Wyoming, a mountain state in the Western United States, is famous for its magnificent Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. However, few people know that beyond these well-known destinations, Wyoming hides countless pristine, beautiful roads waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls. If you are looking for different travel experiences, away from the hustle and bustle, join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” to explore hidden Wyoming’s stunning off-the-beaten-path drives, where natural beauty remains untouched and captivating.
Wyoming is not only home to world-famous national parks, but also a paradise of hidden roads, untouched by tourists. These roads weave through majestic red rock mountains, vast prairies stretching to the horizon, and endless green pine forests. Driving on these roads, you will feel absolute freedom, immerse yourself in wild nature, and discover hidden beauties that few have the chance to admire. Forget the crowded highways, and prepare for a completely different Wyoming exploration journey, where pristine roads will lead you to unforgettable experiences.
Discovering Wilderness on Chief Joseph Scenic Highway
Chief Joseph Scenic Highway, named after the famous chief of the Nez Perce tribe, is one of hidden Wyoming’s stunning off-the-beaten-path drives that you should not miss. This 116 km (72-mile) route winds through the majestic Bighorn Mountains, offering visitors breathtaking natural scenery and profound historical imprints.
Driving on Chief Joseph Scenic Highway, you will witness the continuous change of landscapes, from lush green pine and fir forests to alpine meadows ablaze with wildflowers in the summer. The highlights of this route are the towering cliffs, deep canyons, and crystal-clear glacial rivers. You can stop at many viewpoints along the way to admire the scenery, take photos, or even hike and explore the surrounding nature.
Chief Joseph Scenic Highway is not only a beautiful scenic route, but also carries emotional historical stories. This route passes through many locations associated with the arduous journey of Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce tribe in 1877, when they tried to escape to Canada to avoid being pursued by the US Army. Along the way, you will see signs and historical sites, recounting the tragic events that took place on this land.
Chief Joseph Scenic Highway winding through the Bighorn Mountains
To fully experience the beauty of Chief Joseph Scenic Highway, you should spend at least half a day exploring this route. The best time to go is in summer or early autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is most vibrant. Prepare your camera, binoculars, and an open mind to welcome the wonders that this pristine road brings.
The Legendary Beartooth Highway
Beartooth Highway, US Route 212, is known as “the most beautiful road in America”, and is a gem among hidden Wyoming’s stunning off-the-beaten-path drives. This 109 km (68-mile) route connects Red Lodge, Montana and Cooke City-Silver Gate, Montana, passing through the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Although not entirely within Wyoming, a significant and most beautiful part of Beartooth Highway still belongs to this state, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the pristine and majestic Beartooth-Absaroka mountains.
Beartooth Highway is a feat of engineering and a symphony of nature. This route climbs to an altitude of over 3,300 meters (10,947 feet) above sea level, crossing year-round snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and endless alpine meadows. Driving on Beartooth Highway, you will feel like you are flying among the clouds, admiring panoramic views of majestic mountains and feeling the vastness of the earth and sky.
Along Beartooth Highway, there are countless beautiful viewpoints for you to explore. You can stop at Overlook Point to admire the panoramic view of the vast Beartooth Valley, or visit Beartooth Lake to admire the tranquil beauty of the lake reflecting the mountain shadows. If you are a hiking enthusiast, take time to explore the trails leading deep into the Beartooth-Absaroka mountains, where you can encounter wildlife such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears.
The iconic Beartooth Highway
Beartooth Highway is usually only open from late May to mid-October, due to heavy snowfall in winter. Therefore, if you want to experience this pristine route, plan your trip in summer or early autumn. Remember to check road conditions before departing, and be prepared for hairpin turns and steep slopes on the route. Your reward will be magnificent natural scenery and unforgettable travel experiences.
Wyoming’s Million Dollar Highway Version: North Fork River Road
If you’ve heard of the famous Million Dollar Highway in Colorado, you might be surprised to know that Wyoming also has a similar “version”, albeit lesser-known. That is the road along the North Fork River, a narrow and winding route, but offering no less majestic and pristine natural scenery.
The North Fork River Road runs along the North Fork Shoshone River valley, east of Yellowstone National Park. This route is not entirely paved, but alternates between dirt and gravel sections, creating a challenging and exciting driving experience. Driving on the North Fork River Road, you will be surrounded by towering cliffs, dense pine forests, and the rushing North Fork River. In autumn, the scenery here becomes even more brilliant, as the maple trees turn yellow, orange, and red, creating a beautiful natural painting.
One of the special highlights of the North Fork River Road is “Tunnel Mountain”, a short tunnel carved deep into the cliff. Passing through this tunnel, you will feel like you are lost in another world, completely separate from the outside world. Immediately after exiting the tunnel, you will admire a small waterfall cascading down from above, creating an extremely poetic and romantic scene.
Tunnel Mountain on the North Fork River Road
The North Fork River Road is a great option for those who want to explore pristine roads and experience off-road driving in Wyoming. However, this route can be quite difficult to drive, especially in the rainy season or after snowfall. You should use a high-clearance vehicle and have off-road driving experience when traveling on the North Fork River Road. Prepare yourself for bumpy, dusty roads, but in return, you will be rewarded with stunning natural scenery and unique travel experiences.
Tips for Exploring Wyoming’s Hidden Scenic Drives
Exploring hidden Wyoming’s stunning off-the-beaten-path drives is a wonderful travel experience, but it also requires careful preparation and an adventurous spirit. Here are some important notes to help you have a safe and memorable trip:
- Check road conditions: Before departing, check road conditions, especially for dirt or mountain roads. Bad weather can make some roads difficult to travel or even closed.
- Choose the right vehicle: For pristine roads and off-road terrain, a high-clearance vehicle or four-wheel drive is the best choice. Make sure your vehicle is well-maintained and suitable for the terrain.
- Prepare adequately: Bring plenty of water, snacks, warm jackets, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and a paper map (in case your phone has no signal).
- Inform relatives: Before going into remote areas, inform your relatives or friends about your itinerary and expected return time.
- Drive safely: Drive slowly and carefully on pristine roads, especially on winding, steep, or dirt sections. Pay attention to wildlife and yield to them.
- Respect nature: Keep the environment clean, do not litter, do not make loud noises, and do not disturb wildlife.
Wyoming is a natural treasure trove with countless wonders waiting for you to discover. Be bold and step out of the familiar paths, and hidden Wyoming’s stunning off-the-beaten-path drives will bring you unique and unforgettable travel experiences. Let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” accompany you on your journey to discover the hidden beauty of Wyoming!
References
- Chief Joseph Scenic Byway: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/shoshone/recarea/?recid=36048
- Beartooth Highway: https://beartoothhighway.com/
- North Fork of the Shoshone River: https://www.wyomingtalesandtrails.com/codyriver2.html