10 Easy Road Trips from Torrington, Wyoming (That Take You Out of Goshen County)
If you’re based in
Torrington, Wyoming and itching to hit the road, you’re in a sweet spot. You’re close to some of the most interesting small towns, historic sites, and wide–open landscapes in the West.
The best part? Most of these
road trips from Torrington are just a couple of hours away, making them perfect for a day trip or a relaxed weekend getaway.
Below you’ll find 10 short out-of-county drives to explore the best of:
No stops in Goshen County itself—this list is all about what’s
near you but just over the line.
1. Scotts Bluff National Monument – Classic Western Views
Where: Near
Gering, Scotts Bluff County, NE
Approx. drive from Torrington: About 45–60 minutes (around 40 miles)
Scotts Bluff National Monument feels like a scene from an old Western movie. Jagged bluffs rise suddenly above the plains, and you can almost imagine wagon trains rolling by below.
Why go:
- Hike or drive to the summit for huge views over the North Platte River Valley.
- Walk parts of the Oregon Trail and see wagon ruts.
- Visit the visitor center to learn about pioneer history.
If you’re not big on hiking, don’t worry. There’s a paved summit road with tunnels carved into the rock. The first time I drove it, I rolled the windows down and just listened to the wind echo through the tunnels. Simple, but kind of magical.
Trip tip: Pair this stop with a meal in nearby Gering or
Scottsbluff and you’ve got a full, easy day trip from Torrington.
2. Legacy of the Plains Museum – Farm & Ranch Heritage
Where: Gering, Scotts Bluff County, NE
Approx. drive from Torrington: About 45–60 minutes
Right down the road from Scotts Bluff National Monument, the
Legacy of the Plains Museum digs into the story behind those fields you drive past every day.
Highlights:
- Vintage tractors and farm equipment (great if you travel with kids or history buffs).
- Exhibits on irrigation, ranching, and early settlers.
- An open landscape with the bluffs as a backdrop—very photogenic.
If you grew up around agriculture, this place hits a bit different. You’ll see tools and machines that look like something your grandparents might’ve used.
Road trip idea: Start at the museum in late morning, then head to Scotts Bluff National Monument for an afternoon hike or scenic drive.
3. Chimney Rock National Historic Site – Icon of the Oregon Trail
Where: Near Bayard, Scotts Bluff County, NE
Approx. drive from Torrington: About 1.5 hours (around 80–90 miles)
You’ve probably seen photos of
Chimney Rock in a history book. In person, it’s even more striking—a tall rock spire rising out of nowhere in the middle of the plains.
What to do:
- Visit the interpretive center to learn about the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails.
- Watch short films about the pioneers who passed this landmark.
- Walk the short trails with clear views of the rock.
You can’t hike right up to the base because it’s protected, but honestly, the best views are from a little distance anyway.
Good to know: This makes a fun half-day trip. If you want to stretch it out, combine Chimney Rock with a stop in Gering or Scottsbluff for food and shopping.
4. Fort Laramie National Historic Site – Frontier Army Post
Where: Platte County, WY (near the town of
Fort Laramie)
Approx. drive from Torrington: About 30–40 minutes (around 25–30 miles)
Fort Laramie is one of the most important historic spots in the American West. It started as a fur trading post and later became a major U.S. Army fort.
Why it’s worth the drive:
- Explore restored buildings like the old barracks and officers’ quarters.
- Walk through wide open parade grounds that feel frozen in time.
- Learn about Native American history, the Oregon Trail, and military life.
I recommend just wandering the grounds slowly. Read the signs, peek into the old rooms, and let your mind picture what it looked like 150 years ago.
Travel tip: Wear comfy shoes. There’s a bit of walking, but it’s mostly flat and easy.
5. Guernsey State Park & Oregon Trail Ruts – History Meets Lake Time
Where: Near Guernsey, Platte County, WY
Approx. drive from Torrington: About 1 hour
Looking for a day that combines history, water, and views?
Guernsey State Park delivers.
Top things to see and do:
- Oregon Trail Ruts: Deep wagon ruts carved into stone—some of the best-preserved on the whole trail.
- Register Cliff: A sandstone wall covered with names carved by pioneers.
- Lake time: Boating, fishing, and picnicking along the reservoir.
- Scenic overlooks built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
The first time you stand in those ruts, it hits you: wagons actually wore grooves into solid rock. It makes the pioneer story feel very real.
Day-trip idea: Hit the ruts and Register Cliff in the morning, then relax along the lake in the afternoon.
