Cody to Laramie: Wyoming's Epic Road Trip Guide

This route traverses US-20 and US-26 through the Shoshone National Forest, covering 400 miles (644 km) and 6.5 hours of pure Wyoming grandeur. A little-known fact: the highway crosses the Continental Divide at Togwotee Pass (9,658 ft), where the Pacific and Atlantic watersheds meet, and the road often becomes a snow corridor well into June.

Unlike the busy I-80 corridor, this path offers solitude, wildlife, and a deep dive into the state's volcanic and glacial history. The question is it worth driving Cody, WY to Laramie, WY is answered emphatically yes, especially for those seeking raw landscapes.

For tips on unearthing lesser-known treasures, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The drive Cody, WY to Laramie, WY is defined by long stretches with sparse services. Plan fuel stops in Cody, Dubois, Lander, and Rawlins. Between Rawlins and Laramie, gas stations are 50 miles apart. Prepare for altitude changes; passing over South Pass (7,412 ft) can affect vehicle performance.

• Fuel Costs: Expect $0.20–$0.30 more per gallon than national average. Use apps like GasBuddy.
• Best Stops: Dubois (historic saloon), Lander (farmer’s market on Sat), Rawlins (Walmart fuel cheap).
• Vehicle Prep: Check tires, coolant, and carry emergency kit for isolated stretches.

The route slices through diverse ecoregions: the Absaroka Range, Wind River Canyon, and Red Desert. UNESCO does not list any sites on this exact route, but the nearby Yellowstone National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth a detour. The Wind River Indian Reservation offers cultural insights, though photography restrictions apply.

• Natural Attractions: Thermopolis Hot Springs (side trip), Wind River Canyon (cliff walls, river rafting), and the Red Desert (sand dunes, wild horses).
• Local Commerce: In Dubois, visit the National Bighorn Sheep Center; in Lander, buy local art at the Lander Art Center. Rawlins has the Wyoming Frontier Prison museum.

Road quality is generally good, but sections like Togwotee Pass are winding and prone to ice. Wildlife crossings (deer, elk, bison) are common; drive defensively at dawn and dusk. Speed limits are 65-70 mph, but reduce to 45 on mountain curves.

• Family Suitability: Kid-friendly stops include Shoshone National Forest visitor center (Cody), Wind River Canyon rafting (ages 6+), and the Lander Children's Museum. Restrooms are avail at most small towns.
• Pet-Friendly Framework: Dogs allowed on leashes at most rest areas; stay at pet-friendly motels in Lander or Rawlins. Carry extra water for pets.
• Fatigue Management: Break at the Powder River Rest Area (milepost 30 on US-287), or the South Pass Rest Area (historic site). Avoid continuous driving over 3 hours.
• Hidden Off-Route Spots: The ghost town of South Pass City (gold rush history, free entry) is 3 miles off US-287 near Atlantic City. Also, the Bighorn Medicine Wheel in Lovell requires a 1.5 hr detour but offers ancient sacred geometry.