BRIDLE TRAIL AT ROTARY PARK

Garden Creek Falls in Rotary Park, at the base of Casper Mountain, is one of Casper’s most treasured, iconic mountain getaways. From the cascading waterfall to the towering pines, you are sure to fall in love with nature all over again. 

With multiple picnic tables, iron foot bridges and a gazebo, the park is an ideal spot for a picturesque afternoon. It only takes a few minutes to hike from the parking area to the base of the falls, but many visitors pack a picnic lunch and make an afternoon of it. Sitting among the aspens and ponderosa pine, it’s easy to forget that you’re just a few miles from the heart of the city.

After you’ve soaked in the views of the waterfall, lace up your hiking boots to explore more of the park’s scenic wonders. The 4.5 mile Bridle Trail begins at the base of the falls and features spectacular views of the Casper area below. Reaching Split Rock is a badge of honor for locals and visitors alike. Along the way, you’ll encounter scenic overlooks, blue grouse, deer and an occasional cabin. The trail is well-maintained, well-marked and kid-friendly. In fact, the Bridle Trail has been named one of the top hikes every kid should take at least once by Red Tricycle.

New “lookout” platforms are the most recent additions to Rotary Park. Though steep, the trail to these platforms offers families with children a chance to “scale” the mountain. They also create magnificent photo opportunities that are sure to result in your favorite vacation selfies.