6. Cheyenne – Wyoming’s Cowboy Capital
Where: Cheyenne, Laramie County, WY
Approx. drive from Torrington: Around 1.75–2 hours (roughly 110–120 miles)
When you’re ready for more city energy,
Cheyenne is your go-to. It’s the state capital and a fun mix of old-school Western and modern small city.
Things to do on a day trip:
- Walk around downtown and check out Western stores and local cafés.
- Visit the Wyoming State Capitol and nearby museums.
- See the old railroad depot and giant “Big Boy” steam locomotive.
If you visit during
Cheyenne Frontier Days (usually late July), you’ll find one of the biggest rodeo events in the world. Just be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
Why it’s a good road trip from Torrington: It’s far enough to feel like “getting away,” but still close enough for a long day or quick overnight.
7. Lusk – Quiet Gateway to the High Plains
Where: Lusk, Niobrara County, WY
Approx. drive from Torrington: About 1.5 hours (around 85–95 miles)
Lusk is a small, friendly town that makes a peaceful break from daily routine. The drive itself is part of the charm—wide views, open skies, and very little traffic.
Things to explore:
- Walk the small downtown and pop into local shops.
- Stop at the Niobrara County Museum (check hours ahead of time).
- Enjoy a laid-back meal in a local diner.
This is one of those places where you slow down without even trying. If you like long, easy drives and simple stops, Lusk is a nice change of pace.
Tip: Bring snacks and water; services can be spaced out once you’re outside town.
8. Glendo State Park – Boating, Camping, and Big Skies
Where: Near Glendo, Platte County, WY
Approx. drive from Torrington: Around 1.5 hours (roughly 90–100 miles)
Looking for a summer lake day?
Glendo State Park is a favorite for folks all over eastern Wyoming.
What you can do:
- Boat, paddleboard, or kayak on the reservoir.
- Fish for walleye and other species.
- Camp at one of the many campgrounds around the lake.
- Hike or bike along the growing network of trails.
On a calm morning, the water can look like glass, with cliffs and hills reflecting off the surface. It’s hard to beat that view with a cup of coffee in hand.
Planning note: In summer, weekends can get busy, so arrive early for the best spots.
9. Scottsbluff & Gering – Small Cities, Big Flavor
Where: Scottsbluff and Gering, Scotts Bluff County, NE
Approx. drive from Torrington: About 45–60 minutes
If you’re craving more restaurant choices, coffee shops, and stores than you’ll find at home, a quick run to
Scottsbluff–Gering is an easy win.
Ideas for your visit:
- Grab breakfast or lunch at a local café or diner.
- Walk around downtown shops.
- Combine with a visit to Scotts Bluff National Monument or Legacy of the Plains Museum.
This is the kind of trip you can make on a random Saturday when you don’t want to drive too far but still want something different from your usual routine.
Bonus: Around the holidays, downtown lights and decorations make it feel extra cozy.
10. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument – Fossils on the Prairie
Where: Near Harrison, Sioux County, NE
Approx. drive from Torrington: Around 1.75–2 hours (roughly 90–100 miles, depending on route)
If you’re into nature, geology, or just unique landscapes,
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is worth the trip.
What makes it special:
- Excellent displays of ancient mammal fossils from the Miocene era.
- Easy hiking trails across quiet prairie country.
- Exhibits featuring Native American artifacts and history.
It’s not a crowded park, which means you’ll often have the trails mostly to yourself. On a clear day, the sky seems to stretch forever in every direction.
Good to know: Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Shade can be limited, and the sun can feel strong, even when it isn’t hot.
Making the Most of Your Torrington Road Trips
Living in or near Torrington, you’re in a perfect spot for quick getaways. Within about two hours, you can:
- Stand in real Oregon Trail wagon ruts.
- Tour historic forts and fossil sites.
- Relax by lakes and reservoirs.
- Enjoy small city vibes in Cheyenne or Scottsbluff.
If you like to plan ahead, try this:
- Once a month: Pick one of these road trips.
- Rotate themes: One history trip, one outdoor trip, one “small city” day, and so on.
Before you go, always double-check:
- Driving conditions and road closures
- State park or monument hours
- Weather—especially in winter and spring
Share Your Favorite Road Trips from Torrington
Have you visited any of these places from Torrington?
Do you have another favorite road trip in:
- Scotts Bluff County, NE
- Sioux County, NE
- Laramie County, WY
- Niobrara County, WY
- Platte County, WY
Leave a comment with your must-see spots, hidden gems, or road trip tips—your ideas can help other travelers plan their own adventures.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends and family who live in or near Torrington, Wyoming. A simple share might be the push someone needs to get out and explore the incredible places just beyond their own county line.
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