Cody to Havre Road Trip Guide: Epic Montana Drive

This route from Cody, Wyoming to Havre, Montana traces the historic Yellowstone Highway (US-310/US-87) through the Bighorn Basin and into the vast prairie. The drive covers approximately 350 miles and takes around 6 hours without stops, but the journey deserves a full day—or more. Along the way, you'll cross the Bighorn River near the site where Lewis and Clark first encountered grizzly bears in 1805. For a deeper dive into hidden gems, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route is generally safe, but winter conditions can be harsh—check weather for US-310 over the Bighorns. Summer thunderstorms are common. For families, good stop options include the Wyoming Dinosaur Center (Thermopolis, WY, short detour) and the Western Heritage Center in Billings. Pet-friendly stops include Bighorn Canyon and Swords Park in Billings. Rest zones are limited; plan to stop every 2 hours at a town or scenic overlook. Avoid driving at dusk to reduce wildlife collision risk.

• Fatigue management: Use rest stops in Lovell (WY Welcome Center), Hardin (rest area on I-90), and Billings (various parks).
• Hidden off-route spots: The ghost town of Kirwin (near Meeteetse, WY) requires a 4WD but offers incredible solitude. The bison herd at the Fort Peck Indian Reservation (north of Glasgow) is a remote gem.
• Pet-friendly: Most state parks allow leashed pets; overnight accommodations in Billings and Havre typically accept pets with a fee.

US-310 from Cody to Billings is a well-maintained two-lane highway. From Billings north on US-87 and US-2, roads are mostly straight but can be rough in sections. Gas stations are sparse between Lovell, WY and Hardin, MT, so fill up in Cody or Lovell. After Billings, reliable fuel exists in Roundup and Lewistown. Cell coverage is good in towns but spotty across the Bighorn Mountains and central Montana. Speed limits are 65-70 mph on highways; watch for livestock and farm vehicles.

• Total driving time: ~6 hours without stops
• Recommended fuel stops: Cody, WY (mile 0); Hardin, MT (mile 140); Billings, MT (mile 205); Roundup, MT (mile 265); Lewistown, MT (mile 300)
• Best rest areas: Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center (near Lovell), Pompeys Pillar (east of Billings)

The route transitions from the Absaroka Mountains near Cody to the rolling plains of the Crow Indian Reservation. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area offers dramatic red cliffs and the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range. North of Billings, the land opens into wheat fields and cattle ranches. In Hardin, the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument (a UNESCO site in spirit) is a must-see for its historical significance. Local commerce includes artisan shops in Lovell and the historic downtown of Billings with its breweries and museums.

• Natural Attractions: Bighorn Canyon, Pompeys Pillar, Bighorn Mountains
• UNESCO Heritage: The route doesn't include official UNESCO sites, but the Little Bighorn Battlefield is a National Historic Landmark. Consider a detour to Yellowstone National Park (UNESCO) via US-20 from Cody.
• Local Culture: Crow Fair in late summer (Crow Agency), Western art in Lovell, and the Montana Heritage Center in Billings.