Ely to Gardiner: Epic Nevada to Montana Road Trip Guide

The drive from Ely, Nevada to Gardiner, Montana covers roughly 850 miles, crossing four states and three major geological provinces. A little-known fact: Ely sits at the intersection of US-93 and US-50, the latter famously dubbed 'The Loneliest Highway in America' by Life magazine in 1986 due to its desolate stretches through the Great Basin.

This route climbs from the high desert sagebrush at 6,400 feet to the alpine gateway of Yellowstone at 5,300 feet, with the Continental Divide crossed three times. The total drive time is approximately 13-15 hours without stops, but we recommend at least 2-3 days to truly absorb the landscapes.

Key highways: US-93 North from Ely through Idaho, then I-84 West briefly to I-86 East, then US-20/US-26 to Idaho Falls. From there, take US-20 North to West Yellowstone, then US-191 North through Yellowstone National Park to Gardiner. Alternatively, stay on US-287 North from West Yellowstone through the scenic Gallatin River corridor—slightly longer but avoids park entrance fees.

Road safety concerns include long stretches without cell service (especially in Nevada and western Idaho), potential wildlife collisions (deer, elk, moose) near dawn and dusk, and sudden weather changes affecting mountain passes. On US-20 near Ashton, watch for snow even in summer.

• Family suitability: Multiple kid-friendly activities. The lava tubes at Craters of the Moon are a hit with children; bring flashlights and jackets. The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone is highly interactive. In Gardiner, the Yellowstone River offers easy walking paths.
• Pet-friendly framework: National parks require pets on leashes and restrict them from trails and boardwalks. Plan pet stops at designated rest areas. Many motels in Ely and West Yellowstone accept pets; confirm before booking.
• Hidden off-route spots: The ghost town of Cherry Creek, Nevada (10 miles east of US-93 on dirt road) is a well-preserved mining camp. At Indian Springs campground (US-20 near Kilgore), soak in natural hot springs for free.
• Fatigue management: Nevada's long straight highways induce drowsiness. Stop at rest areas every 2 hours. The Idaho Falls rest area (exit 118 on I-15) has a visitor center and ample parking. A 10-minute power nap at a rest stop can restore alertness.
• Infrastructure safety: Road shoulders are narrow on US-93 north of Wells. Carry a spare tire and basic tools. Emergency services (tow trucks) are only available in towns; AAA membership recommended.

Fuel economy is a critical consideration on this route. After leaving Ely, the next major fuel stop is Wells, Nevada (82 miles), then Jackpot, Nevada (60 miles), then Twin Falls, Idaho (100 miles). The stretch from Twin Falls to Idaho Falls has ample services. Beyond Idaho Falls, fuel is available in Ashton, West Yellowstone, and Gardiner. Premium fuel is scarce; fill up at large stations in Twin Falls or Idaho Falls if your vehicle requires it.

• Road Quality: US-93 through Nevada is well-maintained two-lane highway with occasional chip seal surfaces. I-84 and I-86 are smooth interstates. US-20 from Idaho Falls to West Yellowstone is curvy but paved. The 6 miles from West Yellowstone to Gardiner inside the park have winding, narrow sections with potential wildlife crossings.
• Tolls: None on this route.
• Weather Closures: Mountain passes near Snowbird and Teton Pass (if detouring) close in winter conditions. Check road alerts for US-20 over Targhee Pass and US-191 through Yellowstone.
• Recommended Navigation: Google Maps offline download for segments without cell service (common in Nevada and parts of Idaho).

The route transitions from the Great Basin's basin-and-range topography—where long north-south mountain ranges alternate with flat, arid valleys—to the Snake River Plain's volcanic badlands, then into the Rocky Mountains' forested valleys and Yellowstone's thermal basins. The culture shifts from Nevada's mining and gambling towns to Idaho's agricultural hubs and Montana's outdoor recreation gateway.

• Great Basin National Park (detour): 60 miles east of Ely via US-50/6/93. Home to Wheeler Peak, bristlecone pines, and Lehman Caves. Adds 2-3 hours round trip.
• Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls: 'Niagara of the West,' 212-foot waterfall in the Snake River Canyon. Best in spring. Free viewing platform.
• Craters of the Moon National Monument: Just off US-20/26/93 north of Carey, Idaho. 60 square miles of lava flows, cinder cones, and caves. Drive the 7-mile loop road.
• Targhee National Forest: Pine forests and mountain vistas along US-20. Pullouts for photography.
• West Yellowstone: Commercial hub with shops, restaurants, and fly fishing outfitters. The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a must for families.
• Yellowstone National Park: Enter at West Yellowstone or via Gallatin Gateway. The West Entrance is 2 miles from town; the North Entrance at Gardiner is 52 miles east. The park fee is $35 per vehicle. Key sights: Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, and Lamar Valley (wildlife viewing).
• Gardiner, MT: Historic town abutting Yellowstone's North Entrance. Roosevelt Arch stands at the boundary. Check out the Yellowstone River and local art galleries.