Afton WY to Hill City SD: Scenic Road Trip Guide

As you leave Afton, WY, you'll immediately tackle Salt River Pass (elevation 7,628 feet), the highest point on US-89 before dropping into Star Valley. This road trip to Hill City, SD, covers 640 miles and typically takes 10 hours of pure driving, but you'll want at least two days to savor the journey.

Weather varies drastically: summer highs reach 85°F in Wyoming but drop to 50°F in the mountains; winter brings heavy snow and icy passes, so check forecasts. For family suitability, both states offer safe attractions: the Cody Firearms Museum and the Reptile Gardens in Rapid City (near Hill City) are kid-approved. For pet-friendly stops, most rest areas have dog runs, and many motels in Buffalo and Gillette accept pets.

To manage fatigue, take a break every two hours at designated rest zones, such as the one at Powder River Pass (elevation 9,666 feet), which offers a stunning overlook. The route also features several picnic areas with interpretive signs.

For safety, the road is well-maintained, but wildlife crossings are common—watch for elk and mule deer at dawn and dusk.

You'll traverse the Snake River Valley, the Wind River Range, and the Bighorn Mountains before entering the Black Hills. This route passes near two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Yellowstone National Park (a 50-mile detour from Cody) and the newly designated Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area (not a UNESCO site, but check the latest status).

Local commerce thrives in small towns like Ten Sleep, where you can buy handcrafted leather goods, and Buffalo, known for its historic Occidental Hotel. For hidden off-route spots, consider a side trip to the Bighorn Medicine Wheel—an ancient stone circle with panoramic views.

Here's how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route follows US-89, I-90, and US-16, with the only toll-free interstate portion from Buffalo to Gillette. Fuel costs average $0.60 per mile when driving a standard sedan, and gas stations are sparse in Wyoming—plan to fill up in Afton, Kemmerer, or Buffalo.

• Road quality: Good on interstates, but US-89 has winding sections with occasional frost heaves.
• Rest areas: Available every 50-60 miles on I-90, but minimal on US-89.
• Cell service: Spotty in rural Wyoming; download offline maps.