Jackson to Cody, WY: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Starting in Jackson, WY at an elevation of 6,237 feet, you'll drive northeast on US-191 and US-26/287 for approximately 253 miles to Cody, WY, which sits at 5,085 feet. The standard driving time is about 4 hours and 30 minutes without stops, but plan for 6-8 hours to fully experience the route.

This road crosses the Continental Divide twice and passes through Togwotee Pass (9,658 ft), offering stunning views of the Absaroka and Wind River Mountains. A little-known fact: the route follows the historic Bighorn Basin trail used by early settlers and Native American tribes.

Fuel and Route Economics: Gas stations are sparse between Moran Junction and Dubois, and again between Dubois and Riverton. Fill up in Jackson before departing. In Dubois, the Shell station (open 6 AM-9 PM) is reliable. Riverton has multiple stations; after that, Thermopolis has gas near the Hot Springs State Park.

For electric vehicles, charging stations are available at a few locations: Jackson (Tesla Supercharger), Riverton (ChargePoint at the Sinclair), and Cody (Tesla Supercharger). No charging options in between.

• Jackson to Dubois: 90 miles, no services
• Dubois to Riverton: 70 miles, limited services
• Riverton to Cody: 93 miles, services in Thermopolis

Road Quality and Safety: US-191 and US-26/287 are well-maintained two-lane highways through most of the route. Sections east of Dubois are winding with steep grades. In winter, Togwotee Pass can be snow-covered; check WYDOT road conditions. Summer sees heavy tourist traffic. Cell service is spotty from Moran to Dubois; download offline maps.

Rest Zones: Designated rest areas exist at Togwotee Pass (picnic tables, vault toilets) and near Crowheart (pullout with views). Otherwise, public lands offer impromptu stops.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality: The roads are generally safe, but wildlife (deer, elk, moose) is common especially at dawn/dusk. Use caution between Moran and Dubois. Guardrails are present on most mountain sections. Speed limits vary: 65 mph on open highway, 45 mph through towns. Snow tires or chains are required in winter over passes.

Family and Child Suitability: The drive is long but manageable with kids. Break up the trip with stops at: National Elk Refuge (near Jackson, sleigh rides in winter), Togwotee Pass (snow play in winter), Riverton's City Park (playground, splash pad), and Thermopolis' Star Plunge (indoor/outdoor pools, waterslides). Pack snacks and entertainment for the longest stretches.

• Kid-friendly stops: Dubois' Pioneer Museum, Wind River Canyon (geology), Dinosaur Center (hands-on exhibits)
• Restroom breaks: all towns have gas stations with clean restrooms

Pet-Friendly Framework: Most outdoor areas are pet-friendly. National forests allow leashed dogs. In towns, dogs are welcome at outdoor cafes (e.g., Jackson's Persephone Bakery patio). Hotels: in Dubois, the Longhorn Ranch Lodge allows pets; in Thermopolis, the Days Inn is pet-friendly. Always carry water and a bowl.

Hidden Off-Route Spots: For a detour, drive the gravel road to Union Pass (9,200 ft) for solitude and wildflowers. Alternatively, stop at the Fort Washakie burial site of Chief Washakie. For a short hike, the Two Ocean Creek Trail near Togwotee Pass leads to a unique stream that splits into the Atlantic and Pacific watersheds.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: The longest non-stop stretch is from Dubois to Riverton (70 miles, about 1 hour 15 minutes). Use the rest area at Crowheart (mile marker 50) for a break. Caffeine options: gas stations in Dubois and Riverton. For a nap, pull into a forest service road (stay at least 200 feet from the highway).

For more tips on finding stops, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions: The route traverses Bridger-Teton National Forest, Shoshone National Forest, and passes by the Wind River Indian Reservation. Key landmarks include Togwotee Pass (alpine tundra, wildflowers in July), the Wind River Canyon (dramatic limestone cliffs, fly fishing), and the Bighorn River near Thermopolis.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Yellowstone National Park is nearby (accessed via the East Entrance from Cody, or South Entrance from Jackson). While not directly on the route, it's a major detour. The Grand Teton National Park is visible from the first 30 miles.

• Togwotee Pass: 9,658 ft, panoramic views, hiking trails
• Wind River Canyon: scenic byway, pullouts, picnic areas
• Hot Springs State Park (Thermopolis): free public hot springs pools

Culinary Infrastructure: In Jackson, try the Snake River Roasting Company for coffee and breakfast burritos. In Dubois, the Cowboy Cafe serves hearty burgers and pie. Riverton has Mexican food at La Cocina and BBQ at The Rib & Chop House. Thermopolis offers Star Plunge (pizza and hot springs). In Cody, the Irma Hotel has a famous buffet, and the Cody Cattle Company serves steak.

Local Commerce & Culture: Dubois' main street features art galleries and a Western museum. Riverton has a historic downtown with antique stores. Thermopolis is known for the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. Cody is home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West (five museums under one roof). For unique souvenirs, stop at the Rustic Tin in Dubois or the Wind River Tribal Shops near Fort Washakie.