Boise to Driggs Road Trip: Scenic Idaho Journey Guide

This route from Boise to Driggs spans 350 miles on US-20/US-26, crossing the Snake River Plain and ascending into the Rocky Mountains. The drive takes around 5.5 hours without stops, but the journey deserves at least a full day.

US-20 was originally part of the Oregon Trail; near Arco you'll find traces of pioneer wagon ruts still visible. Today the highway offers a transect of Idaho's volcanic and alpine ecosystems.

Fuel economy matters: from Boise (elevation 2,700 ft) you climb to 6,000+ ft at Arco and Driggs. Expect 10–15% lower MPG for gasoline vehicles.

• Gas stations are sparse between Mountain Home and Carey (80 miles). Fill up before leaving Boise or in Mountain Home.
• Arco has multiple stations, but after Arco, the next reliable fuel is in Idaho Falls (50 miles).
• Electric charging: Tesla Superchargers in Boise and Idaho Falls; Level 2 chargers at some hotels in Arco and Driggs.

Road surface quality: US-20 and US-26 are well-maintained two-lane highways with occasional passing lanes. Watch for livestock on open range near Craters of the Moon.

• Winter (Nov-Mar): snow tires or chains required in mountain passes between Arco and Driggs.
• Summer: construction delays possible near Idaho Falls.

Craters of the Moon National Monument is the standout natural attraction. This 618-square-mile lava field features cinder cones, spatter cones, and lava tubes. A 7-mile loop road takes you past the major formations.

• Best visits: early morning or late afternoon for low-angle light.
• Entrance fee: $25 per vehicle (valid 7 days).
• Nearby: Arco's Historic Downtown has the 'Experimental Breeder Reactor I' museum (free).

Local commerce along the route includes small farm stands selling potatoes and huckleberries. In Swan Valley, the 'Heise Bridge' area has gem shops and river rafting outfitters.

• Heise Bridge (US-26 milepost 351): known for geodes and agate hunting.
• Pick a dozen huckleberry pancakes at 'The Huckleberry House' in Ririe.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: none directly on route, but Yellowstone National Park (a UNESCO site) is 60 miles north of Driggs. The Grand Teton National Park, also nearby, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Cellular coverage: spotty on US-20 from Fairfield to Arco (about 50 miles). Download offline maps and inform someone of your route. Emergency call boxes are rare.

• Wildlife alerts: deer and elk frequent dawn/dusk near Swan Valley; antelope near Craters.
• Rest areas: three official rest stops at mileposts 20 (near Mountain Home), 130 (near Carey), and 240 (near Idaho Falls).

Family suitability: this route is very family-friendly with plenty of kid-oriented stops.

• Craters of the Moon: children can hike the 0.5-mile 'Cave Trail' to a lava tube (flashlight required).
• Idaho Falls: the greenbelt along the Snake River has playgrounds and interpretive signs.
• Fun fact: Arco was the first US city to be lit by nuclear power (1955).

Fatigue management: split the drive with a picnic at Craters of the Moon or a lunch break at the 'Mama Inez' Mexican restaurant in Idaho Falls.

• Recommended stop: 'Craters of the Moon Lava Flow Campground' ($15/night) if you want to overnight.
• For a quick nap, use the rest area at milepost 240 (shaded tables).

Pet-friendly framework: most outdoor attractions welcome pets on leash. Craters of the Moon permits dogs on all trails except buildings and lava tube caves.

• Be sure to carry water and shade; summer temperatures on lava can exceed 100°F.
• Pack poop bags; no stations on trails.