Cody to Custer Road Trip: Scenic Drive Through Wyoming and South Dakota

Starting in Cody, Wyoming—named after Buffalo Bill Cody—the route to Custer, South Dakota follows US-14A and US-16, crossing the Bighorn Mountains and the Black Hills. The drive covers roughly 350 miles and takes about 6–7 hours without stops. This corridor includes the dramatic switchbacks of the Bighorn Scenic Byway and the iconic Devils Tower National Monument, a geological marvel that rises 867 feet from the prairie.

For those wondering how long to drive Cody, WY to Custer, SD, the answer is about 6–7 hours, but plan for a full day with stops. Is it worth driving Cody, WY to Custer, SD? Absolutely—this journey offers diverse landscapes from alpine forests to high desert plains. For more on finding stops, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Leaving Cody, US-14 climbs into the Bighorn Mountains, passing through Medicine Wheel Passage—a high-elevation route with stunning views. The Bighorn Scenic Byway (US-14A) features the 3-mile Bighorn Switchbacks, a twisting descent with tight curves. Stop at Shell Falls for a 120-foot waterfall and interpretive trails.

As you enter South Dakota, the landscape shifts to the Black Hills, home to the Needles Highway (part of SD-87) and Iron Mountain Road. Both offer narrow tunnels and pigtail bridges. Custer State Park is a must for wildlife viewing: bison, pronghorn, and burros. For local culture, visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, a work in progress since 1948, and Mount Rushmore, 24 miles east of Custer.

• Natural Landscapes: Bighorn Mountains, Black Hills, Devils Tower (UNESCO candidate).
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Writes of Passage (consider Devils Tower as a candidate monument).
• Local Commerce: Custer's Artesian culture (galleries and artisan shops).
• Hidden Off-Route Spots: Spearfish Canyon (20 min detour), Wind Cave National Park (south of Custer).

Road quality is excellent on US-14 and US-16, but watch for wildlife on US-16 near Devils Tower and in Custer State Park. Deer and bison are common. Speed limits are 65–70 mph on highways, slower in construction zones. Rest areas exist near Shell, WY, and at Devils Tower. Plan to stop every 2 hours.

Family-friendly stops include the Cody Firearms Museum (in the Buffalo Bill Center of the West) and Devils Tower (short hikes, climbing for older kids). For children, the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs (1.5 hours from Custer) offers an active dig. Pet-friendly framework: most rest areas and trails (leashed) welcome pets, but check Devils Tower's pet policy (pets allowed in campground and limited trails).

Fatigue management: take breaks at the Greybull Rest Area (milepost 100) and the Bighorn Scenic Overlook. Culinary infrastructure: don't miss the Trail, WY. In Custer, try the Black Hills Burger and Bun Company. For hidden gems, visit the town of Hill City for the 1880 Train, a vintage steam locomotive ride.

Fuel up in Cody as stations become sparse after Greybull on US-14. The next reliable fuel is at Shell or Lovell. On US-16 near Devils Tower, there are a few stations. In South Dakota, gas is available in Newcastle and Custer. Expect gas prices to be higher in remote areas. The road surface is generally good, but watch for frost heaves in early morning or late evening during spring and fall.

• Fill up in Cody (several stations near Main St).
• Cheapest gas found in Buffalo, WY (about 60 miles east of Cody).
• Check tire pressure before descending Bighorn Switchbacks.
• Carry cash for small-town fuel stations.