West Yellowstone to Pinedale: A Scenic Drive Guide

The drive from West Yellowstone, Montana to Pinedale, Wyoming covers roughly 170 miles along U.S. Route 191 and U.S. Route 189/191. The route passes through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and the Bridger-Teton National Forest, crossing the Continental Divide at an elevation of 8,505 feet near Teton Pass.

This journey, which typically takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes without stops, offers a mix of geothermal wonders, rugged mountains, and authentic Western towns. It is a route steeped in history, as it follows part of the Lander Trail used by emigrants in the mid-1800s.

Wildlife crossings are common; watch for elk and deer at dawn and dusk. The road is two lanes for most of the route, with limited shoulder on mountain curves. Restrooms are available at visitor centers and national forest trailheads, but plan rest stops at Ashton (mile 26) and Jackson (mile 100).

• Family: Mesa Falls Visitor Center has interactive exhibits; Jackson's Town Square has playgrounds.
• Pet-friendly: Many motels in West Yellowstone and Pinedale allow pets, but check policies.
• Fatigue: Take breaks at Bitch Creek or Teton Pass. The drive is manageable; no extreme long stretches.

The scenery transforms from geothermal basins to alpine forests and high desert plains. You'll pass the Henry's Fork of the Snake River, known for world-class fly fishing, and the volcanic formations of Harriman State Park. In Jackson, a vibrant Western town, you'll find art galleries and the iconic elk antler arches on the town square.

The route also intersects the Lander Trail. The trail, established in 1857, was used by thousands of emigrants. At Names Hill, near La Barge, you can still see carvings left by pioneers.

• Key stops: Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, Harriman State Park, Jackson Hole, Hoback Canyon.
• UNESCO note: The nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are designated Biosphere Reserves.

The route is well-maintained, but services are sparse in long stretches, especially between Ashton, Idaho and Rexburg, Idaho (approximately 69 miles). Plan your fuel stops carefully, as there are few gas stations after leaving West Yellowstone. The entrance to Grand Teton National Park (south of Jackson) is the only major tourist infrastructure point before Pinedale.

• Fuel costs: Expect to pay about $3.50 per gallon in West Yellowstone, $3.60 in Ashton, and $3.70 in Jackson.
• Cell coverage: Limited on mountainous stretches; plan offline maps.
• Road conditions: Winter travel requires chains or 4WD; roads may be icy from October to May.