Gillette to Evanston: A Wyoming Road Trip Guide

This 370-mile route crosses the entire state, passing through the historic Oregon Trail corridor. It takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes of pure driving time.

The road follows I-90 west to Buffalo, then I-25 south to Casper, and finally I-80 west to Evanston, hugging the Union Pacific Railroad for much of the way.

The drive transitions from the Powder River Basin's coal country to the high desert of the Red Desert, ending near the Wasatch Range. Elevations range from 4,500 feet in Gillette to 7,100 feet at the summit near Wamsutter.

Winter storms can close sections of I-80 between Rawlins and Laramie, so check WYDOT road conditions before departing. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms, but visibility is usually good.

Fuel stations cluster at towns every 50-70 miles, but the stretch between Rawlins and Sinclair has a 50-mile gap with no services. Gas prices average $3.20 per gallon, slightly higher than the national average.

• Most exits have chain motels, but booking ahead in summer is wise.
• Rest areas with picnic tables and restrooms appear every 30-40 miles.
• Cellular coverage drops on mountain passes, especially between Elk Mountain and Arlington.

The route intersects the Continental Divide at three points near Rawlins and again at Point of Rocks. Bridger Valley offers the last chance for fuel before entering Utah.

Speed limits range from 75 to 80 mph, but strong crosswinds can affect high-profile vehicles, especially near Arlington and Elk Mountain. Reduce speed during gusty conditions and be mindful of wildlife crossings at dawn and dusk.

Rest zones are well-maintained, but the best fatigue break is at the Lincoln Monument rest area near Laramie, which offers walking paths and views of the Snowy Range.

Families will enjoy the Wyoming Frontier Prison museum in Rawlins, offering tours of the old penitentiary. The Evanston Historic District features restored Victorian homes and a Chinese joss house museum.

Pet-friendly stops include the Hemingway Memorial in Trail Creek where dogs can stretch legs. Most motels along the route accept pets, but confirm when booking.

For hidden off-route spots, detour 20 miles south of I-80 to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area near the Utah border, known for red rock cliffs and the Green River. A shorter detour to Curtis Gulch near Sinclair reveals miner's cabins and natural springs.

Just off I-25, Fort Caspar (not bold) recreates a Mormon ferry crossing of the North Platte River. The site commemorates the 1865 battle and offers a museum with artifacts from the Oregon Trail.

Further south, Independence Rock – a massive granite monolith – was a famous landmark for pioneers, who carved names into its surface. Hot springs at the base attest to geothermal activity.

The Red Desert, between Rawlins and Rock Springs, contains the Adobe Town badlands, a maze of colorful clay formations. This area is home to wild horses, and the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail crosses near Bridger Pass.

Local commerce flourishes in small towns like Saratoga, where a working hot springs pool attracts travelers. The Carbon County Museum in Rawlins preserves the region's mining heritage.