Watford City to Thermopolis: A Road Trip Guide

The drive from Watford City, North Dakota, to Thermopolis, Wyoming, spans approximately 330 miles and typically takes around 5.5 hours without stops. This route crosses the Missouri River, where Lewis and Clark once passed in 1806.

The journey transitions from the Great Plains to the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, offering varied geology and scenery.

Before you depart, consider checking fuel prices: North Dakota averages $3.20 per gallon, while Wyoming averages $3.00 (as of 2023). Plan fuel stops accordingly, as stretches of highway are remote.

This guide covers essential stops, safety considerations, and family-friendly options.

The route passes through the Little Missouri National Grassland and the Badlands of North Dakota, famous for their rugged rock formations. In Montana, you'll cross the Powder River Basin, known for coal and gas deposits.

As you approach Wyoming, the Bighorn Mountains dominate the skyline, with Thermopolis sitting in a valley near the Owl Creek Range.

The focal point of Thermopolis is Hot Springs State Park, home to the world's largest mineral hot spring, with a daily flow of 18.6 million gallons.

The park offers free public bathing in the State Bath House.

Local commerce in Watford City booms with the Bakken oil fields, offering modern amenities like hotels and restaurants. Miles City, MT, has a historic downtown with Western heritage, including the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale.

Thermopolis has a small-town charm with western-themed shops and dining.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites near the route include Yellowstone National Park, about 160 miles from Thermopolis, and Odessa Meteor Crater in Texas, though not directly on the route, the park's thermal features are similar to Thermopolis's hot springs.

But note, no UNESCO site lies along the direct path.

The primary route is US-85 south through Montana, then I-90 west to US-310 south, and finally US-16/20 into Thermopolis. Road conditions are generally good, with well-maintained highways and proper signage.

Cell phone coverage is sparse in rural stretches, so a physical map or downloaded offline maps are recommended.

Fuel stops are available in Watford City, Miles City, MT, and Buffalo, WY, but between these towns, services are limited. Plan to fill up when you can.

The route is toll-free and has multiple rest areas with restrooms and picnic tables.

Lightning strikes are rare but possible in summer thunderstorms; check weather forecasts before departing. Winter driving requires caution due to snow and icy conditions.

Speed limits are 65-70 mph on highways; adhering to them reduces fuel consumption and ensures safety.

Safety on this route is high, with modern highways and low traffic density. However, deer and antelope crossings are common, especially at dawn and dusk; remain vigilant.

Weather can change quickly, so pack emergency supplies like water, blankets, and a flashlight.

For families, the route offers numerous attractions: the North Dakota Badlands, Theodore Roosevelt National Park (just north of Watford City), and the Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis, where kids can see fossils. In Miles City, the Range Riders Museum is a hit.

Rest areas along I-90 are family-friendly with clean restrooms and vending machines.

Pet-friendly stops include many motels in Watford City and Thermopolis, but Interstate rest areas are also pet-friendly with designated waste stations. Always keep pets on a leash.

The route has several truck stops and travel centers with amenities like showers and convenience stores.

Fatigue management is crucial: take a break every two hours. Key rest areas are at the rest area near Glendive, MT, and the one at the Wyoming border. Café options include the Big Horn Café in Thermopolis and the Dinosaur Café in Sinclair, WY.

Hidden off-route spots include the Devil's Tower in Wyoming, only a short detour from Sundance, and the Terry Badlands in Montana, an overlook with striking scenery.