Ten important skateboard spots in Laramie, Wyoming
1. LaBonte Skate Park
Located within the popular LaBonte Park, this skate park is a cornerstone for local skaters. The park offers a mix of street and transition elements, featuring quarter pipes, ledges, rails, and a smooth bowl that accommodates all skill levels. The scenic backdrop of the park’s green spaces adds to the overall vibe. Skaters frequently gather here for community events, making it a hub for skate culture in Laramie.
2. Underground DIY Spot
Hidden beneath an overpass, this DIY skate spot is a testament to the creativity and dedication of Laramie’s skateboarding community. Locals have built ramps, banks, and ledges using repurposed materials, giving it a raw and authentic street-skate feel. Though unofficial, the spot is well-maintained by the community and offers a unique experience for skaters looking for something off the beaten path.
3. Downtown Laramie Street Spots
Downtown Laramie provides an urban playground for street skaters. The area is dotted with ledges, stairs, handrails, and smooth pavements. Specific highlights include the historic depot area with its low stair sets and the sleek rails near local businesses. Be mindful of foot traffic and ensure you’re skating respectfully in these shared spaces.
4. University of Wyoming Campus
The University of Wyoming’s sprawling campus is a favorite for skaters, offering an array of architectural features like long rails, stair sets, and flat ledges. The wide-open spaces and relatively smooth terrain make it ideal for cruising and practicing technical tricks. However, skaters should be cautious of campus security and abide by any posted regulations.
5. Washington Park Pathways
For those who enjoy longboarding or cruising, Washington Park’s pathways are a dream. The park features winding, well-paved paths shaded by mature trees, making it perfect for a relaxing session. While not a traditional skate spot, the park is great for working on downhill slides and carving.
6. Laramie Plains Civic Center
The Laramie Plains Civic Center offers expansive, smooth concrete surfaces with occasional architectural elements perfect for skating. The area includes stairs and ledges, which are great for intermediate to advanced skaters. During off-peak hours, it’s a quiet spot ideal for honing skills without interruptions.
7. Bartling Skate Spot
Tucked in a quieter neighborhood, the Bartling Skate Spot is a hidden gem with a small but functional setup. Featuring a few ramps, a grind rail, and a flat bar, this location is perfect for skaters looking for a low-key environment to practice fundamentals. The community around this spot is welcoming, making it a great place for beginners.
8. Curt Gowdy State Park (Boulder Zones)
A short drive from Laramie, Curt Gowdy State Park offers boulders and rocky landscapes that some adventurous skaters use for all-terrain sessions. While unconventional, the rugged environment challenges skaters to think creatively and adapt their skills. This spot is best suited for experienced skaters seeking a unique and natural backdrop.
9. Snowy Range High School
Like many high schools across the U.S., Snowy Range High School has become a magnet for skateboarders after hours. The property boasts smooth concrete, curbs, stairs, and rails, providing ample opportunities for street-style skating. Respect for the property is key, as it remains an active school facility.
10. Old Train Depot Plaza
The Old Train Depot Plaza is a historic site with modern appeal for skaters. Its wide-open spaces, flat rails, and manual pads make it an excellent spot for flat-ground tricks and creative lines. The plaza’s aesthetic, combined with its versatility, draws skaters and photographers alike.
The Essence of Skateboarding in Laramie
Skateboarding in Laramie is as much about the community as it is about the spots. The town’s blend of urban and natural settings offers a diverse range of experiences, catering to every style of skateboarding. Beyond the physical locations, Laramie’s skate scene thrives on creativity, camaraderie, and a shared passion for the sport. Skaters here continuously push the boundaries, whether through building DIY spots or hosting local events.
Laramie proves that even a smaller town can have a big impact on skate culture, demonstrating the universality and adaptability of skateboarding. Whether you’re visiting or a local looking to explore, these ten spots promise hours of enjoyment and a deep connection to the local skateboarding ethos.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
BellyRash