There are more than a few scenic byways in Wyoming, and some are quite well-known, like the drive along the Snowy River Range or the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. There’s one short drive on the western side of the state, however, that happens to be one of the most beautiful but most underrated in the state.
The drive that takes you over Togwotee Pass is stunning any time of year. It winds through two national forests and two national parks, showcasing the best of the gorgeous Wyoming landscape. To set the perfect mood, it even starts out in a charming little town. The drive takes only 2 hours, but it’s time well-spent and an experience you’ll never forget.
The drive along WY-191 through a piece of western Wyoming is one of the most beautiful in the state.
Show Us Your Togwotee/Flickr
It takes you over Togwotee Pass and through iconic wilderness spots that include national forests and parks.
Google Maps
The drive starts in a little mountain town, which is also surrounded by stunning Wyoming landscape.
Sam Beebe/Flickr
In Dubois, you can take a stroll around town, fill up your gas tank…
stereogab/Flickr
…and get a meal before you hit the road to fend off drive-time munchies.
dudegal/TripAdvisor The Rustic Pine Tavern and Steakhouse at 123 East Ramshorn in Dubois is as advertised: it’s rustic, for sure, and a great place to grab a meal before setting off on your road trip.
Heading northwest on US-26 will take you through the first of two spectacular forest areas. You’ll begin by traveling through the stunning Shoshone National Forest…
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
…then the breathtaking Bridger-Teton National Forest.
GreenLight Designs (Jordan Green)/Flickr
In addition to the beyond gorgeous landscape, you’re certain to spot some wildlife along the way, too.
Jeff Gunn/Flickr
Deer and bighorn sheep are just some of the animals that live in the area year-round.
Tim English/Flickr
Once through the forests, you’ll come to Grand Teton National Park, with its awe-inspiring views of the Grand Tetons.
Charles (Chuck) Peterson/Flickr
The drive, now on US-191, will take you past Jackson Lake and the delightful Colter Bay.
Dave Bezaire/Flickr
Plus, you’re sure to spot more wildlife including bison…
Jeff Gunn/Flickr
…moose…
Dave Wilson/Flickr
…and you might even see a bear.
CheWei Chang/Flickr
The south entrance to Yellowstone National Park is the end of the line for this scenic drive, but it’s by no means the end of the scenery.
koloth44/Flickr Between the geysers, hot springs, and other natural attractions, as well as more wildlife such as foxes, coyotes, elk, more bears, and more moose, you can easily spend another 2 hours — or 2 days — soaking in the sights.
Have you traveled this route that takes you over Togwotee Pass? What was your favorite part of the drive? What other short drives through Wyoming should be on everyone’s bucket list?
Show Us Your Togwotee/Flickr
Google Maps
Sam Beebe/Flickr
stereogab/Flickr
dudegal/TripAdvisor
The Rustic Pine Tavern and Steakhouse at 123 East Ramshorn in Dubois is as advertised: it’s rustic, for sure, and a great place to grab a meal before setting off on your road trip.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
GreenLight Designs (Jordan Green)/Flickr
Jeff Gunn/Flickr
Tim English/Flickr
Charles (Chuck) Peterson/Flickr
Dave Bezaire/Flickr
Dave Wilson/Flickr
CheWei Chang/Flickr
koloth44/Flickr
Between the geysers, hot springs, and other natural attractions, as well as more wildlife such as foxes, coyotes, elk, more bears, and more moose, you can easily spend another 2 hours — or 2 days — soaking in the sights.
There’s another short drive down in the southern part of the state that also gets overlooked, and it’s One Of The Most Breathtakingly Beautiful Byways In Wyoming.
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