Sheridan to Idaho Falls: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The drive from Sheridan, Wyoming to Idaho Falls, Idaho spans roughly 370 miles along Interstate 90 and US-20, crossing the Continental Divide twice. This route passes through the historic Bozeman Trail corridor, where wagon ruts are still visible near Buffalo, WY.

Driving time is about 6 hours without stops, but plan a full day to enjoy the landscapes. The key question: is it worth driving Sheridan, WY to Idaho Falls, ID? Absolutely—the diversity of geology, from the Bighorn Mountains to the Snake River Plain, makes this a journey through natural history.

For ideas on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, check out this guide. It provides strategies for enriching your road trip beyond the interstate.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality: I-90 is divided highway; US-20 is two-lane in places. Watch for wildlife (deer, elk) at dawn/dusk. Towing services available in towns but limited in remote stretches.

Family and Child Suitability: Child-friendly stops include the Wyoming Dinosaur Center (Thermopolis), Cody's rodeo (summer evenings), and Yellowstone's Junior Ranger program. Many rest areas have playgrounds.

Pet-Friendly Framework: Most motels along US-20 accept pets. Yellowstone allows leashed pets in parking lots but not on trails. Rest stops have pet areas. Carry water and waste bags.

Hidden Off-Route Spots: The Bighorn Medicine Wheel (near Lovell) is an ancient Native American site. Sinks Canyon State Park (south of Lander) features a river that disappears into a cave. Mesa Falls (Idaho) offers a 100-foot waterfall without crowds.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: Rest areas at Shell Creek (mile 88 on I-90) and near Dubois (WY). Plan stops every 2 hours. The town of Shoshoni has a 24-hour truck stop with showers. For things to do between Sheridan, WY and Idaho Falls, ID, consider a guided fishing trip on the North Platte River near Alcova.

Culinary Infrastructure: Sheridan's Cowboy Café serves bison burgers. Thermopolis's Star Plunge offers casual dining. In Rexburg, a short detour, try the pizza at Royal's. Idaho Falls stocks potato-based dishes at The Snake Bite.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions: The route skirts the Bighorn National Forest, then enters the Wind River Country. Thermopolis features the world's largest mineral hot spring (Hot Springs State Park). Cody offers the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. West of Cody, the Shoshone National Forest delivers dramatic canyons.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Yellowstone National Park, a UNESCO site, lies just off US-20. Its geothermal features and wildlife are a must. Plan a detour to the Grand Prismatic Spring or Old Faithful.

Local Commerce & Culture: Thermopolis has the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. Riverton is a gateway to Wind River Indian Reservation. Jackson (a short detour) offers Western art galleries. Idaho Falls has a thriving farmers market in summer.

• Hot Springs State Park (free entry)
• Buffalo Bill Center ($20)
• Yellowstone entrance ($35 per vehicle)

Route: I-90 west to US-20 west. Key towns: Sheridan, Buffalo, Greybull, Thermopolis, Riverton, Jackson, Idaho Falls. Road surfaces are generally well-maintained, with construction zones common in summer.

Fuel and Route Economics: Gas stations are sparse between Thermopolis and Riverton, and between Jackson and Idaho Falls. Fill up in Cody or Riverton. Prices are highest in Yellowstone corridor, lowest in Sheridan. Carry emergency water and snacks.

• Sheridan: Average $3.50/gal
• Cody: $3.70/gal
• Idaho Falls: $3.40/gal

Climatic Conditions: Sheridan sits at 3,700 ft, Idaho Falls at 4,700 ft. Summer highs 85°F; winter lows -10°F. Passes (Togwotee, 9,658 ft) may close Nov-Apr. Check weather for Teton Pass (8,431 ft). Best months: June-September for clear roads.