Devils Lake to Lander: Scenic Road Trip Guide

Starting in Devils Lake, North Dakota — the state's largest natural lake, formed by glacial activity — you'll head west on US-2, then southwest onto US-85 through Theodore Roosevelt National Park's rugged badlands. The route spans approximately 760 miles and crosses the Missouri River at Bismarck.

You'll traverse three distinct ecosystems: the flat prairie of North Dakota, the rolling plains of Montana, and finally the foothills of the Rocky Mountains as you approach Lander, Wyoming, gateway to the Wind River Range.

Weather on this route can be extreme: winter brings heavy snow and wind, while summer brings thunderstorms and potential hail. Check forecasts before departure. Speed limits are 75 mph on interstates, but lower in construction zones.

For families, the route offers several kid-friendly stops: the Children's Museum of Bismarck, the Dinosaur Museum in Thermopolis (slightly south of Lander), and the Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis.

Pet-friendly lodging is common in larger towns like Bismarck and Buffalo; many state parks along the route allow pets in designated areas. Rest areas are good for stretching legs with pets, but keep them leashed.

To manage fatigue, plan to stop every two hours. Good rest stops include the James River State Recreation Area near Jamestown, ND, and the Powder River Rest Area in Wyoming. Avoid driving at night to reduce risk of hitting wildlife like deer or elk.

The drive from Devils Lake, ND to Lander, WY typically takes 11–12 hours of pure driving time, but plan for a full day with stops. The route uses US-2, I-94, US-85, I-90, and US-16/20/26, with good pavement throughout; expect construction delays during summer months.

• Fuel stops are plentiful along the interstate sections; however, between Miles City, MT and Buffalo, WY, stations become sparse — fill up when you can.
• Diesel and gasoline prices vary; generally cheaper in ND and MT than in WY due to state taxes.
• Food options are limited in small towns; packing snacks is wise.
• Rest areas with restrooms appear every 50–60 miles on I-94 and I-90, but many close seasonally; check signs.

North of the route, the International Peace Garden on the US-Canada border is a nice detour (though far north). Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a highlight: its badlands reveal fossil beds and abundant wildlife like bison and prairie dogs. The park has two units; the South Unit near Medora is easier to access and offers scenic drives and hiking.

In Montana, you'll pass through the Custer National Forest, where you can see the site of the Battle of the Little Bighorn — a national monument with a visitor center.

Near Lander, the Wind River Indian Reservation is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes; consider visiting the Wind River Heritage Center in Riverton for cultural exhibits. Local commerce in Lander includes a vibrant arts scene and locally-owned coffee shops, such as the Lander Roasting Company.