Thermopolis to Jackpot: Wyoming's Hot Springs to Nevada's Border

The drive from Thermopolis, WY, to Jackpot, NV, crosses the Wind River Canyon, the Bighorn Basin, and the high desert of central Wyoming before entering the sagebrush steppe of Nevada. The route is roughly 550 miles and takes about 8.5 hours of pure driving time. It's a journey through geologic time, from the hot springs of Thermopolis to the volcanic plains of the Snake River Plain's edge.

The most direct path follows US-20 west to Shoshoni, then US-26 through Riverton and Lander, then WY-28 over South Pass. After Farson, you join US-191 south through Rock Springs, then I-80 west to Evanston, and finally US-30 west to connect with US-93 into Jackpot. This is the route most travelers take, and it offers a mix of mountains, desert, and small-town Americana.

Safety on this route is straightforward: drive defensively, especially on two-lane sections, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Winter can bring snow and ice, even in May and October, so check forecasts and carry chains if needed. Summer thunderstorms can produce sudden downpours and lightning.

For families, the best stops are in Thermopolis itself, with the world's largest mineral hot springs pool at Hot Springs State Park. The park features a free state bathhouse and a buffalo herd. Other kid-friendly stops include the Wind River Canyon's scenic pullouts and the Fossil Butte National Monument near Kemmerer, about 30 miles south of the route on US-30 (a worthwhile detour).

Pets are welcome at most rest areas and outdoor sites, but not in buildings or on boardwalks. Ensure they are leashed and clean up after them. The drive is long, so plan to stop every 2 hours. Designated rest areas are located near Shoshoni, Lander, Farson, and on I-80. Local diners like the Lander Bake Shop or the Farson Mercantile offer quick snacks and an opportunity to stretch.

To manage fatigue, get a full night's sleep before departure, take breaks to walk around, and switch drivers if possible. Avoid driving between midnight and 6 a.m. when wildlife is most active and your alertness is lowest. The route is not particularly demanding, but the monotony of the desert can lull you into inattention. Keep your eyes moving and stay engaged with the scenery.

The journey is best done as a full day's drive, with a recommended overnight stop in Rock Springs or Evanston if you want to break it up. Gas stations are sparse between Thermopolis and Riverton, but thereafter you'll find regular services in Lander, Farson, Rock Springs, and Evanston. In Nevada, gas becomes scarce again until Jackpot, so fill up before leaving I-80.

• Fuel costs are moderate; expect to pay around $3.50/gallon in Wyoming and $3.80 in Nevada (as of early 2025).
• Most highways are two-lane and well-maintained, but watch for wildlife, especially deer and antelope, at dawn and dusk.
• There are no tolls on this route.
• Cell coverage is sporadic in remote stretches; download offline maps before you go. For more insights on discovering hidden gems, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The road quality is generally good, with some rough patches in the Wind River Canyon and between Farson and Rock Springs. Speed limits are 65-70 mph on two-lane highways and 75-80 mph on interstates. Construction delays are possible in summer, so check local advisories.

Just west of Thermopolis, US-20 enters the Wind River Canyon, a stunning gorge with 2,000-foot walls of ancient rock. The canyon is a geological showcase, with granite, gneiss, and limestone layers spanning over 2.5 billion years. A short detour to the Wind River Canyon Visitor Center offers interpretive displays.

Beyond the canyon, the landscape opens into the Bighorn Basin, then climbs to South Pass at 7,400 feet on WY-28. South Pass is a historic gateway of the Oregon Trail, where emigrants crossed the Continental Divide. Today, the area is a high sagebrush desert with sweeping views. Farson is a tiny hamlet known for its famous ice cream shop, Farson Mercantile, a landmark stop for travelers.

As you approach Rock Springs, you'll see the White Mountain Petroglyphs, ancient rock art carved by Native Americans. The city itself has a vibrant coal-mining history, with a downtown district listed on the National Register. Farther west, Evanston offers a glimpse of railroad heritage at the restored Union Pacific depot. In Nevada, Jackpot is a small casino town on the Idaho border, known for its gaming and fishing on the Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir.