Sheridan to Thermopolis: A Scenic Wyoming Road Trip Guide

The drive from Sheridan to Thermopolis covers 155 miles along US-14 and US-20, crossing the dramatic Bighorn Mountains and descending into the Bighorn Basin. This route features a stunning 5,000-foot elevation change, from Sheridan's 3,750 feet to the 8,900-foot Granite Pass, then down to Thermopolis at 4,300 feet. The journey, without stops, takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, but the wealth of attractions makes it a full day's adventure.

Sheridan, named after General Philip Sheridan, is a historic railroad town with a vibrant Main Street. Thermopolis, home to the world's largest mineral hot spring, offers a relaxing finale. This guide answers how long to drive Sheridan, WY to Thermopolis, WY and is it worth driving Sheridan, WY to Thermopolis, WY with a resounding yes.

Quick Facts

For tips on uncovering hidden attractions, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road Conditions and Navigation

US-14 (commemorative bighorn route) is well-maintained but includes sharp switchbacks and steep grades near Granite Pass. The road is open year-round, but winter travel requires caution due to snow and ice. Cell service is spotty in the mountains; download offline maps.

Fuel and Economics

• Fuel up in Sheridan before heading into the mountains; next stations are in Dayton (20 mi), Burgess Junction (50 mi), and Greybull (105 mi).
• Gas prices in Thermopolis are comparable to Sheridan; using a fuel app can save up to $5 per tank.
• If towing, note that grades up to 7% exist on both sides of Granite Pass.

Rest Stops and Services

• Sheridan: multiple fast food, grocery, and pharmacy options.
• Dayton: small town diners and a gas station.
• Burgess Junction: a general store and gas, but no restaurants.
• Greybull: full services including Walmart, fast food, and hotels.
• Thermopolis: all amenities including a hospital and Hot Springs State Park.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality

US-14 is generally safe but narrow in sections with no shoulders. Watch for logging trucks and RVs. In winter, snow tires or chains are recommended. The highway patrol presence is minimal; carry a roadside emergency kit. Landslides can occur after heavy rain near Shell Falls.

Family and Child Suitability

• Shell Falls Interpretive Trail (mile 63): a short, paved trail leads to a 120-foot waterfall; easy for kids.
• Bighorn National Forest: picnic areas at Sibley Lake and Porcupine Falls.
• Thermopolis: Hot Springs State Park has a splash pad, playground, and the Wyoming Dinosaur Center with hands-on exhibits.
• If your family loves history, the Sheridan Inn offers tours and ghost stories.

Pet-Friendly Framework

• Bighorn National Forest: dogs allowed on trails but must be leashed.
• Shell Falls: pets not permitted on the boardwalk; leave in a shaded car with water.
• Hot Springs State Park: dogs allowed in picnic areas and on the swinging bridge, but not in the bathhouse or pools.
• Greybull Walmart: pet station available for breaks.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

• Medicine Lodge Archaeological Site (off US-14 via Hyattville): ancient bison jump and petroglyphs; 35-mile detour.
• Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area near Lovell: stunning canyon views and boating; 25-mile detour from Greybull.
• Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite near Greybull: preserved dinosaur footprints; accessible via dirt road (4WD recommended after rain).

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

• Interval: stop every 60-90 minutes. Recommended stops: Dayton (mile 20), Burgess Junction (mile 50), Shell (mile 65), Greybull (mile 95).
• Rest areas: unofficial pull-offs with scenic views; only formal rest area is at Granite Pass (vault toilets, no water).
• At Greybull, Walmart or McDonald's offers a comfortable break for stretching and caffeine.

Bighorn Mountains and National Forest

The drive ascends through pine forests of the Bighorn National Forest. Stop at Granite Pass (8,900 ft) for panoramic views. In summer, wildflowers like lupine and Indian paintbrush line the road. Wildlife viewing includes deer, elk, and occasional moose.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Though none directly on the route, the Burgess Junction area provides access to fossil sites connected to the La Brea Tar Pits and John Day Fossil Beds networks. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis features a 170-foot diorama and real dig sites.

Local Commerce and Culture

• Sheridan's Main Street: boutique shops, art galleries, and the historic Sheridan Inn (built by Buffalo Bill's partners).
• Dayton: a tiny town with a quirky general store and the Tongue River Canyon trailhead.
• Greybull: the Greybull Museum showcases Native American artifacts and pioneer history.
• Thermopolis: Hot Springs State Park features free public baths, a bathhouse museum, and the Legend Rock petroglyph site (11 miles north).

Culinary Infrastructure

• Sheridan: The Owl Bar (historic steakhouse), Ruby's Northwood Grill (American), and Cowboy Café (breakfast).
• Dayton: The Bear's Den (burgers and shakes).
• Greybull: China Kitchen (Chinese), The Pizza Place, and Sammy's Sub Shop.
• Thermopolis: The WY Old West Saloon, The Café (local fare), and Star Plunge Grill (poolside).