Dillon to Pinedale: A Scenic 230-Mile Road Trip Guide

This 230-mile drive traces the Continental Divide from Montana's Beaverhead Valley to Wyoming's Wind River Range, crossing three mountain passes and two national forests. The route on I-15 and US-191 offers a taste of the American West's high plains and alpine terrain.

Historical nugget: The road mostly follows the old Oregon Trail corridor, and near Monida Pass you can still see wagon ruts from the 1840s pioneers.

The route's crown jewel is Grand Teton National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Tetons rise abruptly to 13,000 feet, and the Snake River meanders through the valley. Along the way, stop at Earthquake Lake in Montana, formed by a 1959 quake.

For local flavor, visit the weekly farmers market in Idaho Falls (summer), and in Pinedale, the Museum of the Mountain Man chronicles the fur trade era.

Wildlife viewing is prime in the National Elk Refuge near Jackson. The route passes through the Caribou-Targhee and Bridger-Teton National Forests, offering hiking and camping.

The drive takes roughly 4 hours without stops, but plan for 5-6 hours to enjoy the scenery. Fuel up in Dillon, Idaho Falls, and Pinedale; the 150-mile stretch between Dubois and Pinedale lacks gas stations.

• Roads: I-15 (well-maintained interstate) and US-191 (two-lane highway with passing lanes)
• No tolls on the route
• Cell reception: spotty between Dubois and Pinedale

For weather updates, check the Montana and Wyoming DOT sites; winter closures are common on Teton Pass and South Pass.

Both highways are well-maintained, but watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. Pack a safety kit with water, food, and blankets.

• Family: Yellowstone Playhouse in Idaho Falls (family theater), and the Teton Science Schools in Jackson (nature programs)
• Pets: Leashed pets welcome at most national forest trails; lodging in Idaho Falls and Pinedale varies—confirm pet policies.

Plan rest stops every 2 hours. Recommended breaks: Monida Pass (MT/ID border), Idaho Falls (river walk), Jackson (lunch), and Dubois (fuel up). For local dining, try a diner in Idaho Falls or a steakhouse in Pinedale.

To find more off-the-beaten-path stops, refer to this guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. Hidden gems include the ghost town of Gilmore, Idaho, and the Granite Hot Springs (seasonal).