Cody to Yakima: A Road Trip Through the Pacific Northwest

Did you know that the route from Cody, Wyoming to Yakima, Washington passes through the historic Oregon Trail corridor and over the Continental Divide at an elevation of 7,900 feet? This drive covers 750 miles of diverse terrain, from the high plains of Wyoming to the volcanic peaks of Washington.

The journey typically takes 12-14 hours of pure driving time, but we recommend spreading it over at least two days to appreciate the incredible stops. Key highways include US-20 west out of Cody, I-15 north through Idaho, and I-82 west into Yakima.

For travelers wondering how long to drive Cody, WY to Yakima, WA, the answer is one very full day or two relaxed days. And for those asking is it worth driving Cody, WY to Yakima, WA, absolutely yes — the scenery is world-class and varied.

This table breaks down the major legs of the journey. The fastest route hugs interstates, but we'll explore alternatives that reveal the region's character.

Before diving in, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities for a methodology that works on any road trip.

This route traverses three distinct geological provinces: the Rocky Mountains (Wyoming), the Northern Rocky Mountains (Idaho/Montana), and the Columbia Plateau (Washington). Each offers unique vistas and hiking opportunities.

• Shoshone National Forest (just west of Cody): dramatic canyons, hot springs, and wildlife including bighorn sheep and elk.
• Yellowstone National Park (if detouring): geysers, bison herds, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
• Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest (Montana): thick pine forests, pristine rivers, and quiet camping spots.
• Columbia River Gorge (near Yakima): arid basalt cliffs, waterfalls, and windsurfing. Not on the direct route but worth a 30-min detour.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Yellowstone National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, straddling Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. If you take the US-20 route through West Yellowstone, you skirt the park's western edge. Even without entering, the surrounding ecosystem — the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem — is protected and awe-inspiring.

Local commerce thrives on tourism, agriculture, and timber. In Wyoming, cowboy culture persists with working ranches and rodeo events. In Montana, you'll find artisanal shops in Missoula and fly-fishing outfitters. Washington's Yakima Valley is a prime wine-growing region — over 80 wineries call it home.

Culinary infrastructure ranges from classic diners to farm-to-table. In Cody, try the historic Irma Hotel for buffalo burgers. In Missoula, local breweries like Big Sky Brewing offer tours. Yakima's restaurant scene features Mexican and Asian fusion thanks to its agricultural workforce. For sweet tooths, the Idaho-Montana border towns have huckleberry everything: shakes, pies, and candies.

Hidden off-route spots: Need some solitude? Head 15 miles south of I-90 at exit 208 (near Butte) to the ghost town of Bannack State Park — a well-preserved gold rush settlement. Or, between Spokane and Yakima, take WA-26 west to the Palouse Falls State Park, a dramatic 200-foot waterfall in a remote canyon.

Fuel economy matters on this long, varied route. Your gas tank will dictate your freedom, so plan accordingly. Gas stations are plentiful on interstates but sparse on two-lane highways like US-20 through Wyoming.

• Total distance: 750 miles (1,207 km). Expect to refuel 3-4 times in a standard car.
• Regular gasoline price range (2025): $3.50–$4.20/gal. Idaho tends to be cheapest, Washington more expensive.
• Diesel widely available; electric charging stations exist in major towns (West Yellowstone, Missoula, Spokane, Yakima) but less so in rural areas.
• Road quality: excellent on interstates; US-20 and US-191 in Wyoming are well-maintained but winding through mountains.
• Permits or tolls: None on interstates. Yellowstone National Park entry fee ($35) if you detour through the park.

Cell coverage is strong along interstates, but weak in the high country between Cody and West Yellowstone. Download offline maps and podcasts before you leave. Carry a physical map as backup — some canyons swallow signals.

For tire safety: check pressures and tread before departure. The elevation changes can affect tire psi, and remote stretches lack service stations.

Roadside assistance: AAA covers this region well. Montana and Idaho have low population density, so response times can be 45-90 minutes in remote areas. Consider a satellite communicator if traveling solo or in winter.

Infrastructure safety is solid on the interstates, but vigilance is needed on two-lane roads where wildlife crossings are common. Deer, elk, and even moose can appear at dawn and dusk. Headlights on high beam when no oncoming traffic, and reduce speed in wildlife zones.

• Fatigue management: break every 2 hours for 15 minutes. Use rest areas on I-90, which are spaced 30-50 miles apart. Most have picnic tables and clean restrooms.
• Best family stops: Yellowstone Bear World (near Rexburg, ID) — a drive-through wildlife park with bear cubs. Also, Silverwood Theme Park (near Coeur d'Alene, ID) for roller coasters and water slides.
• Pet-friendly framework: Most national forests allow leashed pets on trails. Many motels along the route accept pets for a small fee. Rest areas have poop bags and pet relief areas.

Rest zones: State rest areas on I-90 are open 24/7 and patrolled. They are safe for short naps, but avoid overnight parking unless designated. Some truck stops like Love's or Flying J (in Missoula and Spokane) have showers and lounges.

Climatic conditions: Summer highs range from 80°F in mountains to 100°F in Columbia Basin. Winters are harsh — snow and ice possible from November to April in all segments. Spring and fall offer mild weather but occasional rain. Always check forecasts before departure.

Route aesthetics: The most scenic segment is US-20 from Cody to West Yellowstone, climbing over the Absaroka Range with views of volcanic peaks. Then, I-90 through Montana's Bitterroot Valley is pine-scented and calm. The final stretch into Yakima reveals the abrupt transition from forest to arid farmland — a visual feast.

For those researching things to do between Cody, WY and Yakima, WA, consider Mesa Falls in Idaho (near Ashton) on US-20 — a powerful waterfall accessible via a short boardwalk. Also, the Montana Grizzly Encounter in Bozeman (if you head south) is an educational rescue facility. In Washington, the Yakima Valley Museum has exhibits on agriculture and history.