Laramie, Wyoming, rests at a noteworthy 7,165 feet (2,184 meters) above sea level. This elevation isn’t merely a statistic; it’s the bedrock of Laramie’s unique identity, influencing its climate, shaping its history, and even impacting the daily lives of its residents. Let’s explore how this high-altitude setting defines Laramie.
Breathing Easy (or Not): Laramie’s Climate
Laramie’s elevated position delivers crisp, clean air and abundant sunshine. This thinner air, while invigorating, can require some adjustment for newcomers. It’s advisable to take it easy upon arrival, drink plenty of water, and allow your body to acclimate. The reduced humidity makes the sunny days especially pleasant, but the cooler temperatures year-round are a stark contrast to lower-lying areas.
Reaching New Heights: Recreation in Laramie
Laramie’s altitude isn’t just about the air; it’s about access to breathtaking outdoor adventures. Hiking, biking, and skiing take on a new dimension at this elevation. While you might feel the thinner air in your lungs, the panoramic views from the nearby Snowy Range mountains are a worthy reward. The Snowies, just a short drive west, offer even higher peaks to explore, with the air noticeably thinning as you ascend.
A Historic High Point: Laramie’s Strategic Position
Laramie’s location on a high plain between the Snowy Range and Laramie Range wasn’t accidental; it played a crucial role in the town’s history. This elevated plateau provided a relatively level route for both the Overland Stage Line and the transcontinental railroad, establishing Laramie as a vital crossroads in the American West.
More Than Mountains: The Laramie Community
Laramie is more than its elevation; it’s a dynamic college town, home to the University of Wyoming, WyoTech, and Laramie County Community College. This academic presence contributes to a youthful energy, reflected in the city’s median age of just 25.4. The 2020 census recorded 31,407 residents—a diverse mix of students, long-term locals, and newcomers attracted to Laramie’s blend of mountain living and academic vibrancy.
Putting Laramie’s Elevation in Perspective
Comparing Laramie’s elevation to other locations helps illustrate its high-altitude status:
City
State
Elevation (feet)
Laramie
WY
7,165
Denver
CO
5,280
Santa Fe
NM
7,199
Flagstaff
AZ
6,909
Leadville
CO
10,152
While not the highest city in the US, Laramie’s elevation significantly shapes its character. Ongoing research continues to investigate the long-term effects of high-altitude living, with some studies suggesting potential health implications, while others emphasize the psychological benefits of proximity to nature.
Why is Laramie, Wyoming Famous?
Laramie isn’t simply a blip on the map; it’s a place where the spirit of the Wild West lingers, interwoven with the energy of a modern university town. Its fame stems from a confluence of history, natural beauty, and a distinct cultural blend.
Laramie’s Wild West roots run deep. In the mid-1860s, it thrived as a tent city supporting the Union Pacific Railroad and the Overland Stage Line. This era, sometimes referred to as “Hell on Wheels,” brought a wave of fortune-seekers, travelers, and even outlaws like Butch Cassidy, who served time in the Wyoming Territorial Prison. The railroad transformed Laramie from a remote outpost into a vital supply hub.
The moniker “Gem City of the Plains” speaks to Laramie’s early embrace of innovation. It was among the first in the Rocky Mountain region to harness electricity, a testament to its forward-thinking spirit.
The University of Wyoming, founded in 1886, anchors the city, contributing a vibrant academic atmosphere. Along with WyoTech, these institutions create a unique blend of “cowboys and scholars.”
Laramie’s stunning natural setting, nestled at 7,200 feet amidst the Laramie Mountains, provides a backdrop for outdoor exploration. Hiking trails, clear streams, and breathtaking vistas are just minutes from the historic Wyoming Territorial Prison.
Laramie’s fame is a tapestry woven from threads of Wild West history, innovative spirit, academic pursuits, and natural splendor. It’s a place where the past and present converge, creating a truly unique destination.
Is Laramie Higher than Denver?
Laramie sits significantly higher than Denver, a difference substantial enough to influence the environment and visitor experience. Denver, the “Mile High City,” rests at 5,280 feet, while Laramie sits nearly 2,000 feet higher at approximately 7,200 feet.
Traveling from Denver to Laramie, you’ll gradually ascend, the air thinning noticeably. This change in altitude can lead to altitude sickness for some, with symptoms like headaches and shortness of breath. Staying hydrated and taking it easy are key to acclimatizing.
Laramie’s location between the Snowy Range and Laramie Range further distinguishes it from Denver. These mountains create microclimates, resulting in varied weather patterns within the city itself. Winter travel can be particularly challenging, with conditions changing rapidly.
Living at this elevation offers unique advantages, such as crisper air and stunning views. While the thinner air requires adjustment, it’s part of Laramie’s charm.
Is Laramie a Mountain Town?
Laramie occupies a unique geographical niche, situated on a high plain but surrounded by majestic mountain ranges. Whether it’s a “mountain town” is a matter of perspective.
At 7,200 feet, Laramie is higher than Denver, with clean mountain air and spectacular views. However, its location on a high plain distinguishes it from towns nestled within valleys.
The nearby Snowy Range and Laramie Range offer immediate access to hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits. This proximity to the mountains is a major draw for residents and visitors alike.
Laramie offers the best of both worlds: access to outdoor adventures and the conveniences of a larger town, complete with a vibrant downtown and the University of Wyoming. This blend of urban and mountain influences defines Laramie’s unique character.
Living at 7,200 feet means a unique climate, with cooler temperatures and dramatic weather swings. This unpredictability fosters adaptability and resilience among residents.
Laramie defies easy categorization. It’s not a typical mountain town nor simply a city on the plains. It’s a high-altitude hub blending urban and mountain influences, creating a distinct lifestyle appealing to a wide range of people.
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