Forum Discussion

ducksquasher's avatar
ducksquasher
Explorer
Apr 12, 2022

Montana/Wyoming/Colorado Route Advice

Hi All!

We are heading up to Yellowstone staying in Island Park, Idaho to visit Yellowstone and that side of Montana for a week. The next week we are thinking about jumping over to go to Mt. Rushmore, Black Hills and so on.

We will be in our Moho (gas) towing our SUV with our kiddos and dogs.

Leaving SoCal We are heading up the 15 to Idaho. Leaving Idaho thinking about 191 to 90 and over. Heading home I was thinking 385 down to 25 through Colorado and down to Albuquerque.

Obviously we can't avoid all hills but are there any crazy descents along the way that I need to be aware of? Is that a suitable route? Any advice is completely welcomed!

Thanks in advance!

Doug
Roads and Routes
  • ReneeG's avatar
    ReneeG
    Explorer
    Apr 12, 2022
    You'll take I-15 in Idaho all the way till it turns into Hwy 20, then all the way into Island Park. It's a good four lane hwy separated by a median strip, heavily traveled by tourists as well as commercial trucks. The only grade on that hwy is Ashton Hill. I don't remember the uphill grade %, but it's a climb, about two miles, then the road levels out and at the Idaho Montana state line is another grade, downhill, but it's gradual.
    Note: If you decide to go around through Jackson, go all the way to Alpine Junction and up to Jackson along the Snake River Canyon. DO NOT go over Teton Pass, Hwy 22. Too steep up and down. It's better to go around through Alpine Junction and up.

    I'd advise you to purchase the Mountain West Directory. It's very informative and has all passes and grades.

About Bucket List Trips

13,487 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 18, 2025