Exploring Wyoming With the Help of NCPL

By Nicholle Gerharter, Reference Librarian

June 28 , 2006

Are you planning an excursion into the wilds of Wyoming this summer?  Make sure your trip begins with a visit to Natrona County Public Library.  Not only can you stock up on audio books, music CDs and paperbacks to enjoy on your travels, you can also find several Wyoming-specific guides to make the most of your in-state adventure.  With these books in hand, you can avoid the crowds at the popular Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks and explore some of the hidden wonders throughout the state. 

“The Ultimate Wyoming Atlas and Travel Encyclopedia: The Essential Reference Guide to the Cowboy State” provides up-to-date information on dining, lodging, campgrounds, hiking, fishing, ghost towns, maps, gas stops and more for the entire state.  Reference guides provide telephone numbers, price ranges and amenities for lodging and dining.  Historical tales are mingled with photographs and details of attractions in this “ultimate” guide.  Even long-time residents are sure to learn something new while perusing this book!  

“8,000 Miles of Dirt: A Backroad Travel Guide to Wyoming,” by Dan Lewis, is a great guide for those of you with a four-wheel drive, the urge to explore and a few weekends to spare.  The book divides the state into 12 sections, each of which features at least 10 ready-made trips.  The author includes detailed directions and photographs of his travels along the same miles.  One trip close to home is Moneta to Jeffrey City on the Castle Garden-Ore Road. Be sure to pack food, water and a spare tire before heading out on these adventures, and let someone know your travel plans.

“Scenic Driving Wyoming,” a Falcon Guide by Laurence Parent, is another excellent guide for the road warrior.  A handbook with pre-planned trips, Parent’s text includes historical and tourist stop information as well as several color photographs.  Even if your travels this summer are not for recreation, take this book along to learn about the wonders of our state.

If taking a long road trip isn’t on your agenda for the summer, the library has several books that can guide you on hiking and walking adventures.  “Wild Wyoming: A Guide to Sixty-three Roadless Recreation Areas Including the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the Red Desert,” a Falcon Guide by Erik Molvar, is the perfect choice for planning an environmentally-friendly excursion.  Detailed maps and photographs, along with historical, geological and ecological information are included for each area.  Be sure to read the introduction to become more knowledgeable about access issues, safety precautions and trail courtesy.  “Hiking Wyoming’s Wind River Range,” by Ron Adkison, provides more details about this breathtaking country.

Finally, if you don’t have much time to spare this summer, you can explore the Wyoming in your own backyard.  Check out a copy of “Tour Guide: National Historic Trails in Natrona County, Wyoming” prepared by the Natrona County Historical Preservation Commission and Rosenberg Historical Consultants.  Within you’ll find the location and history of the Oregon, California, Mormon Pioneer, and Pony Express trails that wind through our present-day neighborhoods.

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