The Pilot Hill trail system in Laramie, Wyoming now has a 7.5-mile trail connecting it to the Happy Jack Recreation Area, allowing for a seamless singletrack connection between the two areas. This new trail, known as the “Pole Mountain Connector” or “Pilot Hill Connector,” aims to increase tourism revenue in downtown Laramie by attracting both locals and tourists to the area.
The construction of the Pilot Hill Connector trail is part of an effort to increase tourism revenue in Laramie, as outdoor recreation represents a significant portion of Wyoming’s GDP. By allowing riders to leave their cars in town and enjoy a 100-mile loop without touching pavement, the trail is expected to create a direct economic impact on the community.
While the Curt Gowdy State Park has seen a massive increase in visitation numbers due to mountain bike trails, the impact has not extended to Laramie or nearby Cheyenne. The hope is that with the new singletrack connectivity available directly from downtown Laramie, the city will be able to attract some of those visitors to spend their money in the area. Wyoming Pathways continues to work on trail development in Laramie, with plans to improve existing trails in the Happy Jack trail system.
