Lava Hot Springs to Havre: Scenic Drive Guide

Driving from Lava Hot Springs, Idaho to Havre, Montana traces the edge of the Eastern Snake River Plain and crosses the Continental Divide at Monida Pass (elevation 6,870 feet) before descending into the Missouri River basin. This route follows U.S. Highway 20 east to Idaho Falls, then I-15 north through the Centennial Valley, and finally U.S. Highway 87 into Havre. The total distance is roughly 380 miles, with a driving time of about 6.5 hours under normal conditions, but plan for 7-8 hours with stops.

Fuel stops are sparse between Dillon and Havre, so fill up in Idaho Falls (gasoline around $3.20/gallon) and Dillon (around $3.40). Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest options; expect prices to rise 15% in rural Montana. The route is mostly two-lane highway with passing lanes in hilly sections.

• Estimated total fuel cost for a sedan: $35-45.
• I-15 from Idaho Falls to Dillon is well-maintained, with rest areas at Dubois and Lima.
• US-87 north of Great Falls is a designated scenic byway with limited services; carry water and snacks.

The route passes near two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Yellowstone National Park (via a side trip from Idaho Falls) and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump in Alberta (further north, but signposted near the border). The landscapes shift from volcanic hot springs and lava fields in Idaho to the grassy plains and buttes of Montana.

Local commerce thrives along the way: Idaho Falls offers the historic downtown and the Idaho Falls River Walk, while Dillon is home to the Beaverhead County Museum. In Havre, the historic downtown boasts the Havre Beneath the Streets, a preserved underground Prohibition-era business district.

For tips on finding hidden gems, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Weather can change rapidly, especially near Monida Pass; check forecasts for snow in any season. The road quality is good, but watch for wildlife, especially deer and antelope at dawn and dusk. Keep a roadside emergency kit and ensure your spare tire is inflated.

Family-friendly stops include the Yellowstone Bear World in Rexburg (just off US-20) and the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park near Whitehall (accessible via a side trip from I-15). For children, the Havre-Hill County Library offers story times in summer, and the H. Earl Clack Museum has hands-on exhibits.

To combat fatigue, plan rest breaks every two hours. Key rest areas include the Idaho Welcome Center near Idaho Falls, a rest area at milepost 21 on I-15 north of Dubois, and the historic town of Harlem, Montana, which has a park and playground. Avoid driving through the night in rural stretches due to limited services.