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If you're from Wyoming or are heading to the Cowboy State for your next adventure, you might want to check out the Happy Jack Road motorcycle route. This route is a great option for riders seeking a scenic, quieter alternative to I-80 between Cheyenne and Laramie.
The road allegedly got its name from Jack Hollingsworth, a man with a reportedly cheerful disposition who lived in the area during the late 1800s. About a hundred years later, the state officially designated the road as WY-210—but the nickname “Happy Jack Road” stuck.
Thinking about exploring this historic stretch of highway? Here’s what to know before you go.
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During your ride, you'll pass towering windmills, sprawling ranches, dense pine forests, and striking rock formations. The nearly 38-mile stretch helps connect Laramie and Cheyenne, giving riders access to multiple local sites, including Tie City Trailhead, Happy Jack Recreation Area, and Curt Gowdy State Park.
You can get to Happy Jack Road from Laramie via the Highway 210 exit, located about 7 miles east of the city (exit 323). From Cheyenne, you can take I-25 north, then exit west onto Highway 210 (Happy Jack Road).
The route takes about two hours roundtrip without stops.
Happy Jack Road offers riders a short but unforgettable stretch of Wyoming scenery. Winding between Laramie and Cheyenne, this route delivers sweeping views of open prairie, rocky outcrops, and distant mountain peaks. To better understand where you're going and what there is to see, check out this interactive map of Happy Jack Road.
Before you head out, be sure to check road conditions for the Happy Jack Road motorcycle route. Weather conditions can shift fast at higher elevations, especially near the summit—which is why most motorcyclists try to ride between mid-June and mid-September. This window offers some of the most favorable weather, vibrant scenery, and clear roads.
To help you prep, here's a look at average monthly temperatures in Laramie from April to October.
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A lot of motorcyclists ride this route to enjoy the scenery—rather than the attractions—so most of them are located on either side of Happy Jack Road or within the surrounding area. That said, there are still some stops worth mentioning along the route, including the following:
Located halfway between Laramie and Cheyenne, Curt Gowdy State Park has more than 3,000 acres of recreational area featuring fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. Depending on when you visit, you may also catch a concert or event at the park's amphitheater. With so much to do, why not stay a little longer? The park offers RV and tent sites, plus cabins you can rent.
Covering roughly 55,000 acres, Pole Mountain is a well-known spot for recreation and access to unique terrain. Part of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, the area is especially popular for hiking. For maps, updates, and travel tips, visit the Laramie Visitor Center.
While many riders fuel up and eat before they head out, those who want to stop for a bite along the way have options. Located right on Happy Jack Road, the Bunkhouse Bar & Grill is a local favorite serving everything from bison burgers and prime rib to chef salads and pie à la mode. Catch a live acoustic set every Sunday afternoon and live music events every Friday and Saturday night.
In Wyoming, you are required by law to establish financial responsibility before registering any motor vehicle, including motorcycles. There are a few ways to achieve this. You can:
Deposit money or securities with the Wyoming state treasurer
Secure a bond through a licensed Wyoming surety company
Purchase a liability insurance policy that includes bodily injury and property damage coverage
For those opting for the latter, Dairyland®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, has flexible and affordable motorcycle coverage options, including Wyoming’s required bodily injury and property damage liability. Have questions about covering your motorcycle on your Wyoming adventure? Our team is here to help—contact us today to learn more.
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The general information in this blog is for informational or entertainment purposes only. View our blog disclaimer.