Midway to Alpine Drive: Best Stops & Routes

Midway, UT, sits at 5,500 feet in the Wasatch Range, known for its geothermal hot springs. Alpine, WY, lies at 5,630 feet near the Salt River Range, a gateway to the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The 160-mile journey along US-189 and US-89 takes just under three hours of pure driving time, but the route demands extra hours for its geological wonders.

This guide covers what you'll see, where to stop, and how to plan efficiently. For broader advice on spotting hidden gems, see this how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

US-189 has narrow shoulders and winding sections; in winter, carry chains and warm gear. The route has no tunnels, but Deer Creek Dam and the Echo Canyon area have steep drop-offs.

For families, the Heber Valley Railroad offers a 60-minute scenic ride, and the Historic Wendover Airfield (20 minutes off I-80) is a hit with kids. The Evanston Animal Shelter welcomes visitors, but pet-friendly stops include the Bear River State Park (leashed pets allowed) and the Alpine's Playground on the river.

Fatigue is a risk on this monotonous stretch; plan a stop at the Kamas Rest Area (mile 20) and the Evanston Visitor Center (mile 75). Take a 15-minute break every two hours; all rest areas have picnic tables and water.

Hidden off-route spots: The Soapstone Basin off US-189 offers a 4wd loop, and the Little Hole Recreation Area on the Green River (east of Manila) is a quiet fishing spot. Always inform someone of your itinerary in remote areas.

US-189 leaves Midway past Deer Creek Reservoir, then merges with US-89 near Heber City. From there, it climbs over 8,500-foot Guardsman Pass (open June–October) or follows the longer but all-weather route via US-40. The fastest year-round route uses I-80 west to Evanston, WY, then US-89 north.

• US-189 to Heber City then US-40 to I-80: 2.8 hours, 155 miles.
• Via Guardsman Pass (scenic but seasonal): 2.5 hours when open.
• Most direct is via US-189/US-89 through Kamas and Evanston.

Fuel prices average $3.50/gal in Utah and $3.20 in Wyoming; the 160-mile drive needs about 6 gallons for a typical sedan. Heber City, Kamas, and Evanston have gas stations; don't rely on stretches between these towns.

Road quality is good asphalt year-round, but winter storms can close Guardsman Pass and chain up US-189. Summer sees road construction; check Utah DOT and Wyoming DOT before leaving.

The route crosses three geological provinces: the Wasatch Range's glacial valleys, the Uinta Mountains' Paleozoic rock layers, and the Wyoming Basin's sagebrush plains. Near Evanston, the Bear River splits into a delta that once hosted a Shoshone encampment.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are absent along the corridor; the nearest is Yellowstone, 120 miles north of Alpine. But the route offers off-the-beaten-path spots like the Bridger-Teton National Forest's Snake River Canyon and the Fossil Butte National Monument 35 miles west of Evanston.

Local commerce thrives in Heber City with its Main Street cafés and the Heber Valley Railroad. Evanston's historic depot district echoes its railroad past. Midway's weekly farmers market (June–Sept) sells local honey and artisan cheese.

Dining options include the famed Heber Valley burgers at the Dairy Keen, and Evanston's Bear River Coffee Roasters. Expect modest family-run restaurants in Kamas and Alpine; none offer fine dining.