Dry Creek Greenway

Description

Let’s talk about the Dry Creek Greenway, because this place is one of those hidden spots in Cheyenne that keeps popping up in locals’ conversations. Why? Because it just quietly delivers, time after time. If the word ‘greenway’ makes you think of a short, scrappy walking trail behind a strip mall—guess again. Dry Creek Greenway runs along its namesake creek, rolling out more than merely a nice stroll. The path has that roomy, open vibe you really want when you need to clear your head. It’s less of a congested, urban park, and more an easy escape that feels laid-back and genuinely welcoming, even for newcomers.

I’ve done plenty of walks, runs, and the occasional bike ride here, and it always gives me a surprising sense of space. It’s a straightforward spot in the best way—accessible, pet-friendly, and no-nonsense about whether you show up in your workout gear or street clothes. And you know what? One of the best things is seeing both kids and older folks (sometimes both together), and always a range of leashed dogs sniffing everything. You might even spot deer, rabbits, or hawks if you’re paying attention.

Sure, sometimes there’s a muddy patch after rain, or the prairie wind tries to blow your hat off (welcome to Wyoming!), but the Greenway always has more upsides than quibbles. There’s space to move and breathe. It’s the sort of place where the highway noise doesn’t overshadow the sound of crickets, if that makes sense. And if you’re into a little people-watching, you’ll get plenty—from families teaching kids to ride bikes, to athletes training, to folks just unwinding after a stressful day. So, if you’re looking for a casual outdoor fix in Cheyenne that won’t feel overwhelming or underwhelming, Dry Creek Greenway is hard to beat.

Key Features

• Accessible: Wheelchair-friendly entrances and parking, so anyone can come along—honestly, more parks should take notes.
• Pet-Friendly: Bring your dog (leashes, please)—this is a favorite jaunt for furballs and their humans, and I can attest, they love it.
• Great for Kids: Mostly flat paths and safe stretches, plus plenty of wildlife to spot or puddles to leap over. A win for burn-off-energy missions.
• Open Trail System: Long, interconnected paths perfect for walking, jogging, running, or biking. No need to circle back immediately if you’re chasing mileage.
• Serene Natural Setting: Nothing fancy, but you get grasses, wildflowers, cottonwoods, and the calming trickle of Dry Creek itself—little slices of calm away from the city.
• Wide Pathways: No shoulder-checks necessary. You can stroll side by side with a friend or go solo without dodging crowds.
• Ample Parking: Never once had to do that desperate search for a side street or park two miles away.
• All-Season Appeal: While some folks pack it in after fall, winter can be shockingly peaceful here (just wear the right boots—snowdrifts happen).

Best Time to Visit

If I had to pick a season, I’d say late spring stretches into early summer as the high point, at least for me. That’s when everything feels like it’s showing off—wildflowers burst out, the grass is plush, and the weather won’t have you sweating buckets by 10 a.m. Mornings here are especially magical. Trust me, there’s nothing like being greeted by a light breeze, streaks of sunrise, and maybe even seeing a rabbit dart across the path.

Fall comes with its own charm, too. The fading leaves paint the cottonwoods all sorts of gold, and honestly, you’ll want your phone for pictures. If you come in the heart of winter, the snow muffles everything into a quiet you rarely get in a city—perfect for a meditative stroll if you have the gear for it. Summers get warm, but early mornings are still plenty pleasant. And, if you don’t mind the crisp air, cupping a thermos of coffee here in the colder months feels like your own little retreat.

How to Get There

Now, don’t let Google Maps intimidate you—the Greenway is way less complicated to reach than you might think. If you’re rolling into Cheyenne along the main drags, you’ll find the biggest access point just off a main boulevard. There’s nothing mysterious about it: ample parking, obvious signage, and no tricky, hidden entrances. I usually swing in from the northern stretches, but if you’re traveling by bike or even walking from nearby neighborhoods, you can drop in from a handful of easy spots.

If you’re using public transport, there are a couple of stops nearby, but Cheyenne being Cheyenne, it’s often quicker to drive or bike in. If you’re new in town or have helpers who need wheelchair access, you’ll be pleasantly surprised—the ADA-compliant paths and parking lots mean you won’t be stuck at a curb scrambling for a ramp.

Personally, on a sunny morning, I’ll park, adjust my hat (Wyoming wind, remember?), and hop right onto the trail within a minute. If you’re like me and hate circling for that elusive parking space, this is a big relief.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s where a little local wisdom goes a long way. First up: the weather. I know everyone says “bring layers” for Wyoming, but seriously—one minute it’s sunshine, the next it’s a prairie squall. Pack a windbreaker, some water, and you’re set.

If you’re biking, keep an eye out for families and leashed dogs, especially on weekends. I’ve seen more than a few near-misses that could just have used a bell ring or a quick “on your left!” If walking, remember the unspoken code: stick right, pass left, and wave at your fellow greenway-ers (it’s the friendly thing to do in these parts).

Now, dogs—bring ‘em, by all means, but keep the leash tight. There’s plenty of room to wander, but the ducks and the smaller wildlife will thank you. Maybe stash a couple of doggie bags in your pocket, too, because—let’s be real—the prairie wind does nothing to mask scents!

There aren’t many water fountains, so fill your bottle at home. And if you’re making a bigger outing of it, pack a snack or two; the benches scattered along the trail make perfect mini-picnic stops. If you like photography (or just want a new background for your phone), the sunrise and sunset light along the creek are ridiculously Instagrammable, not that I’d ever admit I care about those things.

All in all, come with a flexible plan. Maybe you’ll do the whole trail out-and-back, maybe you’ll just meander and people-watch. Either way, the Dry Creek Greenway offers a proper break from city clutter, and—if I may say—lets you feel a little lighter by the time you’re back at your car. Don’t overthink it; just come as you are and see for yourself why so many folks keep circling back to this Cheyenne classic.

Location

Places to Stay Near Dry Creek Greenway

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides