Stunning Wyoming Fall Drives and When to Take Them
By: Sarah Reish
Fall is a beautiful time of year when nature’s colors become more dramatic and eye catching. With the numerous scenic drives our state hosts we could not let this issue drop without sharing some of the top drives and the best dates for you to see the fall colors at their peak. Special thanks to my brother-in-law for recommending the idea!
Battle Pass Scenic Byway
The region is both historic and stunning. Battle Pass Scenic Byway (WY 70) is home to Wyoming’s Aspen Alley, a must see fall attraction. The byway is in Southeastern Wyoming and located in the Sierra Madre Mountains in Medicine Bow National Forest. Fun fact: this byway travels through multiple ghost towns including, Battle.
Mileage: 57 miles
Best Dates to see fall colors: Late September; however, you can call Encampment Forest Service for current fall foliage status and weather conditions, 307-327-5481
Recommended Activity: Day hike, photograph and picnic in Aspen Alley. Trails in the area include Baby Lake trail, Bridger Peak trail. To get to Aspen Alley (if you’re heading toward Encampment) on Highway 70, turn left on Sage Creek Road.
Black Hills Scenic Byway - Wyoming
Yes, this is in Wyoming. It stretches from the northeastern part of our state into South Dakota’s Black Hills. Flush with trees and natural beauty we had to include this scenic drive on our list, it is one of our favorites. To find this scenic byway head north out of Newcastle on Highway 85 towards Sundance.
Mileage: 78 miles
Best dates to see fall colors: According to the Public Affairs Officer at Black Hills National Forest you will see the forest at its most colorful toward the end of September into early October.
Recommended Hiking: 2.8 miles north of Newcastle is a dirt road that leads to a marked trailhead and parking area for Serenity Trail. We haven’t been on this hike, but have driven this stunning area and feel we can safely say this 2 and/or 4 mile trail loop should provide a stunning colorful fall scene for those looking to hike on this outing.
Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway
Just west of Cody sits the entrance into Shoshone National Forest and the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway. If you continue on US Highway 14-16-20. The drive offers stunning landscapes, wildlife, and all the fall colors you have been dreaming of.
Mileage: 28 miles (52 miles from Cody to the Yellowstone National Park East Gate)
Best dates to see fall colors: Weather plays a major role in the season for viewing fall colors. We estimate this drives peak season to be the third and fourth week in September and the first week in October. Best practice is to keep your eye on the weather.
Recommended Hiking: Our hike pick for this scenic drive is the Elk Fork accessible via the Elk Fork Campground. This hike follows the Elk Creek along the North Fork. This location offers day hiking as well as backpacking.
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway
Another one of our favorite drives in Wyoming includes this northern stretch along the Montana boarder named Chief Jospeh Scenic Byway. The drive will take you to the peak of Dead Indian Pass with its jaw dropping views, that after many drives still leaves me breathless. After reaching the peak the drive then lowers you, via switch backs, into this gorgeous nature scene that is filled with wildlife and will provide you with a stunning fall color palette. Take the Belfry highway north out of Cody for 17 miles and Chief Joseph Scenic Byway will be on your left.
Mileage: 45 miles
Best dates to see fall colors: The third and fourth week in September and the first week in October
Recommended Hiking: Clarks Fork Canyon West End Trail. Choosing a hike in this area is hard, but we felt this hike would produce great fall colors. Drive roughly 40 miles of Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and turn right onto FR167. Since you’re in the area, another hike you may enjoy is the stunning Island and Night Lakes trail.
Wyoming Centennial Scenic Byway
One of Wyomings iconically beautiful drives is the byway between Pinedale and Dubois, Wyoming. This drive toes the line of Grand Teton National Park and takes you through Bridger- Teton National Forest. Enjoy world class views, and wildlife when you take the Wyoming Centennial Scenic Byway.
Mileage: 161 Miles
Best dates to see fall colors: Typically the third week of September is the optimal time to see fall colors in this area. Local conditions can impact when leaves change so monitor weather conditions in the area.
Recommended Hiking: If you are looking to stretch your legs on this 161 mile scenic drive, try hiking any one of the numerous trails along the route. If you enjoy mountain biking, be sure to stop by the Shadow Mountain Downhill trail. If you are coming from the South (Pinedale) you will turn East (right) onto Lost Creek Ranch Road. Turn right onto Shadow Mountain Rd. Then continue onto Forest Rd 30340. When presented with a fork in the road, turn left for the Shadow Mountain North Trailhead, or turn right for Shadow Mountain Downhill. For detailed directions, follow the link.
Hit the Road!
If you have any favorite Wyoming scenic drives where you like to see spectacular fall color, please let us know. Comment below or share with us on our socials @LiveWYldMag and use hashtag #LiveWYld. Happy adventuring and happy fall y’all.