Sheridan to Great Falls: Montana-Wyoming Road Trip Guide

This 340-mile route along I-90 and US-87 passes over the Bighorn Mountains, a geological uplift that created the Bighorn Basin. The drive from Sheridan, WY to Great Falls, MT takes approximately 5.5 hours without stops, but travelers should budget 8–10 hours to explore the landmarks.

The road crosses the 45th parallel near Buffalo, WY, and traverses the Crow and Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservations. Notable is the Little Bighorn Battlefield, where Custer made his last stand.

For a deeper strategy on discovering stops, see this guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The section on US-87 from Sheridan to Loop Road has sharp curves and steep grades; this is the highest risk for fatigue. Use the Dayton Rest Area (mile 20) to stretch. Watch for gravel trucks on I-90 near Laurel (mile 150).

Family-friendly pit stops: The Bighorn National Forest has several picnic areas with flush toilets. The Little Bighorn Battlefield is highly educational for older children. In Great Falls, the Giant Springs State Park offers fishing and walking trails.

• Fatigue signs: drifting over lane markings, frequent yawning. Take a 15-min break every 2 hours.
• Pet-friendly stops: Bighorn National Forest allows dogs on leash; many rest areas have dog runs.
• Hidden gem: Pompeys Pillar National Monument (mile 165) has a rock with William Clark's inscription – very few tourists.

The route rises from Sheridan's 3,740 ft elevation to the Bighorn National Forest at 9,000 ft. Travelers pass through ponderosa pine forests, alpine meadows, and then descend into the Bighorn Basin's sagebrush desert.

Cultural highlight: The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument (mile 145) interprets the 1876 battle. The Crow Nation operates a visitor center with artisan beadwork and fry bread. In Hardin, the Big Horn County Historical Museum offers pioneer artifacts.

For shopping, stop at the Tippet Creek Ranch Store (mile 30) for local honey and bison jerky. In Hardin, the Busy Bee Quilt Shop carries handmade crafts. Great Falls offers the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art.

Fuel stations are sparse beyond Sheridan and Hardin, especially on US-87. Fill up in Sheridan, WY (multiple stations at exit 9 off I-90) and again in Hardin, MT. Expect gas prices to be $0.10–$0.20 higher in remote areas.

Tolls: None on this route. Road surfaces: I-90 is well-maintained; US-87 is two-lane with occasional rough patches. Cell service drops between Ranchester, WY and Lodge Grass, MT (about 60 miles).

• Recommended fuel stops: Sheridan (mile 0), Hardin (mile 120), Billings (detour 20 miles at mile 150).
• Emergency services: Call 911; nearest hospitals in Sheridan, Hardin, and Great Falls.
• Rest areas: Dayton Rest Area (WY, mile 20) and Custer National Forest Campground (MT, mile 180).