Capitalized Cost [Abstract]
Capitalized Cost [Abstract]
Proved properties
Capitalized Costs, Proved Properties
Unproved properties, net
Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties
Total proved and unproved properties
Capitalized Costs, Oil and Gas Producing Activities, Gross
Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization
Capitalized Costs, Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization and Valuation Allowance Relating to Oil and Gas Producing Activities
Net capitalized costs
Capitalized Costs, Oil and Gas Producing Activities, Net
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Common Stock [Member]
Common Stock [Member]
Treasury Stock [Member]
Treasury Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Retained Earnings [Member]
Retained Earnings [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Parent [Member]
Parent [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Shares, Issued
Shares, Issued
Questar common stock issued net of repurchases, Value
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Other
Questar common stock issued, net of repurchases
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Other
NET INCOME
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Dividends
Dividends
Share-based compensation
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued
Stockholders' Equity Note, Spinoff Transaction
Stockholders' Equity Note, Spinoff Transaction
Distribution to QEP Education Foundation
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Treasury Stock Reissued
Payments to Noncontrolling Interests
Payments to Noncontrolling Interests
TreasuryStockIssuedCharitableContribution
TreasuryStockIssuedCharitableContribution
Treasury stock issued for charitable contributions
Equity from Questar
Stockholders' Equity, Other
Transfer Wexpro to Questar
Stockholders' Equity, Change in Reporting Entity
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Gain reclassified from AOCI into income for effective portion of hedge
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
Change in pension and postretirement liability, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax
Treasury stock (in shares)
Treasury Stock, Shares
Balance
Shares, Issued
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table]
Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain]
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Operating Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Operating Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
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]
Maximum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Stock Options [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares available for future grants
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Share-based Compensation
Share-based Compensation
Total compensation expense related to share-based compensation
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
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 range, minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum
Risk-free interest rate range, maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum
Weighted-average risk-free interest rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Expected price volatility range, minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate
Expected price volatility range, maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum
Weighted-average expected price volatility
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
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
Options Outstanding [RollForward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at December 31, 2011 (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 at June 30, 2012 (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.
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
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
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
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, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
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)
Standardized Measure of Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Reserves [Abstract]
Standardized Measure of Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Reserves [Abstract]
Average Sales Price and Production Costs Per Unit of Production [Table]
Average Sales Price and Production Costs Per Unit of Production [Table]
Petroleum Reserves [Axis]
Petroleum Reserves [Axis]
Type of Reserve [Domain]
Type of Reserve [Domain]
Natural Gas [Member]
Natural Gas [Member]
Oil [Member]
Oil [Member]
Natural Gas Liquids [Member]
Natural Gas Liquids [Member]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Segment, Geographical [Domain]
Segment, Geographical [Domain]
Oil and Gas Production Type [Axis]
Oil and Gas Production Type [Axis]
Production Type [Domain]
Production Type [Domain]
Average Sales Price and Production Costs Per Unit of Production [Line Items]
Average Sales Price and Production Costs Per Unit of Production [Line Items]
12 month average first-of the month commodity price
Average Sales Prices
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]
Results of Operations [Abstract]
Results of Operations [Abstract]
Revenues (1)
Results of Operations, Revenue from Oil and Gas Producing Activities
Production costs
Results of Operations, Production or Lifting Costs
Exploration expenses
Results of Operations, Exploration Expense
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
Results of Operations, Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, and Valuation Provisions
Abandonment and impairment
Results of Operations, Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties
Total expenses
Results of Operations, Expense from Oil and Gas Producing Activities
Income before income taxes
Results of Operations, Income before Income Taxes
Income taxes
Results of Operations, Income Tax Expense
Results of operations from producing activities excluding allocated corporate overhead and interest expenses
Results of Operations, Oil and Gas Producing Activities Net Income (Excluding Corporate Overhead and Interest Costs)
Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs [Abstract]
Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year [Table]
Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year [Table]
Project Name [Axis]
Project Name [Axis]
Project with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year, Name [Domain]
Project with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year, Name [Domain]
Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year [Line Items]
Projects with Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized for More than One Year [Line Items]
Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Derivative Instruments [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments [Abstract]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Derivative, Name [Domain]
Derivative, Name [Domain]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss, Cumulative Changes In Gain Loss From Cash Flow Hedges Effect, Before Tax
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.
