Hit the road through Wyoming’s high plains and Rocky Mountain vistas, discovering scenic byways, rodeos, geological wonders and timeless cowboy culture.
Nothing compares to a Wyoming road trip. Here, the Rocky Mountains and the High Plains meet, creating big-sky views in every direction, from wind-carved buttes to pine-covered peaks. With 21 scenic byways twisting, climbing and winding through some of the state’s most breathtaking landscapes, every mile immerses you in wild beauty and Western history. This northbound journey traces that spirit from Cheyenne’s rodeo roots to the sandstone arches of Converse County, the geologic drama of Devils Tower and the timeless cowboy culture of Sheridan. Plan to fly into Denver or connect into Cheyenne to begin your adventure, then wrap up in Sheridan, where convenient flights connect back to Denver. Between those two runways lies a road trip defined by open skies, frontier stories and unforgettable mountain vistas.
Start your Wyoming road trip in Cheyenne and Laramie County, where high-elevation plains (7,200 feet in altitude) stretch wide between the Snowy and Laramie ranges in the Medicine Bow National Forest. In Cheyenne, Old West heritage meets fresh-air adventure. Tour the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum, wander the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens or check out the railroad museum at the historic Cheyenne Depot downtown. Summer visitors can catch the Hell On Wheels Rodeo (June through September), where pros and weekend warriors compete side by side in classic rodeo events. Just south, ride a bison train at Terry Bison Ranch to hand-feed the herd, or explore Pine Bluffs’ shrine, museum and recreation area. Between Cheyenne and Laramie, Curt Gowdy State Park offers three reservoirs and more than 68 kilometers of mountain biking trails — a perfect introduction to Wyoming’s expansive outdoors.
Depart Laramie County and cruise about 240 kilometers north to Converse County, where wide-open skies give way to sandstone arches and storied towns. In Douglas, stretch your legs at Ayres Natural Bridge Park, where a striking sandstone span arches over LePrele Creek — one of Wyoming’s most photographed natural wonders. Then step inside the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum to explore two floors of artifacts tracing early settlers, Plains Indian culture and frontier life. Visit in August for the Wyoming State Fair, a lively celebration of the state’s agricultural and ranching heritage. Next, steer east to Glenrock and wander Al’s Way Walking Trail, which traces the footsteps of early travelers and railroad history. Pause in the Town Square, home to community events like the “Rock the Glen” concert series. For a peaceful mountain detour, head to tiny Esterbrook (about 50 kilometers south of Douglas) where hiking trails and Laramie Peak views await.
From Glenrock, continue north into Crook County, where the three-hour drive unfolds across classic Western scenery — wide-open prairie backed by rugged peaks. In Sundance, a town steeped in outlaw lore, learn how the Sundance Kid earned his nickname after a stint in jail and explore regional history at the Crook County Museum. Just east of town, the Vore Buffalo Jump offers a powerful glimpse into Plains Indian life at one of the most significant archaeological sites in the region. Set aside a full day for Devils Tower National Monument, the crown jewel of the area. Rising 867 feet above the Belle Fourche River, this dramatic igneous monolith — known to many Northern Plains tribes as Bear Lodge — is America’s first national monument. Hike the Tower Trail, watch climbers scale its vertical cracks or loop along highways 14 or 24 for postcard-worthy views. Wrap up in nearby Hulett with a hearty steakhouse meal, and time your visit for the historic Hulett Rodeo in mid-June.
Cruise west for the final leg of your road trip in Sheridan County, where Old West heritage and alpine scenery come together in memorable fashion. In downtown Sheridan, immerse yourself in cowboy culture at King’s Saddlery, famed for its world-renowned ropes and museum filled with historic saddles and Western artifacts. Browse nearby art galleries and Western-themed shops before wetting your whistle at the storied Mint Bar, a local institution since 1907. For an unforgettable stay, check into Eatons’ Ranch, the oldest dude ranch in the United States. This all-inclusive Western retreat offers horseback riding, hiking in the Bighorn National Forest, fishing along Wolf Creek, swimming and a daily cocktail hour for adults. Art lovers can admire Western masterpieces at The Brinton Museum or catch a performance at the historic WYO Theater. Before heading home, drive the breathtaking Bighorn Scenic Byway for dramatic canyon views and alpine beauty.
