Sheridan to Ketchum Road Trip: Scenic Highways & Hidden Gems

Did you know that the route from Sheridan, WY to Ketchum, ID roughly follows the historic Lander Road of the Oregon Trail, a shortcut used by pioneers in the 1850s to avoid the treacherous Snake River crossing? Today, modern travelers drive Interstate 90, US-20, and a series of state highways, covering about 500 miles through three distinct geologic provinces.

The drive typically takes 8-9 hours without stops, but you will want to budget at least two days to truly experience the diversity. From the Big Horn Mountains to the lava fields of Craters of the Moon, this road offers a condensed tour of the Rocky Mountain West.

The primary route follows I-90 west from Sheridan to Greybull, then US-20 south to Cody, through Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance), and finally US-20/ID-33 to Ketchum. An alternate route via US-14 over the Big Horn Mountains is shorter but more winding and closed in winter.

• Fuel stops are sparse between Cody and West Yellowstone (120 miles) and again between West Yellowstone and Idaho Falls (110 miles). Fill up at every opportunity.
• In Yellowstone, expect slow traffic and possible wildlife jams; allow extra time.
• Cell service is unreliable in the mountains and in Yellowstone. Download offline maps.

How long to drive Sheridan, WY to Ketchum, ID without stops? About 8-9 hours. But is it worth driving Sheridan, WY to Ketchum, ID? Absolutely—the scenery rivals any road trip in the Lower 48.

For fuel efficiency, maintain speeds around 60 mph on two-lane highways. Gas prices are higher in tourist towns like Cody and West Yellowstone. Consider using an app like GasBuddy to find the best prices in Idaho Falls.

The first major landscape is the Big Horn Basin, a high desert valley ringed by mountains. Near Greybull, stop at the Greybull Museum to see artifacts from the region's dinosaur digs. The real show begins at Yellowstone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where geysers, hot springs, and wildlife dominate.

• Natural Landscapes: From the Yellowstone Caldera to the volcanic fields of Craters of the Moon National Monument (near Arco, ID) that you can detour to see if you have time.
• Local Commerce: In Cody, visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a complex of five museums. West Yellowstone offers outfitter shops and fly-fishing gear. In Idaho Falls, the historic downtown has boutiques and art galleries.

Things to do between Sheridan, WY and Ketchum, ID: hiking in Yellowstone, whitewater rafting on the Snake River, or exploring the lava tubes at Craters of the Moon. For a shorter route, skip Yellowstone and take US-26/ID-31 via Teton Pass, which offers views of the Grand Tetons.

If you are interested in finding hidden gems, check out this guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road quality varies: I-90 and US-20 are well-maintained two-lane highways, but sections in Yellowstone may have frost heaves and potholes. In winter, tire chains may be required over passes. Always carry a spare tire, blankets, and water.

• Rest zones: There are rest areas near Greybull (mile marker 20 on I-90), just east of Cody, and in West Yellowstone. Fatigue management is key—stop every 2 hours.
• Family suitability: Yellowstone is a hit with kids (geysers, wildlife), but the drive itself is long. Pack snacks and audiobooks.
• Pet-friendly framework: Most motels along the route accept pets, but national park rules require pets on leashes and not on trails. Plan for potty stops at rest areas.

Hidden off-route spots: The town of Thermopolis (south of Greybull) has the world's largest mineral hot spring. Or drive the gravel road to the ghost town of Kirwin in the Shoshone National Forest.

Culinary infrastructure: In Cody, try the fried chicken at the Irma Hotel Buffalo Bill built. In West Yellowstone, the Wild West Pizzeria serves hearty pies. Idaho Falls has a thriving food scene centered around its potato heritage.