Wyoming’s first official U.S. Bicycle Route passes through Fremont County, according to recent announcement from the Adventure Cycling Association.
The 496-mile U.S. Bicycle Route 76 stretches from Idaho to Colorado, beginning “near the majestic peaks of Grand Teton National Park” and progressing to “the nearby serene landscapes of Sinks Canyon State Park just south of Lander, where limestone cliffs and a winding creek create a transfixing escape,” the ACA wrote in a press release this month.
“Along the way, USBR 76 passes by the iconic Independence Rock, a towering monolith steeped in pioneer history, before leading cyclists near the tranquil shores of the Alcova Reservoir, where azure waters beckon weary travelers,” the press release states. “Finally, USBR 76 culminates its journey near the soothing Saratoga Hot Springs, providing cyclists with a rejuvenating oasis amidst the Wyoming wilderness.”
Wyoming Department of Transportation Local Government Coordinator Sara Janes said the “iconic route” through the state “offers cyclists an immersive experience amidst the unparalleled natural beauty and historical landmarks of the region.”
ACA led the designation efforts for the route in cooperation with local and regional bicycling advocates; county, municipal, and tribal governments; the National Park Service; the Wyoming Office of Tourism; and the Colorado and Idaho Departments of Transportation, according to the press release.
“None of this would be possible without new and long-standing partnerships with state departments of transportation and local advocates,” ACA Director of Routes Jenn Hamelman said.
The U.S. Bicycle Route system is a developing national network of officially designated, numbered, and signed routes that use existing roads, trails, and other facilities appropriate for bike travel, according to the ACA.
The system will eventually encompass 50,000 miles of routes and open new opportunities for cross-country travel, regional touring, and commuting by bike while also benefiting communities by providing new bicycle routes, enhancing safety, and increasing tourism and economic activity, the press release states.
“It’s satisfying to see the USBRS network grow and know that we are playing a part in making long-distance bicycle travel more accessible to more people through these routes,” Hamelman said.
Digital maps for all designated U.S. Bicycle Routes are available to the public for free on the ACA website.