Gardiner, MT to Orderville, UT: Epic Road Trip Guide

Spanning over 800 miles, the drive from Gardiner, Montana—the only year-round entrance to Yellowstone National Park—to Orderville, Utah, traverses three states and a dramatic transition from alpine meadows to high desert plateaus. This route roughly follows US-191, I-15, and US-89, passing through notable geological landmarks like the Grand Tetons and the Colorado Plateau.

Along the way, you'll encounter the Continental Divide, historic mining towns, and the stark beauty of the American West. This guide offers a comprehensive overview, ensuring you don't miss key sights.

Infrastructure safety is generally excellent, but mountain passes require attention: watch for wildlife, sudden weather changes, and steep grades. Use pullouts to let faster traffic pass, and keep an emergency kit with water and blankets.

For families, this route is a treasure trove. Kids will love spotting wildlife in Grand Teton National Park and visiting the BYU Museum of Paleontology in Provo. For pet-friendly stops, both Yellowstone and Grand Teton allow leashed pets on trails, and many hotels along the route welcome dogs.

Fatigue Management and Rest Stops

• Take breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles; use rest areas, particularly near Bear Lake and Beaver, Utah.
• Plan overnight stays in towns like Jackson, Idaho Falls, and Kanab—all offering a range of lodging.
• For a safe night drive, avoid rural two-lane roads after dark to reduce collision risk with wildlife.

Remember, the journey is the destination. For more tips, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

From Gardiner, you'll ride the outskirts of Yellowstone, then follow the Snake River through Jackson Hole, where the Tetons dominate the horizon. Continuing south, you'll pass through the Bear Lake Valley, known for its turquoise waters, before entering the red rock country of southern Utah.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are within a short detour: Yellowstone and Grand Canyon National Parks, though not directly on the route, are celebrated. Closer to Orderville, Zion National Park offers dramatic canyon views and is a must-see.

Local Commerce and Culinary Stops

Local commerce thrives in towns like Jackson, Wyoming, and Logan, Utah, offering art galleries and farm-to-table dining. For a taste of regional cuisine, try a bison burger in Jackson or a pasty in Park City. Along the way, small diners serve hearty breakfasts, ideal for fueling a long day.

For unique off-route spots, consider a detour to the Fossil Butte National Monument near Kemmerer, Wyoming, or the Shoshone Falls in Idaho, both offering striking sights without the crowds.

Driving directly from Gardiner to Orderville typically takes around 12-13 hours, but reserve at least 3 days to appreciate the journey. The route includes sections of US-191, I-15, and US-89, with speeds varying from 70 mph on interstates to 35 mph on mountain passes.

Fuel considerations are practical: expect prices between $3.50-$4.50 per gallon, and plan to fill up in larger towns like Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Provo, Utah, where stations are plentiful. In remote stretches, fuel stops may be 100 miles apart.

Fuel and Route Economics

• Average fuel cost: $150-$200 for the trip, depending on vehicle efficiency.
• Longest stretch without services: 95 miles between Duchesne and Vernal, Utah.
• Avoid driving in winter without checking road conditions; passes can close suddenly.