Evanston, Wyoming, offers an impressive array of outdoor parks and trails perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and families seeking recreational activities. The city’s parks blend scenic river views, wildlife observation opportunities, and well-maintained walking and biking paths. Below is a guide to some of Evanston’s best outdoor parks and trails to explore in 2025.
Bear River State Park
Bear River State Park is undoubtedly Evanston’s crown jewel for outdoor recreation. Spanning 324 acres, it features a variety of paved and dirt trails suitable for walking, biking, and running.
The Bear River Greenway trail runs through the park alongside the river, offering picturesque views and peaceful spots for relaxing. Wildlife enthusiasts can often spot bison, elk, and frequent sightings of moose and deer.
The park is equipped with picnic areas, covered pavilions, outdoor grills, and accessible restrooms, making it a great destination for families and visitors of all ages. The onsite visitor center also hosts educational exhibits and junior ranger programs for kids, enhancing the park’s appeal as a prime outdoor classroom.
Evanston Trail System
The city boasts more than 16 miles of trails that crisscross downtown and extend into natural areas. Among these is the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail and the Olympic Parkway Trail, ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling. Whether seeking gentle, flat paved paths or more rustic dirt trails, Evanston’s trail system offers diversity in length and difficulty.
Natural scenery along these routes includes the flowing Bear River, open meadows, and abundant birdlife such as kingfishers and sandhill cranes. Some trails are popular spots for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, ensuring year-round outdoor enjoyment.
Lofty Lake Loop and Nearby Hiking
For hikers wanting a more adventurous experience near Evanston, the Lofty Lake Loop trail inside Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest provides a scenic 4-mile loop. This trail features forest views, alpine meadows, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, offering a refreshing escape into Wyoming’s mountainous landscape. It’s recommended for moderately experienced hikers and best enjoyed in late spring through early fall.
Additional Recreation and Wildlife Viewing
Besides formal trails, Evanston’s parks and riverbanks serve as natural habitats for diverse fauna, attracting observers of birds, muskrats, beavers, and a variety of songbirds. The city’s community events often incorporate park cleanups, bird watching opportunities, and guided nature walks to engage residents and visitors alike. These activities help maintain the pristine condition of outdoor spaces while fostering environmental stewardship.
Visiting Tips and Accessibility
Bear River State Park and many of Evanston’s urban trails offer accessible routes suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Ample parking and convenient entry points make the parks easy to visit.
Winter visitors should check trail conditions, as some dirt paths are closed or less passable during snow months. Bringing water, sunscreen, and proper footwear is recommended for all outdoor activities to ensure safety and comfort.
Whether for a relaxing stroll along the river, an energetic hike in the mountains, or a family picnic surrounded by wildlife, Evanston’s outdoor parks and trails provide a perfect setting to connect with nature and enjoy Wyoming’s great outdoors in 2025.
Sources
(https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g60461-Activities-c61-t87-Evanston_Wyoming.html)
(https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g60461-d1860693-Reviews-Bear_River_State_Park-Evanston_Wyoming.html)
(https://wyoparks.wyo.gov/index.php/places-to-go/bear-river)
(https://www.traillink.com/city/evanston-wy-trails/)
(https://www.gaiagps.com/hike/city/united-states/wyoming/evanston/)
