Yellowstone National Park 21

Scenic Drives Near Yellowstone National Park: A Comprehensive Guide

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Yellowstone National Park and its surrounding areas offer some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the United States. From the iconic Beartooth Highway to the winding roads of the Grand Loop, visitors can experience diverse landscapes, wildlife, and geological wonders. These routes showcase alpine meadows, granite peaks, glacier-carved valleys, and geothermal features, providing unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts and road trip lovers alike.

What Are the Top Scenic Drives Near Yellowstone National Park?

scenic drives near yellowstone national park
Image ‘File:Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park, View towards Northwest 20110819 1.jpg’ by DXR, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

  1. Beartooth Highway: This 68-mile stretch of US 212 between Red Lodge and Cooke City, Montana, is often called the most scenic drive in America. It reaches an elevation of 10,947 feet and offers stunning views of alpine landscapes.

  2. Chief Joseph Scenic Byway: Spanning 47 miles on Wyoming 296, this route connects Cody to the Beartooth Highway, passing through the Shoshone National Forest with views of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River.

  3. Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway: This 27.5-mile drive on US 14 from Cody to Yellowstone’s east entrance showcases rugged canyons and the picturesque Wapiti Valley.

  4. Grand Loop Road: A 142-mile figure-eight loop within Yellowstone, connecting major attractions like Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

  5. West Entrance Road: A 14-mile stretch from West Yellowstone to Madison Junction, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

How Long Does It Take to Drive These Scenic Routes?

scenic drives near yellowstone national park
Image ‘File:Mammoth Terraces.jpg’ by Frank Schulenburg
Scenic Drive Distance Estimated Drive Time
Beartooth Highway 68 miles 4.5 hours
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway 47 miles 1 hour
Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway 27.5 miles Under 1 hour
Grand Loop Road 142 miles 4-7 hours
West Entrance Road 14 miles 30 minutes

What Are the Best Scenic Byways Within Yellowstone?

  1. Mammoth Hot Springs to Tower Junction: This 18-mile stretch offers views of Undine Falls and the Petrified Tree. The Blacktail Plateau Drive is a scenic detour available from July to early November.

  2. Tower Junction to Northeast Entrance: A 29-mile route crossing the Yellowstone River into Lamar Valley, known for its wildlife viewing opportunities.

  3. Lower Grand Loop Road: This 96-mile section links Madison, Norris, Canyon Village, West Thumb, and Old Faithful, showcasing many of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions.

What Challenges Might Drivers Face on These Scenic Routes?

  • Seasonal Closures: Many roads, including the Beartooth Highway, are closed from mid-October to late May due to snow.
  • Road Conditions: High-elevation routes require vehicles in good condition, prepared for mountain driving.
  • Traffic: During peak season, especially on the Grand Loop Road, traffic can be heavy, extending drive times.

Are There Organized Tours Available for These Scenic Drives?

Yes, several options are available for those who prefer guided experiences:

  • Yellowstone National Park Lodges: Offers guided tours that include scenic drives, hiking, and wildlife watching.
  • Local Tour Operators: Companies based in nearby towns provide various packages that incorporate scenic drives.
  • Custom Tours: Some operators offer personalized itineraries focusing on specific interests like photography or geology.

What Are the Best Times of Year for Scenic Drives Near Yellowstone?

  • Summer (June-August): Peak season with all roads open, but expect crowds.
  • Fall (September-October): Fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors, but some roads may close due to early snow.
  • Spring (May-June): Wildlife is active, but some high-elevation roads may still be closed.
  • Winter (November-April): Limited access, but unique opportunities for snowmobile tours on some routes.

How Can Visitors Prepare for Scenic Drives Near Yellowstone?

  1. Check road conditions and closures before departing.
  2. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and suitable for mountain driving.
  3. Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
  4. Bring binoculars and a camera for wildlife viewing and capturing scenery.
  5. Plan for limited cell phone coverage in remote areas.

What Wildlife Might Be Seen on These Scenic Drives?

  • Bison, elk, and deer are common sights along many routes.
  • The Lamar Valley is known for wolf and grizzly bear sightings.
  • Bighorn sheep can often be spotted in mountainous areas.
  • Various bird species, including bald eagles, can be seen throughout the region.

Remember to always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never feed or approach animals.

By exploring these scenic drives near Yellowstone National Park, visitors can experience the diverse beauty of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, from dramatic mountain passes to serene valleys and unique geothermal features. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these routes offer unforgettable journeys through one of America’s most iconic landscapes.

References:
1. Road Trip USA: 12 Scenic Drives in Yellowstone National Park
2. Stay Montana: Yellowstone National Park Scenic Drives
3. Yellowstone National Park Lodges: The Most Scenic Drives in Yellowstone

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