Bonners Ferry to Afton: Scenic Drive Guide

This 400-mile drive traces the path of the Mullan Road, a military wagon route completed in 1862 and named for Lt. John Mullan, linking the Missouri and Columbia River basins. The road crosses two major mountain passes (Lookout Pass at 4,730 ft and Teton Pass at 8,431 ft) and skirts the Continental Divide, offering a journey through diverse ecosystems and historical landmarks.

You'll wind through northern Idaho's timber country, Montana's ranchlands, and Wyoming's high plains, with the Rocky Mountains as a constant companion. The drive typically takes 7-8 hours of pure driving time, but plan for at least 2 hours of stops to fully appreciate the scenery.

For tips on discovering hidden gems along the way, see this guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Before you head out, consider fuel costs. Gas prices average $3.50 per gallon in Idaho and $3.20 in Wyoming, so budget roughly $70 for the trip in a standard sedan. There are no tolls on this route, but parking at trailheads may require a small day-use fee.

Cell service is spotty in mountainous stretches, so download offline maps and carry a physical map as backup. The best time to drive is late spring through early fall, when passes are typically snow-free.

The route passes through stunning scenery: the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness in Montana, the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness near Butte, and the Snake River Plain in Idaho. Watch for wildlife like elk, moose, and bighorn sheep, especially at dawn and dusk near water sources.

Near the route is one UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Yellowstone National Park, accessible via a 2-hour detour from Idaho Falls. This volcanic landscape with its geysers and hot springs is a must-see for first-time visitors, though it requires a separate entrance fee.

Local commerce thrives in small towns: in Wallace, ID, the historic silver-mining district offers unique shops and a mining museum. In Butte, MT, the Berkeley Pit is an infamous open-pit mine, and the city's historic district is a testament to its copper-mining boom. In Driggs, ID, the farmers market sells local produce and crafts during summer.

Don't miss the opportunity to taste regional specialties: huckleberry shakes in Montana, and bison burgers in Wyoming. Nearly every café features a local twist, and you'll find craft breweries in Bozeman and Idaho Falls.

This drive is child-friendly with many short, easy walks: the Trail of the Cedars in Glacier National Park (accessible from the route) is a flat, paved path perfect for strollers. For older kids, the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman offers dinosaur exhibits and a planetarium. Rest areas also have play areas where kids can run.

Pets are welcome at most rest areas and outdoor attractions, but they must be leashed. Some motels allow pets for an extra fee; check ahead. In hot weather, never leave pets in a parked car - even with windows cracked.

Road safety is excellent: interstates are well-maintained, and mountain passes have winter closures but are plowed frequently in season. However, watch for deer and elk, especially in Montana; headlights on at dusk are advisable.

For fatigue management, take breaks every 2 hours: the rest areas mentioned earlier are ideal, and you'll also find scenic pullouts with interpretive signs at Lookout Pass and along the Snake River. Do not drive tired; a quick 20-minute nap or switching drivers can save lives.

Your route follows US-95 South from Bonners Ferry to Coeur d'Alene, then I-90 East through Montana to Butte, then I-15 South into Idaho, finally taking US-26 East to Afton. This is the fastest route and avoids winding secondary roads that add significant time. Weather can change rapidly, especially in Montana - check forecasts at each major stop.

For fuel, plan to fill up in larger towns: Coeur d'Alene, Missoula, Butte, Idaho Falls, and Afton. These towns have multiple stations with competitive prices and 24/7 availability, while rural stretches may have limited hours. Download fuel price apps to find the best deals.

Rest areas and visitor centers are plentiful: there are modern rest areas at Lookout Pass (westbound), near Garrison, MT, and south of Idaho Falls. All have restrooms and picnic tables; some offer vending machines and pet areas.

• Rest areas at Lookout Pass and near Garrison have seasonal closures; check online for current status.
• Food options: In Coeur d'Alene, try local cafés; in Missoula, the university district offers diverse dining; in Idaho Falls, the riverwalk has several restaurants; in Afton, you'll find ranch-style eateries.
• Accommodations: Book ahead for summer, especially in Jackson (if you detour) and Idaho Falls; motels in smaller towns like Driggs offer budget options.