Introduction: The Road Less Traveled Through Wyoming's Red Desert
The drive from Laramie to Riverton along US-287 and US-287/WY-789 is a 185-mile journey that cuts through the heart of Wyoming's high desert. This route passes the exact geographic center of Wyoming, marked by a small monument near Lander—a fact few travelers know.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Distance | 185 miles (298 km) |
| Estimated Drive Time | 3 hours (without stops) |
| Highways | US-287, WY-789, US-26 |
| Best Time to Drive | June to September |
Route Logistics and Infrastructure
The route is mostly two-lane highway with long stretches of open road. Fuel stops are limited between Laramie and Rawlins, so plan ahead.
- Laramie to Rawlins: 70 miles, about 1 hour 15 minutes
- Rawlins to Lander: 100 miles, about 1 hour 45 minutes
- Lander to Riverton: 15 miles, about 20 minutes
Cell service is spotty in the Red Desert area. Download offline maps before leaving.
| Fuel Station | Mile Marker | Price Index |
|---|---|---|
| Laramie | 0 | $$ |
| Rawlins | 70 | $ |
| Lander | 170 | $$ |
Road Safety, Family Stops, and Fatigue Management
Infrastructure Safety
The road is well-maintained but can have potholes after winter. Watch for wildlife, especially deer and pronghorn at dusk.
- Speed limits: 65-70 mph on open highway
- Emergency services: limited between towns
- Weather: sudden snow possible even in summer
Family and Pet-Friendly Stops
Break the drive at the Seminoe State Park near Rawlins for picnicking and hiking. Many pull-offs allow dogs on leash.
- Seminoe State Park: fishing, boating, camping
- Sinks Canyon State Park (near Lander): clear spring pools
- Rest stops: US-287 has several scenic overlooks
Fatigue Management
Plan stops every 90 minutes. The town of Muddy Gap (40 miles north of Rawlins) has a small café.
- Muddy Gap Station: basic food and gas
- Lander: multiple cafes and parks for stretch breaks
For hidden gems, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.
Natural Landscapes and Local Commerce
The Red Desert
Between Rawlins and Lander, you'll traverse the Great Divide Basin, a surreal landscape of red sand dunes and sagebrush. Keep an eye out for pronghorn antelope.
- Killpecker Sand Dunes—largest active dunes in the US
- Boar's Tusk—an ancient volcanic plug rising from the plain
Local Commerce
Rawlins offers the Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum. Lander features the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) and local art galleries.
- Rawlins: coal mining history
- Lander: outdoor gear shops and craft breweries
- Riverton: Shoshone and Arapaho tribal arts
Continue Your Adventure
- Ann Arbor Sandusky Road Trip Best Stops Hidden Gems Road Trip Guide
- Columbus Ludington Road Trip Guide Lake Michigan Scenic Drive Road Trip Guide
- Cleveland Blacksburg Ultimate Road Trip Guide Road Trip Guide
- Sheridan Wy To Dillon Mt Road Trip Guide Road Trip Guide
- Lexington Muscle Shoals Deep Dive Southern Drive Road Trip Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Laramie to Riverton?
The drive takes about 3 hours without stops, covering 185 miles. Plan for 4-5 hours with stops.
Is it worth driving from Laramie to Riverton?
Absolutely—the route offers stunning desert landscapes, wildlife, and historic towns like Rawlins and Lander.
What are the must-see stops between Laramie and Riverton?
Top stops: Wyoming Frontier Prison (Rawlins), Killpecker Sand Dunes, Boar's Tusk, Sinks Canyon State Park, and the Lander Brewing Company.
Is the drive safe for families?
Yes, with caution for wildlife and weather. Numerous rest stops and family-friendly attractions along the way.
Your voluntary support keeps the project running and fuels our future development
