Hanksville to Buffalo: Epic Utah-Wyoming Road Trip

Beginning in Hanksville, Utah, at the edge of the San Rafael Swell, this 510-mile route to Buffalo, Wyoming offers a striking transition from the rust-colored sandstone of the Colorado Plateau to the grassy high plains of the Powder River Basin. The drive, mostly along I-70 and I-80, can be completed in about 7.5 hours of pure driving, but the landscapes and side trips demand more time. This is a journey through some of the most geologically dramatic country in the United States, where you'll pass within view of the Uinta Mountains and the Flaming Gorge, and eventually cross the Continental Divide.

Interesting historical note: the town of Hanksville was named after a Mormon pioneer who established a ferry on the Dirty Devil River in the 1880s, and it has served as a gateway to the vast, remote regions of southern Utah ever since. Buffalo, Wyoming, on the other hand, was founded in 1884 as a railroad town and is known for its proximity to the Bighorn Mountains and its historic Occidental Hotel, which once hosted the likes of Buffalo Bill and Calamity Jane.

Below is a quick comparison of the start and end points to help you plan.

This route is generally safe, but long, lonely stretches require vigilance. Wildlife such as deer, elk, and pronghorn may cross highways at any time, particularly at dawn and dusk; use high beams when possible and be alert for reflective eyes. In winter, snow and ice are common, so carry chains and emergency supplies. For updates, dial 511 for Utah and Wyoming road conditions.

For families, the route offers several engaging stops. The Frontier Fun Park in Evanston, WY (slightly off-route) has mini-golf and go-karts, but a more direct option is the Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis, which is a detour but well worth it for kids. Simpler stops include the Rest Areas with play areas, and the Fort Bridger State Historic Site, where children can explore reconstructed forts. Be sure to plan restroom breaks at gas stations, as some facilities may be closed.

Traveling with pets is feasible but requires planning: many rest areas have designated pet exercise zones, and motels in larger towns like Green River and Rawlins are majority pet-friendly, though they often charge a small fee (around $20). Avoid leaving pets in vehicles during summer, as temperatures can soar even in Wyoming. The dry climate also means pets need extra water.

Fatigue management is crucial on this monotonous interstate stretch. The American Trucking Associations recommend a 15-minute break every 2 hours. Several rest areas along I-80 have picnic tables and shade, but few have playgrounds. Consider a longer stop at the Wyoming State Hospital in Evanston, which has a therapeutic farm, though it's not a tourist attraction; instead, the town of Little America has a small motel and restaurant that offers a quiet break off the highway.

Hidden gems away from the interstate include the Killpecker Sand Dunes near Rock Springs, the largest active dune field in North America, where you can slide down the dunes or watch wild horses. The historic town of Encampment, WY, is a bit off-route but offers the Grand Encampment Museum and the scenic Sierra Madre Range. Near Buffalo, the Clear Creek Trail offers a pleasant walk into the Bighorn National Forest.

Finally, for those wondering: is it worth driving Hanksville, UT to Buffalo, WY? Absolutely, given the unique mix of geological wonders, pioneer history, and expansive western scenery. The best stops Hanksville, UT to Buffalo, WY blend natural parks with small-town charm, and the things to do between Hanksville, UT and Buffalo, WY are diverse, from hiking slot canyons to sampling Basque cuisine. The how long to drive Hanksville, UT to Buffalo, WY is manageable, but allow extra days for full enjoyment.

The first leg from Hanksville to Green River traverses the San Rafael Swell, a massive geological fold that exposes colorful sedimentary layers. Many travelers make a detour to Goblin Valley State Park, known for its hoodoos, or to the Little Wild Horse Canyon for a slot canyon hike. Along I-70, you'll pass through the Book Cliffs, then descend into the Green River valley, a lush ribbon of agriculture amidst desert.

Beyond Green River, I-80 climbs into the high desert of Wyoming. The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, accessible via a 20-mile detour from the town of Manila, offers a deep canyon lake with dramatic red cliffs and opportunities for boating and fishing. For a shorter stop, consider Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge south of Green River, a haven for birders with pronghorn and sage grouse.

The region is rich in prehistory: Dinosaur National Monument, near Vernal, UT, is a detour of about 90 miles from Hanksville and preserves over 1,500 dinosaur fossils in a quarry wall. Not far from the route, Fossil Butte National Monument in Wyoming features an abundance of Eocene fish fossils from an ancient lake. For those interested in more recent history, the town of Rock Springs celebrates its immigrant mining heritage with ethnic museums and the annual International Festival.

Local commerce in these towns reflects their frontier roots. Independent diners and coffee shops serve hearty fare; in Hanksville, Stan's Burger Shop is a known stop for classic burgers and shakes. Rock Springs boasts a number of Basque restaurants, a nod to the sheepherders who once dominated the area. When you approach Buffalo, you'll find a revived downtown with art galleries and western outfitters.

For a deeper dive on discovering offbeat attractions, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Your primary route is well-paved and maintained, but remote stretches require planning. Start on UT-24 north, then take I-70 east to Green River, UT, where you'll continue on I-80 east through Wyoming. The entire route is about 510 miles, with an estimated driving time of 7 hours 30 minutes without stops. For a road trip, plan for 1 to 2 days, and be sure to factor in time for sightseeing and rest.

Fuel is a key consideration: gas stations are sparse between Hanksville and Green River (about 110 miles), and once on I-80 in Wyoming, services are more frequent but still limited in the open stretches. As of 2024, gasoline prices average around $3.50 per gallon in Utah and $3.20 in Wyoming, but remote stations may charge 10-20% more. To avoid range anxiety, fill up in Hanksville, Green River, Rock Springs, and Rawlins.

Road quality is generally excellent: interstates are well-maintained, but watch for occasional rough patches due to winter freeze-thaw cycles in Wyoming. Be aware of strong crosswinds, especially on the open plains near Rawlins, where wind gusts can exceed 50 mph at times. Rest areas are available every 50-60 miles along I-80, with clean bathrooms and picnic areas, but they may close during extreme weather.

Here are essential stops for fuel and services:

• Hanksville, UT - start with full tank and supplies.
• Green River, UT - major fuel and food stop, about 90 miles from Hanksville.
• Rock Springs, WY - city with full amenities, about 230 miles from Hanksville.
• Rawlins, WY - good midpoint for a meal, about 330 miles from Hanksville.