Red Lodge to Rock Springs: Scenic Drive via Montana & Wyoming

The drive from Red Lodge, Montana to Rock Springs, Wyoming covers approximately 320 miles via US-310 south and I-80 west, taking about 5.5 hours without stops. This route crosses the continental divide at 9,430 feet near Granite Peak, the highest point in Montana.

Unlike a straight interstate journey, this route offers a mosaic of ecosystems—from alpine forests to high desert plains. The US-310 south from Red Lodge descends into the Bighorn Basin, a geological depression where dinosaur fossils commonly appear.

Rock Springs sits at 6,240 feet, making the entire trip a high-altitude drive. Be aware that weather can change rapidly, and snow is possible even in late spring.

Leaving Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway (US-212) heads east, but your route takes US-310 south through the Pryor Mountains. These mountains host wild mustangs, a living monument to region’s ranching history.

The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area near Lovell offers boat tours and hiking. The Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range is a free-range area where you can spot herds from the road.

• Bighorn Canyon: Visitor center open daily 8am-4pm, boat tours $25/adult
• Hot Springs State Park (Thermopolis): Free public baths, open sunrise-sunset
• Independence Rock: Historic pioneer landmark, easy pull-off on US-20
• Red Desert (south of Rawlins): Sand dunes and rock formations

Local commerce includes artisan shops in Red Lodge, a coal museum in Hanna (off-route), and Western art galleries in Rock Springs. The region’s economy still relies on energy extraction, visible in numerous oil wells.

Culinary infrastructure: Red Lodge has several farm-to-table restaurants. In Thermopolis, try the Thermopolis Bakery for cinnamon rolls. Rawlins offers classic cowboy diners like Tommy's.

US-310 has no median; watch for wildlife especially deer and antelope. I-80 near Rawlins is known for crosswinds; secure roof cargo.

For families: Lovell's Bighorn Canyon offers a junior ranger program. In Rock Springs, the White Mountain Petroglyphs are a short, easy hike.

• Pet-friendly: Hot Springs State Park allows leashed dogs in outdoor pools
• Rest zones: Sinclair Rest Area (I-80 mile 106) has clean facilities and picnic tables
• Fatigue management: Stop every 2 hours; good breaks are at Thermopolis (hot springs) and Rawlins (walk around historic depot)

Hidden off-route spot: The ghost town of Washakie (WY-?) near Thermopolis features an old schoolhouse. For a longer detour, Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site (WY-31, 20 miles east of Lovell) has pictographs dating back 10,000 years.

Lodging: Budget chain motels in Rock Springs ($80-120/night); rustic cabins near Bighorn Canyon ($120-200/night).

US-310 from Red Lodge to Lovell is a two-lane highway with moderate traffic. After Lovell, use US-20 to Thermopolis (via WY-120/?) then US-20/26 to Rawlins. Finally, I-80 west to Rock Springs.

The total driving distance is 320 miles; plan for 6 hours with a food and fuel break. Specific landmarks: mile marker 12 on US-310 marks the Wyoming state line.

• Fuel stops: Red Lodge, Lovell, Thermopolis, Rawlins, Rock Springs (gaps of about 100 miles)
• Gas prices: ~$3.50-4.00/gal; fill up in Thermopolis for cheaper rates
• Rest areas: Several along I-80 with restrooms and vending machines
• Tolls: None on this route

For ideas on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, check out this guide.

The best time to drive is June-September. Winter driving requires 4WD or chains; I-80 may close briefly due to wind.