Driggs to Custer Road Trip Guide: Scenic Route

The drive from Driggs, Idaho to Custer, South Dakota spans about 520 miles, crossing three states and the Continental Divide. This route follows US-26, US-20, I-25, and US-16, with an estimated driving time of 8-9 hours excluding stops. The most direct path passes through the Wyoming plains and the Bighorn Mountains before descending into the Black Hills.

Along the way, you'll encounter the country's largest hot spring, America's first national monument, and a 30,000-year-old cave system. The route is rich in geological history, from the volcanic Teton Basin to the ancient granite of the Black Hills.

Intriguingly, the route crosses the 45th parallel, halfway between the equator and the North Pole, near Midwest, Wyoming. This geographic quirk is marked only by a small sign near the highway.

Road quality is high on interstates (I-25) but US-26 and US-20 have occasional rough patches. Watch for livestock crossings in Wyoming. In winter, snow and ice are common; chains may be required over mountain passes.

• Family suitability: High. Many child-friendly stops like the Wyoming Dinosaur Center (Thermopolis), Fort Laramie National Historic Site, and Wind Cave tours
• Pet-friendly: Most rest areas allow pets; many hotels in Custer and Casper are pet-friendly (e.g., Best Western). Devil's Tower allows leashed dogs on trails

Hidden off-route spots: The Red Desert (south of US-287) offers surreal badlands and wild horses. Hell's Half Acre near Casper is a natural amphitheater used in the movie 'Starship Troopers'. In the Black Hills, try the Needles Highway for granite spires.

Fatigue management: Plan breaks every 2 hours. Recommended rest zones: Waltman Rest Area (I-25), Orin Junction (I-25/US-18), and Jewel Cave National Monument (near Custer). Use the Rest Area app for updates. Caffeine stops: Cowboy Coffee Co. in Dubois and Java Joint in Custer.

From Driggs, the route offers views of the Teton Range to the west, then crosses arid high desert of Wyoming. The Bighorn Mountains provide a dramatic ascent to Powder River Pass (9,666 ft). Descending into the Black Hills, you'll see Ponderosa pine forests and granite spires.

• Natural attractions: Hot Springs State Park (Thermopolis, WY), Devil's Tower National Monument, Wind Cave National Park
• Local commerce: Casper has oil heritage; Custer is a gateway to Mount Rushmore, with shops selling Black Hills gold and Native American crafts

UNESCO World Heritage Sites near the route include Yellowstone National Park (detour via US-20 from Driggs), but the route itself passes near none directly. However, Wind Cave is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and an International Dark Sky Park.

Climate varies: Driggs has cool summers (70°F high) and snowy winters. Wyoming plains can be hot (90°F) and windy. Black Hills have mild summers (80°F) and sudden thunderstorms. The best road aesthetics are in late spring (wildflowers) and autumn (fall colors).

Culinary stops: In Thermopolis, try the historic Hot Springs County Coffee Co. In Casper, don't miss the steak at Racca's Pizza & Pasta. Custer offers bison burgers at the Custer Wolf and fresh pastries at Baker's Bakery.

Fuel stations are sparse on certain stretches, particularly between Dubois and Casper (about 130 miles without services). Plan to fill up in Driggs, Dubois, and Casper. In Custer, gas is available but prices are higher due to tourism.

• Best fuel stops: Driggs (Sinclair), Dubois (Valero), Casper (multiple options)
• Average fuel cost: $3.50-$4.00 per gallon
• Road conditions: Generally good, but watch for wildlife (deer, antelope) on US-26 in Wyoming

Consider using our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to optimize your fuel and rest breaks. The route has ample rest areas: near Dubois, Waltman (I-25), and Orin.

Cell phone coverage is spotty through the Bighorn Mountains and remote Wyoming plains. Download offline maps and bring a physical map. Emergency services are available in towns but response times can be long in remote areas.