Cody to Dubois Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive Through Wyoming

U.S. Route 14/16/20 from Cody to Dubois follows the Shoshone River’s North Fork, cutting through the Shoshone National Forest and crossing the Continental Divide at Sylvan Pass (8,524 ft). This 85-mile route is the only direct road linking these two towns, originally pioneered by the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway. The highway’s construction, completed in the 1960s, notably bypassed the historic mining town of Kirwin, which remains accessible only by unpaved road.

Driving time from Cody to Dubois is typically 1 hour 40 minutes without stops, but most travelers spend 3-4 hours exploring the many pullouts and trails. The best stops Cody, WY to Dubois, WY include the Buffalo Bill Dam, Wapiti Valley, Pahaska Tepee, and the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. For planning, knowing how long to drive Cody, WY to Dubois, WY helps allocate time for detours.

Infrastructure safety is rated high; the road is maintained by the Wyoming DOT. However, watch for frost heaves in spring and fallen rocks after storms. Wildlife warning signs are posted; reduce speed at dawn and dusk. The route is suitable for families with short, easy hikes like the Pahaska Loop Trail (0.5 mi) and the Sylvan Pass Interpretive Trail.

Pet-friendly stops include the Wapiti Valley dog-friendly picnic area and the Dubois dog park. Water bowls are available at the Dubois visitor center. Fatigue management requires scheduled breaks: pull into the Wapiti Scenic Overlook (milepost 32) or the Buffalo Bill Dam Viewing Area. For longer stops, the Shoshone National Forest campgrounds at Clearwater or Eagle Creek offer overnight options.

• Family tip: Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody before leaving.
• Pet rules: Leashed pets allowed on trails; keep off the fragile vegetation.
• Rest zones: Every 20 miles a pullout with bathrooms or scenic turnout.

For hidden off-route spots, take the gravel road to Dead Indian Pass (south of Wapiti) for a 360-degree view of the valley. Another is the Mormon Row barns in Moose, accessible via a short detour if going toward Jackson.

Fuel availability is sparse east of Cody. The last gas station before Dubois is at Pahaska Tepee (milepost 52), open seasonally. Carry extra fuel if driving an RV or towing. The route is well-paved but narrow in sections, with no shoulders in some curves. Cellular coverage is intermittent, especially west of Wapiti.

Avoid driving at night due to wildlife (elk, moose, bison) crossing the road. The speed limit is 65 mph on straightaways but slows to 45 on winding mountain sections. Road closures occasionally occur in winter due to snow; check Wyoming 511 before departing.

• Recommended fuel stops: Cody (multiple stations) or Dubois (two stations).
• No available services between Wapiti and Pahaska Tepee.
• Public restrooms at Wapiti Ranger Station, Pahaska Tepee, and Dubois visitor center.

The drive offers dramatic mountain vistas of the Absaroka Range, with volcanic peaks like Trout Peak (12,242 ft) dominating the skyline. The North Fork Shoshone River is braided and turquoise, a product of glacial silt. At Sylvan Pass, you cross into the Yellowstone Plateau, with the massive Buffalo Bill Reservoir visible behind.

Culinary infrastructure is minimal; pack a picnic or eat at the Wapiti Grill (seasonal) or the historic Pahaska Tepee restaurant. In Dubois, the Trout Lake Brewing Company and Bitterroot Bar & Grill serve local fare. For groceries, stock up in Cody.

• Natural attractions: Shoshone National Forest, Washakie Wilderness, Buffalo Bill Historical Center (in Cody).
• Culture: Dubois’s Wind River Historical Center, Sheep Eater Indian Village replica.
• Hidden gem: The abandoned mining camp of Kirwin (4WD required) offers ruins and relics.