Cody to Pinedale, WY: Scenic Drive Through Wyoming's Wild Heart

This 250-mile journey from Cody to Pinedale, Wyoming, follows US-20/WY-120 west to Thermopolis, then south on US-20/WY-789, and finally east on US-26/WY-133 to Pinedale. The drive takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours without stops, but the dramatic topography demands exploration. The road traverses the Wind River Canyon, a 2,500-foot-deep gorge carved by the Wind River, where rock layers expose 2.9 billion years of Earth's history. Watch for bighorn sheep on the canyon walls.

For those wondering how long to drive Cody to Pinedale, expect 4.5 hours of pure driving, but plan for 7-8 hours to soak in the landscapes and attractions. The route is better known for its natural wonders than culinary pit stops, but local diners in towns like Thermopolis and Dubois offer hearty Wyoming fare. This guide covers best stops Cody to Pinedale, things to do between Cody and Pinedale, and answers is it worth driving Cody to Pinedale — absolutely yes, for the Wind River Canyon alone.

The Wind River Canyon is the crown jewel. Pull over at the scenic turnout at mile 119 for a photo of the ragged cliffs and the river. Farther south, the Absaroka Range gives way to the Wind River Range, whose granite peaks rise above Pinedale. The route skirts the southern edge of Yellowstone's volcanic plateau, visible from WY-120 near Meeteetse.

• Wind River Canyon: 18 miles of sheer rock faces, osprey nests, and a hydroelectric dam. Best viewed in late afternoon light.
• Boysen State Park (near Shoshoni): A reservoir for swimming, fishing, and birdwatching. Entrance fee $5.
• Dubois: Gateway to the Wind River Range. Visit the National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center (adults $5) to learn about the local herds.

Local commerce thrives on tourism and energy. In Thermopolis, the Hot Springs State Park offers free soaking in the state bathhouse (bring own towel). Dubois has a handful of gift shops selling Western art. Pinedale's Museum of the Mountain Man details the fur trade era (adults $7). For genuine local flavor, stop at the Owl Café in Dubois for a bison burger.

The region lacks a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (partially overlapping the route) is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The road itself passes through ancestral lands of the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes; the Wind River Indian Reservation lies south of Riverton.

The journey follows US-20 west out of Cody, transitioning to WY-120 near Meeteetse. At Thermopolis, the road merges with US-20/WY-789 south through Wind River Canyon. After Riverton, take US-26 west to Pinedale. Fuel stations are sparse between Thermopolis and Dubois (90 miles), so fill up in Cody or Thermopolis. Gas in Dubois is expensive; budget $0.10-0.20 more per gallon than in Cody.

• Fuel stops: Cody (multiple), Thermopolis (Chevron, Sinclair), Dubois (one station), Pinedale (several).
• Road condition: Generally good; winter travel may require chains or 4WD. Summer construction common.
• Restrooms: Rest areas at Wind River Canyon overlook (mile marker 119) and near Dubois. Limited services on US-26 between Dubois and Pinedale.

For tips on planning stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Cell service is spotty from Meeteetse to Thermopolis and absent in the canyon. Download offline maps in Cody. Towing services available in Cody (AAA) and Thermopolis, but response time may be 45+ minutes in remote areas. Carry extra water and snacks.

The road is generally safe but demands caution. Sharp curves in Wind River Canyon have reduced speed limits (45 mph). Watch for rockslides after rain. Wildlife crossings (deer, elk, bighorn sheep) are common at dawn and dusk; use high beams when safe. In winter, WY-120 and US-26 can be icy; carried chains and blankets.

• Infrastructure Safety: Gas stations and rest stops limited. Keep tank above half full.
• Road Quality: Asphalt in good condition; some stretches of chip seal near Shoshoni.
• Pet-Friendly Framework: Most parks allow leashed pets. Boysen State Park has pet-friendly trails. Motels in Thermopolis and Pinedale accept pets (clear fees first).

Family and Child Suitability: Hot Springs State Park's free pools are a hit with kids. Wind River Canyon's geology fascinates older children. The Museum of the Mountain Man in Pinedale has hands-on exhibits. Pack boredom busters for the long stretches between towns.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: Planned stops every 90 minutes. Rest areas: Wind River Canyon overlook (picnic tables, no water), Shoshoni (gas station with seating), Dubois (town park with restrooms). If drowsy, pull over at any wide shoulder; never drive impaired.