Medicine Bow Peak via Mirror Lake Trailhead

Medicine Bow Peak (12,014 ft) is the highest summit in Wyoming's Snowy Range and one of the most accessible alpine summits in the American West. From the Mirror Lake Trailhead, you're starting deep in the high country with the hard work already done — the trailhead sits above 10,000 feet, putting the summit within striking distance for hikers of moderate fitness in a half day.

The Snowy Range sits within Medicine Bow National Forest, about an hour west of Laramie along the Snowy Range Scenic Byway (SR-130). The scenery on the drive alone is worth the trip.

The Route

From Mirror Lake Trailhead, the trail winds through a network of high-alpine lakes before climbing to the summit. The terrain shifts from wildflower meadows and glassy lakes to open boulder fields and talus as you gain elevation — a classic Wyoming alpine progression.

• Distance: ~7.5 miles (loop option) or shorter out-and-back depending on route
• Elevation gain: ~1,800 ft
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Summit: 12,014 ft — panoramic views of the Snowy and Sierra Madre mountain ranges

The upper section transitions into a rocky boulder field — follow the cairns and keep hopping. The final push to the summit involves a short scramble. At the top, you're rewarded with big Wyoming sky views and the alpine lakes shimmering far below.

Pro tip: Snow lingers in the couloirs well into summer. If you're feeling adventurous, bring rain pants and use a snowfield as a sled on the way down.

The Lakes

The Mirror Lake Trailhead puts you right in the heart of the Snowy Range lake network — one of the area's biggest draws. Expect to pass several pristine alpine lakes along the route, each reflecting the surrounding peaks on calm mornings. Early risers are rewarded with mirror-still reflections and the alpenglow hitting the ridge above.

The lakes are also popular for fishing — rainbow and brook trout are common — and the water quality is exceptional.

Wildflowers & Wildlife

Mid-summer (late June through August) brings an exceptional wildflower display across the alpine meadows. Keep an eye out for marmots and pikas on the boulder fields near the summit, and raptors riding thermals above the ridge.

Trailhead Options

Medicine Bow Peak has four trailheads — Mirror Lake is a strong choice for accessing the lakes network first:

• Mirror Lake Trailhead — 41.338138, -106.3235919
• Lake Marie Trailhead — most popular, largest parking area
• Lewis Lake Trailhead — access from the north
• Dipper Lake Trailhead — quieter, less traffic

Stop at the Visitor Center in Centennial before you go — free trail maps and current conditions, worth the few minutes.

Practical Info

• Parking: Large lot at Mirror Lake; fills on summer weekends — arrive early
• Bathrooms: Vault toilets at trailhead (bring your own TP on busy weekends)
• Dogs: Welcome on leash
• Season: July–September is prime; trail can hold snow into June and after early October storms
• Nearest town: Centennial, WY (~30 min) and Laramie, WY (~1 hr)
• From Colorado: About 1 hour north of Fort Collins via I-25 to Laramie, then SR-130 west — a very doable day trip