Cody to Lava Hot Springs Road Trip Guide: Best Stops & Routes

The route from Cody, Wyoming to Lava Hot Springs, Idaho traverses 350 miles of high plains, volcanic landscapes, and mountain passes, following US-20/US-26 west and then US-30 north. Notably, this path passes through Shoshone National Forest, the first national forest in the United States, established in 1891.

The drive takes approximately 6 hours without stops, but the journey invites exploration. For those wondering how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, this guide provides detailed insights.

Key logistics include fuel stops in Riverton, WY and Montpelier, ID. The route crosses the Continental Divide at Togwotee Pass (elevation 9,658 ft). Check road conditions in winter as the pass can close suddenly.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality

The roads are generally well-maintained, but sections of US-26 west of Riverton have narrow shoulders. Watch for livestock crossings near Crowheart and Dubois. In winter, Togwotee Pass can have icy patches. The route has many straight stretches that can cause driver fatigue.

• Take a break every 2 hours. Ideal rest zones: Dubois (WY) at the Dubois-Shoppers gas station, and Idaho Falls at the Snake River Landing park.
• Emergency services are limited in the mountains; cell coverage is spotty. Note the locations of Wyoming Highway Patrol stations in Cody and Riverton.

Family and Child Suitability

This trip is highly family-friendly. Lava Hot Springs has a large indoor pool complex and a water slide park (summer only). In Idaho Falls, the Idaho Falls Zoo is a hit with kids. Pack snacks and car games for the long stretches.

1. Best family stop: Yellowstone Bear World (near Rexburg, ID) where you can drive through a bear reserve.
2. Kid-friendly dining: The Family Drive-In in Idaho Falls serves classic burgers and shakes.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most roadside motels in towns like Dubois and Montpelier accept pets. National forests allow dogs on leash. For a break, pull over at the Lava Hot Springs Dog Park (fenced, with agility equipment).

• Pet relief areas: Rest area at Shoshoni (WY) has a small grassy patch.
• Note: Lava Hot Springs’ geothermal pools do not allow dogs, but nearby Portneuf River has dog-friendly access.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Detour 10 miles south on WY-28 to see the white sandstone hoodoos of the Red Desert near Muddy Gap. Or stop at the ghost town of Byron, WY, just off US-26, with its abandoned buildings.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

Plan a stop at the scenic overlook at Togwotee Pass (elevation 9,658 ft) to walk and breathe fresh air. The Lava Hot Springs KOA offers cabin rentals if you need to overnight.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions

The most dramatic landscapes are in the Shoshone National Forest and the Wind River Range. Driving through Togwotee Pass offers panoramic views of the Absaroka Mountains. In spring, wildflowers blanket the high meadows. The Snake River parallels the highway near Moose, WY, offering pullouts for photography.

• Buffalo Bill State Park (west of Cody): Boating, fishing, and stunning reservoir views.
• Thermopolis’ Hot Springs State Park: Free terraced hot springs open to the public.
• Lava Hot Springs itself: Five natural pools ranging from 102°F to 112°F, perfect for soaking tired muscles after the drive.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Yellowstone National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the route’s southern leg near Yellowstone’s east entrance (though you’ll stay west on US-20) touches its periphery. While you won’t enter the park, the road passes through the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Local Commerce & Culture

Small towns along the route offer quirky attractions. In Riverton, the Fremont County Museum showcases Native American artifacts. In St. Anthony, ID, the Farmers Market (summer Saturdays) sells local honey and huckleberry products.

• Best stop for lunch: The Wort Hotel’s Silver Dollar Bar in Jackson Hole (slightly off-route but scenic).
• Unique souvenir: Lava Hot Springs’ local pottery and fused glass art at the Artisan Gallery.

Fuel stations are sparse between Cody and Riverton (the longest stretch without services is about 70 miles between Moran and Dubois). Carry emergency water and blankets, especially in shoulder seasons. The route uses US-26/US-287 from Cody to Shoshoni, then west on US-20/US-26 to Idaho Falls, and finally north on US-30 to Lava Hot Springs. In Lava Hot Springs, the geothermal springs are fed by natural hot water at 120°F.

• Recommended fuel stops: Cody (WY), Riverton (WY), Idaho Falls (ID), Montpelier (ID).
• Be aware of long stretches with limited cell reception, especially in the Wind River Canyon between Shoshoni and Thermopolis. Download offline maps.
• The best time to drive is late spring through early fall when all passes are clear. Winter travel requires snow tires and chains.

Is it worth driving Cody, WY to Lava Hot Springs, ID? Yes, because the route offers unparalleled access to Yellowstone Country, the Wind River Range, and the unique geothermal feature of Lava Hot Springs. How long to drive Cody, WY to Lava Hot Springs, ID? About 6 hours of pure driving, but plan a full day to enjoy stops.