Driggs to Olympia Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive

Leaving Driggs, Idaho, population 1,600, you are in the shadow of the Teton Range. The route to Olympia, Washington, traverses 600 miles of varied terrain, from high desert to rainforest. A unique geographical fact: you will cross the continental divide at Monida Pass (elevation 6,820 feet) on I-15, a subtle but significant milestone.

This guide breaks down the drive into manageable segments, highlighting key stops and hidden gems. For a complete approach to discovering off-the-beaten-path attractions, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Depart Driggs with panoramic views of the Tetons. Drive west across the Snake River Plain, a volcanic landscape dotted with cinder cones. At Craters of the Moon (exit 131 on US-20/93/26), hike the Spatter Cones Trail for a lunar-like terrain.

• UNESCO World Heritage: None directly on route, but Yellowstone (near Driggs) and Grand Teton are nearby.
• Climate: Driggs is alpine; Idaho Falls semi-arid; Boise desert; Pendleton steppe; Olympia maritime. Layers are essential.
• Cultural stops: In Pendleton, tour the Pendleton Woolen Mill for a taste of local industry.

Hidden off-route spots: Take the detour to Palouse Falls State Park (via WA-261) for a stunning 200-foot waterfall. In the Columbia Gorge, visit the Maryhill Museum of Art, which houses a collection of Auguste Rodin sculptures.

Road quality is excellent on interstates. In eastern Oregon, watch for wildlife (deer) at dusk. Fatigue management: plan rest stops every 2-3 hours. Rest areas are available at Burley, ID (mile 211 on I-84) and in the Blue Mountains.

• Family suitability: Craters of the Moon is kid-friendly (ranger programs). The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland is a detour but worth it.
• Pet-friendly: Many hotels accept pets. The Columbia Gorge has several dog-friendly trails like Beacon Rock.
• Culinary: In Boise, try a finger steak at the Basque Market. In Pendleton, sample local beef at the Pendleton Round-Up grounds.

Is it worth driving Driggs, ID to Olympia, WA? Absolutely, for the diversity of landscapes and unique attractions. How long to drive Driggs, ID to Olympia, WA? Plan 2-3 days to enjoy stops fully. Things to do between Driggs, ID and Olympia, WA include wine tasting in the Walla Walla Valley (detour south of I-84) and hiking the Eagle Creek Trail in the Gorge.

The primary route is US-20 west from Driggs to Idaho Falls, then I-15 south to I-84 west through Boise. Continue on I-84 to Pendleton, Oregon, then I-82 west to I-5 north to Olympia. Total driving time is about 11-12 hours without stops.

• Fuel: Gas stations are plentiful along interstates. Fill up in Idaho Falls, Boise, and Pendleton. Remote stretches in eastern Oregon (e.g., between Boise and Pendleton) have limited services.
• Tolls: No toll roads on this route.
• Road conditions: Winter travel can bring snow on Monida Pass and Columbia River Gorge. Check weather forecasts.

Best stops Driggs, ID to Olympia, WA include Craters of the Moon National Monument and the Columbia River Gorge. To optimize fuel economy, maintain 60-65 mph on highways. Average gas cost at current prices is approximately $60-70 one-way.