Unrealized gains on derivative contracts, net of tax
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Gas Balancing Asset (Liability)
Gas Balancing Asset (Liability)
Supplemental Gas and Oil Information (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Supplemental Gas and Oil Information (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Industries Disclosures [Abstract]
Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Industries Disclosures [Text Block]
Discontinued Operations [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations [Abstract]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain]
Discontinued operations [Line Items]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Revenues
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue
Income before income taxes
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax
Income taxes
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation
Discontinued operations, net of income tax
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic from discontinued operations
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share
Diluted from discontinued operations
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share
Credit Risk [Abstract]
Credit Risk [Abstract]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Chevron U.S.A., Inc. [Member]
Customer Concentration Risk [Member]
EnterpriseProductsOperatingLP [Member]
EnterpriseProductsOperatingLP [Member]
EnterpriseProductsOperatingLP [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Future Development Costs [Abstract]
Future Development Costs [Abstract]
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Next Twelve Months
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Next Twelve Months
2013 - Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Next Twelve Months
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Year Two
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Year Two
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Year Two
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Year Three
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Year Three
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs, Year Three
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table]
Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis]
Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis]
Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain]
Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain]
Uintah Basin Field Services, LLC [Member]
Unitah Basin Field Services LLC [Member]
Unitah Basin Field Services LLC
Three Rivers Gathering LLC [Member]
Three Rivers Gathering LLC [Member]
Three Rivers Gathering LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Accounting Policies [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
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Outstanding
Schedule of Debt [Table 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
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 transport 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
Separation costs
Other Nonrecurring Expense
Production and property taxes
Production Tax Expense
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
Results of Operations, Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization and Accretion
Exploration expenses
Exploration Expense
Abandonment and impairment
Asset Impairment Charges
Total Operating Expenses
Operating Expenses
Net gain from asset sales
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment
OPERATING (LOSS) INCOME
Operating Income (Loss)
Realized and unrealized gains on derivative contracts (See Note 6)
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 FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest
Income taxes
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Discontinued operations, net of income tax
NET INCOME
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO QEP
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Earnings Per Common Share Attributable to QEP
Basic from continuing operations
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share
Basic total
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted from continuing operations
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share
Diluted total
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Weighted-average common shares outstanding
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Used in basic calculation
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Used in diluted calculation
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Schedule of Environmental Exit Cost [Table]
Schedule of Environmental Exit Cost [Table]
Environmental Exit Cost by Property [Axis]
Environmental Exit Cost by Property [Axis]
Environmental Exit Costs, Name of Property [Domain]
Environmental Exit Costs, Name of Property [Domain]
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Environmental Exit Costs, Anticipated Cost
Environmental Exit Costs, Anticipated Cost
Environmental Costs Recognized, Capitalized
Environmental Costs Recognized, Capitalized
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Date
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Date
Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement
Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement
Contribution payable to non profit corporation or trust created by Ute Idian tribe
Contribution payable to non profit corporation or trust created by Ute Idian tribe
The amount of the civil penalty that will be contributed to a non-profit corporation or trust to be created by the Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Quray reservation at the end of the period.
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Counterparty's Name
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Counterparty's Name
Share-Based Compensation
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Property acquisitions
Property acquistions [Abstract]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Accrued capital costs included in development costs
Accrued capital costs included in development costs
Represents capital costs accrued for the development of proved reserves.
Costs Incurred, Asset Retirement Obligation Incurred
Costs Incurred, Asset Retirement Obligation Incurred
Costs Incurred To Advance The Development Of Proved Undeveloped Reserves
Costs Incurred To Advance The Development Of Proved Undeveloped Reserves
The costs incurred during the period to advance the development of reserves that were classified as proved undeveloped.
