You can make Denver to Laramie in about 2.25 hours, but the people who love this drive never do it in one straight shot. At around 130 miles on I-25 and US-287, it is short enough to start after breakfast and long enough to earn a night somewhere memorable before kickoff.
Open this route in XCRSNLeaving Denver
Aim to clear Denver before the morning rush, or after it, never in it. Fill the tank on the edge of town where prices usually drop, set the playlist, and settle in for the first 66 miles to Fort Collins.
The headline stop on this route is War Memorial Stadium, the highest in the FBS. Leave real time for it; it sets the tone for the whole trip.
Fort Collins, the last stretch
Fort Collins sits about 66 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Nearby, Vedauwoo rock formations is worth the short detour if the day is going well.
Rolling into Laramie
The final 64 miles always go faster than you expect. Save a little energy for Fort Collins breweries; it is a fitting finish.
By the end you will have seen War Memorial Stadium, the highest in the FBS, Vedauwoo rock formations and Fort Collins breweries, and you will understand why this corridor is a classic.
Game day at War Memorial Stadium
On a Wyoming Cowboys home weekend, Laramie changes completely. Rooms near War Memorial Stadium sell out months ahead and rates can triple, so lock in your night as soon as the schedule drops, or stay one town back along I-25 and US-287 and drive in early.
Plan to arrive the night before kickoff. Lots and tailgate spots fill hours before the game, and the drive home after the final whistle is the slowest 130 miles of the season, so a second night is usually the smarter play.
When to go and how to pace it
One night is the sweet spot. Laramie, WY is where most people stay, so book ahead on summer weekends.
Check live gas prices along I-25 and US-287 before you go; they can swing a lot from one state or county to the next. XCRSN prices every leg for your exact car.
