Are you ready to fall in love with Casper, Wyoming? While every season holds a little magic of its own, Casper truly charms in the fall season. Filled with the brightest reds and the deepest gold hues during September and October, that’s when the area’s natural beauty shines through in spectacular fashion. Come and explore Casper’s great outdoors in a different color.
Casper Mountain
Casper Mountain is a gorgeous hub of all things outdoors for the city of Casper. The mountain boasts a stunning 50 miles of trails for all different abilities, an archery range, and stunning parks.
One part of Casper Mountain that is a must-see for fall foliage is Garden Creek Falls and the Bridle Trail in Rotary Park. A favorite of locals since the 1940s, the park is the perfect spot for some grilling, late nights by the fire pits, hiking, having picnics, or just relaxing by the waterfall. The Bridle Tail in the park has 4.5 miles of overlooks, mountain streams, blooming wildflowers, and the iconic Split Rock, the landmark that takes you straight through the side of Casper Mountain. Well-maintained and marked, this trail is a unique, family-friendly experience you won’t get anywhere else.
Platte River Trails
In fall, the changing colors cast the entire city of Casper into different hues, like something out of a painting. The best way to see the melding of urban architecture and the beauty of the natural world is through the Platte River Trails.
The Platte River Trails peacefully take you through both Casper’s urban and natural landscapes for about 11 miles. The trail is free to use and perfect for biking, hiking, dog walking, running, or even rollerblading! Breathtaking views of the city, mountain, and river surround the path, where you can find interpretative signage, mile markers, wildlife information, and stunning public art.
Alcova Reservoir
Thirty minutes from the heart of Casper sits an awe-inspiring 2,470-acre oasis — the Alcova Reservoir. Best known for its beautiful sunrises, glistening water, and abundant water recreation and fishing opportunities, the reservoir is a perfect escape into the great outdoors, surrounded by colorful foliage. This stunning spot is home to six campgrounds, eight boat ramps, a fishing pier, and an interpretive hiking route that takes you through the area’s geological eras, known as the Cottonwood Creek Dino Trail. With so much to offer, you’ll never want to leave!
Edness Kimball Wilkins Park
If you’re looking to really lose yourself in Casper’s fall foliage, Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park is a must-do adventure. The park features an endless amount of cottonwood trees and riparian areas perfect for photos and opportunities to spot wildlife. Home to birds, deer, antelope, and other small animals, the Wyoming Audubon Society has designated the park as an important bird area. In addition to awe-inspiring sights, the park also features a swimming pond, 2.8 miles of paved trails, 40 picnic areas, volleyball courts, boat and river access, and playground areas so you can explore any way you like.
Campgrounds
Imagine lying on your back and staring up into nothing but clear blue skies. The only thing dotting your vision is the colorful leaves of fall. The air feels crisp and fresh, and the only sounds you hear are the songs of the native wildlife. With Casper’s highly-rated campgrounds, such as Fort Casper Campground and the Alcova Resort, you can fully immerse yourself in all of Casper’s fall colors!