Getting Oriented
The byway runs parallel to the Tetons on their less-visited western flank. The southern end starts at Swan Valley on US 26, climbs Pine Creek Pass at 6,720 feet on Idaho 31, drops into Victor at the head of Teton Valley, then runs north through Driggs and Tetonia. From Tetonia the route turns west on Idaho 32 to skirt the foothills of the Big Hole Mountains, then connects to Idaho 47 north to Ashton, where it joins the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway.
Trail Overview
Sixty-eight miles of two-lane pavement, point-to-point. The byway is open year-round, though Pine Creek Pass on Idaho 31 gets heavy snow December through March and chains are required at times. Drive time end to end is about two hours without stops.
Points of Interest
- Pine Creek Pass. A 6,720-foot pass on Idaho 31 between Swan Valley and Victor with a wildlife viewing pullout.
- Teton Valley Museum (Driggs). A small history museum focused on Teton Valley homesteading and ski-area history.
- Grand Targhee Resort. Off the byway via Ski Hill Road from Driggs, on the Wyoming side of the range.
- Tetonia overlook. Idaho 33 climbs to a north-facing overlook of the Teton Valley with the Tetons on the right.
- Fall Creek Falls. A roadside waterfall on Idaho 31 in Swan Valley.
- Ashton-Tetonia Trail. A 30-mile rail-trail that runs alongside Idaho 32, open to bikes and horses in summer and snowmobiles in winter.
Where to Camp
The Caribou-Targhee NF runs Pine Creek Campground on Idaho 31 and Reunion Flat on Ski Hill Road off Driggs. Dispersed camping is permitted on national forest land along most spurs off the byway. Teton Valley itself has a large network of private campgrounds and RV parks centered on Driggs and Victor.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Pine Creek Pass on Idaho 31 gets heavy snow December through March. Carry chains in winter.
- Combine with the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway out of Ashton for a longer eastern Idaho loop.
- Driggs and Victor have full services. Between Tetonia and Ashton there's a 35-mile gap with limited fuel.
- Watch for moose along the Teton River and elk in the Big Hole foothills, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Grand Targhee Resort runs summer scenic chairlift rides off the byway via Ski Hill Road.
