Devils Lake to Saratoga: Road Trip Guide with Best Stops

Devils Lake, North Dakota, sits atop the largest natural body of water in the state, a remnant of glacial Lake Minnewaukan. The drive to Saratoga, Wyoming, traverses 800 miles of the Northern Plains, crossing the Missouri River and the Black Hills before reaching the North Platte River valley. You'll be driving through three distinct geological provinces: the Drift Prairie, the Missouri Plateau, and the Rocky Mountain foothills.

This route takes you from the rolling wheat fields of the Red River Valley to the high desert of Wyoming, with a dramatic shift in elevation from 1,300 feet to over 6,000 feet. Expect to take 12-14 hours of pure driving time, not counting stops.

Fatigue is a serious concern on long drives. Plan to take a break every 2-3 hours. Recommended rest stops include the North Dakota Visitor Center at the I-94 rest area near Bismarck, the Black Hills Welcome Center, and the Rest Area at the Wyoming border. These locations have picnic areas and restrooms. For families, attractions like the Magic City Casino in Minot offer arcades, or better, the Dakota Territory Air Museum in Minot, and the Storybook Island in Rapid City, SD, are sure to entertain children.

Pets are welcome at most outdoor attractions, but always check leash policies. The route offers numerous pet-friendly motels such as Motel 6 and Super 8. For a safe and enjoyable trip, keep your vehicle in good condition and carry an emergency kit including water, blankets, and a flashlight.

For more tips on discovering unique spots along any route, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. Hidden off-route gems include the Enchanted Highway in North Dakota, a collection of giant scrap metal sculptures, and the spooky ghost town of Washington, WY, just off I-25.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located near Medora, ND, is a must-visit for its dramatic badlands formations, petrified forests, and bison herds. Just off I-94, it offers scenic drives and hiking trails. Further south, the Black Hills of South Dakota feature Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial, both iconic landmarks. These regions are rich in local commerce, with unique shops offering Native American crafts, western wear, and local honey.

The route also crosses the Missouri River near Bismarck, where you can visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. For a glimpse of frontier history, stop at the town of Buffalo, WY, which has preserved its 19th-century main street.

Begin on US-281 South, then merge onto I-94 West toward Bismarck. From there, take US-85 South through the Badlands, then I-90 West through South Dakota, and finally US-287 South into Wyoming. The total distance is 800 miles, and the estimated driving time is 12-14 hours, depending on weather and traffic. The fastest route is via I-94, US-85, I-90, and US-287.

Fuel costs will vary based on current gas prices, but in 2024 you can expect to spend around $0.12 per mile on gasoline for an average car, totaling roughly $96 for the trip. The route passes through several mid-sized towns with services every 50-100 miles, but remote stretches like the Badlands have limited fuel options, so plan accordingly.

Road conditions are generally good, with well-maintained highways in North Dakota and Wyoming, but winter weather can cause closures. For real-time updates, check the ND Roads app and Wyoming 511.