Cody to Green River: Wyoming's Wild Road Trip Adventure

This 250-mile route from Cody (44.5260° N, 109.0569° W) to Green River (41.5286° N, 109.4662° W) follows US-14A, US-16, and US-191 through the heart of Wyoming's geologic wonders. Estimated driving time is 4.5 hours without stops, but the landscape demands exploration.

• Start elevation: Cody at 5,092 ft; peak at over 8,000 ft near Togwotee Pass; finish: Green River at 6,145 ft.
• Historical note: The route partially overlaps the Oregon Trail and Lincoln Highway, two iconic westward expansion paths.

The most famous stop is Yellowstone National Park, but this guide focuses on the stretch between Cody and Green River, including a portion of the Grand Teton region. Learn how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to enrich your journey.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions

The drive offers dramatic transitions: from Cody's red rock badlands (Chugwater Formation) to the Absaroka Mountains, then the stark Wyoming Range near the southern end. Key stops include the Wind River Canyon (a geological cross-section) and the Green River Basin's desert-like terrain.

• Buffalo Bill State Park: Just west of Cody, reservoir with camping and hiking.
• Dubois: Gateway to the Wind River Indian Reservation. Visit the National Museum of Military Vehicles for land-speed history.
• Grand Teton National Park: Detour via US-89/191 through Jackson Hole; iconic Teton Range views.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Yellowstone National Park (north of Cody) is a UNESCO site, but the route itself passes near the Fossil Butte National Monument (south of Green River), a UNESCO-nominated fossil site. The John Muir Trail also connects to the region.

Local Commerce & Culture

Cody's economy thrives on tourism and ranching; Dubois is a quiet mountain town; Jackson is a bustling resort; Green River relies on trona mining (soda ash) and energy.

• Cody: Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West for history.
• Dubois: Try the moose burger at The Moosehead Restaurant.
• Pinedale: (slight detour) Known for the Museum of the Mountain Man.
• Green River: Explore the downtown historic district.

Fuel and Route Economics

Gas stations are sparse between towns. Fill up in Cody, then next reliable options are in Dubois (mile 85) and Jackson (mile 155). Green River has multiple stations.

• Average gas price along route: $3.45/gallon (vs national $3.20). Factor higher costs for remote stations.
• Towing services available in Cody, Dubois, Jackson, and Rock Springs (near Green River). Carry a spare tire and emergency kit for high-altitude passes.

Road Quality and Safety

US-14A is a well-maintained two-lane highway; US-26/US-191 near Jackson can be busy with tourist traffic. Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn/dusk. Snow possible from October to May.

1. Check Wyoming road conditions via WYDOT app or 511 before departure.
2. Cell service is unreliable: dead zones near Togwotee Pass. Download offline maps.
3. Speed limits: 65 mph on highways, reduce in construction zones or curves.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality

Roads are generally safe but narrow in places. Guardrails on mountain passes; some sections lack shoulders. Winter travel requires 4WD or chains. Summer storms can cause flash flooding on US-191 near Green River.

Family and Child Suitability

The route is very family-friendly with numerous kid-oriented stops. Plan for breaks every 2 hours to combat restlessness.

• Buffalo Bill Dam Visitor Center: Fun for all ages, with exhibits on hydroelectric power.
• National Elk Refuge (near Jackson): Sleigh rides in winter, viewing platforms in summer.
• Pinedale's sled dog demonstrations (winter).

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most hotels in Cody, Dubois, and Green River allow pets; national parks restrict pets on trails. Many roadside pull-offs are leashed-pet friendly. Carry water and waste bags.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

Designated rest areas: Cody (near Buffalo Bill Center), Dubois (Fremont County rest area), Jackson (Hole-in-the-Wall rest stop). Consider a power nap at the Gros Ventre River turnout.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Get off the main highway for these gems:

1. Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness trailheads (near Cody).
2. Riverton's downtown (off US-26) for small-town charm.
3. Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge (south of Green River) for birdwatching.