Overview

Wide-open spaces and gentle hills characterize Ashton, Idaho, but you’ll find a hometown atmosphere and friendly folk to welcome you as well as numerous outdoor activities throughout the year.

Location

You’ll find Ashton only an hour’s drive south of West Yellowstone on US Highway 20.

Services/Amenities

Ashton is a very small town but offers basic amenities like gas, restaurants, a visitor center, and lodging.

Home-cooked meals are a specialty in Ashton, especially in the western style. You’ll find anything your appetite requires, from fast foods to a casual dining experience.

Accommodations range from the traditional motel lodging to bed and breakfasts or rustic cabins. You can even stay at a guest ranch to really get the western flavor to your vacation. Campgrounds are also available for those who prefer to rough it a bit.

Activities

Experience some incredible outdoor fun in and around Ashton, Idaho.

Fly-Fishing
Fly-fishermen love the Ashton area because there are so many prime fishing spots. Mesa Falls offers great fishing, as well as dramatic views. The best fly-fishing is said to take place on the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River but you can also make some good catches on the Fall, Teton and Warm Rivers.

Hiking and Biking
Plenty of hiking trails beckon you into the wilderness. For a terrific day hike, try Bechler Meadows, which will take you into Yellowstone National Park. Start out east of Ashton about 24 miles. This hike of 11 miles is easy to moderate level and offers river and waterfall views. You can also hike around Mesa Falls. The Warm River Trail is perfect for biking, with a number of scenic overlooks. The two-hour ride can turn into a longer one as you stop to take in the sights.

Sightseeing
While in Ashton, if you haven’t already visited the national parks, now is the time to go. Grand Teton National Park is close by. You’ll get some breathtaking views of the Tetons from the west side in areas like Teton Canyon and Alaska Basin. Yellowstone National Park offers amazing geothermal features and the must-see Old Faithful Geyser. Easily access the rarely visited southwest corner of Yellowstone from Ashton by driving to Bechler Falls.

Scenic Driving
A wonderful 28-mile drive through Targhee National Forest can be just the ticket to a relaxing and scenic vacation. The Mesa Falls Scenic Loop will give you scenic views of the rivers, lakes and mountains. Teton Scenic Byway is another in easy reach from Ashton.

Winter Sports
With the landscape something out of a picture postcard, Ashton has all the winter activities you could imagine, from cross-country skiing to snowshoeing and snowmobiling. The snowy hills and valleys are a treat to navigate and enjoy.

Attractions

A number of attractions near Ashton, Idaho bring visitors from all over the country. Harriman State Park is a working cattle ranch with historic buildings you can tour. The July 4th holidays offer parades, barbeques, cook offs and other traditional western events. The Ashton Visitor’s Center is a good place to go to find out all attractions and events available to you on your visit.

Getting Here

It’s easy to get to beautiful West Yellowstone, the gateway to Yellowstone National Park from Ashton, Idaho. Simply get on US 20 north and drive for 55.5 miles. It only takes 57 minutes and through beautiful countryside.