Sheridan to Driggs Road Trip Guide: Wild West to Teton Vistas

The 280-mile drive from Sheridan, Wyoming to Driggs, Idaho begins on I-90 West, then slices diagonally across the Bighorn Basin and the Absaroka Range before cresting Teton Pass into Idaho’s Teton Valley. A lesser-known fact: this route roughly follows the old Cherokee Trail, a 19th-century emigrant path used by gold seekers and settlers. The modern drive takes roughly 5 to 5.5 hours without stops, but factoring in the geological drama and cultural detours, plan for a full day.

Key roads: I-90 West from Sheridan to Greybull (45 miles), then US-16/US-20 West through Thermopolis, then US-26 West to Riverton, then US-287 North to Moran Junction, then WY-22 West/North to Driggs via Teton Pass. Those asking how long to drive Sheridan, WY to Driggs, ID should note that the pure driving time is about 5 hours, but popular stops like Thermopolis hot springs or the Grand Teton overlook can add 2-4 hours. For those wondering is it worth driving Sheridan, WY to Driggs, ID, the answer is a resounding yes—the transition from Wyoming’s high plains to Idaho’s Teton Valley is a visual feast.

The route includes significant elevation changes: Sheridan at 3,700 ft, Togwotee Pass at 9,658 ft, and Driggs at 6,180 ft. The highest point (Togwotee) can have snow from October to June. Understanding the logistics—fuel availability, weather windows, and road closures—is essential for a smooth journey.

Fuel is plentiful along the main highways but sparse in the long stretches between Thermopolis and Dubois (about 100 miles). Fill up in Sheridan, Greybull, Thermopolis, or Riverton. The last reliable fuel before Driggs is at Moran Junction (WY-26/287) or Teton Village (WY-22). From Moran to Driggs via Teton Pass, there is no fuel for 45 miles. The Teton Pass road (WY-22) is a winding two-lane highway with 10% grades; expect commercial truck restrictions and winter closures.

Road quality is generally good: I-90 and US-20 are well-maintained, US-287 north of Dubois is a rural two-lane with occasional frost heaves. Teton Pass is paved but can be icy. The best season is June–September; winter travel requires snow tires and chains. The scenic peak of the drive is from Dubois to Moran, where the road follows the Wind River Range then the Snake River. Cellular coverage is inconsistent west of Dubois and on Teton Pass; download offline maps.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality Major hazards: wildlife (elk, deer, bison) especially at dawn/dusk on US-26 and US-287; sudden weather changes on Togwotee Pass; and the steep Teton Pass grade. Carry a spare tire, water, and blankets. Cell service is spotty; a satellite messenger is recommended. Roadside assistance may take hours in remote areas. Check road conditions via wyoroad.info and 511.idaho.gov.

Family and Child Suitability This road trip is excellent for families who enjoy outdoor-themed stops. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center is a hands-on museum with fossil labs. Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis has free soaking pools and a bath house. The National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center in Dubois teaches about wildlife. Kids will love the scenic vistas and spotting wildlife.

Pet-Friendly Framework Most attractions allow pets on leashes outdoors. Hot Springs State Park allows dogs in the park but not in pools. Hotels: ensure you book pet-friendly motels in Greybull (Midway Motel), Thermopolis (Days Inn), Dubois (Super 8), and Driggs (Hampton Inn, pet friendly). On hikes, keep pets on leash due to wildlife.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones Long straight roads can induce driver fatigue. Rest areas: I-90 west of Sheridan (Rest Area at mile marker 35), US-20 in Thermopolis (Hot Springs State Park), US-26 in Riverton (Holiday gas station), and US-287 at Moran Junction (Grand Teton National Park visitor center). Also, the Wind River Canyon pullouts offer safe spots for a break. The best practice is to stop every 2 hours and take a 15-minute walk. If towing a vehicle or trailer, use the pullouts on Teton Pass for cooling brakes.

Hidden Off-Route Spots For a unique detour: south of Thermopolis, the Red Gulch/Alkali Road leads to a fossil quarry (ask for permit at the museum). Near Dubois, take the gravel road to Brooks Lake (8 miles), a stunning alpine lake with less crowds. Just before Driggs, turn off on Ski Hill Road for a panoramic view of the Tetons without the National Park entrance fee. These spots enrich the journey for those seeking best stops Sheridan, WY to Driggs, ID.

For more on finding unexpected gems, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. This guide complements your planning by emphasizing serendipity and local knowledge. The things to do between Sheridan, WY and Driggs, ID go beyond the obvious—consider whitewater rafting on the Shoshone River near Greybull, or soaking in the free mineral waters of Thermopolis.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions The route crosses three distinct geological provinces: the Bighorn Basin (red desert badlands), the Wind River Range (granite peaks), and the Jackson Hole valley with Grand Teton National Park. Must-see: the Thermopolis Hot Springs (world’s largest mineral hot spring), the Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite, and the Teton Range from the Teton Pass overlook. The Wind River Canyon on US-20 between Thermopolis and Riverton is a steep-walled limestone canyon with whitewater views.

Local Commerce & Culture Small towns offer authentic Western character: the Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis with real dig sites; the town of Dubois, a historic sheep ranching hub with a rustic Main Street; and the Wind River Indian Reservation (Shoshone and Arapaho) with cultural centers. For an organic detour, visit the Driftwood Creek Farm in Driggs for local produce. Along the way, find antler art, cowboy gear, and Native American crafts.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites The route does not directly pass a UNESCO site, but Yellowstone National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is a 2-hour detour from Moran Junction via US-287. Yellowstone’s southern entrance (South Entrance Road) is open May–October. Consider adding a day for the Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful.

Culinary Infrastructure Options are limited but rewarding. Thermopolis has diners like the Fountain of Youth (burgers and malts). Dubois offers the Moose Gathering Café (bison burgers). In Driggs, the Spud Drive-In is a classic for milkshakes and fries. Pack snacks for the long empty stretches. Food deserts exist between Thermopolis and Dubois (about 100 miles).