Ames Monument State Historic Site
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HistoryQuirkyScenic Lookout
Overview
The Ames Monument is a large pyramid in Albany County, Wyoming, designed by Henry Hobson Richardson and dedicated to brothers Oakes Ames and Oliver Ames Jr., Union Pacific Railroad financiers. It marked the highest point on the first transcontinental railroad, at 8,247 feet (2,514 m). Richardson designed the monument midway into his career.
Practical Info
Every dayOpen 24 hours
Suggested Duration30-45 minutes
Best TimeClear afternoons during spring or autumn (May or October) are best. As an open-air historical ruins site on a high windswept plateau, late afternoon light emphasizes the 60-foot granite pyramid while avoiding fierce winter snowstorms.
Getting ThereSituated south of I-80. Take exit 329 (Vedauwoo) from Interstate 80, cross to the south side, and follow Monument Road (a graded dirt/gravel road) for about 2-3 miles directly to the turnaround loop at the base of the monument.
Travel Tips
- This massive pyramid monument stands fully un-staffed and exposed in a desolate prairie canyon with free entry. There are no visitor services, security, or shade huts; never drive down the gravel access spurs during active blizzards.
- With zero trash bins or public restrooms for miles, visitors must follow strict Leave No Trace codes; pack out all personal waste. Prairie wasps nest heavily within the masonry fissures; avoid touching or poking the pyramid's lower base.
Photo Tips
Photo Spots
- The final mile utilizes Monument Road, a narrow gravel dirt track lacking streetlights; drive defensively during head-on passing. For the premier photo angle, stand 50 meters back in the meadow to frame a grand Egyptian-style sunset silhouette.
Reviews
Positive
- This towering, isolated giant stone pyramid stands strikingly and mysteriously on the empty prairie, giving an intense visual impact.
- It stands as a key witness to Transcontinental Railroad history; the reliefs on both sides display superb, deep historical artistry.
- It is completely open to the public for free with no fences or commercial gates, letting you savor history in absolute quiet.
- The clearing around it is vast, allowing cars to drive and park right near the stone base, very convenient for a quick photo stop.
Heads up
- Aside from this lone stone pyramid structure, the site features zero restrooms, trash cans, or basic shade canopies for comfort.
- The final few miles to the site consist of an unpaved dirt and gravel road with numerous potholes that get slick after rain or snow.
- The site lacks detailed plaques or audio systems; if you don't research the history beforehand, you might find it confusing.
- Located in a desolate field, the area is plagued by fierce gusts, and winter snow drifts get deep with zero snow removal.