Hanksville to Kemmerer: Utah's Wilds to Wyoming's Fossil

Starting in Hanksville, UT, the road to Kemmerer, WY crosses the San Rafael Swell and the Wasatch Plateau before entering Wyoming's high desert. The route includes a stretch of I-70 and US-191 that passes near the Green River, which carved the Book Cliffs. This drive covers about 400 miles and typically takes 6.5 hours without stops.

The region's geology is a story of ancient seas and uplift, evident in the sandstone cliffs and shale layers. For those considering the journey, how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities is a useful approach to break up the miles.

The drive is suitable for families, with numerous rest areas and attractions like Goblin Valley State Park just off the route, featuring whimsical rock formations that children enjoy. Pets are welcome at most outdoor stops, but keep them leashed and hydrated in the desert heat.

Road hazards include wildlife crossings in the mountains and occasional flash floods in canyon areas, so check weather forecasts. For fatigue management, plan breaks at rest areas near Price and Evanston, and consider a longer stop in Salt Lake City for meals or attractions.

Hidden off-route gems include the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry, east of Castle Dale, and the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge near Brigham City, though it adds a detour.

For culinary stops, Bud's Bar in Price is a local favorite, and Ruth's Diner in Salt Lake City offers mountain views. In Evanston, the historic district has cafes and shops. Note that many restaurants in small towns have limited hours; check ahead.

Fossil Butte National Monument is a family-friendly stop with easy trails and a visitor center, making it a highlight of the trip.

The route primarily follows US-24, I-70, US-191, I-80, and US-189, totaling about 400 miles. Driving time is 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and weather. Fuel is available in Hanksville (last for about 100 miles), Green River, Price, Provo, Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Evanston, with prices trending higher in remote areas. Expect to pay around $40-50 for a full tank if starting full.

Cell service is intermittent between Hanksville and Green River, but becomes reliable after Price. The road quality is generally good, with some narrow sections in the San Rafael Swell.

• Major highways: US-24, I-70, US-191, I-80, US-189.
• Estimated driving time: 6.5 hours (without stops).
• Fuel stops: Hanksville, Green River, Price, Spanish Fork, Salt Lake City, Ogden, Evanston.
• Road conditions: Good overall, some segments are two-lane with limited shoulders.

Just north of Hanksville, the San Rafael Swell is a 2,000-square-mile dome of sandstone and shale, offering views of the Muddy Creek and the San Rafael River. The area is known for its Utahraptor fossils, discovered in the 1970s.

Continuing west, the route passes through the Wasatch Plateau, a forested highland with aspen and spruce, providing a stark contrast to the desert. Locally, small towns like Castle Dale and Huntington offer diners and museums, but note that they may close early on Sundays.

Along the way, you'll encounter quirky roadside attractions like the Drive-through Tree in Roosevelt, UT, and the historic stone quarry near Evanston.

In Kemmerer, the Fossil Butte National Monument preserves a 50-million-year-old fossil lake bed, with visitor center exhibits and ranger-led tours. The town itself is known for the first J.C. Penney store, opened in 1902, a nod to the area's commercial history.