Driggs to Gillette Road Trip Guide: Epic Wyoming Drive

This 830-mile journey from Driggs, Idaho (elevation 6,200 ft) to Gillette, Wyoming (elevation 4,600 ft) traverses two major mountain ranges and the high desert of the Powder River Basin. The route begins on ID-33 east toward Wyoming, then merges with US-26/US-287, continues via I-80 to Rawlins, and finishes on I-25 and I-90. A unique quirk: just east of Dubois, WY, you'll cross the Continental Divide at Togwotee Pass (9,658 ft) before descending into the Wind River Basin. Expect a driving time of 12-14 hours without stops.

Planning stops is key: there are long stretches (over 100 miles) without services between Rawlins and Casper. The how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities guide offers tactics to break up the drive. Highlights include Grand Teton National Park, Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, and the fossil-rich Bighorn Basin.

Safely navigate long drives by breaking up the journey into 2-3 hour segments. Recommended rest stops include:

• Jackson: Rest area near the Elk Refuge with restrooms and picnic tables.
• Dubois: The Dubois Museum has quirky exhibits and clean restrooms.
• Thermopolis: Hot Springs State Park – take a break in the 104°F mineral pools.
• Casper: Fort Caspar Museum and grassy lawn to stretch legs.

Pet-friendly framework: Most rest areas allow leashed pets; national parks require pets on trails and in developed areas only. In Thermopolis, the state park permits dogs on leash. Family suitability: The drive is long for small children, but attractions like the Wyoming Dinosaur Center (Thermopolis) are excellent. Bring activities and plan for frequent breaks.

Infrastructure safety: Roads are generally safe, but watch for wildlife (elk, deer, moose) at dawn/dusk. Winds on I-80 can be fierce, especially near Rawlins. Always have an emergency kit with blankets, first aid, and jumper cables.

The route offers staggering diversity. Starting in the Teton Range, you'll cross the Gros Ventre, Wind River, and Bighorn Mountains before reaching the high plains. Along the way, you pass through historic ranching towns and Native American sites.

• Grand Teton National Park: Iconic peaks and pristine lakes. Consider a short hike to Jenny Lake.
• Wind River Indian Reservation: Home to Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho. Visit the Wind River Heritage Center in Riverton.
• Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area: Near Lovell, offers dramatic canyon views and boating.
• Thermopolis: World's largest mineral hot spring (Hot Springs State Park). Free bathhouse open daily.

UNEESCO World Heritage Sites: Yellowstone (a short detour) is nearby, but the route itself has none. However, the entire region is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

All primary highways are paved and well-maintained, but winter conditions can be severe from October to April. Many stretches, especially US-26 east of Moran Junction, lack cell service. Always carry physical maps and emergency supplies.

• Gas stations: In Driggs, Jackson, Dubois, Thermopolis, Casper, and Gillette. Between Rawlins and Casper (150 miles) there is only one station at Muddy Gap.
• Food & Lodging: Major towns offer restaurants and motels; remote sections have limited dining. Plan to carry snacks and water.
• Road conditions: Check WYDOT 511 for closures, especially Togwotee Pass and US-20/26/287.

Estimated fuel costs: For an average SUV (20 mpg), the trip will require about 42 gallons. Current gas prices vary, but budget $120-$160. Electric vehicle charging is sparse beyond major towns; only Tesla Superchargers in Jackson and Casper.