Driggs to Orderville Road Trip: Epic Scenic Drive Guide

This route traces the path of early Mormon pioneers who settled the Mountain West in the 19th century, following the original wagon road along the Wasatch Front. The drive covers exactly 398 miles from Driggs, ID to Orderville, UT, passing through Idaho Falls, Pocatello, and Salt Lake City. US-89, US-20, I-15, and UT-9 form the backbone of this journey, with optional detours through Grand Teton National Park.

Estimated driving time without stops is 6.5 hours, but plan for at least 8-10 hours to enjoy the sights. The road is well-maintained but includes mountain passes near Logan Canyon and the Wasatch Plateau. For tips on finding unexpected gems, refer to how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The drive transitions from the Teton Valley farmland to the Great Basin desert, then climbs into Dixie National Forest. The geology shifts from volcanic basalt near Driggs to red sandstone cliffs in Orderville. Key natural attractions include Bear Lake on the Idaho-Utah border and Bryce Canyon National Park, a short detour from US-89.

• Bear Lake: Known as the "Caribbean of the Rockies" for its turquoise water. Caveat: crowds peak in July.
• Logan Canyon: US-89 winds through a narrow gorge with limestone walls rising 1,000 feet.
• Red Canyon: Near Bryce, offers hoodoos without the entrance fee. Pull-off at milepost 4 on UT-12.

Local commerce thrives on small-town charm. In Montpelier, ID, the National Oregon/California Trail Center offers pioneer history. In Orderville, the Orderville Mercantile (established 1875) sells local crafts and homemade fudge.

Fuel stations are plentiful along I-15, with gas every 20-30 miles. In rural stretches like US-89 in Utah, plan ahead: fill up in Panguitch before heading to Orderville. The route passes three major interstate exits (Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Salt Lake City) where you can find fast food and coffee.

• Best fuel prices: Sam's Club in Idaho Falls (I-15 Exit 119) and Costco in Salt Lake City (Exit 306).
• Truck stops: Flying J in Pocatello (Exit 72) and Love's in Fillmore, UT (Exit 146).
• Restrooms: State rest areas near Malad, ID (milepost 60) and Scipio, UT (milepost 178).

Road quality is excellent on interstates, but US-89 south of Panguitch has narrow shoulders and occasional frost heaves. Winter travel requires snow tires between November and March. No toll roads exist on this corridor.

The most dangerous stretch is I-15 through Spanish Fork Canyon, where lane drops and construction zones appear without warning. Use headlights even in daylight. For families, the Lava Hot Springs in Idaho (Exit 36 on I-15) offer a swim break with water slides.

• Child-friendly stop: Idaho Falls Zoo (Tautphaus Park) – 20-minute detour off US-20.
• Pet-friendly framework: Most rest areas have pet relief areas. The rest stop at Scipio, UT, has a dedicated dog run.
• Fatigue management: Plan a break every 2 hours. The Brigham City rest area (northbound, milepost 368) has picnic tables and shade.

Hidden off-route spots include the ghost town of Silver City, ID (gravel road, high-clearance recommended) and the Grafton Ghost Town near Orderville (paved, 15-minute detour). For a quick nap, use the Perry, UT rest area (southbound, milepost 354) with covered benches.