Centennial Live Cam

Medicine Bow National Forest, located in southeastern Wyoming and northern Colorado, is part of the larger Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland. Here's an overview of the history of Medicine Bow National Forest:

Establishment: Medicine Bow National Forest was established on May 22, 1902. It is one of the oldest national forests in the United States. The forest encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including mountain ranges, alpine meadows, and dense forests.

Early Uses: In the early 20th century, the forest was primarily used for logging and grazing. Timber was harvested to meet the growing demand for wood, particularly in the mining and railroad industries. Cattle and sheep grazing were also common activities.

Recreation and Conservation: Over the years, the focus on land management shifted towards conservation and recreational use. Today, Medicine Bow National Forest is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, and winter sports.

Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Era: During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs, played a significant role in developing recreational facilities and improving the forest infrastructure. Many of the trails, campgrounds, and other amenities were constructed during this era.

Wilderness Areas: The Medicine Bow National Forest includes several designated wilderness areas, such as the Medicine Bow Peak, Platte River, and Savage Run Wilderness Areas. These areas provide protection to the natural environment, preserving their pristine and untouched qualities.

Biodiversity: The forest is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. Its ecosystems vary from sagebrush steppe to subalpine forests. Visitors can explore the varied landscapes and appreciate the rich biodiversity.

Fire Management: Like many forests in the western United States, Medicine Bow National Forest has had to deal with wildfire management. Fire plays a natural role in the ecosystem, but efforts are made to prevent and manage wildfires to protect both human communities and the forest's ecological health.

Top Tourist Attractions

Medicine Bow National Forest offers a variety of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top tourist attractions within Medicine Bow National Forest:

• Medicine Bow Peak: Standing at an elevation of 12,013 feet (3,662 meters), Medicine Bow Peak is the highest point in the Snowy Range. Hiking trails lead to the summit, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Vedauwoo Recreation Area: Known for its unique rock formations and excellent rock climbing opportunities, Vedauwoo is a popular spot within the national forest. Visitors can explore the trails, have a picnic, or engage in various recreational activities.
• Snowy Range Scenic Byway: This scenic byway traverses through the Snowy Range, offering spectacular views of alpine meadows, lakes, and dense forests. The byway is particularly stunning during the fall when the foliage changes color.
• Mirror Lake: Mirror Lake is a serene alpine lake surrounded by lush greenery and rocky outcrops. It's a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The reflective surface of the lake often mirrors the surrounding landscape.
• Brooklyn Lake: Brooklyn Lake is another picturesque alpine lake within the forest, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. The lake is surrounded by hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints.
• Hiking and Backpacking Trails: Medicine Bow National Forest features a network of hiking and backpacking trails suitable for various skill levels. Popular trails include the Medicine Bow Peak Trail, Lakes Trail, and Gap Lakes Trail. These trails take you through diverse landscapes, including alpine meadows and dense forests.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, mule deer, moose, black bear, and numerous bird species. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the forest to observe and photograph these animals in their natural habitats.
• Snow Sports in Winter: During the winter months, Medicine Bow National Forest becomes a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in designated areas.
• Centennial Visitor Center: Located near the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, the Centennial Visitor Center provides information about the forest's history, recreational opportunities, and current conditions. It's a great starting point for visitors looking to explore the area.

Before planning your visit, it's advisable to check current conditions, trail statuses, and any seasonal restrictions. Additionally, be sure to respect the Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the forest.

Climate

The climate ranges from semi-arid to subalpine, and visitors can encounter different conditions depending on the specific location within the forest. Here's a general overview of the climate in Medicine Bow National Forest:

• Temperature: At lower elevations, the climate tends to be semi-arid, characterized by relatively mild temperatures. Summers can be warm, with daytime temperatures reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (27-37°C). Winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common. As you ascend to higher elevations, the climate becomes more subalpine. Summers are cooler at higher altitudes, and winters are more severe, with colder temperatures and heavier snowfall. Alpine conditions can be experienced at the highest elevations.
• Precipitation: Precipitation varies across the forest, with higher elevations receiving more moisture. The western side of the forest, closer to the continental divide, tends to be wetter. Precipitation occurs in the form of rain in the warmer months and snow during winter. The precipitation supports the growth of diverse vegetation, ranging from sagebrush and grasslands at lower elevations to coniferous forests at higher elevations.
• Snowfall: Winter brings substantial snowfall to many parts of Medicine Bow National Forest, especially at higher elevations. Snow sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing during the winter months.
• Wind: The region can experience strong and gusty winds, particularly in mountainous areas. Wind speeds can be notable, affecting both the weather conditions and the landscape.
• Seasonal Changes: The forest experiences distinct seasons. Spring brings the awakening of vegetation, with wildflowers blooming in alpine meadows. Summer offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Fall brings colorful foliage as the leaves change, and winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland.

Given the varying conditions across the forest, it's essential for visitors to be prepared for different weather scenarios, particularly if exploring different elevations. Always check local weather forecasts and be aware that conditions can change rapidly, especially in higher elevations. Whether you're hiking, camping, or engaging in winter activities, dressing in layers and being equipped for possible weather changes is advisable.

Geography

Medicine Bow National Forest, part of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, spans across southeastern Wyoming and northern Colorado. It encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including mountains, forests, alpine meadows, lakes, and grasslands. Here are some key geographical features and aspects of Medicine Bow National Forest:

• Mountain Ranges: The forest is home to several mountain ranges, with the Snowy Range being one of the most prominent. The Snowy Range is known for its scenic beauty, alpine lakes, and the highest peak in the forest, Medicine Bow Peak, which stands at 12,013 feet (3,662 meters).
• Alpine Meadows: High elevations in the forest feature alpine meadows with a variety of wildflowers during the warmer months. These meadows offer stunning views and opportunities for hiking.
• Lakes and Rivers: Numerous lakes and rivers are scattered throughout the forest, providing recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Mirror Lake, Brooklyn Lake, and Lake Marie are among the popular lakes in the area.
• Rock Formations: The Vedauwoo Recreation Area, located within Medicine Bow National Forest, is known for its unique rock formations. These granite formations attract rock climbers and hikers. The rocks at Vedauwoo have been weathered into fascinating shapes over time.
• Forests: Coniferous forests dominate many parts of the forest, including species like lodgepole pine, spruce, and fir. These forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife and offer recreational opportunities for hiking and camping.
• Sagebrush Steppe: Lower elevations in the forest may feature sagebrush steppe, a type of semi-arid ecosystem. This landscape is characteristic of the more arid portions of the forest.
• Grasslands: The Thunder Basin National Grassland, which is administratively part of the same unit, extends into northeastern Wyoming and features vast expanses of grasslands. This area is known for its open spaces and is managed for multiple uses, including grazing.
• Wildlife Habitat: The diverse geography of Medicine Bow National Forest provides a range of habitats for wildlife. Visitors may encounter elk, mule deer, moose, black bear, various bird species, and other animals.
• Trails and Recreation Areas: The forest is crisscrossed with hiking and recreational trails, providing access to its diverse geography. The Medicine Bow Peak Trail, Lakes Trail, and the Snowy Range Scenic Byway are popular routes for exploring the area.

Understanding the varied geography of Medicine Bow National Forest is essential for visitors who want to explore its different ecosystems and engage in various outdoor activities. The combination of mountainous terrain, forests, lakes, and grasslands makes it a rich and diverse natural environment.