What Is the Black to Yellow Route?

This scenic road trip stretches from the rugged Black Hills and Devils Tower region in northeast Wyoming through prairie landscapes and evergreen forests to the majestic valleys of Yellowstone National Park. The route connects iconic geological wonders and cultural history, offering a deep dive into the American West’s past and present.

Why should You Take the Black to Yellow Road Trip? 

Travelers choose the Black to Yellow route for its mix of sprawling prairies, forested hills, and geological marvels, as well as opportunities for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring historic Western culture. This drive showcases some of the best landscapes and hidden gems in northern Wyoming.

Dig Site at the Vore Buffalo Jump
Vore Buffalo Site - Sundance, WY

Black Hills

Where Does the Black to Yellow Route Begin?

The Black to Yellow route begins in northeast Wyoming in the Black Hills near Devils Tower National Monument, the nation’s first national monument. Rising dramatically from the surrounding prairie, Devils Tower introduces travelers to the geological wonders and cultural history that define this journey.

Visitors can walk the Tower Trail, stop at scenic pullouts, and learn about the site’s importance to Native American tribes before continuing along the route.

What Can You Explore in Northeastern Wyoming?

Explore the history of the Vore Buffalo Jump near Sundance, Wyoming, and gain insight into how this natural sinkhole was used as a buffalo trap by Plains Indian tribes. A visit to the Aladdin General Store in Aladdin, Wyoming, offers a step back in time with its 1896 charm, offering groceries, supplies, Western wear and antiques. Witness the majesty of Devils Tower National Monument near Hulett & Sundance, a 1,267-foot striated rock tower that gained fame as a filming site for "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." In Gillette, Wyoming, the Frontier Auto Museum beckons with its antique shop, old-time general store and car museum showcasing classic cars and transportation memorabilia. Close by, unique properties like the Carter House, which looks like a castle, help turn an overnight stay into a memorable experience.

 

Park sculpture in Kaycee, WY of Chris Ledoux Bull Riding.
Chris Ledoux Sculpture - Kaycee, WY

Bighorn Mountains

What Cultural Experiences Await in Kaycee, Buffalo and Sheridan?​

Discover the legacy of legendary rodeo cowboy and country musician Chris LeDoux at Chris LeDoux Memorial Park in Kaycee, where a sculpture titled Good Ride Cowboy honors his life and career. The park sits near the ranch where LeDoux lived with his family, offering a meaningful stop for fans of Western music and rodeo history.

 

In Buffalo, explore the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, home to the extensive personal collection of local pharmacist and historian Jim Gatchell. His work serving settlers, frontiersmen and members of the Lakota and Northern Cheyenne tribes in the early 1900s provides insight into the region’s frontier past.

 

Continue to Sheridan for a visit to the historic WYO Theater. Established in 1923 as one of Wyoming’s first vaudeville theaters, it remains the oldest theater in the state still in operation and continues to host professional music, dance and theatrical performances in downtown Sheridan.

 

Children playing in the cockpit of a display aircraft at the Museum of Flight and Aerial Firefighting.
Museum of Flight and Aerial Firefighting - Greybull, WY

Bighorn Basin

What Unique Attractions Await in Greybull, Worland, and Meeteetse?

Explore aviation history at the Museum of Flight and Aerial Firefighting in Greybull, where planes on display include Privateer tankers once used for wildfire suppression and maritime patrol missions. The museum offers insight into Wyoming’s role in aerial firefighting and aviation innovation.

 

In Worland, visit the Washakie Museum and Cultural Center, which explores how the people of the Bighorn Basin have interacted with the land over time. Exhibits on paleontology, archaeology and early settlement history provide a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

 

Finish your stop in Meeteetse with a visit to Meeteetse Chocolatier, where former saddle bronc rider and cowboy Tim Kellogg crafts small batch chocolates inspired by Wyoming flavors. Signature truffles include unique combinations like prickly pear cactus and Wyoming Whiskey.

 

Entrence to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, WY.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West - Credit: @karelkocurek

Cody and Yellowstone

What Should You Do While Visiting Cody?

Immerse yourself in the natural and cultural history and art of the region at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming, home to five different institutions in one complex: the Plains Indian, Buffalo Bill, Draper Natural History, Whitney Western Art and Cody Firearms museums. Finally, approach the unparalleled natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park via the East Entrance

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Black to Yellow Route

How much time should you plan for the Black to Yellow route?

The Black to Yellow itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your travel style. Some visitors travel the route in just a few days, while others choose to extend their trip to explore hiking trails, museums, and scenic byways along the way.

What is the best time of year to drive the Black to Yellow route?

Late spring through early fall offers the most reliable conditions for driving the Black to Yellow route. Summer provides full access to attractions and services, while shoulder seasons often bring fewer crowds and seasonal color changes.

What travel tips help you enjoy the Black to Yellow itinerary?

Plan ahead for fuel stops, especially in rural areas, and allow extra time for unexpected stops and scenic pullouts. Staying alert for wildlife on roadways and keeping a flexible schedule will help you make the most of your Wyoming road trip.