Unproved
Costs Incurred, Acquisition of Unproved Oil and Gas Properties
Proved
Costs Incurred, Acquisition of Oil and Gas Properties with Proved Reserves
Total Property Acqusitions
Total Property Acqusitions Costs Incurred
Total Proved and Unproved Property Acqusitions Costs Incurred
Costs Incurred, Exploration Costs
Costs Incurred, Exploration Costs
Costs Incurred, Development Costs
Costs Incurred, Development Costs
Costs Incurred, Acquisition of Oil and Gas Properties
Costs Incurred, Acquisition of Oil and Gas Properties
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
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Schedule of Effect of Fourth Quarter Events [Table]
Schedule of Effect of Fourth Quarter Events [Table]
Effect of Fourth Quarter Event Type [Axis]
Effect of Fourth Quarter Event Type [Axis]
Effect of Fourth Quarter Events, Type [Domain]
Effect of Fourth Quarter Events, Type [Domain]
Effect of Fourth Quarter Events [Line Items]
Effect of Fourth Quarter Events [Line Items]
Revenues
OPERATING (LOSS) INCOME
Income (loss) before income taxes
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO QEP
Principles of Consolidation [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation [Abstract]
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefits
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract]
Asset Retirement Obligations
Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block]
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Components of basic and diluted shares used in EPS
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Acquisitions [Text Block]
Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Operating lease commitments [Abstract]
Operating lease commitments [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense
Operating Leases, Rent Expense
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
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)
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Current Assets
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
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
Materials and supplies
Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Gross
Prepaid expenses and other
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, 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, net
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
Materials and supplies
Inventory, Drilling, Noncurrent
Total Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
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
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
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 (see Note 9)
Commitments and Contingencies
EQUITY
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Common stock - par value $0.01 per share; 500.0 million shares authorized; 178.5 million and 177.2 million shares issued, respectively
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Treasury stock - 0.1 million and 0.4 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
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Estimated Quantities of Proved Gas and Oil Reserves [Abstract]
Estimated Quantities of Proved Gas and Oil Reserves [Abstract]
Proved Developed and Undeveloped Oil and Gas Reserve Quantities [Table]
Proved Developed and Undeveloped Oil and Gas Reserve Quantities [Table]
Total Reserves Natural Gas Equivalent [Member]
Total Reserves Natural Gas Equivalent [Member]
This element represents total natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids reserves, presented as natural gas equivalents.
Reserve Quantities [Line Items]
Reserve Quantities [Line Items]
Reserves, Unit of Measure
Reserves, Unit of Measure
Proved reserves balance
Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Net
Extensions and discoveries
Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Revisions of Previous Estimates
Extensions and discoveries
Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Extensions, Discoveries, and Additions
Purchase of reserves in place
Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Purchases of Minerals in Place
Sale of reserves in place
Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Sales of Minerals in Place
Production
Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Production
Proved reserves balance
Proved developed reserves
Proved Developed Reserves (Volume)
Proved undeveloped reserves
Proved Undeveloped Reserve (Volume)
Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil and Gas Producing Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil and Gas Producing Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Cost Incurred in Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Cost Incurred in Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Proved Developed and Undeveloped Oil and Gas Reserve Quantities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Proved Developed and Undeveloped Oil and Gas Reserve Quantities [Table Text Block]
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Cash Flows Relating to Proved Reserves Disclosure Price per Unit [Table Text Block]
Oil and Gas Net Production, Average Sales Price and Average Production Costs Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Cash Flows Relating to Proved Reserves Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Cash Flows Relating to Proved Reserves Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Principal Sources of Change in Standardized measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows [Table Text Block]
Principal Sources of Change in Standardized measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the sources of changes in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows during the period.
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [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 [Member]
QEP Marketing [Member]
Represents derivative contracts for QEP Marketing.
QEP Resources [Member]
QEP Resources [Member]
Represents derivative contracts for QEP Resources.
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]
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments
Estimated restructuring costs
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost
Restructuring costs incurred to date
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date
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 December 31, 2011
Restructuring Reserve
Costs incurred and charged to expense
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment
Costs paid or otherwise settled
Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash
Balance at September 30, 2012
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.
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block]
Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
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]
Restructuring Costs
Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
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 [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]
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]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Costs
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Abstract] (Deprecated 2012-01-31)
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Business Segments [Axis]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Characterization of gain or loss [Axis]
Characterization of gain or loss [Axis]
Characterization of gain or loss [Axis]
Characterization of gain or loss [Domain]
Characterization of gain or loss [Domain]
[Domain] for Characterization of gain or loss [Axis]
Realized Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments [Member]
Realized Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments [Member]
Unrealized Gain (Loss or Write-down) [Member]
Unrealized Gain (Loss or Write-down) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Domestic Equity Securities [Member]
Domestic Equity Securities [Member]
This category includes information about ownership interests or the right to acquire ownership interests in corporations and other legal entities which ownership interest is represented by shares of common or preferred stock (which is neither mandatorily redeemable no redeemable at the option of the holder), convertible securities, stock rights, or stock warrants.
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Foreign Equity Securities [Member]
Foreign Equity Securities [Member]
This category includes information about ownership interests or the right to acquire ownership interests in corporations and other legal entities which ownership interest is represented by shares of common or preferred stock (which is neither mandatorily redeemable no redeemable at the option of the holder), convertible securities, stock rights, or stock warrants.
