Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Acquisitions [Abstract] Acquisitions [Abstract] Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustments [Table] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustments [Table] Nonrecurring Adjustment [Axis] Nonrecurring Adjustment [Axis] Nonrecurring Adjustment [Domain] Nonrecurring Adjustment [Domain] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Business Segments [Axis] Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] QEP Energy [Member] QEP Energy [Member] QEP Energy Company, (QEP Energy) acquires, explores for, develops and produces natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids (NGL). QEP Field Services [Member] QEP Field Services [Member] All volumes and swap price transactions for commodity derivative contracts related to QEP Field Services. QEP Marketing and Other [Member] QEP Marketing and Other [Member] QEP Marketing Company (QEP Marketing) markets affiliate and third-party natural gas and oil, provides risk-management services, and owns and operates an underground gas-storage reservoir. Other includes other marketing businesses. Elimination [Member] Intersegment Elimination [Member] Major Customers [Axis] Major Customers [Axis] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Unaffiliated customers [Member] Unaffiliated customers [Member] Unaffiliated is a party that, indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the entity. Affiliated customers [Member] Affiliated Entity [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues Oil and Gas Revenue [Abstract] Total Revenues Oil and Gas Revenue Operating expenses Operating Expenses [Abstract] Purchased gas, oil and NGL expense Refining and Marketing Costs Lease operating expense Oil and Gas Property, Lease Operating Expense Natural gas, oil and NGL transportation and other handling costs Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs Gathering, processing and other Gas Gathering, Transportation, Marketing and Processing Costs General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Production and property taxes Production Tax Expense Depreciation, depletion and amortization Results of Operations, Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization and Accretion Other operating expenses Other Expenses Total Operating Expenses Operating Expenses Net (loss) gain from asset sales Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment Operating (loss) income Operating Income (Loss) Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative contracts Gain on Derivative Instruments, Pretax Interest and other income Interest Income, Operating Income from unconsolidated affiliates Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Loss from early extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Interest expense Interest Expense Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net (loss) income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to QEP Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] EQUITY Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Summary of operating results by line of business Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Consideration Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Consideration Deferred Revenue Deferred Revenue Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset retirement obligations roll forward Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation, depletion and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Impairment Asset Impairment Charges Share-based compensation Share-based Compensation Amortization of debt issuance costs and discounts Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts Dry exploratory well expense Other Noncash Expense Net gain from asset sales Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Income from unconsolidated affiliates Distributions from unconsolidated affiliates and other Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Non-cash loss on early extinguishment of debt Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Unrealized loss (gain) on derivative contracts Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Changes in operating assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Property acquisitions Payments to Acquire Oil and Gas Property Property, plant and equipment, including dry exploratory well expense Payments to Acquire Oil and Gas Equipment Proceeds from disposition of assets Proceeds from Sale of Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Checks outstanding in excess of cash balances Increase (Decrease) in Outstanding Checks, Financing Activities Long-term debt issued Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Long-term debt issuance costs paid Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Long-term debt repaid Repayments of Senior Debt Proceeds from credit facility Proceeds from Lines of Credit Repayments of credit facility Repayments of Lines of Credit Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Other capital contributions Proceeds from Other Equity Dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit (Tax Deficiency) from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Distribution to noncontrolling interest Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Change in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Beginning cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Ending cash and cash equivalents Supplemental Disclosures: Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Cash paid for interest, net of capitalized interest Interest Paid, Net Cash paid (received) for income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Non-cash investing activities Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract] Change in capital expenditure accrual balance Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Contracts Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Forecasted production from proved reserves (in hundredths) Maximum Forecasted Production Covered By Derivatives Potential maximum amount of forecasted production covered by derivative contracts. Unrealized gains on derivative contracts Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss, Cumulative Changes In Gain Loss From Cash Flow Hedges Effect, Before Tax Accumulated change, before tax, in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Notional amount of interest rate derivatives Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Term Loan due 2017 [Member] Term Loan due 2017 [Member] Term Loan due in 2017 Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Commodity Contract [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Swap [Member] Swap [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Natural Gas Sales (MMbtu) [Member] Natural Gas Sales [Member] Derivative contracts to lock in a margin on natural gas volumes placed into storage. Oil Sales (Bbls) [Member] Oil Sales [Member] Derivative contracts utilized for oil sales. QEP Marketing [Member] QEP Marketing [Member] Represents derivative contracts for QEP Marketing. QEP Resources [Member] QEP Resources [Member] Represents derivative contracts for QEP Resources. Purchased Gas and Oil Expense [Member] Purchased Gas and Oil Expense [Member] Derivative contracts recognized in income as purchased gas and oil expense. Derivative Contract Year [Axis] Derivative Contract Year [Axis] Tabular presentation of derivative instruments by year of contract. Derivative Contract Year [Domain] Derivative Contract Year [Domain] Tabular presentation of derivative instruments by year of contract. 2013 [Member] Year 2013 [Member] Derivative contracts which settle in 2012. 