Driggs to Wenatchee Road Trip: Guide to Scenic Highways and Hidden Gems

This 440-mile route crosses the Continental Divide twice—first at Teton Pass (8,431 ft) near Driggs, then again at Monida Pass (6,820 ft) on the Idaho-Montana border. The drive typically takes 7-9 hours without extended stops, making it a full-day journey best started by 8 AM.

Unlike the direct I-90 route through Montana, this southern trajectory via Idaho Falls and the Snake River Plain offers lower traffic and more varied geology. The road transitions from volcanic basalt canyons to irrigated farmlands and finally to the Columbia Plateau's sagebrush steppe.

For tips on unearthing lesser-known attractions, refer to how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route uses US-20 west from Driggs to Idaho Falls, then I-15 south to I-84 west through Idaho and Oregon, and finally US-97 north into Washington. Key fuel points are Idaho Falls (miles 60), Burley (miles 170), Pendleton (miles 315), and Yakima (miles 390).

• Fuel economy: Expect 22-28 mpg for most vehicles, with mountain sections reducing efficiency by 10-15%
• Current fuel costs: Gasoline ~$3.50/gal, Diesel ~$4.00/gal (May 2025 averages; total fuel cost ~$50-70 for a sedan)
• Best fuel stops: Idaho Falls (multiple stations), Burley (Costco available), Boardman, OR (cheaper than Pendleton)

Toll roads: None. All sections are public highways. Washington State Ferries are not required for this route. Road conditions are generally good, but winter (Nov-Mar) may require chains on passes.

The journey begins in Teton Valley, with views of the Grand Teton to the east. As you descend on US-20, the Big Hole Mountains give way to the Snake River plain. Near Idaho Falls, the Snake River erupts through lava fields at Idaho Falls Greenbelt, a 4-mile urban park with waterfalls.

West of Idaho Falls, I-84 follows the Snake River through agricultural valleys. At mile 120, Craters of the Moon National Monument (off US-20/26/93) features basalt lava flows and cinder cones—a 1-hour detour worth considering. Further west, the Sawtooth Range appears faintly to the north near Twin Falls.

In Oregon, the Blue Mountains dominate between La Grande and Pendleton (miles 280-315). The route crosses the Columbia River at Biggs, OR (mile 340), offering panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. The final leg on US-97 traverses the Yakima River Canyon (mile 405-430), a scenic alternative to I-82.

• UNESCO Sites: None directly on route, but Yellowstone National Park (UNESCO) is 100 miles east of Driggs; not relevant to this drive
• Local Commerce: In Idaho Falls, visit the Farmers Market (Saturdays June-Oct). In Pendleton, the Pendleton Woolen Mills factory store offers blankets and apparel. In Yakima, stop at a fruit stand for cherries and apples.

Road quality is excellent on interstates, but US-97 through Yakima Canyon is two-lane with steep drop-offs. Always check weather at wsdot.com for Washington passes. Winter travel requires chains for Satus Pass (3,307 ft) on US-97.

• Child-friendly stops: Idaho Falls Zoo (mile 60), the Children's Museum at the Museum of Clean in Pocatello (detour, mile 110), and the Pendleton Round-Up grounds (mile 315)
• Pet-friendly framework: Most rest areas allow leashed pets. Recommended off-leash areas: Tautphaus Park (Idaho Falls) and Riverfront Park (Pendleton)

Fatigue management: Schedule breaks every 2 hours. Key rest zones: Rest area at mile 80 (near Ririe), Oregon Welcome Center at mile 300 (exit 216), and Wild Horse Monument viewpoint at mile 360 (Vantage, WA). The 24-hour Flying J in Boardman, OR (mile 350) has a deli and shower facilities.

Hidden off-route spots: At mile 190, detour 10 miles to City of Rocks National Reserve in Almo, ID—a climbers' paradise of granite spires. Near mile 380, the Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park in Vantage, WA, features preserved petrified wood and a museum ($5 parking fee).

Culinary infrastructure: Try a huckleberry shake at the Huckleberry Jam in Driggs. In Idaho Falls, the Snake Bite Restaurant serves bison burgers. For a quick bite, Taco Time in Pendleton. In Wenatchee, Pybus Public Market offers local wine and artisan cheese.