Debt Securities [Member]
Debt Securities [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]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Multiemployer Plan, Plan Information [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan, Plan Information [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan, Plan Information [Domain]
Multiemployer Plan, Plan Information [Domain]
Active Employees [Member]
Active Employees [Member]
Active Employees [Member]
Percent of Active Employees [Member]
Percent of Active Employees [Member]
Percent of Active Employees [Member]
Non-active Employees [Member]
Non-active Employees [Member]
Non-active Employees [Member]
Pension [Member]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Postretirement benefits [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 Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations Percentage of Total
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations
Description of Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans
Description of Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans
Defined Contribution Plan, Number of Employees Covered
Defined Contribution Plan, Number of Employees Covered
Contributions to pension plan
Pension Contributions
Expected to contribute to pension plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Change in benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at January 1,
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation
Change in plan assumptions
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments
Benefit payments
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid
Actuarial loss (gain)
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)
Change in plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets
Actual gain (loss) on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets
Company contributions to the plan
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
Underfunded status (current and long-term)
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan
Ending Balance
Amounts recognized in balance sheets
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities
Other long-term liabilities
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total amount recognized in balance sheet
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet
Amounts recognized in AOCI
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss (gain)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax
Prior service cost
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Total amount recognized in AOCI
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
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
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments
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
Pension and other postretirement plans adjustments:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Current period actuarial loss (gain)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Arising During Period, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Arising During Period, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Amounts that Will be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) in Next Fiscal Year
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Amounts that Will be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) in Next Fiscal Year
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used in Calculations [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used in Calculations [Abstract]
Discount rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate
Rate of increase in compensation
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase
Discount rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate
Expected long-term return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets
Rate of increase in compensation
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2013
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months
2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two
2015
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three
2016
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four
2017
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five
2018 through 2021
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized
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:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [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)
Abandonment and impairment
Share-based compensation
Amortization of debt issuance costs and discounts
Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts
Net gain from asset sales
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets
Income from unconsolidated affiliates
Distributions from unconsolidated affiliates and dry exploratory well expense
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions
Non-cash loss on early extinguishment of debt
Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost
Unrealized gain on derivative contracts
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital
Accounts receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Inventories
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Prepaid expenses
Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Federal income taxes
Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable, Net of Income Taxes Receivable
Other
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets and Liabilities, Net
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities of Continuing Operations
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
Change in notes receivable
Proceeds from Sale and Collection of Notes Receivable
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities of Continuing Operations
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
Repayments of notes payable
Repayments of Notes Payable
Long-term debt extinguishment costs
Payments of Debt Extinguishment Costs
Proceeds from credit facility
Proceeds from Lines of Credit
Repayments of credit facility
Repayments of Lines of Credit
Other capital contributions
Proceeds from Other Equity
Equity contribution
Proceeds from Contributed Capital
Dividends paid
Payments of Dividends
Payments of Dividends
Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation
Excess Tax Benefit (Tax Deficiency) from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities
Distribution from Questar
Payments of Distributions to Affiliates
Distribution to noncontrolling interest
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders
Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities of Continuing Operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations
CASH USED IN CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations
Cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations
Cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations
Cash used in financing activities of discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations
Effect of change in cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations
Change in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Beginning cash and cash equivalents
Ending cash and cash equivalents
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Consideration
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Consideration
Damages sought
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Current year net actuarial gain loss [Member]
Current year net actuarial gain loss [Member]
Current year net actuarial gain loss [Member]
Amortization net actuarial gain loss [Member] [Member]
Amortization net actuarial gain loss [Member] [Member]
Amortization net actuarial gain loss [Member]
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
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Transition Asset (Obligation), Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Transition Asset (Obligation), Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, 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
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Building [Member]
Building [Member]
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Equipment [Member]
Equipment [Member]
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives
Capitalized Interest Costs
Capitalized Interest Costs, Including Allowance for Funds Used During Construction
Buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts Abstract [Abstract]
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts Abstract [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Provision for Doubtful Accounts
Provision for Doubtful Accounts
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
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.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Natural Gas Sales (MMbtu) [Member]
Natural Gas Sales [Member]
Derivative contracts to lock in a margin on natural gas volumes placed into storage.
NGL Sales [Member]
NGL Sales [Member]
Derivative contracts to lock in a margin on NGL volumes placed into storage.
Oil Sales (Bbls) [Member]
Oil Sales [Member]
Derivative contracts utilized for oil sales.
Marketing Purchases [Member]
Marketing Purchases [Member]
Marketing Purchases.
