Centennial Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know for your trip to Centennial, Wyoming. From hiking trails to local culture and customs, find it all in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Centennial

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Southeast Wyoming, Centennial is a small town with breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant local culture. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine forests, Centennial offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture seekers alike. Whether you want to go hiking, skiing, or snowmobiling, explore museums and historical places, or simply soak in the stunning scenery, Centennial has something to offer for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Centennial, Wyoming.

List of Places to Visit in Centennial

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Nici Self Historical Museum: Explore the rich history of Centennial and the surrounding area at this museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits showcasing the local culture, ranching and mining history, and the wildlife of the region.
  • Centennial Valley Arts Association: Learn about the local art scene and purchase unique artwork from the region at this gallery located in the heart of the town.
  • Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest: Home to over 1 million acres of untouched wilderness, this sprawling national forest is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Natural Attractions of Centennial: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Snowy Range Scenic Byway: This 30-mile drive offers some of the most spectacular views in the region, with scenic overlooks showcasing the alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and vibrant fall colors.
  • Medicine Bow Peak: Hike to the top of this impressive mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Medicine Bow National Forest: This forest boasts miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as opportunities for camping and wildlife watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Centennial

  • Medicine Bow Peak Trail: This 4.5-mile loop trail takes you through some of the most stunning alpine scenery in the area, including wildflowers, aspen groves, and breathtaking vistas.
  • Medicine Bow Rail Trail: This 22-mile trail follows the path of an old railway line, offering smooth, easygoing terrain for biking or hiking.
  • Turtle Rock Trail: This 10-mile loop trail takes you through towering rock formations and towering pine trees, offering a true sense of wilderness adventure.

Best Things to Do in Centennial: Activities and Tours

  • Snowmobiling: Take a snowmobile tour of the Medicine Bow National Forest, experiencing the thrill of cruising through snowy forests and open meadows.
  • Fishing: Cast a line in the clear alpine streams and rivers in the area, home to brown, brook, and cutthroat trout.
  • Guided Tours: Take a guided tour of the town, discovering hidden gems and interesting history of Centennial and the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Centennial

Day Activities
1 Explore the town of Centennial and visit the Nici Self Historical Museum.
2 Snowmobiling tour in the Medicine Bow National Forest.
3 Day hike on the Medicine Bow Peak Trail.
4 Guided tour to explore the local art scene.
5 Fishing trip in alpine streams and rivers.
6 Spend the day skiing or snowboarding in Snowy Range Ski Area.
7 Take a scenic drive along the Snowy Range Scenic Byway.

Food and Drink Scene of Centennial

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: A delicious and locally sourced dish, the bison burger is a must-try for meat lovers. Served with fresh toppings and homemade sauces, it’s a true Wyoming delicacy.
  • Steak: The beef in Wyoming is renowned for its high quality, so be sure to try a perfectly cooked steak during your visit.
  • Huckleberry Pie: Wyoming is also known for its wild huckleberries, which make for a delicious and unique dessert.

Local Beverages

  • Wyoming Whiskey: This local distillery produces small-batch whiskey using hand-selected grains and pure Wyoming water.
  • Snowy Range Brewing Company: Sample the diverse and delicious selection of craft beers brewed right here in Centennial.

Where to Stay in Centennial: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mountain View Historic Hotel: This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Centennial, offering comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and stunning mountain views.
  • The Miner’s Inn: A cozy and rustic motel located in the town center, featuring affordable rates and easy access to local attractions.
  • Cozy Cabin: This authentic log cabin offers a secluded and romantic accommodation option, ideal for couples looking for a unique and intimate experience.

What to Buy in Centennial: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Quilts: Centennial is home to a vibrant quilting community, and purchasing a handmade quilt is a great way to bring home a unique and cozy souvenir.
  • Local Artwork: Visit the Centennial Valley Arts Association gallery to purchase locally made artwork and crafts, including pottery, paintings, and jewelry.
  • Wyoming Whiskey: Bring home a bottle of Wyoming Whiskey as a delicious and distinctive souvenir from your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Centennial

Centennial has a rich and vibrant cowboy culture, with a deep connection to the land and the traditions of the West. Visitors are encouraged to embrace this culture through activities such as rodeos, traditional dance performances, and local fairs. It’s also important to respect the land and wildlife, and to take care of the environment during your visit.

Best Time to Visit Centennial

The best time to visit Centennial is during the summer and fall months, from June to September. This is when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most stunning, with wildflowers in bloom and fall colors in full effect. For winter sports enthusiasts, the ski season typically runs from November to April, with ample snowfall and excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Centennial

Do:

  • Embrace the local cowboy culture and attend events such as rodeos and fairs.
  • Respect the land and wildlife by hiking and camping responsibly.
  • Try local delicacies such as bison burgers, steaks, and huckleberry pie.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment in any way.
  • Approach or feed wildlife, as this can be dangerous and harmful.
  • Disrespect the local culture or traditions of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Centennial

Centennial is a generally safe town, but visitors should be cautious when hiking or camping in the surrounding wilderness. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and bring appropriate gear and supplies.

Health in Centennial

There are no major health risks in Centennial, but visitors should be aware of the high altitude of the area, which may cause altitude sickness. It’s also important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen, as the sun can be intense at high elevations.

Getting to Centennial: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Centennial

  • Denver International Airport: This is the closest major airport, located roughly 140 miles from Centennial.

Bus Stations Near Centennial

  • There are no major bus stations in Centennial, but visitors can take a Greyhound bus to Laramie, Wyoming, which is located about 30 miles away.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Visitors can also rent a car from Denver International Airport and drive to Centennial, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

How to Get Around in Centennial

The best way to get around Centennial is by car, as public transportation is limited. Taxis and rideshare services are available but may be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Centennial: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Laramie, Wyoming: A historic town with a thriving arts and culture scene, Laramie offers a variety of unique experiences for visitors.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park: Located in Colorado, this national park is known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
  • Cheyenne, Wyoming: The state capital of Wyoming, Cheyenne is a lively and interesting destination, with rich history and a bustling downtown.

Conclusion

Centennial, Wyoming, is a hidden gem nestled in the Rocky Mountains, offering unparalleled natural beauty, rich culture, and exciting activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re hiking to the top of Medicine Bow Peak or enjoying a bison burger at a local restaurant, Centennial is a must-visit destination for any lover of the outdoors and the West.

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