Flora and Fauna Along the River Trail

​The Platte River is comprised of two forks, the South Platte that runs through Nebraska and the North Platte that runs through Colorado and Wyoming. The North Platte River runs 716 miles before it jogs east to meet with the South Platte. We are fortunate to have a portion of it run right through Casper, Wyoming. The Platte River Trails Trust has developed 11 miles of trails along the North Platte, providing access for locals and visitors alike to explore the diverse ecosystem of various flora and fauna. 

Often called the crown jewel of central Wyoming, the North Platte offers opportunities for outdoor adventures. In addition to its famed blue-ribbon fishing, outdoor enthusiasts can kayak, float, paddleboard, hike and more along the trail system. As you travel along the River Trail you will find an abundance of plants and animals that call this habitat home.
 
Flora
Along with several grasses and vegetation found throughout Casper, the North Platte River is filled with plants native to Wyoming including several riparian plants (those that live or are located on the bank of a river). Keep an eye out on your next trail excursion for reed grass, water sedge, tufted hairgrass, red osier dogwood, and sandbar willow. These riparian grasses and shrubs are well-adapted to Wyoming’s tough climate. Providing shade and shelter are several species of trees lining the trail including aspens, cottonwoods, spruce, elm, and ash trees.
 
Fauna
Under the river’s surface are three major species of trout, including rainbow, brown and cutthroat. Often times, trail users will see trout rising for food or hooked on a fly from those fly fishing on the banks of the river. The North Platte River is valued as a Class 1 fishery due to the abundance of these game fish species. Above ground are several waterfowl and migratory birds including mallards, Canadian geese, and bald eagles. Other large and small mammal species to keep an eye out for on the River Trail include mule deer, prairie dogs, desert cottontails, and great horned owls.
 
It's clear the North Platte River is rich with life and diversity in its flora and fauna. As we approach summer, many more plants will bloom and flourish, and all kinds of animals and amphibians will pop their heads out after a long winter. The River Trail offers so much more discovery beyond what is seen at first glance. For your next trail outing, grab a pair of binoculars and have your camera ready – you never know what you might see! P.S. if you do spot a special plant or animal on the trail, share it on social media and it and tag Platte River Trails on Facebook and Instagram!