Interest Income [Member]
Interest Income [Member]
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.
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
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
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments for the effective portion of hedge recognized in AOCI [Abstract]
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments for the effective portion of hedge recognized in AOCI [Abstract]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net [Abstract]
Gain on derivative instruments for the effective portion of hedge recognized in AOCI
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net [Abstract]
Gain recognized in income for the ineffective portion of hedges
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net
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, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [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]
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Types of Financial Instruments [Domain]
Types of Financial Instruments [Domain]
Commodity Contract [Member]
Commodity Contract [Member]
Oil and Gas Property or Project [Axis]
Oil and Gas Property or Project [Axis]
Unproved Oil and Gas Property or Major Project [Domain]
Unproved Oil and Gas Property or Major Project [Domain]
Proved properties [Member]
Proved properties [Member]
Represents proved properties and major development projects that are included from the capitalized costs being amortized.
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Assets
Derivative Assets [Abstract]
Derivative instruments - short-term
Derivative Assets, Current
Derivative instruments - long-term
Derivative Assets, Noncurrent
Derivative Assets
Derivative Assets
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Financial liabilities
Derivative Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative instruments - short-term
Derivative Liabilities, Current
Derivative instruments - long-term
Derivative 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
Level 3 Unobservable input reconciliation [Roll Forward]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value
Realized gains and losses
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Other Income
Settlements
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements
Transfers out of Level 3
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers out of Level 3
Ending Balance
Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties
Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties
Proved properties, estimated fair values
Proved Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method, Fair Value Disclosure
The fair value of Oil and Gas properties with proved reserves under the successful effort method.
Beginning Balance
Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs
Additions to capitalized exploratory well costs pending the determination of proved reserves
Capitalized Exploratory Well Cost, Additions Pending Determination of Proved Reserves
Reclassifications to proved properties after the determination of proved reserves
Reclassification to Well, Facilities, and Equipment Based on Determination of Proved Reserves
Capitalized exploratory well costs charged to expense
Capitalized Exploratory Well Cost, Charged to Expense
Ending Balance
Change in Standardized Measure of Future Cash Flows [Abstract]
Change in Standardized Measure of Future Cash Flows [Abstract]
Beginning Balance
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves
Sales of gas, oil and NGL produced during the period, net of production costs
Sales and Transfers of Oil and Gas Produced, Net of Production Costs
Net change in sales prices and in production (lifting) costs related to future production
Net Increase (Decrease) in Sales and Transfer Prices and Production Costs
Net change due to extensions, discoveries and improved recovery
Extensions, Discoveries, Additions and Improved Recovery, Less Related Costs
Net change due to revisions of quantity estimates
Revisions of Previous Quantity Estimates
Changes due to purchases of reserves in place
Increase Due to Purchases of Minerals in Place
Changes due to sales of reserves in place
Decrease Due to Sales of Minerals in Place
Previously estimated development costs incurred during the period
Previously Estimated Development Costs Incurred During Period
Changes in estimated future development costs
Changes in Estimated Future Development Costs
Accretion of discount
Accretion of Discount
Net change in income taxes
Changes in Future Income Tax Expense Estimates on Future Cash Flows Related to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves
Other
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flow of Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Other
Net change
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flow of Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Period Increase (Decrease)
Ending Balance
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
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.
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]
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]
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
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
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
Fair value of frozen derivative to be settled and reclassified within twelve months
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months
Asset Retirement Obligation
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
Collars Floor Price ($ per unit)
Derivative, Floor Price
Collars Ceiling Price ($ per unit)
Derivative, Cap Price
Notional amount of interest rate derivatives
Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives
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
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Reclassified to Earnings, Net
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Reclassified to Earnings, Net
Standardized Measure of Future Net Cash Flows [Abstract]
Standardized Measure of Future Net Cash Flows [Abstract]
Future cash inflows
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Cash Inflows
Future production costs
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Production Costs
Future development costs
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Development Costs
Future income tax expenses
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Income Tax Expense
Future net cash flows
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Future Net Cash Flows
10% annual discount for estimated timing of net cash flows
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, 10 Percent Annual Discount for Estimated Timing of Cash Flows
Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows
Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Standardized Measure
Fair value of financial assets and liabilities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block]
Change in fair value of Level 3 assets and liabilities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Fair value and related carrying amount of certain financial instruments
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
TreasuryStock [Policy Text Block]
TreasuryStock [Policy Text Block]
An entity's accounting policy for shares that have been repurchased.
