Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, is a vast wilderness spanning nearly 3,500 square miles across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Getting to this natural wonder requires careful planning due to its remote location and diverse access points. This guide provides detailed information on driving directions, scenic routes, transportation options, and park entrances to help you plan your journey to Yellowstone.
What Are the Best Driving Routes to Yellowstone National Park?
From Salt Lake City, Utah
- Via Idaho:
- Take I-15N to Idaho Falls
- Continue on US-20E to West Yellowstone Entrance
- Distance: Approximately 321 miles
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Duration: Around 5 hours
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Via Wyoming:
- Take I-80E to UT-30E
- Continue to WY-89 North, passing through Jackson and Grand Teton National Park
- Distance: About 332 miles
- Duration: Over 6 hours
From Bozeman, Montana
- To West Entrance:
- Drive south on US-191 to West Yellowstone, Montana
- Distance: About 90 miles
-
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
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To North Entrance:
- Take I-90 West to Exit 333 at Livingston, Montana
- Continue on Highway 89 South to Gardiner, Montana
- Distance: Approximately 90 miles
- Duration: About 1.5 hours
From Cody, Wyoming
To East Entrance:
– Take WY-120 North to WY-296 West (Chief Joseph Scenic Byway)
– Continue to the Northeast Entrance
– Distance: About 50 miles
– Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Which Routes Offer the Most Scenic Views?
- Wyoming and Grand Teton National Park Route:
- Take I-80E to UT-30E to WY-89 North
- Passes through Jackson, Wyoming, and Grand Teton National Park
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Offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range and alpine landscapes
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Beartooth Highway (Highway 212):
- Known for its spectacular mountain scenery
- Popular route to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone
- Reaches elevations of nearly 11,000 feet with sweeping views of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness
How Do Road Conditions and Seasonal Accessibility Affect Travel?
Seasonal Closures
- Many park roads close during winter (typically November to April)
- Only the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT) to Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT) road remains open year-round
Road Construction
- Common after snow clearance in spring
- Can cause delays and temporary closures
- Check the park’s official website for up-to-date information on road conditions and construction projects
What Transportation Options Are Available?
Public Transit
- Bus Services:
- Greyhound buses run to Bozeman and Livingston, Montana
- Year-round bus service from Bozeman to West Yellowstone, Montana
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Limited summer service from Idaho to West Yellowstone
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Shuttle Services:
- Salt Lake City Express offers transportation from Salt Lake City to West Yellowstone and Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- Ideal for visitors flying into Salt Lake City International Airport
Car Rental
- Available at major airports near Yellowstone:
- Salt Lake City International Airport
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport
- Highly recommended due to limited public transportation within the park
What Are the Primary Access Points to Yellowstone National Park?
Park Entrances
| Entrance | Location | Seasonal Accessibility |
|---|---|---|
| North | Near Gardiner, Montana | Open year-round |
| Northeast | Near Silver Gate, Montana | Open year-round |
| West | Near West Yellowstone, Montana | Open year-round (may have winter restrictions) |
| South | Near Grand Teton National Park | Open late April to early November |
| East | Near Cody, Wyoming | Open May to November |
Hours of Operation and Fees
- Entrances generally open 24/7, with some winter restrictions
- Entrance fees apply:
- Private Vehicle: $35 (valid for 7 days)
- Motorcycle: $30 (valid for 7 days)
- Individual (on foot, bicycle, etc.): $20 (valid for 7 days)
- Annual passes available:
- Yellowstone Annual Pass: $70
- America the Beautiful Pass (valid for all national parks): $80
What Should Visitors Know About Parking in Yellowstone?
- Ample parking available at each entrance and major attractions
- During peak season (June-August), arrive early at popular sites to secure parking
- Some areas may have time limits or restrictions for oversized vehicles
- Consider using park shuttle services when available to reduce parking concerns
By following this comprehensive guide on how to get to Yellowstone National Park, visitors can plan their journey effectively, choosing the best routes and transportation options to suit their needs. Remember to check the official Yellowstone National Park website for the most up-to-date information on road conditions, closures, and park regulations before your trip.