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The Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway is a short stretch of US 20 between the towns of Shoshoni and Thermopolis in Wyoming.
Overview of the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway
We drove north up the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway on our way from Lander to Cody. We were running a little late, but we were still able to enjoy this beautiful stretch of road along the way.
There are very few places to stop and take photos along the way, and it takes about 40 minutes to complete the 34-mile (54.7 kilometer) drive without stopping.
What to Expect
The drive starts at milepost 100 in Shoshoni, continuing north through Boysen State Park, past the Boysen Reservoir. The best part is next, as the road enters Wind River Canyon, winding between 2,500-foot (762 meter) rock walls. These are some of the oldest rock formations in the world.
If you have more time, it’s possible to stop and go rafting or fishing in the canyon. You’ll have to do this through the Native American-owned Wind River Canyon Whitewater & Flyfishing Outfitter, which is the only company permitted to raft or fish in the Indian Reservation portion of the canyon.
Before leaving the canyon, the Wind River becomes the Bighorn River at a place called the Wedding of the Waters. Along this stretch of the road, it’s possible to see the bighorn sheep for which the river is named. They were introduced along the canyon rim in 1995, and the original 43 have swelled to a population of around 100.
The drive ends at milepost 134, just north of Thermopolis. There, you can enjoy the world’s largest mineral hot springs at Hot Springs State Park. You’ll also find hiking trails in the area.
