Highlight • Monument
Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
The Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument stands proudly at an elevation of 2643 meters (8671 feet) at the Summit Rest Area on Interstate 80, east of Laramie, Wyoming. This significant historical site features a colossal bronze bust of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President, sculpted by Robert Russin. Perched atop a 30-foot granite pedestal, it marks the highest point on the historic Lincoln Highway and serves as a prominent landmark in the Wyoming plains, offering a unique viewpoint for travelers.
Visitors consistently appreciate the monument's accessibility and its setting as a convenient and well-equipped stop. It's not just a place to stretch your legs; the Sherman Summit Rest Area provides clean restrooms, covered picnic spaces, and honor plaques for Robert and Adele Russin, making it a pleasant and informative break on a long journey. The sheer scale of the monument itself is often highlighted, providing a moment of reflection amidst the vast Wyoming landscape.
Before visiting, it's good to know that the monument is easily accessible directly from Interstate 80, making parking near Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument straightforward at the dedicated rest area. As a wheelchair accessible site, it welcomes all visitors. The terrain is flat and paved around the monument, suitable for all mobility levels. Given its location on a major interstate, it can be a popular stop, especially during peak travel times, but the facilities are designed to accommodate many visitors.
The monument is a year-round attraction, with each season offering a different perspective of the surrounding Wyoming landscape. It's particularly popular as a pit stop for cyclists and drivers traversing the interstate. Many choose to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the monument's details and the expansive views. The rest area provides a perfect opportunity for a break, whether you're on a road trip or exploring the notable landmarks and viewpoints of the region.
Standing before the monumental bust, visitors often reflect on the historical significance of Abraham Lincoln and the monument's journey. Originally dedicated in 1959 on Sherman Hill to commemorate Lincoln's 150th birthday, it was later moved to its current, more accessible location in 1969. The story of its creation in Mexico City and its careful transport to Wyoming adds another layer of intrigue to this impressive roadside attraction.
Whether you're passing through or specifically seeking out this historical landmark, the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument offers a memorable experience. You can explore the various routes that lead to this iconic spot, plan your visit, and discover more about the area's history and natural beauty. Hikers and cyclists often incorporate a stop here into their longer journeys across Wyoming, finding it a rewarding pause.
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Tips
June 30, 2024
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument
2
riders
161km
07:13
1,630m
1,630m
The Laramie to Cheyenne century ride offers a sweeping tour across Wyoming's high plains, connecting two major cities with a challenging road cycling experience. You'll navigate rolling terrain, passing by scenic points like Curt Gowdy State Park and the Happy Jack Recreation Area, all while soaking in vast, open landscapes. The route culminates near the Wyoming State Capitol in Cheyenne, providing a sense of accomplishment after a long day in the saddle.
This difficult 100.3-mile (161.3 km) ride, with its 5364 feet (1635 metres) of elevation gain, is a serious undertaking, typically requiring around 7 hours and 12 minutes to complete. Cyclists should be prepared for significant climbs, including one stretch of 8.8 miles with a 1,447-foot gain. It's vital to have very good fitness and be aware that some sections of Happy Jack Road can be narrow, and riding on Interstate 80 is not advised due to heavy truck traffic.
This century ride is a testament to Wyoming's growing appeal for cyclists, forming part of a region actively expanding its trail systems. The route highlights the unique blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks found between Laramie and Cheyenne, making it a notable achievement for any dedicated road cyclist.
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Elevation 2,640 m
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Wednesday 1 July
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Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there popular trails or routes directly accessible from the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument?
The Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument is primarily a roadside attraction and rest stop, not a trailhead for extensive hiking or cycling routes. It's located at the Summit Rest Area on Interstate 80. While it's a popular stop for cyclists and drivers traversing the interstate, there aren't dedicated popular trails that start directly from the monument itself. It serves more as a scenic and historical break point during longer journeys.
What is the terrain like around the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument, and is it difficult to navigate?
The terrain immediately surrounding the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument at the Summit Rest Area is flat and paved. It is designed for easy access for all visitors, including those with mobility challenges. The monument itself is situated on a 30-foot-tall granite pedestal, but the viewing area is level and straightforward to navigate. The broader area is the Wyoming plains, which can be rugged, but the monument site is very accessible.
What notable landmarks or viewpoints are near the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument?
The monument itself is a significant landmark, offering expansive views of the surrounding Wyoming plains from its elevated position at Sherman Summit. As a rest stop on Interstate 80, it's a key point of interest between Laramie and Cheyenne. Beyond the monument, the primary 'viewpoint' is the vast, open landscape of Wyoming, characteristic of the high plains. The rest area also features honor plaques for Robert and Adele Russin, adding to the site's historical context.
Is there ample parking available at the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument?
Yes, the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument is located within the Summit Rest Area on Interstate 80, which is specifically designed to accommodate travelers. There is ample parking available for both cars and larger vehicles, making it a convenient stop. While it can be popular during peak travel times, the facilities are equipped to handle many visitors.
Is the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! The Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument is an excellent stop for families. It offers a unique historical and educational experience in an easily accessible setting. Children can marvel at the colossal bust of Lincoln and learn about its history. The rest area provides clean restrooms and covered picnic spaces, making it a comfortable and convenient break for families on a road trip.
Is the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument wheelchair friendly?
Yes, the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument is fully wheelchair accessible. The terrain around the monument at the Summit Rest Area is flat and paved, ensuring that visitors of all mobility levels can easily approach and enjoy the monument. The rest area facilities, including restrooms, are also designed to be accessible.
What is the best time of year to visit the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument?
The monument is a year-round attraction, with each season offering a different perspective of the Wyoming landscape. While summer provides generally mild weather for comfortable viewing, spring and autumn can offer beautiful transitional scenery. Winter visits are possible, but visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures and potential snow, which can add a dramatic backdrop to the monument.
How long should I plan for a visit to the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument?
Most visitors find that 15 to 30 minutes is sufficient to experience the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument. This allows enough time to view the monument, read the informational plaques, use the rest area facilities, and take in the surrounding views. It's designed as a convenient and impactful pit stop rather than a destination requiring several hours.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options directly near the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument?
The Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument is located at a rest area on Interstate 80, which primarily offers basic facilities like restrooms and picnic areas. There are no cafes, pubs, or accommodation options directly at the monument site. For these services, you would need to drive to the nearby cities of Laramie or Cheyenne, both of which are accessible via Interstate 80.
What is the historical significance of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument's location?
The monument is strategically located at the Summit Rest Area on Interstate 80, which was formerly the highest point on the historic Lincoln Highway from New York to San Francisco. It was originally dedicated in 1959 to commemorate Lincoln's 150th birthday and was later moved to its current, more accessible location in 1969 after Interstate 80 was built. Its placement honors Lincoln's legacy and marks a significant point along a historic transcontinental route.