Missoula to Pioche Road Trip: Scenic Drive through Idaho & Utah

This 10-hour, 620-mile journey from Missoula, Montana to Pioche, Nevada follows US-93 South through the heart of the Great Basin. A little-known fact: the route crosses the Continental Divide not once but twice, near the Montana-Idaho border at Lost Trail Pass (elevation 7,014 ft) and again south of Pioche at Caliente. The highway is largely two-lane, with long stretches devoid of services, so planning is essential. This guide breaks down how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities using Wayro's travel tools. how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities

The route unfurls through Salmon River country, past the Craters of the Moon National Monument, and into the high desert of Nevada. The landscape transitions from forested mountains to sagebrush steppe. The Valley of the Moon near Arco, Idaho (a lesser-known lava flow) offers surreal black-rock fields. For a detour, take ID-28 from Salmon to Leadore and visit the historic Sacajawea Interpretive Center.

• Must-see: Craters of the Moon National Monument (off US-93, 20-mi detour). Entrance fee $20 per vehicle.
• Local commerce: In Pioche, the Million Dollar Courthouse is a quirky museum; admission $5.
• Nearby: Cathedral Gorge State Park (just north of Pioche) for slot canyons.

This route is family-friendly with stops like the Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot (exit 93). Pet-friendly lodging is available in Twin Falls (La Quinta Inn). For safety, watch for wildlife at dawn/dusk, especially deer and antelope. Fatigue management: The 3-hour empty stretch from Wells to Pioche is soporific; take a break at the rest area near the Humboldt River. Alternatively, stop at the historic Elko Railroad Depot for a stretch break.

• Child highlights: Craters of the Moon Junior Ranger program; twin falls waterfall walk.
• Pet stops: Many Idaho rest areas have off-leash areas.
• Hidden off-route: Shoshone Ice Caves (ID-75, 10 mi west of US-93).

Fuel stops are sparse, especially in Nevada. The longest gap without gas is between Wells, NV and Pioche (about 120 miles). Carry a full tank. Cell service is intermittent; download offline maps. Road quality is generally good, but sections in Idaho (especially near Challis) may have frost heaves. Most small towns have basic motels; book ahead in summer. For budget, expect $0.12-0.15 per mile in fuel for a standard SUV.

• Best fuel price average: $3.50/gallon in Idaho; $4.20 in remote NV stations.
• Restrooms: Every 50-70 miles (towns like Arco, NV have gas stations).
• Road conditions: Check ID 75 for construction near Stanley; NV 318 is smooth but winding.