After more than a decade away, Dean Hawks returned to Casper, drawn back by what he missed most—places like Casper Mountain, Alcova Lake, and the trails. During his absence, Platte River Trails had expanded its trail system throughout Casper, and he was thrilled to see how it had grown. While enjoying the trails, Dean ran into a friend at the dog park who encouraged him to join the Platte River Trails Trust board. Wanting to get involved in the community, he eagerly stepped into the role, seeing firsthand how trails connect not just places, but people.

​Everyone has their own stories along the trails, but for the Backman family, the pathways are a sweet reminder of a loved one gone too soon. On April 24th, 2024, brother, son, and friend, Jeremy Backman, lost his life to undiagnosed diabetes at 37 years old. Described by his family as passionate, unique, and outdoorsy, Jeremy was often seen riding his bike along the trails. 

This time of year can be especially tough on our mental health. Darker days and chilly temps make staying indoors a common occurrence. However, research shows the key to successfully beating the winter blues is a combination of sunlight, fresh air, and physical activity. Luckily for Casper residents, this recipe of serotonin-boosting ingredients can be found along the Platte River Trails! We consulted Dawn Martinez, MA, PPC from Park Ridge Behavioral Healthcare, to provide her expert advice on beating the winter blues using the trails accessible just outside our front doors.

​With 2025 in sight, Platte River Trails would like to extend gratitude to the people and partners who made 2024 a trailblazing year! Whether you sponsored a mile marker, attended Riverfest, or simply made the trails a part of your routine, PRTT is grateful for the support, advancements, and milestones made in 2024.

Platte River Trails has kicked off the 2024 Annual Giving Campaign, a time when the nonprofit organization asks businesses, foundations, agencies, and individuals to help lay the groundwork for advancing trails in our community through monetary donations. By donating to Platte River Trails during the Annual Giving Campaign, you can help continue to grow the network of trails, while leaving your legacy in Casper.

​The best part about fall in Wyoming, is that for these few short weeks, we get to enjoy cooler temps and vibrant autumn colors. As an avid outdoor community, we greatly value our mountain sports, but in the fall jetting up the mountain for a quick bike ride after work becomes much harder. Fortunately, we have three Casper bike trails as part of our trail network that offer quick, convenient access and stunning autumn views. 

​Looking for an easy way to send feedback about trail conditions? The Platte River Trails (PRTT) network offers safe and separate pathways and facilities that make non-motorized transportation accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Accomplishing this task takes close and constant monitoring of all trail conditions. With 20+ miles of pathway that make up our trail system, you might notice surfaces, vegetation, or amenities that need attention. Now, with an easy Trail Assessment Tool, you can notify Platte River Trails and the City of Casper of these areas so we can address the conditions as quickly as possible.

​With Riverfest just days away, we’re here to tell you why beer is better on the river. It’s not just the camaraderie of community under the summer sun, it’s also the unlimited samplings of ice-cold beer all in the name of trail support. That’s what makes Riverfest Casper’s best brewfest. Together with our sponsors and supporters, Platte River Trails is excited to once again bring the community together to enjoy craft beer, live music and family-friendly activities at the 32nd annual Riverfest on August 10th.
 
So just what can you expect at this year’s event? 

​As we gear up for our biggest fundraiser and most beer-filled event of the summer, Riverfest, we can’t help but give a grateful nod to those who help make Casper’s best brewfest (and one that supports the trails) a huge success. From this year’s presenting sponsor, Fremont Casper, to the PRTT board and volunteers, sponsors, breweries, vendors and food trucks, entertainment, and our community members who come to drink good beer in support of the trails, we thank you for helping Riverfest reach its 32nd year!

​Allow us to set the scene: you’re travelling along the River Trail and notice how well-manicured the trail is. The brush is minimal, and the tall grasses are trimmed back as to not impede your enjoyment. You travel a little farther along the trail and notice it becomes a little more untamed. Now, the brush is tall and full, foliage is dense, and some dead trees have yet to be cut down. You’re thinking the trail needs some love in this section, but what you may not know is there’s a rhyme and reason for the various states of our trail system.