Pierre to Kemmerer: A 450-Mile Prairie Odyssey

Leaving Pierre, SD, you cross the Missouri River on US-14, beginning a 450-mile westward push that ends at Kemmerer, WY, a town of about 2,700 people.

The route traverses three distinct physiographic provinces: the Great Plains, the Badlands, and the Rocky Mountain foothills.

Notably, the highway parallels the historic Oregon Trail for several stretches, particularly in Wyoming.

Here's a quick reference:

Primary highways: US-14 west to Rapid City, then I-90 west to exit 131 (Wall), then US-16/US-20 west through Badlands and Interior, then US-18 west through Lusk, WY, then US-85 south to I-80, then I-80 west to exit 68 (Kemmerer). Alternatively, stay on I-90 to Buffalo, then I-25 south to I-80, but that adds 20 miles.

Fuel prices vary: South Dakota averages $3.20/gal, Wyoming $3.40/gal (as of 2024). Plan for roughly $60-$70 in fuel for a standard sedan.

Key gas stops: Wall, SD; Interior, SD; Lusk, WY; and Rawlins, WY. Between Wall and Lusk, 135 miles with only a few small towns, so fill up before leaving Wall.

• Driving time: 7 hours without stops.
• Total driving distance: ~450 miles.
• Time zone change: Enter Mountain Time around the South Dakota/Wyoming border.

West of Pierre, the terrain shifts from rolling prairie to the stark, eroded formations of Badlands National Park. The park is a must-see, with its layered sedimentary rocks, fossil beds, and bison herds.

In the Black Hills, Wind Cave National Park offers a unique underground experience, while Jewel Cave is the third-longest cave in the world. Both are within easy detours of the main route.

Local commerce along the route is dominated by prairie towns like Kadoka and Murdo, where you'll find small diners and shops. Wall Drug, a sprawling roadside attraction in Wall, SD, is a classic stop for its free ice water and quirky decor.

In Kemmerer, the fossil buttes and the JCPenney Mother Store (a museum) reflect the town's pioneer and energy history.

This route is generally well-maintained, but winter conditions can be severe. Carry an emergency kit, and check weather forecasts before departing. The speed limit on I-90 is 80 mph, but in South Dakota, it's 80 mph on rural interstates, 70 mph on other roads.

For fatigue management, rest every 2 hours or 100 miles. The rest areas at Kadoka and Lusk offer picnic tables and restrooms.

For families, the Badlands Boardwalk and Fossil Exhibit are manageable for children. The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, SD, is a superb educational stop on a short detour. Hotels that are pet-friendly include many chain motels along I-90 and in Kemmerer; confirm policies in advance.

Hidden off-route gems: Fort Robinson State Park in Nebraska (a short detour south of Lusk) is an outdoor haven. The route is not part of any UNESCO World Heritage Site; the nearest is Yellowstone, two hours beyond Kemmerer.