The journey from Billings to Yellowstone National Park’s Old Faithful Geyser is a scenic adventure through Montana and Wyoming. This 227-mile trip takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the route chosen. The Beartooth Highway offers breathtaking views and leads to the park’s northeast entrance. Once inside, visitors can witness Old Faithful’s eruptions, which occur every 45-120 minutes. This guide provides essential information for planning your trip, including travel routes, geyser schedules, and park entrance fees.
What is the Best Route from Billings to Old Faithful Geyser?
The most scenic and recommended route from Billings to Old Faithful Geyser is via the Beartooth Highway. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the journey:
- Start in Billings, Montana
- Drive to Red Lodge, Montana (60 miles, approximately 1 hour)
- Take the Beartooth Highway from Red Lodge to Yellowstone’s northeast entrance (68 miles, about 1 hour 20 minutes)
- Enter the park and drive to Old Faithful via the Grand Loop Road (approximately 2 hours)
Notable stops along this route include:
- Beartooth Pass Summit
- Lamar Valley
- Hayden Valley
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
This route offers stunning vistas and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a favorite among visitors.
How Long Does the Drive Take from Billings to Old Faithful?
The total driving time from Billings to Old Faithful Geyser can vary, but typically ranges from 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and stops along the way. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
| Segment | Distance | Approximate Time |
|---|---|---|
| Billings to Red Lodge | 60 miles | 1 hour |
| Red Lodge to Northeast Entrance | 68 miles | 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Northeast Entrance to Old Faithful | Varies | 2-3 hours |
It’s important to note that these times are estimates and can be affected by various factors such as road construction, wildlife on the road, and scenic stops.
What are the Entrance Fees for Yellowstone National Park?
When planning your trip from Billings to Old Faithful, it’s essential to factor in the entrance fees for Yellowstone National Park. Here’s a breakdown of the current fees:
- Private Vehicle: $35 (7-day pass)
- Individual/Bicycle: $20 (7-day pass)
- Motorcycle: $30 (7-day pass)
- Annual Pass: $70
- America the Beautiful Annual Pass: $80 (access to all national parks and federal recreational lands)
Special passes and discounts are available for certain groups:
- Fourth-grade students and their families can get free access through the Every Kid Outdoors program
- U.S. military members and their dependents can obtain a free America the Beautiful annual pass
When Does Old Faithful Geyser Erupt?
Old Faithful Geyser, the star attraction of Yellowstone National Park, is known for its relatively predictable eruptions. Here are key points about its eruption schedule:
- Eruptions occur approximately every 45-120 minutes
- The average interval between eruptions is about 90 minutes
- Eruption duration ranges from 1.5 to 5 minutes
- Water can reach heights of 106-184 feet (32-56 meters)
- Eruptions are not significantly affected by seasonal variations
To make the most of your visit:
- Check the current eruption schedule at the park’s visitor center or website
- Arrive at least 20-30 minutes before the predicted eruption time
- Be patient, as actual eruption times can vary slightly
What Should I Pack for the Trip from Billings to Old Faithful?
When embarking on the journey from Billings to Old Faithful, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Here’s a comprehensive packing list:
- Clothing:
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary significantly)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
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Sun hat and sunglasses
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Outdoor Essentials:
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
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Reusable water bottles
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Navigation and Safety:
- Physical map of Yellowstone (cell service can be unreliable)
- First aid kit
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Flashlight or headlamp
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Food and Snacks:
- Pack a cooler with sandwiches, fruits, and snacks
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Energy bars for quick boosts during hikes
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Camera Equipment:
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
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Tripod for capturing Old Faithful eruptions
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Miscellaneous:
- Bear spray (available for purchase near the park)
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Plastic bags for trash (practice Leave No Trace principles)
Are There Any Must-See Stops Between Billings and Old Faithful?
While the main destination is Old Faithful, there are several noteworthy stops along the way that can enhance your journey from Billings:
- Beartooth Highway:
- Often called ‘the most beautiful drive in America’
- Offers stunning alpine views and switchbacks
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Plan for photo stops at scenic overlooks
-
Lamar Valley:
- Known as the ‘Serengeti of North America’
- Excellent for wildlife viewing (bison, elk, wolves)
-
Best visited early morning or late evening
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Mammoth Hot Springs:
- Unique terraced thermal features
- Historic Fort Yellowstone buildings
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Opportunity to see elk grazing in the town
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Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone:
- Spectacular waterfalls and colorful canyon walls
- Several viewpoints accessible by short walks
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Artist Point offers one of the most photographed views in the park
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Norris Geyser Basin:
- Hottest and most changeable thermal area in Yellowstone
- Features Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser
Remember to allocate enough time for these stops while ensuring you reach Old Faithful for its eruption schedule.
What Accommodation Options are Available Near Old Faithful?
When planning your trip from Billings to Old Faithful, consider these accommodation options within Yellowstone National Park:
- Old Faithful Inn:
- Historic log hotel adjacent to Old Faithful Geyser
- Rustic charm with modern amenities
-
Dining room and snack bar on-site
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Old Faithful Lodge Cabins:
- Budget-friendly option
- Simple cabins with shared bathrooms
-
Close proximity to Old Faithful Geyser
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Old Faithful Snow Lodge:
- Modern lodge open year-round
- Comfortable rooms and cabin-style accommodations
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On-site restaurant and gift shop
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Camping:
- Madison Campground (closest to Old Faithful area)
- Reservations recommended during peak season
For those preferring to stay outside the park:
- West Yellowstone: Offers a variety of hotels and motels about 30 miles from Old Faithful
- Jackson Hole: Luxury resorts and hotels, but a longer drive (about 2.5 hours) to Old Faithful
Booking well in advance is crucial, especially during the peak summer season.
How Can I Make the Most of My Visit to Old Faithful Geyser?
To maximize your experience at Old Faithful Geyser after your journey from Billings, consider these tips:
- Timing Your Visit:
- Check eruption predictions at the visitor center
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Arrive 20-30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot
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Explore the Surrounding Area:
- Walk the boardwalks to see other geysers and hot springs
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Visit the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center for interactive exhibits
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Photography Tips:
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full height of the eruption
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Consider time-lapse photography to showcase the entire event
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Attend a Ranger Program:
- Learn about the geology and history of Old Faithful
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Programs are free and offered throughout the day
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Dining and Relaxation:
- Enjoy a meal at the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room
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Relax on the Inn’s deck for a different perspective of the geyser
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Nighttime Viewing:
- Experience a nighttime eruption for a unique perspective
- Check with rangers for safety guidelines and eruption times
By following these suggestions, you’ll ensure a memorable visit to Old Faithful Geyser, making your journey from Billings truly worthwhile.
Reference:
1. The Ultimate Billings to Yellowstone Road Trip – Rock a Little Travel
2. Billings to Yellowstone National Park – Rome2Rio
3. Billings to Yellowstone + Beartooth Highway: Ultimate 2-Day Road Trip – Carry On Queen