Missoula to Price Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive

The route from Missoula, Montana to Price, Utah covers about 610 miles of diverse terrain. It follows I-90 east then south on US-191 and US-6, crossing the Continental Divide twice. This drive offers a blend of Rocky Mountain passes, high desert plateaus, and historic mining towns.

An interesting fact: the section through Spanish Fork Canyon on US-6 was originally a Pony Express route and later a major coal-hauling corridor. Today, it's known for sharp curves and frequent truck traffic.

Fuel up in Missoula; the next good fuel stop is in Butte (120 miles). After that, fill up in Idaho Falls (170 miles). Between Idaho Falls and Price, the longest stretch without services is about 120 miles from Pocatello to Price via US-6.

• Gas price average: $3.50/gal in MT, $3.70 in ID, $3.60 in UT
• Restrooms: available at every highway rest area and truck stop
• Road quality: good on interstates, variable on US-6 with some rough patches

For detailed tips on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, use our guide.

From Missoula, the drive climbs into the Sapphire Mountains. Further south, the landscape opens into the Big Hole Valley, a vast grassland. Then, the route enters the high desert of central Utah with red rock formations near Price.

Key natural attractions:

• Lost Trail Pass: scenic summit on US-93 at 7,000 ft
• Big Hole National Battlefield: historic Nez Perce battlefield
• Nine Mile Canyon: world's largest concentration of petroglyphs

Local commerce along the way includes artisan shops in Butte, farm stands in Idaho Falls, and dinosaur museums in Price.

Major safety concern: US-6 between Helper and Price is a winding mountain road with steep drop-offs. Drive cautiously, especially in winter. During summer, watch for construction.

• Family stops: Yellowstone Bear World (near Rexburg), BYU Museum of Paleontology in Provo
• Pet-friendly rest stops: all rest areas allow pets on leash; recommended stop at Targhee National Forest
• Fatigue management: plan stops every 2 hours; rest at Arco (rest area) or take a break at the Sun Valley overlook

Hidden off-route spots: Consider detouring to Craters of the Moon National Monument (30 miles off US-20) or scoop a scoop at the famous ice cream parlor in Soda Springs.