Lonetree on the Laramie Range

The panel turns the president's ride around. Theodore Roosevelt left his train at Laramie on the morning of May 30, 1903 and rode to Cheyenne, about 65 miles with ten companions, changing horses three times and stopping at Van Tassell's for lunch. A route traced from that week's newspapers and the 1903 survey maps runs up Telephone Canyon and then roughly along the line of today's Happy Jack Road, north of the interstate. When the riders reached Cheyenne, the Wyoming Tribune reported, Roosevelt was the freshest of the party.

What the plaque says

Lonetree on the Laramie Range This area of southeast Wyoming is rich in history, geology and recreational activities. Within a short distance from this point, sites abound of early day events that have shaped the western heritage of this area, including the Arapaho and Cheyenne Indian tribes who hunted and camped within the shelter of the Vedauwoo Rocks. The transcontinental railroad tracks of the Union Pacific Railroad are a short distance to the west as is the Ames Monument, erected to commemorate the highest point on the railroad's route. Further west, traces of the Overland Trail are evident. President Theodore Roosevelt rode horseback from Cheyenne to Laramie in 1903, passing through this area. The Vedauwoo Rock formation is unique to the Laramie Range of mountains between this site and Laramie. Identified as an Arapaho Indian word for "earth" or "earth born," the rock formations are unique in that they are ancient Sherman Granite which was uplifted to its present position about 70 to 55 million years ago, with subsequent erosion resulting in unique 'hoodoo' forms. Vedawood is located in the Medicine Bow National Forest, and offers unique recreational opportunities. The fractured faces of the outcroppings and cliffs provide challenges to rock climbers with skills ranging from novice to expert. Many forest roads, hiking trails, picnic and camping areas are found within the area. The area is designated for multiple use, and livestock share the forage and natural forest shelter with wildlife. Periodic cultural dance and music performances are held within the rocks.

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

• Vedauwoo — 2.3 mi
  Knobs of 1.4-billion-year-old granite between Laramie and Cheyenne, rough as sandpaper and famous among climbers for its wide cracks.

More markers nearby

• Tree in the Rock — steps away
• Tree Rock — steps away
• Telephone Canyon — 8.5 mi
• Abraham Lincoln — 8.5 mi