Boating: Numerous lakes and rivers provide opportunities for trout fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Camping: Over 1,000 developed recreation sites cater to tent campers and RV travelers.
Wildlife Viewing: Elk, moose, black bears, bald eagles, and pronghorn antelope all call these lands home.

A Rich Tapestry of History

Colorado grassy fields and trees in the Rocky Mountains near Walden, Gould, and Granby, in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.

This land carries a deep cultural heritage. Long before it became a national forest, Native American tribes used the area for hunting, ceremonies, and crafting tools. The name “Medicine Bow” reflects a blend of traditions: mountain mahogany from the region was prized for making bows, and gatherings often included healing rituals that were said to create “good medicine.”

Later, settlers, ranchers, and miners arrived, leaving behind traces of homesteads, trails, and early ranger stations. During the 20th century, the Civilian Conservation Corps built roads, fire lookouts, and campgrounds that still serve visitors today.

Planning Your Visit

The peaks of the medicine bow range and lookout lake in the medicine bow national forest in southeastern wyoming

Because the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest stretches across such a large area, trip planning is key. Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:

Start at a Ranger Station: Laramie, Saratoga, Douglas, Steamboat Springs, Walden, and Yampa all have ranger offices that provide maps, trail conditions, and permits.
Season Matters: High-elevation roads like the Snowy Range Scenic Byway are often closed by snow until late June or early July.
Pack for Altitude: Many parts of the forest sit above 10,000 feet, so bring layers and stay hydrated.
Check Land Access in Thunder Basin: Because of the mix of public and private lands, always verify that you have permission before hiking or hunting.

Unique Features You Should Not Miss

Boulder fields of Vedauwoo in Wyoming. Sherman Granite boulders in Medicine Bow -Routt National Park

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is not just another collection of mountains and trails, it has some truly special features that set it apart.

Vedauwoo Rock Formations: A playground for climbers and photographers.
Historic Skiing at Steamboat: A world-renowned winter destination that helped popularize champagne powder snow.
Wilderness Density: Ten designated wilderness areas protect some of the most pristine backcountry in the Rocky Mountains.
Diverse Ecosystems: From high alpine tundra to prairie grasslands, this region showcases the full spectrum of western landscapes.

Final Thoughts: Why This Forest Belongs on Your Map

Wildflowers of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is the wild heart of Wyoming and Colorado, where ancient traditions blend with modern recreation and quiet wilderness meets lively ski towns. Spanning 2.2 million acres, it offers alpine peaks for climbers, rolling prairies for wanderers, and valleys where history still lingers. Whether you hike the Snowy Range, ski Steamboat’s slopes, or watch the wind ripple across Thunder Basin, this forest complex delivers an authentic taste of the American West and invites every traveler to explore its rich culture, history, and endless outdoor adventures.