Bend to Salmon: Oregon High Desert to Idaho Wilderness

This route from Bend, Oregon to Salmon, Idaho covers roughly 370 miles following US-20 east to US-93 north, a journey that crosses the volcanic high desert of central Oregon, the Snake River Plain, and the rugged Lemhi Range. The drive typically takes 6.5 to 7.5 hours without stops, but the region's geological oddities and remote character demand exploration.

A little-known fact: the stretch of US-20 between Bend and the Idaho border follows part of the old Oregon Trail, and near the town of Craters of the Moon, the landscape is so lunar-like that NASA astronauts trained there for moonwalks. This peculiar terrain is a highlight of the trip.

Road safety is paramount on this remote route. The two-lane highways have 55-65 mph speed limits, but watch for wildlife, especially at dusk. Vehicle breakdowns can be dangerous; carry extra water and a first-aid kit.

• Rest zones: Rest areas at Foothill Road (mile 130 on US-20) and just south of Boise on I-84.
• Family-friendly: The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City offers interactive exhibits about pioneer travel.
• Pet-friendly: Craters of the Moon allows leashed pets on paved trails; many motels in Burns and Boise accept pets.

For fatigue management, stop every two hours. Good break points include the town of Riley (gas and a diner), the town of Mountain Home (restaurants and a park), and the visitor center at Challis.

Craters of the Moon National Monument

Located about 80 miles east of Bend off US-20, this surreal volcanic landscape features cinder cones, lava tubes, and sagebrush. Designated as a National Monument in 1924, it preserves a unique basalt plain formed by eruptions 15,000 years ago.

• Entry fee: $20 per vehicle.
• Highlights: Indian Tunnel lava tube, Spatter Cones, and the 7-mile loop drive.
• Best stop for: Geology enthusiasts and photographers.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area

As you approach Salmon, the road weaves through the Sawtooth Mountains, with peaks rising over 10,000 feet and alpine lakes dotting the valleys. The Salmon River here is called 'The River of No Return' for its challenging rapids.

• Scenic pull-offs: Several overlooks on US-93 between Challis and Salmon.
• Wildlife: Elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and eagles are common.
• Local commerce: Small cafes in Stanley and Challis serve huckleberry milkshakes.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Just south of Burns, detour to Malheur National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching. The refuge hosts over 320 bird species and is a critical stopover for migrating waterfowl. Alternatively, explore the ghost town of Silver City, Idaho, accessible via unpaved roads from US-93—a well-preserved mining camp from the 1860s.

The primary highways are US-20 east from Bend to the Idaho border, then US-93 north through the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Roads are well-maintained but two-lane for long stretches, with limited services between towns. Plan fuel stops at Bend, Burns, Boise, and Challis (ID).

• Fuel economy: Gas stations become sparse east of Burns; fill up when you see one.
• Cell coverage: Verizon and AT&T have spotty coverage in Oregon high desert and Idaho mountains; download offline maps.
• Tolls: None on this route.
• Best time to drive: May to October for snow-free passes; winter requires chains or 4WD.

For tips on discovering stops between cities, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.