Ely to Choteau Road Trip: Ultimate Guide

This 800-mile route from Ely, Nevada to Choteau, Montana traverses the vast Great Basin, climbs over the Continental Divide, and descends into the Rocky Mountain Front. The drive takes roughly 12-13 hours without stops, but expect closer to 15 hours with breaks. US-93 North from Ely to I-80 West then I-84 East and I-15 North forms the backbone, with a final stretch on US-89. Notably, the section between Ely and Jackpot, NV, crosses the remote and starkly beautiful Snake Range, where the road follows the old Pony Express route. This journey is worth driving for the dramatic shift from high desert sagebrush to alpine meadows and limestone cliffs.

Road conditions are generally good, but watch for wildlife at dawn/dusk, especially deer and elk between Dillon and Choteau. Winter driving requires chains; the route is plowed but may close during blizzards. Summer brings sudden thunderstorms with hail.

• Family suitability: Kid-friendly stops include the California Trail Interpretive Center near Elko, NV; the Yellowstone Bear World (south of Butte); and the Dinosaur Fossil Quarry at the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman (detour).
• Pet-friendly framework: Most national forests allow leash-walking; rest stops in Idaho and Montana have designated pet areas. Carry water and shade for pets in the desert sections.

Fatigue management: Break every 2 hours. Ideal rest zones are at Wendover’s Salt Flats Rest Area (mile 120) and the Beaverhead Rest Area in Dillon. Hidden off-route spots: The ghost town of Metropolis, NV (off US-93), and the Crystal Springs hot springs near Devil’s Canyon, ID. For more tips, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route unfolds in three distinct acts: the Great Basin Desert, the Snake River Plain, and the Rocky Mountain Front. In the Nevada section, look for the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest near Ely. Things to do between Ely, NV and Choteau, MT include a detour to Great Basin National Park (1 hour from Ely) for the Lehman Caves and bristlecone pines. The Snake River Plain offers volcanic landscapes and Shoshone Falls, higher than Niagara. In Montana, the Big Hole Valley presents vast grasslands and the historic Big Hole National Battlefield.

• Geographic highlights: Lehman Caves (Wheeler Peak), Shoshone Falls, Big Hole Valley
• Local commerce: Basque culture in Ely, Oregon Trail history in Twin Falls, mining heritage in Butte

For those wondering is it worth driving Ely, NV to Choteau, MT, the diversity of ecosystems and the solitude of the high desert make it a unique American journey. Small-town diners serve authentic Western fare; try the fry bread at a Powwow in Fort Hall, ID, or the huckleberry pie in Choteau.

Fuel stations are sparse, especially between Ely and Wendover, UT (120 miles) and between Jackpot and Twin Falls (130 miles). Plan to fill up at each major town. The best stops Ely, NV to Choteau, MT include Twin Falls for its iconic Shoshone Falls and Dillon for a quick refuel. Gas prices average 10-20% higher in remote areas. For those wondering how long to drive Ely, NV to Choteau, MT, allow two days with an overnight in Twin Falls or Dillon.

• Recommended fuel stops: Ely, NV; Wendover, UT; Jackpot, NV; Twin Falls, ID; Dillon, MT; Butte, MT
• Key highways: US-93, I-80, I-84, I-15, US-89
• Alternative route: Via US-93 N and MT-200 W (adds 30 min but scenic through Helena National Forest)

Tire pressure and coolant checks are essential due to altitude changes from 6,000 ft in Ely to 7,000+ ft in the passes. Carry emergency water and blankets. Cellular coverage is patchy between Ely and Jackpot; download offline maps ahead.