West Yellowstone to Hope: Epic Drive Guide

This route travels west from West Yellowstone, Montana, along US-20, then south on ID-87 and ID-28 to Hope, Idaho, a lakeside village on Lake Pend Oreille.

It's a scenic byway offering a distinctly Northern Rocky Mountain experience—a mix of volcanic plateaus and evergreen forests, all within a relatively short drive.

Driving time is approximately 2.5 hours covering 120 miles, but with stops, many travelers stretch it into a full day.

Yellowstone's volcanic geology shapes the region; you'll see lava fields and geyser basins. The route passes through Caribou-Targhee National Forest and near Grand Teton National Park.

Idaho's potato farming is evident around Rexburg and Idaho Falls; visit the Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot for a quirky stop.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, though this route only skirts them. Local commerce thrives on tourism, with small towns like Ashton known for their annual bear festival.

For more tips on uncovering hidden gems, check this guide to finding the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The most direct path is US-20 West to ID-87 South, then ID-28 West, but many prefer a longer scenic loop via Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole, adding 3-4 hours.

National parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton charge an entrance fee (currently $35 per vehicle) valid for 7 days; the America the Beautiful Pass covers entry.

Fuel stations are sparse between West Yellowstone and Ashton, so fill up before leaving. Expect lower gas prices in Idaho Falls and Rexburg.

• Distance: ~120 miles direct, ~200 miles via Grand Teton.
• Driving time: 2.5 hours direct; 5-6 hours with stops.
• Road conditions: Well-maintained, but watch for wildlife, especially at dawn/dusk.
• Check weather: Mountain passes can have snow into June.

Road quality is good, but drifts can occur in winter; carry chains and blankets. Summer brings tourist traffic, so allow extra time.

Family-friendly stops include the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone, and Bear World in Rexburg, where kids can feed bears from the car.

Pet relief areas are available at most rest stops; keep pets on leashes in parks. Fatigue management: plan to stop every 2 hours; rest areas are plentiful along US-20 and I-15.

Hidden gems: Mesa Falls near Ashton, a stunning waterfall; and the St. Anthony Sand Dunes, a unique desert-like area in Idaho.