Driggs to Afton: Idaho to Wyoming Road Trip Guide

The trip from Driggs, Idaho to Afton, Wyoming spans roughly 55 miles along State Highway 33 and US 89, a scenic corridor that hugs the western edge of the Teton Range. This route is less traveled than the Jackson Hole highway, offering a quieter, more intimate encounter with the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

One quirk: at the Idaho-Wyoming border near Pine Creek Pass (elevation 6,732 feet), you'll cross the Continental Divide twice—once on the pass and again near the Snake River headwaters. The drive typically takes one hour without stops, but exploring the attractions can easily fill half a day.

Quick Facts

Natural Landscapes and Attractions

The route cuts through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offering panoramic views of the Teton Range to the east. The Teton Canyon area is the highlight: a glacial valley with wildflowers in summer and golden aspen in fall. Hiking trails like the Teton Canyon Trail lead to Table Mountain, a 11,106-foot summit with stunning views of the Grand Teton.

Further south, the Wyoming Range rises to the west, with the Salt River Range creating dramatic backdrops. Keep an eye out for the “Stone Man” rock formation near the border—a natural pillar resembling a human figure, visible from the highway.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The route itself does not contain UNESCO sites, but nearby Yellowstone National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is about a 3-hour drive north. The Teton Range is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, recognized for its ecological significance. For official UNESCO sites, consider extending your trip.

Local Commerce and Culture

Driggs has a small Main Street with local galleries, a brewpub (Grand Teton Brewing), and the Driggs City Park farmers market (summer Saturdays). Afton is known for its “World’s Largest Elkhorn Arch” (spans the highway downtown) and the Star Valley Cheese factory, where you can sample curds and aged gouda. The area reflects Mormon pioneer heritage, with tidy farmsteads and a slower pace.

Culinary Infrastructure

Driggs offers several options: The Brakeman (American pub fare), Osprey Cafe (breakfast/lunch), and Grand Teton Brewing for craft beer and wood-fired pizza. There are no restaurants between Driggs and Afton besides a gas station convenience store at Alta. Afton has sit-down dining: KB's Steakhouse, and the Star Valley Market deli. For a scenic lunch, pack a picnic from Driggs and eat at Teton Canyon picnic area.

Family and Child Suitability

This route is very family-friendly. Short, easy hikes like the Teton Canyon Interpretive Trail (1 mile loop) are suitable for children. The Afton Elkhorn Arch is a quick photo stop, and the cheese factory offers free samples that kids love. Restrooms are available at the Alta gas station and in Afton city park. Consider downloading a scavenger hunt for wildlife (deer, eagles, pronghorn).

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most outdoor stops welcome leashed pets, including Teton Canyon trails and roadside viewpoints. Driggs and Afton have pet-friendly lodging (e.g., Best Western in Afton accepts dogs). No commercial kennels on route, so plan for walks at rest areas. Beware of wildlife—keep dogs close.

State Highway 33 runs west out of Driggs, climbs Pine Creek Pass, then descends into Wyoming. At the border, you'll merge onto US Highway 89 heading south toward Afton. The road is well-maintained but curvy through the pass; watch for livestock on open range sections.

Fuel is available in Driggs and Afton, with one station at the intersection of SH-33 and US-89 near the border (Alta, WY). Plan to fill up in Driggs if your tank is below half—the stretch between Driggs and Afton has no services for about 30 miles.

Route Revenue and Fees

• No tolls on this route.
• National Forest access may require a day pass ($5) at trailheads like Teton Canyon.
• Parking at popular trailheads can fill by 9 AM on weekends.

Navigation Tips

• Use GPS coordinates for off-grid spots (e.g., Teton Canyon trailhead: 43.7564° N, 111.0856° W).
• Cell service is spotty between Driggs and Afton; download offline maps.
• Watch for moose and deer, especially at dawn and dusk.

Infrastructure Safety and Road Quality

SH-33 and US-89 are paved and well-maintained, but snow and ice can linger into early June at high elevations. Summer thunderstorms bring brief downpours. Road shoulders are narrow in places; use pullouts for photos. Emergency call boxes are few; cell service is unreliable. Always carry water, food, and a first-aid kit.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Take the gravel road to “Cedar Creek Campground” (off SH-33, about 5 miles east of Driggs) for a secluded picnic and creek views. Another gem: the “St. John’s Creek Trail” near Afton—a quiet hike to a waterfall, with fewer crowds than Teton Canyon. This trailhead is 2 miles off US-89 on Forest Road 10258.

Fatigue Management and Rest Zones

Plan rest stops every 30 minutes; the Teton Canyon Overlook (mile marker 20 on SH-33) offers a paved pullout with interpretive signs. Afton City Park has benches, restrooms, and a playground—ideal for a 15-minute break. For an overnight stay, consider the Teton Canyon Campground (first-come, first-served) or cabins at Grand Targhee Resort.

If you're wondering how long to drive Driggs, ID to Afton, WY, the answer is 1 hour point-to-point; with stops, budget 2-3 hours. And yes, it is worth driving this route for the scenery alone. For more on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, check out this guide: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.