2014 [Member] Year 2014 [Member] Year 2014 [Member] Energy Commodities Exchange [Axis] Energy Commodities Exchange [Axis] Exchange where various commodities and derivatives products are traded Energy Commodities Exchange Abbreviation [Domain] Energy Commodities Exchange Abbreviation [Domain] Exchange abbreviation where various commodities and derivatives products are traded. NYMEX [Member] NYMEX [Member] Energy Commodities Exchange Abbreviation IFNPCR [Member] IFNPCR [Member] Energy Commodities Exchange Abbreviation NYMEX WTI [Member] NYMEX WTI [Member] Energy Commodities Exchange Abbreviation BRENT ICE [Member] BRENT ICE [Member] BRENT ICE [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Short-term [Member] Short term [Member] Derivative contracts with maturities of one year or less. Long-term [Member] Long term [Member] Derivative contracts with maturities in excess of one year. Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Total principal amount of debt Long-term Debt, Gross Year Derivative Contract Year The contract year for the derivative contract. Index Derivative, Underlying Basis Derivative Contracts - Volumes and Prices Summary of Derivative Instruments [Abstract] Total Volume (in Bcf, Mbbl, millions of gallons, millions of MMBtu) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Average Swap price per unit ($ per unit) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Price Per Unit Maturity Derivative, Maturity Date Fixed Rate Paid (in hundredths) Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Variable Rate Received Derivative, Description of Terms Fair Value of Derivative Contracts, Gross [Abstract] Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Reclassification of previously deferred derivative gains(1) Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Amortization of net actuarial loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Net of Tax Amortization of prior service cost Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Pension Cost, Net of Tax Total pension and other postretirement plans adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive (loss) income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to QEP Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Fair value of derivative contracts Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets Gas, oil and NGL inventories at lower of average cost or market Energy Related Inventory Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Total Current Assets Assets, Current Property, Plant and Equipment (successful efforts method for gas and oil properties) Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Proved properties Proved Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method Unproved properties Unproved Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method Midstream field services Midstream Field Services Property Natural gas gathering systems and treating plants. Marketing and other Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Material and supplies Inventory, Drilling, Noncurrent Total Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method, Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion Amortization and Impairment [Abstract] Less Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction [Abstract] Exploration and production Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method, Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Midstream field services Accumulated Depreciation Midstream Field Services Accumulated depreciation of natural gas gathering systems and treating plants. Marketing and other Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Accumulated Depreciation Total Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Investment in unconsolidated affiliates Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Goodwill Goodwill Fair value of derivative contracts Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Other noncurrent assets Other Assets, Noncurrent TOTAL ASSETS Assets Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Checks outstanding in excess of cash balances Bank Overdrafts Accounts payable and accrued expenses Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Production and property taxes Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current Interest payable Interest Payable, Current Fair value of derivative contracts Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Liabilities Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Total Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Fair value of derivative contracts Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Common stock - par value $0.01 per share; 500.0 million shares authorized; 179.6 million and 178.5 million shares issued, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Treasury stock - 0.3 million and 0.1 million shares, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total Common Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity Divestitures [Abstract] Divestitures [Abstract] Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Components of basic and diluted shares used in EPS Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Revolving Credit Facility due 2016 [Member] Line of Credit [Member] 6.05% Senior Notes due 2016 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2016 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2016. 6.80% Senior Notes due 2018 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2018 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2018. 6.80% Senior Notes due 2020 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2020 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2020. 6.875% Senior Notes due 2021 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2021 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2021. 5.375% Senior Notes due 2022 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2022 [Member] Senior Notes Due 2022. 5.25% Senior Notes Due 2023 [Member] 5.25% Senior Notes Due 2023 [Member] 5.25% Senior Notes Due 2023 [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Less unamortized discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Total long-term debt outstanding Long-term Debt Long-term debt, interest rate (in hundredths) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Maturity date of long-term debt Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Maturity period of long-term debt Debt Instrument Maturity Period Represents maturity period of debt instrument. Borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Potential increased borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Number of maturity date extentions Number of maturity date extentions Represents the number of maturity date extensions allowed per the provisions of the credit agreement. Additional period with in which maturity to be extended Additional period with in which maturity to be extended Represents additional period with in which maturity to be extended. Weighted-average interest rate (in hundredths) Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Amount outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Letters of credit outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Principal amount of senior notes outstanding Senior Notes Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End Senior Notes, stated interest rate, minimum (in hundredths) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Senior Notes, stated interest rate, maximim (in hundredths) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Pension [Member] Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plans Funding Type [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans Funding Type [Axis] The funding type of defined benefit plan. Plan Funding Type [Domain] Plan Funding Type [Domain] Information on defined benefit plan by funding type. Funded Pension Plan [Member] Funded Pension Plan [Member] Information on funded defined benefit pension plan. Unfunded Pension Plan [Member] Unfunded Pension Plan [Member] Information on unfunded defined benefit pension plan. Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Contributions to pension plan Pension Contributions Expected to contribute to pension plans Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of prior service costs Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Amortization of actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Periodic expense Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair value of financial assets and liabilities Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair value and related carrying amount of certain financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Other comprehensive income (loss), tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax [Abstract] Tax expense (benefit) on gains (losses) on changes in unrealized fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Tax expense (benefit) on net unamortized gain (loss) incurred Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized (Gain) Loss Arising During Period, Tax Tax expense (benefit) on prior service cost incurred Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Pension Cost, Tax ARO Liability [Roll Forward] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] ARO liability, Beginning Balance Asset Retirement Obligation Accretion Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Liabilities incurred Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Revisions Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Liabilities settled Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled ARO liability, Ending Balance Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Shares available for future grants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Stock Options [Member] Stock Options [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Performance Share Units [Member] Performance Share Units [Member] Incremental common shares attributable to performance share units. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Fair value of options at grant date Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Risk-free interest rate (in hundredths) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum Expected price volatility (in hundredths) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum Expected dividend yield (in hundredths) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Award Expected Dividend Yield Minimum The estimated minimum dividend rate (a percentage of the share price) to be paid (expected dividends) to holders of the underlying shares over the option's term. Expected life in years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Options Outstanding [RollForward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding Beginning Balance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Outstanding Ending Balance (in shares) Options Excercisable (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Unvested Options (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Unvested Number The number of shares into which unvested stock options outstanding as of the balance sheet date can be currently converted under the option plan. Total fair value of stock that vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net Restricted Shares Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Balance, Ending (in shares) Weighted-Average Price [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted-Average Price, beginning (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Price, Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Price, Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Price, Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Price, Ending (in dollars per share) Weighted-Average Price, Options Excercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Price, Unvested Options hare Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Unvested Weighted Average Exercise Price The weighted-average price as of the balance sheet date for unvested stock options. Weighted-Average Price, beginning balance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-Average Price, Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-Average Price, Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-Average Price, Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-Average Price, Ending Balance (in dollars per share) Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Options Excercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Options Excercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Unvested Options Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Unvested Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term The weighted average period between the balance sheet date and expiration for all unvested portions of options outstanding under the plan, which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years. Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Unvested Options Sharebased Compensation Arrangement By Sharebased Payment Award Options Unvested Intrinsic Value1 The total dollar difference between fair values of the underlying shares reserved for issuance and exercise prices of unvested portions of options outstanding and currently exercisable under the option plan as of the balance sheet date. Intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted-average period for recognition of compensation costs Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Vesting period (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] New accounting pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Consideration Given [Abstract] Business Combination, Consideration Transferred [Abstract] Cash consideration Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net [Abstract] Proved properties Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Mineral Rights Unproved Properties Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Asset retirement obligations Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Liabilities Liabilities assumed Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed Other assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Assets Total fair value Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Busines Acquisition, Actual Information [Abstract] Busines Acquisition, Actual Information [Abstract] Busines Acquisition, Actual Information [Abstract] Oil and Gas Revenue Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Document and Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Restructuring Costs [Abstract] Reconciliation of QEP Energy's restructuring cost Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Derivative Contracts [Abstract] Derivative Contracts [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative, Gain Loss by Income Statement Location [Axis] Derivative, Gain Loss by Income Statement Location [Axis] The location and amount of gains and losses reported in the statement of financial performance. Derivative, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Domain] Derivative, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Domain] The income statement and other comprehensive income location of gains and losses on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments, by income statement location. Realized and unrealized gains on commodity derivative instruments [Member] Realized and unrealized gains on commodity derivative instruments [Member] The income statement location of gains and losses on derivative instruments on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments, by income statement location. Derivative Instrument Contract Type [Axis] Derivative Instrument Contract Type [Axis] Information by name that identifies a derivative or a group of derivatives by (derivative) contract risk type. Derivative Instrument Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Instrument Contract Type [Domain] The name that identifies a derivative or a group of derivatives, on a disaggregated basis, by contract risk type. Natural gas derivative contracts [Member] Natural gas derivative contracts [Member] Derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to commodity prices. Oil derivative contracts [Member] Oil derivative contracts [Member] Derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to commodity prices. NGL derivative contracts [Member] NGL derivative contracts [Member] Derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to commodity prices. Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Fair value of frozen derivative to be settled and reclassified within twelve months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Abstract] Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Abstract] Realized gain (loss) on commodity derivative contracts Realized gain (loss) on commodity derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments Represents the realized gain (loss) on commodity derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments for the period. Unrealized gain (loss) on commodity derivative contracts Unrealized gain (loss) on commodity derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments Represents the unrealized gain (loss) on commodity derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments for the period. Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Commodity Derivative Contracts Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Commodity Derivative Contracts Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Total Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Commodity Derivative Contracts Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Realized gain (loss) derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments Realized gain (loss) derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments Realized gain (loss) derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments Unrealized gain (loss) derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments Unrealized gain (loss) derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments Unrealized gain (loss) derivative contracts not designated as hedging instruments Total gain (loss) on commodity derivative instruments Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Restructuring Costs Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of calculated fair value of options granted and major assumptions used Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Summary of stock option transactions under the terms of LTSIP Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Restricted Shares and Performance Share Units Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] REVENUES Revenues [Abstract] Natural gas sales Natural Gas Production Revenue Oil sales Oil and Condensate Revenue NGL sales Natural Gas Midstream Revenue Gathering, processing and other Gas Gathering, Transportation, Marketing and Processing Revenue Purchased gas, oil and NGL sales Refining and Marketing Revenue Total Revenues OPERATING EXPENSES Natural gas, oil and NGL transportation and other handling costs Exploration expenses Exploration Expense Impairment Net (loss) gain from asset sales OPERATING INCOME Realized and unrealized (losses) gains on derivative contracts (See Note 7) Interest and other income (LOSS) INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax benefit (provision) NET (LOSS) INCOME NET (LOSS) INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO QEP Earnings Per Common Share Attributable to QEP Basic total (in dollars per share) Diluted total (in dollars per share) Weighted-average common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Used in basic calculation (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Used in diluted calculation (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Dividends per common share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Share-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Operations by Line of Business Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Event [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Abstract] Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Events [Text Block] Debt Outstanding Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Netting Adjustments [Member] Netting [Member] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Carrying Amount [Member] Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Fair Value [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Types of Financial Instruments [Domain] Types of Financial Instruments [Domain] Commodity derivative [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Financial Assets Derivative Assets [Abstract] Derivative instruments - short-term Derivative Assets, Current Derivative instruments - long-term Derivative Assets, Noncurrent Total financial assets Derivative Assets Financial liabilities Derivative Liabilities [Abstract] Derivative instruments - short-term Derivative Liabilities, Current Derivative instruments - long-term Total financial liabilities Derivative Liabilities Checks outstanding in excess of cash balances Checks outstanding in excess of cash balances, fair value disclosure The fair value amount of checks outstanding in excess of cash balances whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Sale [Axis] Sale [Axis] Sale [Domain] Sale [Domain] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Consideration from sale of Northern Region Assets Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale, Proceeds from Sale Expected Gain on Sale of Oil and Gas Property Before Adjustments Gain (Loss) on Sale of Oil and Gas Property Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions [Text Block] Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Employee Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Volumes and Average Prices Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Fair values of Derivatives by Balance Sheet Location Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Effects of Derivative Transactions Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Anti-dilutive shares not included in diluted common share outstanding (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Weighted-average basic common shares outstanding (in shares) Potential number of shares issuable upon excerise of in-the-money stock options under the Long-term Stock Incentive Plan Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Average diluted common shares outstanding (in shares) Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Business Segments [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] One-time Termination Benefits [Member] One-time Termination Benefits [Member] Employee Relocation [Member] Employee Relocation [Member] Termination of Lease [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Estimated restructuring costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Restructuring Charges Restructuring Charges Increase (Decrease) in Restructuring Liability [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Restructuring Liability [Abstract] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Balance at Beginning of Period Restructuring Reserve Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Costs paid or otherwise settled Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Balance at End of Period Number of regional offices created Number of regional offices created Represents the number of regional offices created from Consolidation of two offices to make one Regional Head Office. Nature Of Business [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Nature of Business Nature of Operations [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Basis of Presentation of Interim Consolidated Financial Statements Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]