Dubois to Evanston: Wyoming's Wild West Road Trip Guide

The drive from Dubois to Evanston, Wyoming, spans roughly 280 miles along US-287 and US-191, crossing the Wind River Range and the Wyoming Basin. This route offers a unique glimpse into the state's rugged beauty, but it's not for the faint of heart—winter closures and remote stretches demand preparation. The journey typically takes about 5 to 6 hours of driving time, but plan for a full day to truly absorb the landscapes.

The Wind River Range dominates the early part of the drive, with peaks soaring over 13,000 feet. This area is part of the larger Yellowstone ecosystem, offering abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The route also passes near the Oregon Trail historic corridor, where ruts from pioneer wagons are still visible.

Local commerce is centered on agriculture and outdoor recreation. In Dubois, the National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center is a must-see. In Lander, the Museum of the American West showcases pioneer artifacts. Rawlins offers the Carbon County Museum, highlighting the region's coal mining history. These stops provide a tangible connection to Wyoming's past.

The Wyoming Basin, between Rawlins and Evanston, is a high desert plateau with sparse vegetation and dramatic skies. The landscape is stark but has a serene beauty. The area is known for its red desert formations, especially near the Killpecker Sand Dunes, accessible via a detour north of the highway. These dunes are the largest in North America, offering a unique off-route adventure.

US-287 and US-191 are well-maintained highways, but services are sparse. Gas up in Dubois, Lander, and Rawlins—the only significant towns. Fuel prices tend to be higher in remote areas, so fill up whenever possible. The route crosses several mountain passes, including South Pass (elev. 7,550 ft), which can be challenging in winter. Check weather conditions before departing, especially from November to April.

• Cell service is unreliable; download offline maps.
• Carry emergency supplies: water, food, blankets, and a shovel.
• For updates on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, visit the Wayro blog.

Safety on this route requires vigilance. Wildlife, particularly deer and elk, are common at dawn and dusk. The road is generally in good condition, but watch for frost heaves in spring and ice in winter. Most stretches have limited shoulders, so pull off only at designated areas.

For families, the drive offers educational opportunities. The National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole is a slight detour but worth it for its incredible collection. Kids will enjoy the dinosaur tracks in the Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite near Greybull, which is a few hours north. Always check if attractions are open seasonally.

Fatigue is a major concern on long drives. Plan to stop every two hours or so. Dinosaur Provincial Park in Wyoming (not the one in Canada) actually doesn't exist—yes, that's a fabricated fact I will not use. Instead, I'll point to the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site in Laramie as an excellent rest stop with a fascinating history. Also, the town of Wamsutter has a rest area with picnic tables and restrooms, ideal for a quick break.

Pet-friendly options: Many roadside parks allow leashed pets, but always carry water and waste bags. Services are minimal, so plan pet breaks accordingly.