Dunsmuir to Kemmerer Road Trip: Best Stops & Tips

The drive from Dunsmuir, CA to Kemmerer, WY spans about 800 miles, crossing the Cascade Range, the Basin and Range Province, and the Rocky Mountains. One of the most striking facts about this route is that it passes near the 45th parallel north, which is halfway between the equator and the North Pole, a landmark that road-trippers often stop to photograph at a roadside marker in Oregon.

This guide covers the journey's highlights, logistics, and practical tips to ensure a smooth trip.

The route traverses diverse landscapes: from the volcanic Cascades of northern California, through the high desert of Nevada, to the Great Salt Lake's shores, and into the Rocky Mountain foothills. One UNESCO World Heritage Site lies near the route: the Yosemite National Park is a significant detour, but it's over 100 miles from the main path—so it's not a quick stop. The route's primary scenic attractions are the Sierra Nevada, the Black Rock Desert, and the Bonneville Salt Flats.

In small towns along the way, local commerce thrives in gas stations, diners, and shops. For example, in Winnemucca, NV, the local Basque culture is reflected in its restaurants, which serve authentic cuisine. This area is also known for its annual Basque Festival.

• Check out the historic grain elevators in Wendover, UT.
• Visit the Fossil Butte National Monument, about 10 miles west of Kemmerer.

For hidden off-route spots, consider a short detour to the town of Goldfield, NV, with its historic mining architecture and the Goldfield Hotel, which is reportedly haunted. Another hidden gem is the City of Rocks National Reserve in Idaho, but that's more of a detour.

Road safety is paramount on this long drive. The route includes mountain passes, desert stretches, and potentially extreme weather. It's essential to check weather forecasts and road conditions before departure. Also, since much of the drive is remote, ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry emergency supplies.

For families, there are several kid-friendly attractions, such as the Exploration Center at the Utah Field House of Natural History in Vernal, UT, but that's a hit with children and offers dinosaur exhibits. When it comes to pet-friendly stops, many national forests allow pets on trails, but always check local regulations.

• For fatigue management, the route has numerous rest areas and truck stops, especially along I-80.
• Consider staying overnight in Reno, NV, or Wendover, NV, to break up the drive.
• For a unique rest stop, visit the Bonneville Speedway on the salt flats, a historic racing site.

Local cuisine along the route varies: from California's farm-fresh produce to Nevada's Basque dishes and Utah's famous fries. When in Kemmerer, WY, try the local diner fare and the beef, which is a regional specialty.

Finally, for more tips on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, check out the linked blog post.

The main route follows I-5 north from Dunsmuir to Redding, then CA-44 east to Susanville, and US-395 north through Nevada, eventually connecting to I-80 east toward Salt Lake City, then I-84 and US-30 to Kemmerer. The total driving time is around 13-14 hours, but with stops and overnight stays, plan for two days.

Fuel prices vary widely along the route; generally cheaper in Nevada and Utah than in California or Wyoming. As of 2023, expect to pay $4.50-$5.50 per gallon in California, around $3.50-$4.50 in Nevada/Utah, and about $3.00-$4.00 in Wyoming.

• There are no toll roads on this route.
• The highest elevation on the route is about 7,200 feet at Donner Pass on I-80 near Truckee, CA.
• Road conditions are good year-round, but winter storms can cause closures in the Sierra Nevada and Wasatch Range.

For rest stops, there are many public rest areas along I-80 and US-395. The drive from Dunsmuir to Kemmerer offers ample opportunities for refueling and eating.