Idaho Falls to Orderville: Scenic Road Trip Guide

Driving from Idaho Falls, ID to Orderville, UT covers roughly 350 miles along US-20, US-26, and US-89, a route that traverses the Snake River Plain and the high plateaus of southern Utah. This road trip is a journey through volcanic landscapes, river canyons, and pioneer history. The highway follows the path of the Oregon Trail in places, with wagon ruts still visible near Soda Springs.

The driving time is about 5.5 hours without stops, but the abundance of attractions makes it a full-day or multi-day adventure. Key milestones include the Continental Divide at 7,000 feet near Teton Pass (if taking the scenic detour) and the red rock cliffs of Zion's approach. For tips on uncovering hidden spots, check how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The landscapes transition from the agricultural Snake River Plain to the volcanic formations of Craters of the Moon (detour), then to the alpine Bear Lake Valley, and finally the red rock canyons of the Colorado Plateau. Each region offers distinct geology and outdoor activities.

• Craters of the Moon National Monument: 60-mile detour off US-20. See lava flows, cinder cones, and caves. Open year-round. Entry $20 per vehicle.
• Bear Lake: On the Utah/Idaho border. Known as the 'Caribbean of the Rockies' for its turquoise water. Rent kayaks or hike the Lakeside Trail.
• Logan Canyon: Drive US-89 through this scenic gorge. Stop at Wind Cave Trail (0.5 mi) for views of the canyon.

Local commerce is centered on agriculture, tourism, and small-town services. In Soda Springs, the Geyser Park erupts a man-made geyser every hour. The town also has a historic soda water spring. In Logan, the Utah State University campus hosts a farmers market on Saturdays. For antiques and local crafts, visit the shops in downtown Garden City along Bear Lake.

• UNESCO sites: This route does not directly pass UNESCO sites, but Bryce Canyon National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is a 1-hour detour from Orderville. Consider a side trip.
• Cuisine: Try fresh raspberry shakes at Bear Lake (famous for raspberries). In Logan, visit the Beehive Grill for local bison burgers. In Orderville, stock up on snacks as dining options are limited.

The primary route from Idaho Falls to Orderville uses I-15 south to US-20 east, then US-89 south through Logan and into Utah. Alternative scenic routes include the Teton Scenic Byway (WY-22) if you have time. The road is well-paved with occasional construction in summer.

• Fuel: Gas stations are plentiful in towns like Pocatello, Soda Springs, and Logan; but sparse between Montpelier and Garden City. Fill up in Soda Springs.
• Rest stops: Official rest areas at mile markers 49 (Idaho Falls), 100 (near Montpelier), and 200 (near Nephi). Also use Walmart or fast-food stops.
• Cell service: Good in towns, spotty in mountain passes (especially near Bear Lake). Download maps offline.

Road quality is excellent on interstates, but US-89 south of Logan has narrow shoulders and sharp curves through canyons. Watch for wildlife, especially deer at dawn/dusk. Winter driving requires snow tires as Logan Canyon (US-89) can be icy.

• Tolls: None on this route.
• Coordinates: Idaho Falls start (43.4916° N, 112.0331° W); Orderville end (37.2750° N, 112.6517° W).

Safety on this route is generally good, but awareness is key. On US-89 between Logan and Brigham City, the road has no divider and frequent semi-trucks. Use pullouts to let faster traffic pass. In winter, check weather at Idaho Transportation Department and UDOT. Always carry chains.

• Fatigue: Plan stops every 2 hours. Recommended rest points: Pocatello (Idaho Falls stop), Soda Springs (geyser walk), Bear Lake (lunch break), and Ogden (stretch legs at the Utah State Fairgrounds).
• Family: Kids will enjoy the man-made geyser in Soda Springs, the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Montpelier (hands-on exhibits), and the Corn Maze in Richmond, UT (seasonal).

Pet-friendly framework: Most national forests and BLM land allow dogs on leashes. In Craters of the Moon, pets are prohibited on trails but allowed in parking lots. Bear Lake State Park permits dogs on beaches (leashed). Find pet-friendly hotels in Logan (La Quinta) and motels in Garden City.

• Hidden off-route spots: Visit the Minnetonka Cave in St. Charles, ID (45-min detour) for a guided tour of limestone formations. Or see the Paris Ice Cave in Wyoming (requires 4WD).
• Rest zones: The US-89 Scenic Overlook near Logan Peak offers panoramic views. The rest area at Bear Lake has picnic tables and restrooms.