Which Highways Connect with Yellowstone National Park: A Comprehensive Guide

Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, is accessible through several major highways that connect to its five entrances. These highways include US Route 20, Wyoming Highway 191, Montana Highway 89, US Route 212, Wyoming Highway 296, and Montana Highway 287. Each entrance offers unique access points to different areas of the park, with varying seasonal accessibility and amenities for visitors.

Which Highways Lead to the South Entrance of Yellowstone?

The South Entrance of Yellowstone National Park is primarily accessed via two major highways:

1. US Route 20
2. Wyoming Highway 191

These highways converge at Moran, Wyoming, providing a gateway for visitors coming from Grand Teton National Park. Here are some key details about this entrance:

• Distance from Major Cities:
• Jackson, Wyoming: Approximately 57 miles north

• Idaho Falls, Idaho: About 140 miles east

• Seasonal Accessibility: Closed in winter (typically early November to early May)

• Amenities:

• Adequate parking near the entrance
• Rest areas along the route

• Grant Village Visitor Center and South Entrance Ranger Station for visitor services

• Notable Challenges:

• Passage through Grand Teton National Park required (additional entrance fee)
• Potential delays due to construction projects (e.g., Lewis River Bridge)

How Does Montana Highway 89 Connect to Yellowstone’s North Entrance?

Montana Highway 89 serves as the primary connection to Yellowstone’s North Entrance, located in Gardiner, Montana. This entrance is particularly significant for several reasons:

1. Year-round accessibility
2. Proximity to Mammoth Hot Springs

Key information about this highway and entrance includes:

• Distance from Major Cities:
• Bozeman, Montana: Approximately 85 miles south

• Billings, Montana: About 210 miles west and south

• Road Conditions: Generally well-maintained, but subject to occasional weather-related closures

• Facilities:

• Ample parking near the entrance and at Mammoth Hot Springs
• Rest areas available along the route
• Albright Visitor Center for comprehensive visitor services

What Role Does US Route 212 Play in Accessing Yellowstone?

US Route 212 is crucial for accessing Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance from Cooke City, Montana. This highway is known for its scenic beauty and provides access to the famous Lamar Valley. Here’s what visitors should know:

• Key Cities and Distances:
• Billings, Montana: Approximately 220 miles via I-90 and US-212

• Red Lodge, Montana: About 70 miles west on US-212

• Seasonal Considerations:

• Closed during winter months

• Beartooth Highway section (part of US-212) is particularly scenic but challenging

• Available Services:

• Limited parking in Cooke City and near the entrance
• Sparse rest areas along the route
• Northeast Entrance Ranger Station for basic information

Which Other Highways Connect to Yellowstone’s Remaining Entrances?

Yellowstone National Park has two additional entrances, each accessed by different highways:

1. East Entrance:
2. Accessed via Wyoming Highway 296
3. Connects from Cody, Wyoming
4. Open from early May to early November

5. Leads to Yellowstone Lake

6. West Entrance:

7. Accessed via Montana Highway 287
8. Located in West Yellowstone, Montana
9. Most popular entrance
10. Open from late April to early November
11. Provides access to Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring

What Should Visitors Know About Highway Conditions When Planning a Trip to Yellowstone?

When planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park using any of the connecting highways, visitors should keep the following points in mind:

1. Seasonal Closures:
2. Many entrances and their connecting highways close during winter months

3. The North Entrance (via Montana Highway 89) is the only year-round access point

4. Weather Impacts:

5. Mountain weather can be unpredictable and affect road conditions

6. Snow and ice are common in spring and fall, even when entrances are open

7. Construction and Maintenance:

8. Regular road improvements may cause delays

9. Check the park’s official website for current road status and construction updates

10. Wildlife Considerations:

11. Animal crossings are common and can cause traffic slowdowns

12. Follow park guidelines for safe wildlife viewing from highways

13. Vehicle Restrictions:

14. Some roads, particularly the Beartooth Highway, can be challenging for larger vehicles

15. RV and trailer length restrictions may apply on certain park roads

16. Entrance Fees:

17. Be prepared to pay entrance fees at park boundaries
18. Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for multiple national park visits

By understanding which highways connect with Yellowstone National Park and being aware of these considerations, visitors can better plan their trip and enjoy a smoother journey to one of America’s most iconic natural wonders.

References

1. Yellowstone National Park Road Guides
2. Park Roads – Yellowstone National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
3. Yellowstone National Park Entrances: Which is Best?