Salmon to Lincoln City: Route Guide & Hidden Gems

This route crosses the Continental Divide at 7,037-foot Lost Trail Pass, the highest point on the journey, where Idaho's Salmon River Mountains give way to Montana's Bitterroot Range. Drivers should note that US-93 climbs steep grades before the pass; allow 30 extra minutes for the mountain section.

The drive is worth it even if you have only a day: the scenery shifts from high desert to lush forests, and you can sample local diners and vistas. In a hurry? The most efficient route is US-93 to I-90 W, then I-84 W, joining US-26 W at Ontario, OR.

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

Roads and Fuel

• Road condition: US-93 is a two-lane highway with occasional passing lanes; I-90 and I-84 are well-maintained interstates.
• Fuel cost premium: Expect prices 10–15% higher in rural Montana and Idaho than in city centers.
• Fuel-efficient driving: Use cruise control on long stretches; a typical sedan uses a tank every 350–400 miles.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

You'll pass within 20 miles of one UNESCO site: the Yellowstone National Park (entrance at West Yellowstone, MT) is a 90-minute detour from I-90 at Bozeman. But note: only include if time permits—it adds 3 hours round trip.

Scenic Highlights

• Lost Trail Pass (US-93): offers Alpine wildflowers in June and panoramic views.
• Columbia River Gorge near Hood River, OR: windsurfing capital and waterfalls along I-84, including Multnomah Falls (just off exit 31).
• Western Oregon's Coast Range: dense fir forests, then the abrupt arrival at the Pacific Ocean.

Culinary and Commerce

Farm stands in the Willamette Valley (west of Portland) sell berries and hazelnuts in season. In Burns, OR, the local diner serves a noted beef stew, using range cattle. The route crosses several Indian reservations, including the Warm Springs Reservation in Oregon, known for its museum and traditional salmon bakes.

Safety and Weather

• Weather: Mountain passes have snow possible from October to May; carry chains even in summer.
• Night driving: Expect deer and elk on US-93; use high beams where legal.
• Cell coverage: Sparse on US-93 in Idaho; download offline maps.

Family and Pet-Friendly

• Best family stop: Craters of the Moon National Monument (Arco, ID) - otherworldly lava fields and a visitor center with hands-on exhibits.
• Pet-friendly: Many rest areas have off-leash zones; check signs at Ontario, OR, and Pendleton, OR. For overnight, some motels allow pets for a $20 fee.
• Fatigue management: Break every 2 hours; ideal rest zones with coffee and shade are La Grande, OR, and Boise, ID.