Is there really a stretch of highway in Wyoming that looks like it leads to the great beyond? The answer is yes, but it’s not as mystical as the name might suggest. The photo circulating on the internet of a highway stretching into the sky is real — but it only looks that way under certain conditions.
This stretch of road, located on Interstate 80 between Evanston and Lyman, has earned the nickname “Highway to Heaven” because, at certain times, it seems to rise dramatically toward the sky, especially when storm clouds are present and the sun peeks through. While this image has stirred questions and skepticism online, locals and experts confirm that it’s a legitimate phenomenon, but it’s not as magical as it seems.
The Real Story Behind the “Highway to Heaven”
The photo in question was taken under very specific weather conditions. Stephanie Harsha, a public information officer for the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT), explains, “On a clear day, it doesn’t look like that. But on a specific day, especially when storm clouds are looming but the sun is still shining, it can look like that.”
The optical illusion is created when the light breaks through the clouds in a way that makes it appear as if the road stretches infinitely into the sky, almost like a pathway to heaven. It’s not a permanent feature, and it’s only visible when the weather conditions align perfectly.
Bill Sniffin, an author who has written several books about Wyoming, has also verified the phenomenon. He notes that the area, known locally as “The Sisters,” gets its name from the twin hills that create the visual illusion. Sniffin calls it “The big ‘Sister,’” referring to the larger hill that creates the most dramatic view when the light and fog align.
A Dangerous Stretch of Road
While the “Highway to Heaven” might look captivating in photos, it’s not all beauty and awe. The area is known to be dangerous, particularly in the winter. Harsha, who grew up in the nearby area of Green River, points out that “The Sisters” section of I-80 is notorious for its challenging conditions, especially during snowy or icy weather. “No one’s ever really referred to that section of roadway affectionately,” Harsha adds, emphasizing the treacherous conditions that make it a perilous area to drive through.
The highway is also a prime location for some of Wyoming’s largest wind turbines, thanks to the region’s strong prevailing winds. These winds make driving conditions even more difficult, as vehicles climb out of the valley and into gusty, unpredictable winds. Sniffin, who regularly drives through the area in his RV, describes it as “nerve-wracking,” especially with the number of semi-trucks that frequent the road.
The “Highway to Heaven” is Just a Misleading Nickname
Despite the romanticized title, neither Sniffin nor Harsha agrees with the nickname “Highway to Heaven.” Harsha humorously clarifies, “To disappoint some folks, this section of I-80 does not lead to heaven, only the Bridger Valley.” While the nickname might suggest a divine destination, it’s actually a rural stretch of highway connecting local areas like Bridger Valley.
However, for those who live in the region or appreciate Wyoming’s natural beauty, the Bridger Valley could feel heavenly. It’s a picturesque area that some locals consider a hidden gem, making the nickname somewhat appropriate to those who enjoy the peaceful, scenic views.
A Dangerous Road that Deserves Attention
While the “Highway to Heaven” may not lead to a mystical realm, it still plays a crucial role in connecting communities. Its popularity is due to its unusual appearance and reputation, but it’s essential to remember the practical dangers the highway presents. The mix of steep inclines, unpredictable weather, and powerful winds makes this stretch of road both challenging and potentially hazardous for travelers.
This stretch of I-80 is part of the broader challenges that drivers face in Wyoming, especially in rural and mountainous areas. The state’s harsh winter conditions and high-altitude roads demand extra caution. In response to safety concerns, the WYDOT has made improvements, such as adding a third lane in particularly steep sections to help drivers navigate the tricky terrain.
(Cowboy State Daily Staff)
Conclusion: Not a Highway to Heaven, But Still Stunning
Wyoming’s “Highway to Heaven” may not lead to a divine destination, but it is a testament to the beauty and danger that can exist in nature’s oddities. The stretch of road on I-80 between Evanston and Lyman offers an optical illusion that seems to make the road rise up into the clouds. While it might not be heavenly, it’s certainly a sight worth seeing — as long as you’re prepared for the rough terrain and unpredictable weather.
For those traveling through this area, it’s a reminder of how powerful nature can be, and how we should always respect the forces at play, whether it’s the weather, the wind, or even the unexpected beauty of a road stretching toward the sky.
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