Wyoming 296
Free
MountainRoad TripScenic Lookout
Overview
Wyoming Highway 296 (WYO 296), also known as the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, is a 45.97-mile (73.98 km) state highway in northern Park County, Wyoming, United States, that connects U.S. Route 212 (US 212), east-southeast of Cooke City, Montana with Wyoming Highway 120 (WYO 120), north-northwest of Cody
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 2-3 hours
Best TimeHighly recommended for a scenic autumn drive (mid-September to early October) when endless groves of aspens along the highway turn a brilliant, fiery gold. Summer is also gorgeous. Opt for clear, bright middays to enjoy maximum visibility winding through the deep Chief Joseph Canyon.
Getting ThereAlso known as the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. This 46-mile state highway connects US-212 near Cooke City/Red Lodge to the Chief Joseph valley leading towards Yellowstone. Accessible only via motorized vehicle or motorcycle; expect sharp switchbacks and steep grades. Winter snow regularly closes the pass.
Travel Tips
- Also known as Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, WY-296 involves severe switchbacks and long mountain grades. Descending Dead Indian Pass causes rapid brake pad overheating; heavy trucks and RVs must shift to manual low gears to utilize engine braking.
- This 46-mile alpine segment features zero fuel stations, mechanics, or retail convenience. Blizzards frequently close the summit from November to May; you must completely top off your gas tank in base hubs like Cody or Cooke City before entering.
Photo Tips
Photo Spots
- The route crosses Sunlight Creek Bridge, the highest bridge span in Wyoming. The flanking roadside pedestrian pullouts are extremely narrow; hold children's hands securely due to sudden high-velocity valley crosswinds over the 300-foot gorge drop.
Reviews
Positive
- This route, also known as the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, is incredibly picturesque, and the canyon views from the Sunlight Creek Bridge are breathtaking.
- The highway pavement is exceptionally smooth, with numerous open pullouts that allow road-trippers to pull over safely and photograph the rolling peaks.
- The traffic volume is much lighter than the neighboring Beartooth Highway, making for a more relaxing drive where you can truly immerse yourself in the wild peace.
- In autumn, the aspen trees across the mountains turn a brilliant gold, interweaving with the deep green conifers to create incredibly rich visual layers.
Heads up
- The continuous sharp switchbacks and steep grades pose a real test for vehicle brakes and driver nerves; driving large rigs or trailers requires extra caution.
- There is almost completely zero cell service along the entire highway; if a vehicle breaks down or an emergency hits, contacting outside rescue is very tough.
- There are zero gas stations, convenience stores, or modern restrooms for dozens of miles along the route; not gassing up beforehand causes major anxiety.
- During winter and early spring, the road often suffers from heavy snow and black ice, and mountain fog frequently severely cuts visibility, making driving very hazardous.