Idaho Falls to Newport Road Trip: Ultimate Guide

This 700-mile route from Idaho Falls, ID (43.4916° N, 112.0331° W) to Newport, OR (44.6368° N, 124.0523° W) crosses the Continental Divide at 6,870 feet via US-20 in Wyoming, then dives into the volcanic plains of eastern Idaho before climbing the Oregon Cascades. The drive typically takes 11–12 hours without stops, but the diversity of landscapes—from Snake River farmland to Oregon Coast rain forests—demands exploration.

One little-known fact: US-20 through Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument follows the Great Rift, a 52-mile volcanic fissure system that is the largest of its kind in the contiguous United States. This geological spine shapes the region's stark beauty and sparse settlement. For a deep dive on finding unexpected treasures along any route, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

US-20 is mostly two-lane highway with passing opportunities. Watch for wildlife—deer and elk are common near dawn and dusk, especially in Oregon’s Ochoco National Forest. Speed limits are 65 mph in Idaho, 55 mph in Oregon on undivided roads.

For family suitability: Craters of the Moon offers a Junior Ranger program (ages 6–12). The Painted Hills has easy trails (0.5 mi). In Newport, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is a hit with kids (tickets $25).

Pet-friendly framework: Most national forests allow dogs on leash. Craters of the Moon permits dogs on trails (except in caves). Rest stops generally have pet areas.

Fatigue management: Plan stops every 2 hours. Safe pull-offs: Arco Rest Area (has picnic tables), John Day Rest Area (shade trees). Avoid driving after dark due to animal activity.

• Recommended overnight stop: Bend, OR (mile 480) for lodging and dining diversity.
• Hidden off-route spot: Malheur National Wildlife Refuge (south of Burns, OR). Detour 20 minutes for birding (sandhill cranes, waterfowl).

Road quality: eastern Oregon has frost heaves in spring. Idaho sections are well-maintained. Infrastructure safety: reflectors present; emergency call boxes only near towns. Carry a paper map.

Fuel stations become sparse after leaving Idaho Falls. The longest stretch without services is between Arco, ID (mile 64 on US-20) and Carey, ID (mile 100), roughly 36 miles. In Oregon, the section from Burns (mile 402) to Bend (mile 480) has limited options.

Gasoline prices vary: expect to pay $3.50–$4.00/gallon in Idaho and $4.20–$4.60 in Oregon (as of 2025). Carry cash for remote stations. Road condition alerts: US-20 in Oregon between Sisters and Santiam Pass can have snow patches from October to May.

• Idaho rest stops: Osgood (mile 12), Arco (mile 64), Carey (mile 100).
• Oregon rest areas: Burns (mile 402), Sisters (mile 480), Salem (mile 520).
• Recommended fuel stops: Mountain Home (ID), John Day (OR), Bend (OR).

Cell coverage: limited on US-20 in Idaho from Arco to Shoshone (no service for ~30 miles). In Oregon, dead zones east of Burns and through the Ochoco National Forest. Download offline maps when you have WiFi.

The route passes three distinct ecoregions: the Snake River Plain (sagebrush steppe), the Oregon High Desert (juniper and basalt), and the Coast Range (temperate rain forest). Each offers unique natural attractions and local commerce.

In Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument (mile 78) features lava flows, cinder cones, and caves. Hike the Broken Top Loop (1.8 mi) for views of the Great Rift. Entry is $20 per vehicle.

In Oregon, the Painted Hills Unit of John Day Fossil Beds (mile 350) displays vibrant red, gold, and black layers. It is a photographer’s dream at sunset. Free entry.

Local commerce: At Shoshone, ID (mile 137), stop at the Shoshone Bazaar for handmade pottery. In Burns, OR (mile 402), the Harney County Mercantile sells local wool and beef jerky. In Newport (endpoint), the Historic Bayfront is home to working fishing boats and seafood markets. Best stops: Craters of the Moon, Painted Hills, and Newport Bayfront.

• Idaho Falls, ID to Newport, OR: is it worth driving? Absolutely, for the diversity of landscapes.
• Things to do between Idaho Falls and Newport: lava tubes, fossil beds, and whale watching.