Dubois to Lander: Wyoming's Wind River Road Trip

Driving from Dubois to Lander, you traverse the southern flank of the Absaroka Range, crossing the Wind River at a point where the river has carved a dramatic canyon. This route follows U.S. Highway 26 for about 80 miles, a stretch that's part of the historic Oregon Trail corridor. The road's highest point, Burnt Gulch, sits at 7,800 feet, offering a first glimpse of the glacial-carved peaks ahead.

This is a drive through the ancestral lands of the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes, whose Wind River Indian Reservation borders the route. The geology tells a story of ancient seas, volcanic eruptions, and ice ages, visible in the striped sedimentary layers and granite outcroppings.

Distance and time: The drive covers ~80 miles and typically takes 1.5 hours without stops. But plan for 2-3 hours to enjoy the scenery. The road is well-maintained two-lane highway with passing lanes.

• Fuel: Fill up in Dubois (last gas for 50 miles). Lander has several stations, including a 24/7 Sinclair.
• Cost: Expect gas prices ~10% higher in Dubois than Lander. A round trip adds about 0.8 gallons for a typical SUV.
• Rest stops: No services between Dubois and Crowheart; use the roadside pullouts for breaks.

Cell coverage is sparse in the canyon, but returns near Crowheart. Download offline maps in advance. The speed limit varies from 65 mph to 45 mph through curves; watch for wildlife, especially deer and elk at dawn and dusk.

For a more detailed approach to planning stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The Wind River Canyon is a geological wonder, cutting through ancient metamorphic rocks estimated at 2.7 billion years old. The canyon walls rise 2,500 feet, creating a dramatic corridor. At the north end, Toro (a volcanic plug) stands sentinel, a remnant of ancient volcanic activity. The junction of the Wind River and Bighorn rivers is visible at the canyon's base, where the water turns turquoise.

Just south of Dubois, the Dubois Badlands showcase colorful bentonite clay formations, eroded into otherworldly shapes. This area is part of the Wind River Indian Reservation, so expect to see signs of tribal fishing access; a permit is required for fishing.

Crowheart is a small crossroads named after a battle between Shoshone and Crow tribes. Today, it's home to a trading post with handmade Native American crafts and antiques. The business, run by a local family, offers a glimpse into ranching heritage.

Further south, Fort Washakie is a living community center for the Eastern Shoshone. The Fort Washakie Museum (free admission) displays artifacts from the tribe's history, including items from Chief Washakie's era. The nearby Sacajawea Cemetery is believed to be the final resting place of the famed Shoshone guide (though disputed).

At the journey's end, Lander (population 7,500) is a vibrant town with a historic Main Street, galleries, and the Lander Brewing Company, a popular stop for craft beers. The International Climbers' Festival takes place annually in July, celebrating the area's climbing culture.

This route is generally safe, but be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in shoulder seasons. Black ice can form in shaded curves during cold mornings. The road has clear signage and good guardrails in the canyon.

For families, the Wind River Canyon offers safe pullouts like the Wind River Canyon Rest Area with picnic tables and a short nature trail. Kids will enjoy Shoshone National Forest interpretive signs explaining geology. Just after Burnt Gulch, the Bull Lake Creek area has a gravel road leading to a scenic overlook perfect for a leg stretch.

Pets are welcome at roadside stops but must be leashed in the canyon due to wildlife. The Lander City Park offers a fenced dog area for a post-drive break.

Fatigue management is key on this scenic but winding route. Plan to stop every 20-30 minutes at named pullouts: Toro Overlook and Muskrat Canyon Overlook are excellent. If drowsy, the Shoshone Lodge (in Dubois) offers day-use areas for a quick nap. The Fremont County Visitor Center in Lander provides comfortable restrooms and tourist info.

For dining, Dubois' The Rustic Pine (family-style menu) and Lander's Gannett Grill (made-from-scratch soups) are local favorites. Both are casual and kid-friendly.