Cody to Logan Road Trip: Wyoming to Utah Adventure

The drive from Cody, Wyoming (population ~10,000) to Logan, Utah (population ~55,000) follows US-20, US-26, and I-15 for 398 miles (640 km). This route crosses the Continental Divide twice and descends from 5,000 feet in Cody to 4,500 feet in Logan, with a high point of 8,400 feet at Togwotee Pass.

A unique geographical fact: the route passes through the Gros Ventre slide area, site of one of the largest known landslide in U.S. history (1925), which dammed the Gros Ventre River and created Slide Lake.

Infrastructure Safety and Road Quality

I-15 is well-maintained, but US-26 from Togwotee Pass to Jackson has sharp curves and no shoulders. Wildlife crossings (elk, moose) are common at dawn/dusk. Speed limits: 70 mph on I-15, 55-65 mph on US-26.

• Snow plows operate year-round above 7,000 ft.
• Cell service: sporadic between Dubois and Jackson.

Family and Child Suitability

Kid-friendly stops: Wyoming Dinosaur Center (Thermopolis, 90 min detour), Jackson’s Town Square (trampoline, playground), and Logan’s Willow Park Zoo (free).

• Restrooms at all gas stations.
• Fast food available in Jackson and Logan.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most national forest trails allow dogs on leash. Pet-friendly motels: Best Western (Cody) and Super 8 (Logan). Avoid leaving pets in hot cars in summer.

Fatigue Management and Rest Zones

Scenic pullouts every 5-10 miles on US-26. Rest areas at Togwotee Pass (picnic tables) and near Afton (vending machines). Recommended stop every 2 hours.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Granite Hot Springs (20 miles south of Jackson via unpaved road) – natural soaking pool. Also, Fossil Butte National Monument (40 miles west of Logan) – well-preserved fish fossils.

For more on discovering unexpected stops, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Natural Landscapes and Attractions

The route skirts the southern edge of Yellowstone National Park and passes through Bridger-Teton National Forest. Key sights include the Absaroka Range and the Snake River Canyon.

• Buffalo Bill Center of the West (Cody) – five museums in one.
• Wind River Canyon – 20-mile gorge with striated rock layers.
• National Elk Refuge (Jackson) – winter home to 7,500 elk.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Yellowstone National Park, a UNESCO site since 1978, is accessible via the East Entrance (50 miles west of Cody). Features the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Old Faithful.

Culinary Infrastructure

Local specialties: Wyoming bison burgers, huckleberry shakes in Jackson, and Utah fry sauce. Notable restaurants: The Irma Hotel (Cody), Snake River Brewing (Jackson), and The Beehive Grill (Logan).

Local Commerce and Culture

Cody’s rodeo culture (nightly in summer) contrasts with Logan’s Mormon heritage (Brigham Young’s winter home). Jackson’s art galleries and upscale shops reflect its resort town status.

Fuel and Route Economics

Fuel stations are sparse between Cody and Jackson, with the last reliable stop in Dubois (85 miles east of Jackson). Gas prices in Wyoming average $0.20 less per gallon than in Utah. Plan to fill up in Cody or Dubois.

• Cody to Dubois: 86 miles, 1 fuel station in Dubois.
• Dubois to Jackson: 76 miles, no services between.
• Jackson to Logan: frequent stations in Afton, Montpelier, and Garden City.

Climatic Conditions and Route Aesthetics

The drive is most scenic from June to October. Winter (Nov-Apr) brings snow at Togwotee Pass, requiring chains or 4WD. Summer temperatures range from 60-80°F in mountains to 90°F in valleys.

Fall (Sept-Oct) offers aspens turning gold. Spring (May) brings wildflowers but muddy passes.