Evanston to Afton: Wyoming's Scenic Byway Guide

The drive from Evanston to Afton, Wyoming, follows US-89 north through the Bear River Valley, a route steeped in pioneer history. This corridor was once part of the Oregon Trail, and you'll see wagon ruts near Cokeville. The distance is 116 miles, and driving time is about 1 hour 45 minutes without stops.

This is a classic western road trip: high desert plains, mountain views, and small towns that seem frozen in time. You'll cross the Wyoming Range and follow the Salt River, with opportunities to explore Fossil Butte National Monument and the Bridger-Teton National Forest.

Before you go, check weather and road conditions via Wyoming 511, and note that gas stations are sparse between Kemmerer and Afton. Planning your fuel stops is essential.

The entire route is paved and well-maintained, but you'll encounter two-lane highways for most of the drive. Speed limits are 65 mph on open roads, but reduce to 30-45 mph in small towns.

• Fuel: Fill up in Evanston (multiple stations) or Kemmerer; Afton has a few options, but between Kemmerer and Afton, there's no gas for about 65 miles. Plan accordingly.
• Road conditions: US-89 is a major north-south route, so snow removal is efficient in winter, but always check forecasts.
• Wildlife: Look out for deer, elk, and moose, especially at dawn and dusk.

Cell service is spotty: expect gaps between Evanston and Kemmerer, and beyond Cokeville. Download offline maps before you leave.

For a stress-free drive, consider using the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities guide to plan your breaks.

Wyoming's landscapes dominate this drive. As you leave Evanston, the terrain opens into sagebrush hills, then climbs through the Bear River Divide at 8,500 feet. From Kemmerer, the highway follows the Hams Fork River, then the Smiths Fork, before merging with the Salt River near Cokeville.

Fossil Butte National Monument near Kemmerer protects one of the world's richest fossil fish beds, with fossils dating back 50 million years. It's a must-see for geology enthusiasts, and the visitor center has exhibits.

The route continues through the Bridger-Teton National Forest, culminating in the Star Valley, an alpine valley ringed by the Salt River Range and the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Afton itself boasts the world's largest elk antler arch.

Local commerce thrives in the towns you pass. Kemmerer is home to JC Penney's first store, still operating as a museum. Cokeville offers a classic rock shop and diner. Afton has a grocery store, hardware store, and several restaurants serving classic Wyoming fare.

• Farmers markets: Afton hosts a weekly market from June through September.
• Craft breweries: There's one small brewery in Kemmerer.

Safety on this route is straightforward if you follow speed limits and watch for changing weather. Winter can bring icy conditions, especially over the passes, so carry chains if you're traveling November through April.

• Rest zones: There are rest areas at the Bear River Divide (eastbound) and near Cokeville. Both have restrooms, picnic tables, and scenic views.
• Fatigue: Plan to stop every 2 hours. The Walmart in Kemmerer is a safe parking spot to stretch or nap.
• Services: In Afton, the hospital offers 24-hour emergency care, and there are motels along US-89.

This route is family-friendly. Kids will love seeing pronghorn antelope and maybe moose. Fossil Butte has interactive exhibits and a short trail. Cokeville's old-fashioned soda fountain is a treat.

For pets, most roadside stops are open spaces, but national monument buildings do not allow pets except service animals. There are no designated dog parks, but many trails within the national forest allow on-leash dogs.

Afton's City Park has a play structure and picnic area, and the Afton Pool is a public swimming pool. For a quiet nature break, stop at the Salt River Wildlife Management Area, but keep to the paths.