A paved road to Targhee Pass in the Henrys Lake Mountains

A paved road to Targhee Pass in the Henrys Lake Mountains

Usa, north-america

Length

45 km

Elevation

2,161 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Cruising along the Targhee Pass Highway (that's U.S. Highway 20 to you map lovers!) is an experience, folks. Straddling the Idaho-Montana border at a cool 7,089 feet, this pass runs right along the Continental Divide. Named after a Bannack Indian chief, it's steeped in history and natural beauty.

The whole 28-mile stretch, linking West Yellowstone, Montana, with Island Park, Idaho, is paved, so no need for a Jeep unless you want one! Most of the road is pretty mellow, but keep an eye out for a few ramps that hit an 8% grade to keep things interesting. Oh, and speaking of eyes, scan the roadside for small, white markers—somber reminders.

Nestled in the Henrys Lake Mountains, within the Caribou–Targhee National Forest, the scenery is stunning. This pass is open year-round, even in winter, with regular plowing and sanding. Only a full-blown blizzard could shut this route down.

Factor in about 30 minutes to drive it straight through, but let's be real, you'll want to stop! This area's a major wildlife corridor – elk, deer, moose, and even bears love to roam here. Plus, it's the quickest way to get to Yellowstone Park from southern Idaho. So, take your time, enjoy the views, and keep those cameras ready!

Where is it?

A paved road to Targhee Pass in the Henrys Lake Mountains is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.1874, -99.6478

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Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Length
45 km
Max Elevation
2,161 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
40.1874, -99.6478

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