Oregon Trail–Bear Lake Scenic Byway

Natural splendor and the promise of adventure lures travelers to southeastern Idaho and the Oregon Trail–Bear Lake Scenic Byway. Bear Lake boasts shimmering turquoise waters, sandy beaches and magnificent views. It’s no wonder it’s known as “The Caribbean of the Rockies”! Along this scenic route, check out the world’s only captive geyser, Minnetonka Cave, historic sites, and a variety of experiences tied to the Oregon Trail.

Length

110 miles
177 km

Time

2 hours

Region

Southeastern Idaho

When to Visit

Year-round

31 Byways. 31 Ways to Be Inspired.

A variety of scenic, natural, historic, recreational, archeological and cultural experiences can be found on Idaho’s 31 scenic byways. Watch the video to preview the wonders that await you as you plan your next road trip.

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Road Trip Tips

Turn-by-Turn Directions: Begins at Bear Lake on U.S. 89 near Fish Haven. Drive north on U.S. 89 to Montpelier, where U.S. 89 meets U.S. 30. Merge onto U.S. 30 and continue heading north. Remain on U.S. 30 as it winds through Soda Springs toward Alexander. Moving westbound through Alexander, turn north onto Blazer Highway (Old U.S. 30). Follow the highway through Bancroft and on to Lava Hot Springs, where Blazer Highway ends and U.S. 30 resumes. Merge onto U.S. 30 and continue west, approaching I-15 in McCammon.

Full Services in: McCammon, Montpelier, Soda Springs and Lava Hot Springs

Partial services in: Paris and Georgetown

Motorcycle Route: Yes

Nearby Adventures

Spend the day examining stalactites in a limestone cave or saddle up for some Wild West history and tour the last standing bank robbed by Butch Cassidy and his gang. The Oregon Trail–Bear Lake Scenic Byway awaits.