Thermopolis to La Grande: Road Trip Guide

Begin in Thermopolis, Wyoming, home to the world's largest mineral hot spring, where the Bighorn River cuts through the Owl Creek Mountains. Your route west follows US-20 and I-90/I-84, covering 380 miles in roughly 6.5 hours of pure driving.

This guide covers the best stops, driving conditions, and hidden gems between the two towns, using insights from how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Your first major attraction is Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, where you can soak in the mineral waters for free. Further west, the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area offers dramatic cliffs and boating opportunities, a must-see for nature lovers.

As you cross into Montana, the landscape shifts to rolling plains and the Yellowstone River valley. In Hardin, visit the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, a poignant historical site (not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but a U.S. National Monument).

Local commerce thrives in small towns like Buffalo, with its historic Occidental Hotel, and Sheridan, known for its western charm and the King's Saddlery museum. In La Grande, the farmers market (Saturdays) offers local produce and crafts, while the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center provides insight into pioneer history.

Off the beaten path, detour to the ghost town of Kirwin, accessible via a rough road, for abandoned gold-mining relics.

Fuel is available every 50-70 miles, but prices vary; fill up in Thermopolis, Buffalo, and Sheridan as they are cheaper than in smaller towns like Greybull. The route includes toll-free highways, but watch for construction around Billings.

• Total driving time: 6.5 hours without stops.
• Best time to drive: May-September for clear roads, but expect snow from November to March.
• Cell service is spotty between Thermopolis and Buffalo, and near the Bighorn Mountains.

For families, the drive is comfortable with frequent rest areas, but plan for diaper changes and meal stops. Pets are welcome at most roadside parks, but keep them leashed. There are numerous pull-outs for photo ops, especially in the Bighorn National Forest.

Road quality is excellent on interstates, but secondary roads like US-20 have narrow shoulders and occasional wildlife. Stay alert for deer and cattle. Winter driving requires chains; check weather forecasts before departure.

For fatigue, plan to stop every 2 hours. Key rest areas include the Powder River Pass (elevation 9,666 ft) and the Wyoming Welcome Center in Beulah. In Billings, the Riverside Park offers a green respite.

Family-friendly stops include the Tippet Rise Art Center (near Fishtail, MT), where sculptures are scattered across a working ranch. Kids enjoy the Children's Museum in Billings and the Oregon Trail Maze in La Grande.

Pets are welcome at most outdoor stops, but certain indoor attractions restrict them. The Shell Falls Interpretive Site has shaded picnic areas, ideal for a pet break.