Ketchum to Driggs Road Trip: Sawtooth Scenic Route

This 140-mile road trip from Ketchum, Idaho to Driggs, Idaho traverses the rugged Sawtooth Valley, crosses the Continental Divide twice, and offers some of the most pristine mountain scenery in the Lower 48. The route might seem straightforward on a map, but the real magic lies in the detours and quiet moments.

One fact to know: The drive crosses the Big Lost River, which literally disappears into the porous volcanic rock near Arco — a phenomenon called losing streams. This geological quirk hints at the region's fiery volcanic past. You'll also pass through a stretch of US-20 that was once part of the historic Oregon Trail.

Road quality is generally good, but watch for frost heaves in spring and gravel washouts after thunderstorms. The highest risk section is US-20 between Arco and Rexburg, where high winds can buffet vehicles, especially near the INL (Idaho National Laboratory) boundary. Wildlife crossings (deer, elk, moose) are common at dawn and dusk along ID-75 and ID-33.

For families, the route offers several kid‑friendly stops. Craters of the Moon National Monument is a highlight: kids can explore lava tubes (bring flashlights) and walk the Devil's Orchard Trail. The EBR‑I nuclear museum provides a fascinating science lesson. Between Rexburg and Driggs, the Teton Peaks come into view — a perfect spot for a pull‑out snack break.

• Pet‑friendly: Most outdoor stops allow dogs on leash. The walking paths at Craters of the Moon (except inside the visitor center) are pet‑friendly. Always carry water as temperatures can exceed 90°F in summer.
• Fatigue management: The long straight stretches on US-20 can induce drowsiness. Stop at the Arco gas station (the famous “Atomic” sign), walk around the historic downtown, or take a short nap at the Craters of the Moon picnic area.
• Hidden off‑route spots: From Arco, take the back road to the ghost town of Gilmore (about 20 miles south) — an abandoned mining settlement with picturesque ruins. Also, just north of Driggs on ID-33, the Teton Canyon Road leads to a stunning trailhead with wildflowers in July.

Learn more about how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities with this guide.

The first section of the drive (ID-75 north of Ketchum) winds through the Sawtooth Valley, with the jagged Sawtooth Range dominating the western sky. This area is a high‑elevation sagebrush steppe dotted with glacial lakes. As you approach Galena Summit (elev. 8,701 ft), the scenery transitions to subalpine forests of lodgepole pine and Douglas fir.

After the summit, the valley opens into the Big Lost River basin. Keep an eye out for pronghorn antelope — they roam these plains in small herds. Near Arco, the landscape becomes stark volcanic terrain, foreshadowing Craters of the Moon. The 55‑mile stretch on US-20 between Arco and Rexburg passes through agricultural flatlands (potato farms) before climbing onto the Caribou‑Targhee National Forest near Driggs.

• Best stops Ketchum, ID to Driggs, ID for landscape photography: Sawtooth Viewpoint (mile marker 141 on ID-75), the Big Lost River overlook near Chilly, and the spatter cones at Craters of the Moon.
• Things to do between Ketchum, ID and Driggs, ID beyond sightseeing: Visit the Experimental Breeder Reactor No. 1 (EBR‑I) near Arco, the world's first nuclear power plant; or hike the lava tube caves at Craters of the Moon.
• Local commerce: The town of Arco (pop. 995) has a few diners and a hardware store. Rexburg (pop. 30,000) offers chain retailers and local crafts. In Driggs, browse the Teton Regional Land Trust's art gallery or try huckleberry products at local markets.

The journey begins in Ketchum at the intersection of ID-75 and East Avenue. From there, head north on ID-75 for about 60 miles to the junction with SH-20 near the tiny settlement of Galena. Turn east onto SH-20, which merges with US-20 just before the city of Arco. Continue east on US-20 for about 50 miles to the town of Rexburg, then take ID-33 southeast for 25 miles to arrive in Driggs.

How long to drive Ketchum, ID to Driggs, ID without stops? The route takes about 2.5 to 3 hours of pure driving time. But given the jaw‑dropping landscapes, is it worth driving Ketchum, ID to Driggs, ID without stopping? Absolutely not. Plan for at least one full day with multiple stops.

• Fuel: Stations are sparse between Ketchum and Arco (about 85 miles). Top off in Ketchum or Bellevue. The next reliable gas is in Arco (Exxon, Sinclair) and then in Rexburg (multiple stations).
• Food: Pack snacks for the long stretch. The only sit‑down options between Galena and Arco are seasonal cafes at Galena Lodge (summer only) or picnic stops.
• Restrooms: Limited to Galena Lodge, picnic areas along ID-75 (including a vault toilet at the Sawtooth Viewpoint), and later at Craters of the Moon National Monument entrance.
• Cell Service: Very spotty from Galena to Arco. T‑Mobile and AT&T often lose signal; Verizon works intermittently. Download offline maps before leaving Ketchum.