Wyoming’s highways are all gorgeous, but a few truly stand out from the rest. If you’ve driven the Beartooth Highway, you know exactly what I mean by that! There’s a lesser known road, though, that cuts down from the Beartooth and winds up and down some of Wyoming’s most majestic mountain roads.
The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway runs for 43 miles, along WY-296. The road is the link between the Beartooth Highway coming out of Yellowstone National Park and the town of Cody.
K. Magaraci
As you drive the byway, you’ll find yourself climbing higher and higher along hairpin turns and curves.
K. Magaraci
Be sure to stop at Sunlight Bridge. If you’re not afraid of heights, walk across the bridge and take in the breathtaking views of the canyon below.
K. Magaraci
The land is mostly open range, so keep an eye out for cattle, horses, and cowboys.
K. Magaraci
When you get to the top of Dead Indian Pass, be sure to stop and take a look at the winding highway you just drove! At 8,061 feet, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.
K. Magaraci
Cheif Joseph Scenic Byway and Dead Indian Pass are named after the Nez Perce Native Americans. They bravely fought against white settlers who were trying to remove them from their home, and at this pass, Chief Joseph staged a risky escape.
K. Magaraci
You’ll find the story of the Nez Perce escape here. Be sure to take the time to read the fascinating and sad tale.
K. Magaraci
The gorgeous tin artwork shows two Nez Perce looking out over their homeland from the highest point in the area.
K. Magaraci
As you wind your way back down to Cody, be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery, because there’s no place on earth like the mountains of Wyoming.
K. Magaraci
The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway is typically plowed and kept open all year long. For road status and more information about traveling the byway, visit the Shoshone National Forest website, here.
K. Magaraci
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