Hey friend! So you're thinking about heading from Idaho Falls to Yellowstone, huh? Excellent choice! Seriously, you're about to witness some seriously stunning scenery. But before you pack your bags and start humming "Born to Be Wild," let's chat about what you're getting into, okay? It's not *just* a drive, it's an experience!
The Road Trip Reality: How Far Are We Talking?
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. Idaho Falls to Yellowstone's West Entrance (that's the most common one people use) is roughly a two-hour drive. Give or take, you know, depending on how heavy your foot is on the gas pedal, if you decide to stop for some ice cream (which, let's be honest, you *should*), or if you get stuck behind a rogue bison. (Hey, it happens!)
And speaking of rogue bison... Remember, you're entering their territory. So be respectful! And definitely don't try to pet them. Just...don't. Please.
Anyway, back to the distance. We're talking around 110 miles. That's not bad at all! It's practically a hop, skip, and a jump. Well, maybe a hop, skip, a short nap, a snack break, and *then* a jump. Okay, fine, it's just a hop, skip and a drive.
Which Route Should You Take?
Okay, here's the deal. There's pretty much one main route: Highway 20. It's a straight shot (mostly) and incredibly scenic. You'll cruise through charming little towns, past sprawling farmland, and along the edge of the stunning Snake River. Seriously, keep your camera handy. You'll want to document this!
Now, there are other ways to get there if you're feeling adventurous and have a serious hankering for backroads, but honestly? Just stick to Highway 20. Trust me on this one. Unless you really, *really* love gravel roads and questionable cell service. Then, by all means, go wild! But don't say I didn't warn you.
Things To Do Along The Way (Because, Let's Face It, You'll Want To Stop)
Alright, here's where the fun really begins! The drive from Idaho Falls to Yellowstone is more than just getting from point A to point B. It's about soaking in the journey! So, what kind of shenanigans can you get up to along the way?
- Stop at the St. Anthony Sand Dunes: Okay, these are seriously cool. Massive sand dunes right in the middle of Idaho! Rent an ATV and tear it up, or just hike around and take some epic photos. Think desert vibes meet potato country. Intriguing, right?
- Explore the town of Rexburg: This is a cute little college town with some great restaurants and shops. Grab a bite to eat, stretch your legs, and maybe even snag a souvenir or two. Plus, it's a good place to top off your gas tank (you know, before you get into the middle of nowhere).
- Hike to Mesa Falls: These are some seriously impressive waterfalls! The Upper Mesa Falls are easily accessible from a paved overlook, and the Lower Mesa Falls require a short (but scenic) hike. Trust me, the views are worth it.
- Visit Harriman State Park: This park is absolutely gorgeous, with miles of hiking and biking trails, and incredible fly fishing opportunities. It's a perfect place to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature. Just watch out for bears! (Seriously.)
- Grab a bite in West Yellowstone, Montana: Technically, this is right outside the park entrance, but it’s a fun little town. Think touristy charm meets mountain town grit. There are tons of restaurants, souvenir shops, and even a few museums. It's the perfect place to fuel up before you dive into Yellowstone itself.
Yellowstone Must-Sees (Because, Duh!)
Okay, you've made it! You're in Yellowstone! Now what? Well, friend, the possibilities are endless! But here are a few must-see spots that you absolutely cannot miss:
- Old Faithful: Obvious, right? But you can't go to Yellowstone without seeing Old Faithful erupt. It's iconic, predictable (ish), and totally worth braving the crowds. Plus, there are tons of other geysers and hot springs in the Upper Geyser Basin to explore.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: This is the largest hot spring in the United States, and it's absolutely breathtaking. The vibrant colors are unreal! Seriously, it looks like something out of a sci-fi movie. Just be prepared for the crowds (again!).
- Yellowstone Lake: This massive lake is stunning! Take a boat tour, go fishing, or just relax on the shore and soak in the views. And if you're feeling brave, take a dip! (Just kidding! Don't do that. It's cold!)
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: This canyon is spectacular! The views are absolutely breathtaking, and there are several different viewpoints to choose from. Be sure to check out Artist Point and Inspiration Point for the best vistas.
- Lamar Valley: This is the place to go if you want to see wildlife. Think bison, elk, wolves, and maybe even a bear or two. Bring your binoculars and your patience, and get ready for some serious wildlife spotting.
Tips for a Smooth Yellowstone Trip (So You Don't Lose Your Mind)
Alright, let's get real for a second. Yellowstone is amazing, but it can also be a little overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you have a smooth and stress-free trip:
- Book your accommodation in advance: Yellowstone is a popular destination, so accommodation fills up quickly. Book your hotel, campsite, or cabin well in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season. Like, seriously, book it *now*.
- Pack for all types of weather: Yellowstone weather is notoriously unpredictable. It can be sunny and warm one minute, and cold and rainy the next. Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, a hat, and gloves. You'll thank me later.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks: You'll be doing a lot of hiking and exploring, so it's important to stay hydrated and fueled up. Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially if you're traveling with kids. Hangry kids are no fun.
- Be aware of wildlife: Yellowstone is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. Keep a safe distance from all animals, and never feed them. Remember, they're wild!
- Be patient: Yellowstone is a popular destination, so expect crowds and traffic. Be patient, take your time, and enjoy the scenery. And don't forget to breathe!
Driving IN Yellowstone Itself.
So, you've made it into the park, but the driving isn't over! Yellowstone is *huge*. Really, really huge. It's bigger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined. You'll be spending a lot of time behind the wheel, driving between the various attractions.
Here's what you need to know about driving in Yellowstone:
- Speed limits are low: Expect speed limits of 45 mph or lower in most areas. This is for a reason! You need to be able to react quickly to wildlife crossing the road.
- Traffic can be brutal: Especially during peak season. Expect delays, especially near popular attractions like Old Faithful. Patience is key!
- Wildlife jams are a thing: If you see a bunch of cars pulled over, it's probably because there's a bison or bear nearby. Be careful when approaching these areas, and don't block the road. Also, resist the urge to get out of your car for a closer look. Seriously!
- Gas stations are limited: Fill up your gas tank whenever you have the chance. Gas stations within the park can be expensive, and they can also be crowded.
- Cell service is spotty: Don't rely on your cell phone for navigation. Download offline maps before you go, or bring a good old-fashioned paper map. Remember those?
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Adventure!
So there you have it! A crash course on driving from Idaho Falls to Yellowstone. It's an amazing trip, filled with stunning scenery, incredible wildlife, and unforgettable experiences. Just remember to be prepared, be patient, and be respectful of the environment. And most importantly, have fun!
And hey, if you see a rogue bison, tell it I said hi. (But from a safe distance, of course!)
Now go have an *amazing* adventure! You deserve it! And don’t forget to send me pictures!
