Riverton to Athol Road Trip: Stops, Driving Tips & More

The route from Riverton, Wyoming to Athol, Idaho spans roughly 450 miles, crossing the Continental Divide at Togwotee Pass (elevation 9,658 feet) before descending into the Snake River Plain. This drive, typically taking 7–8 hours without stops, offers a dramatic shift from high desert sagebrush to pine-clad mountain passes and volcanic badlands.

Each mile carries a sense of high-plains quiet, with occasional clusters of ranches and small towns. The road quality is generally excellent, with two-lane highways and interstate segments that make it a comfortable long-distance trip.

Near the eastern end, the Wind River Range rises abruptly, offering glimpses of glaciated peaks. As you climb Togwotee Pass, look for moose in willow flats. West of Jackson, the Snake River cuts through the Jackson Hole valley, with the Tetons towering to the west.

Idaho's lava fields near Arco and Craters of the Moon National Monument present a lunar-like terrain. The local commerce reflects a mix of tourism and agriculture: you can find huckleberry shakes in Idaho Falls, and buy local honey at roadside stands near Ashton.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yellowstone National Park lies just north of the route, but the drive itself passes no UNESCO sites. However, the adjacent park is a major draw, and you can detour 60 miles to its South Entrance.

For local culture, stop in Driggs, Idaho, a small town with a ski-resort vibe and a weekly farmers market in summer.

Planning your fuel stops is crucial because services are sparse in stretches, especially between Dubois and Jackson (about 80 miles with no gas). Expect to pay around $3.20 to $3.80 per gallon, with slightly higher prices in mountain towns.

The route uses US-26 West to Jackson, then US-189/US-191 south to Idaho Falls, and finally I-90 West to Athol. The total driving time is about 7.5 hours, but plan for 9–10 hours with meals and breaks.

• Best fuel stop: Jackson, WY (has multiple stations)
• Key turnoff: US-26 merges with US-191 at Moran Junction
• Road conditions: Check Wyoming DOT and Idaho 511 for winter closures

The most hazardous section is Togwotee Pass in winter, with frequent snow and ice; carry chains if traveling November–April. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms, especially on the high plains.

For families, the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson and the Yellowstone Bear World in Rexburg are top stops. Restrooms are plentiful at gas stations and rest areas, but note that rest areas on US-26 are minimal; use town facilities.

Pets are welcome at most outdoor attractions, but leash laws apply. For fatigue, plan stops every 2 hours; recommended spots include Dubois (Petrified Tree), Idaho Falls (waterfall walk), and Kellogg (Silver Mountain gondola).

Hidden off-route gem: the ghost town of Gilmore, Idaho, reachable via a dirt road from I-15, offers abandoned buildings and a hike to the old mine.

See how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities for strategies on curating your own detours.