Bonners Ferry to Riverton: Idaho to Wyoming Road Trip Guide

Bonners Ferry sits at the foot of the Selkirk Mountains along the Kootenai River, while Riverton anchors Wyoming's Wind River Country. This 750-mile route crosses the Continental Divide twice, passes through Yellowstone National Park, and touches the headwaters of the Missouri River. Driving time is roughly 13 hours without stops, but the journey deserves at least three days.

The route follows US-95 south through Idaho, then I-90 east to Bozeman, and US-191 and US-287 south into Wyoming. As you travel, you'll notice the landscape shifting from cedar forests and glacier-carved valleys to high desert basins and red sandstone bluffs. This guide highlights the best stops between these two towns, including a surprising UNESCO World Heritage Site and several hidden off-route spots.

Fuel stops are plentiful along I-90, but sparse on US-191, so fill up in Missoula, Bozeman, and West Yellowstone. Gas prices in Idaho average 15 cents less per gallon than Wyoming due to differing state taxes. As of 2025, expect to pay around $3.50 per gallon in Idaho and $3.65 in Wyoming.

• Cell phone coverage is unreliable west of Yellowstone; download offline maps.
• Weather can change quickly, especially in mountain passes.
• No tolls on this route.

Road quality is generally good, but construction zones are common in summer. US-191 south of Bozeman features sharp curves and wildlife crossings, so drive with caution. For real-time conditions, call 511 in both states.

If you're wondering how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, consider using Wayro's trip planner to discover local favorites.

The route passes through the Bitterroot Valley, a 90-mile stretch of the Bitterroot River flanked by the Sapphire and Bitterroot mountains. In Wyoming, you'll cross the Wind River Canyon, a 2,500-foot-deep gorge carved by the Wind River. The canyon's walls display over 3 billion years of geologic history, including some of the oldest rocks in North America.

Yellowstone National Park, the world's first national park, is accessible from West Yellowstone. The park's geothermal features, including Old Faithful, are a major draw. Interestingly, the park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.

Local commerce along the route includes huckleberry products in Idaho, made from wild berries harvested in the mountains. In Montana, you'll find bison jerky and craft breweries. Wyoming's Wind River Indian Reservation offers Native American arts and crafts, and the town of Dubois is known for its western-themed murals.

Hidden off-route spots include Lake Koocanusa, a reservoir straddling the Montana-Idaho border, reached via a scenic detour from Libby. Another gem is the Virginia City Historic District, a preserved gold rush town off I-90 near Bozeman, where you can pan for gold.

Wildlife encounters are the top safety concern. Deer, elk, and moose are common on US-191, especially at dawn and dusk. Always brake firmly and avoid swerving. For families, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone offers close-up views of these predators, and the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman features dinosaur exhibits and a planetarium.

• Rest stops with picnic areas are available every 50 miles on I-90.
• For fatigue, take breaks every two hours; use apps like Drive to find rest areas.

Pet-friendly overnight options include the Red Mountain Motel and Cabins in Ennis, and the AmericInn in Riverton, both allowing dogs for a fee. Many Yellowstone-area restaurants offer pet-friendly patios, but pets are not allowed on boardwalks.

Culinary stops include the amazing pies at the Tumbleweed Cafe in Henry's Lake, and the buffalo burgers at the Rusty Parrot in Jackson Hole (a longer detour). For a quick bite, try the trout tacos at the Outpost in West Yellowstone.

Is it worth driving this route? Absolutely, for the scenery and the chance to see Yellowstone without the crowds of summer. The best times are June and September. Be prepared for snow as early as October.