Cody to Wenatchee Road Trip: Ultimate Guide via US-20 & I-90

The road from Cody to Wenatchee follows a historic path once used by Native American trade routes. You'll traverse the Bighorn Basin, cross the Continental Divide, and descend into the Columbia River Valley.

The drive covers 820 miles (1,320 km) and takes about 13 hours without stops. US-20 and I-90 are your primary highways, with dramatic elevation changes from 5,000 feet to near sea level.

This route offers a mix of high plains, mountain passes, and river canyons. Key milestones include the Bighorn Mountains, Yellowstone River, and the arid landscapes of central Washington.

For a deeper dive on finding hidden stops, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The optimal route uses US-20 west from Cody to Shoshoni, then US-26 to Riverton. Continue on US-287 to Rawlins, then I-80 west to Evanston. From there, I-84 west to Boise, then I-90 west to Wenatchee.

Alternative scenic routes include US-14 over the Bighorn Mountains or US-12 over Lolo Pass for a more remote experience.

Fuel stations are sparse between Cody and Rawlins (about 250 miles). Plan to fill up in Cody, Thermopolis, Riverton, and Rawlins.

• Gasoline prices in Wyoming are typically $0.20 cheaper than Washington.
• EV charging stations are available in Thermopolis, Rawlins, Rock Springs, and Evanston.
• Diesel is widely available at truck stops along I-80 and I-84.

Road conditions are generally good, but winter weather can close mountain passes. Check WYDOT and WSDOT alerts.

• US-20 over the Bighorn Mountains is closed from November to April.
• I-80 is often affected by wind and snow between Rawlins and Evanston.
• I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass may require chains in winter.

From Cody, you enter the Bighorn Basin, a high desert plateau. The Thermopolis area features hot springs and red rock formations.

West of Riverton, the landscape changes to sagebrush plains. The Continental Divide at South Pass (elevation 7,550 ft) offers expansive views.

In Idaho, you cross the Snake River Plain, with volcanic landscapes and agricultural fields. The Sawtooth Mountains are visible to the north.

Washington's Columbia Plateau is flat and arid, with deep river canyons. The Wenatchee area is known for apple orchards and the Cascade foothills.

Local commerce includes Wyoming's oil and gas towns, Idaho's potato farms, and Washington's fruit industry.

• Rawlins has a historic downtown with coal mining heritage.
• Boise is a tech hub with a vibrant food scene.
• Wenatchee's farmers' markets sell fresh apples and cherries.

The drive requires careful fatigue management. Recommended rest stops after 2-3 hours include:

• Thermopolis (Hot Springs State Park) - 2.5 hr from Cody.
• Rawlins (fuel and rest) - 4.5 hr total.
• Rock Springs (shops and dining) - 6 hr total.
• Evanston (quiet park) - 7.5 hr total.

For families, attractions include:

• Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis.
• Sweetwater County Museum in Rock Springs.
• Silverwood Theme Park near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho (detour).
• Ohme Gardens in Wenatchee.

Pet-friendly stops: Many hotels along I-80 and I-90 accept pets. Rest areas with pet exercise areas are at Wamsutter, WY and Pendleton, OR. Bring water and bowls for desert stretches.

Road quality: US-20 in Wyoming is two-lane but well-maintained. I-80 is divided highway. I-90 in Washington has construction zones near Ellensburg.

Hidden off-route spots:

• Sinks Canyon State Park near Lander, WY - a river disappears into a cave.
• Hell's Half Acre, WY - a natural geological oddity.
• Bannock Peak, ID - an isolated volcanic butte.
• Potholes Coulee, WA - a scenic canyon near Quincy.

Culinary infrastructure: Diner options in Thermopolis (OK Cafe), Rawlins (New China Restaurant), Rock Springs (Little America), Boise (fork. restaurant), and Wenatchee (McGlinn's Public House).

Climatic conditions: Summer temps 85°F in valleys, 70°F in mountains. Winter: -10°F to 20°F with snow. Spring and fall are mild.