Driggs, ID to Dickinson, ND: Epic Road Trip Guide

This route traces a geologic timeline, starting in the shadow of the Teton Range (peak elevation 13,775 ft) and ending in the North Dakota badlands, where the Little Missouri River sculpts ancient rock. The drive spans roughly 800 miles via US-26, I-15, I-90, and US-85, taking about 12–13 hours without stops.

A lesser-known fact: near the halfway point in Buffalo, Wyoming, the I-90 corridor passes through the site of the 1892 Johnson County War, a range conflict between cattle barons and homesteaders. This history punctuates the transition from mountain meadows to high plains.

Fuel and Route Economics

Gas stations cluster near towns: Driggs, Idaho Falls, Roberts, Arco, and then a long stretch until Rawlins. After Rawlins, the next reliable fuel is in Casper (90 miles). On US-85 north of I-90, stations are sparse between Newcastle and Bowman (50+ miles). Always fill when below half tank.

Diesel is widely available at truck stops. Prices in Idaho are typically $0.10–0.20 cheaper per gallon than in North Dakota.

Climatic Conditions & Route Aesthetics

Summer (June–Aug) sees temps from 65°F near Driggs to 90°F in the plains. Afternoon thunderstorms common in July. Winter (Nov–Mar) brings snow and ice, especially over Teton Pass (US-22) near Driggs, which can close. The most scenic window is late September for fall colors in the Bighorns.

From Driggs to Idaho Falls, US-26 offers mountain vistas. Then I-90 across Wyoming features the Red Desert (barren but expansive). The final leg on US-85 cuts through the badlands near the North Dakota border, with striking buttes.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality

I-90 is well-maintained but prone to crosswinds between Rock Springs and Rawlins. US-85 from I-90 to Dickinson is two-lane, with occasional rough patches and wildlife (mule deer, pronghorn). Cell coverage drops frequently, especially in the Red Desert and badlands. Download offline maps.

Winter drivers need snow tires or chains over Teton Pass. Summer brings road construction; check Wyoming DOT and NDDOT alerts.

Family and Child Suitability

Kids will enjoy the Teton Science Schools' wildlife watchable areas near Driggs. In Buffalo, the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum has Native American artifacts. The Mystery Hill attraction in Bowman (a gravity hill optical illusion) is a fun photo op. For breaks, use rest areas with playgrounds, like the one at Powder River (exit 188 on I-90).

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most hotels along the route (Motel 6, Super 8) accept pets with fees. Rest stops have pet areas. The Maah Daah Hey Trail allows dogs on leash. In Dickinson, Patterson Reservoir has a pet-friendly walking path.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

Idaho Falls (mile 55), Rawlins (mile 350), and Casper (mile 440) have multiple hotels. For a quick nap, use the rest area near Waltman (mile 400). The Bowman Rest Area (mile 700) has picnic tables and shade.

Alternate drivers are recommended. Caffeine stops include the Java Express in Buffalo and the Daily Perk in Dickinson.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Take a 20-mile detour south of Buffalo to visit the Hole-in-the-Wall historical site, an outlaw hideout. Near Newcastle, WY, the Museum of the American West displays the world's largest jackalope. In North Dakota, the Enchanted Highway (from Regent to Gladstone) features giant scrap-metal sculptures starting 30 miles from US-85.

For more inspiration, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions

The route passes near Grand Teton National Park (south entrance 30 miles from Driggs) and Yellowstone (west entrance 80 miles). In western Wyoming, the Green River valley offers hiking and fishing. The Bighorn Mountains (east of Buffalo) have alpine lakes and the Cloud Peak Skyway (US-16), a detour worth 2 hours.

In North Dakota, the Maah Daah Hey Trail (a 96-mile non-motorized path) is visible from US-85 near the Little Missouri National Grassland. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is 30 miles west of Dickinson, a must-see for bison and prairie dog towns.

Local Commerce & Culture

Idaho Falls has a river walk and the Idaho Falls Temple. Buffalo, WY, boasts the Occidental Hotel, a restored 1880s saloon. In Bowman, ND, the Pioneer Trails Regional Museum showcases fossils and pioneer artifacts. Dickinson's downtown has the Ukrainian Cultural Institute, reflecting the region's homesteader heritage.

Farm stands along US-85 sell honey, chokecherry syrup, and bison jerky. For authentic local cuisine, try the bison burgers at The Fireside Lounge in Buffalo or kuchen (German cake) at the Kuchen House in Dickinson.