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Effect of derivative financial instruments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax
Current year net actuarial gain (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax
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
Net prior service cost inccured
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Costs Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Amortization of net 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
Net curtailment cost incurred
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Non-Pension Postretirement Plan Valuation, Net of Tax
Total pension and other postretirement plans adjustments
Other comprehensive (loss) income
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
Accounts Receivable Trade [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable Trade [Abstract]
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table]
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table]
Industry of Counterparty, Type [Axis]
Industry of Counterparty, Type [Axis]
Industry of Counterparty [Domain]
Industry of Counterparty [Domain]
Legal Entity of Counterparty, Type [Axis]
Legal Entity of Counterparty, Type [Axis]
Legal Entity Type of Counterparty [Domain]
Legal Entity Type of Counterparty [Domain]
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Products and Services [Axis]
Products and Services [Axis]
Products and Services [Domain]
Products and Services [Domain]
Billing Status, Type [Axis]
Billing Status, Type [Axis]
Receivables Billing Status [Domain]
Receivables Billing Status [Domain]
Receivable Type [Axis]
Receivable Type [Axis]
Receivable Type [Domain]
Receivable Type [Domain]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable
Impairment of long-lived assets [Abstract]
Impairment of long-lived assets [Abstract]
Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table]
Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table]
Southern Region [Member]
Southern Region [Member]
A component of an entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements.
Northern Region [Member]
Northern Region [Member]
A component of an entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements.
Unproved properties [Member]
Unproved properties [Member]
Represents unproved properties and major development projects that are excluded from the capitalized costs being amortized.
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items]
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
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.
Senior Notes [Member]
Senior Notes [Member]
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
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Amount outstanding
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding
Letters of credit outstanding
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount
Proceeds from issuance of debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Debt issuance costs
Debt Instrument, Fee Amount
Senior notes repurchased
Debt Instrument, Repurchase 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
Non-cash loss on early extinguishment of debt
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
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
Asset retirement obligations roll forward
Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block]
Suspended Well Costs Disclosure [Text Block]
Suspended Well Costs Disclosure [Text Block]
Federal Income Tax Note [Table]
Federal Income Tax Note [Table]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Investments, Owned, Federal Income Tax Note [Line Items]
Investments, Owned, Federal Income Tax Note [Line Items]
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Dates
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Dates
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract]
Current federal income tax expense (benefit)
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred federal income tax expense (benefit)
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current state income tax expense (benefit)
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred state income tax expense (benefit)
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total income tax expense
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Deferred tax liabilities
Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract]
Property, plant and equipment
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Commodity price and interest rate derivatives
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Derivatives
Total deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Deferred tax assets
Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract]
NOL and tax credit carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards
Employee benefits and compensation costs
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits
Accrued litigation loss contingency
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Loss Reserves
Bonus and vacation accrual
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities
Other
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Net deferred income tax liability
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Deferred income tax liability - current
Deferred income tax liability - non-current
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards [Abstract]
Federal income taxes statutory rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate
Increase (decrease) in rate as a result of:
Effective tax rate reconciliation, increase decrease [Abstract]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes
Penalties
Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Credits, Other
Income tax rate reconciliation penalties
Income tax rate reconciliation penalties
Income tax rate reconciliation penalties
Return to provision adjustment
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Prior Year Income Taxes
Noncontrolling interest
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Noncontrolling Interest Income (Expense)
Non-deductible Spin-off costs
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Other
Other
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments
Effective income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations
Asset Retirement Obligation, Current
Asset Retirement Obligation, Current
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 of Estimates
Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate
Liabilities settled
Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled
ARO liability, Ending Balance
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years
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 Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Transaction Costs
Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Transaction Costs
Business Combination, Consideration Given [Abstract]
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred [Abstract]
Cash Paid at Closing
Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid
Total estimate consideration given
Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price
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]
Pro Forma Revenues
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Pro Forma Net Income
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)
Actual Basic total
Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic
Actual Diluted total
Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Derivative Contracts
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Operations by Line of Business
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
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
Operating expenses
Natural gas, oil and NGL transportation and other handling costs
Results of Operations, Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization and Accretion
Other Expenses
Other Expenses
Operating Expenses
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative contracts
Income from Continuing Operations
Assets
Equity Method Investments
Equity Method Investments
Cash capital expenditures
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets
Accrued capital expenditures
Accrued capital expenditures
Capital expendiutures, including those expeditures that have been incurred but for which cash has not been paid.
Summary of operating results by line of business
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]