Cody to Afton: A Complete Wyoming Road Trip Guide

The route from Cody, WY to Afton, WY covers approximately 250 miles, traversing US-14 east through the Shoshone National Forest, then south on US-89 through the Star Valley. A local driving quirk: mile marker 100 on US-14 marks the exact point where the highway crosses the 100th meridian west, a line that splits the Great Plains from the Rocky Mountain foothills. This transition is visible in the sudden change from sagebrush to pine forest.

The drive typically takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours without stops, but the abundance of natural and cultural attractions extends it easily to a full day. The route's highest elevation is 8,900 feet at Togwotee Pass, while Afton sits at 6,230 feet. For more tips on unearthing off-route gems, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Fuel and Route Economics

Fuel stations are sparse between Cody and Dubois (75 miles), and again between Dubois and Moran Junction (55 miles). Fill up in Cody (price per gallon typically $3.50-$4.00) or in Dubois. After Moran Junction, there's a gap to Alpine (60 miles). Afton has multiple stations, with prices ~$0.10 higher due to proximity to the Idaho border.

• Recommended fuel stops: Cody (multiple brands), Dubois (Conoco), Moran Junction (Sinclair), Alpine (Exxon), Afton (Chevron).
• Diesel available at all listed stops.
• EV charging: Limited. Level 2 chargers in Cody and Afton; no fast chargers along the route.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The route skirts the southern edge of Yellowstone National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but does not enter it. However, the Shoshone National Forest (adjacent) contains the Absaroka Volcanic Rocks, part of the same geological system. The only UNESCO-designated area directly accessible is the Yellowstone Biosphere Reserve (touchable via US 14/16/20).

Natural Landscapes & Attractions

From Cody, the road climbs through the Shoshone National Forest, passing the Buffalo Bill State Park and the North Fork of the Shoshone River. The canyon walls near the park show deep Precambrian rock layers. At the 100th meridian marker, the ecosystem shifts from high desert to coniferous forest.

Key attractions include:

• Buffalo Bill State Park: Reservoir with boating, fishing, and camping.
• Shoshone National Forest: Numerous trailheads for hiking, plus the Wapiti Valley with wildlife viewing.
• Togwotee Pass: Scenic overlook with views of the Absaroka Range.
• Star Valley: Rich farmland with views of the Salt River Range.

The route crosses the Continental Divide near Togwotee Pass, marked by a sign at elevation 8,900 feet. The Snake River also flows nearby, offering fishing and rafting near the headwaters.

Local Commerce & Culture

Dubois (population 970) is a key stop with a Western vibe. Its Museum of the American West details the area's ranching and Native American history. The town's main street features saloons and small shops selling regional crafts. Moran Junction is merely a gas station and café, but it's a crossroads for Grand Teton and Yellowstone access.

In Alpine, the Snake River Brewing Company is a local favorite. Afton (population 2,000) is known for its industrial root: it's the world's largest producer of children's wooden puzzles (Cuban crafts) and hosts the annual Star Valley Cheese Festival. The downtown has a historic bank building turned into a community center.

Is it worth driving Cody to Afton? Yes, for the stark contrasts: from Wyoming's prairie to river valleys and mountain passes, with varied cultural pockets.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality

US-14 is well-maintained but has narrow shoulders east of Cody. In winter, look out for snowpack and ice, particularly between Cody and Dubois. US-89 from Moran Junction to Alpine is a smooth two-lane highway with no sharp curves. Overall, the route is safe, with low traffic volume except near Moran Junction in summer. Emergency services: Cody Medical Center (level 3 trauma), Alpine has a small clinic, and Afton has Star Valley Medical Center (critical access). Cell coverage is spotty, especially in the Shoshone forest and near Togwotee Pass.

Family and Child Suitability

Buffalo Bill State Park has a kid-friendly beach and playground. The Museum of the American West in Dubois offers hands-on exhibits. The drive itself includes many pullouts for photo ops and restroom breaks. For older kids, the Togwotee Pass overlook provides a geology lesson. In Afton, the city park has a large playground and picnic area.

Best stops for children:

• Cody: Buffalo Bill Center of the West (5 museums, but a detour).
• Dubois: Headwaters Arts & Conference Center (family events).
• Bondurant: Aspen Creek Ranch (horseback rides, age 5+).

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most national forest areas allow dogs on leash. Buffalo Bill State Park has designated pet-friendly trails. Many motels in Cody and Afton allow pets (check individual policies). Moran Junction's Sinclair gas station has a small fenced pet area. In Afton, the park has water stations.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

On US-14 west of Cody, a dirt road leads to the 'Sunlight Basin' and the ghost town of Nash Fork. In Dubois, a side trip to the 'Tie Hack Memorial' commemorates railroad workers. South of Moran, the 'Schwabacher' ghost town is a 2-mile hike. Near Afton, the 'Strawberry Creek' hot springs (natural and undeveloped) require a 4x4 and a short walk.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

Plan a break every 2 hours. Key rest areas exist at Buffalo Bill State Park (restrooms, picnic), Togwotee Pass (picnic tables with view), and the 'Snake River Overlook' on US-89 (restrooms, scenic). For a nap, the Alpine Motel rents rooms by the hour. Alternatively, pull into a designated safety rest area on US-14 at mile 45 (no facilities).