Yellowstone National Park travel guide

Yellowstone National Park travel guide

National Airports

The closest airport to Yellowstone National Park is the Yellowstone Airport (WYS), which is located in West Yellowstone, Montana. However, this airport has limited flight options. The nearest major airport is the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), which is about 90 miles north of the park. Other regional airports near the park include Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) in Wyoming, and Cody/Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) in Wyoming.

Trains in Yellowstone National Park

There are no train services directly to Yellowstone National Park. However, the park can be accessed by train via nearby towns and cities, such as West Yellowstone, MT, and Gardiner, MT. Amtrak’s Empire Builder route, which runs between Chicago and Seattle/Portland, stops at stations in several cities near Yellowstone, including Whitefish, MT, and Livingston, MT. From these stations, visitors can take shuttle buses or rental cars to the park.

Buses in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park has a public transportation system called the Yellowstone National Park Shuttle System, which offers shuttle bus services between many popular attractions in the park.

In addition, various private companies offer guided tours and shuttle services within the park. Some of these companies include Xanterra Travel Collection, Yellowstone National Park Lodges, and Yellowstone Vacations.

Visitors can also rent a car from nearby cities such as Jackson, Wyoming, Bozeman, Montana, and Cody, Wyoming, and drive into the park. However, visitors should be aware that during the summer months, the park can become crowded, and parking at popular attractions can be limited.

How to get to Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park can be accessed by various modes of transportation:

By Air: The closest airport to Yellowstone National Park is the Yellowstone Airport (WYS) located in West Yellowstone, Montana. Other airports that are located within reasonable driving distance include Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and Jackson Hole Airport (JAC).

By Car: Yellowstone National Park is located in the western United States and is accessible by car via several major highways, including US Highway 20, US Highway 89, and US Highway 191.

By Bus: Greyhound Bus Lines and other private charter companies provide bus service to several nearby towns that serve as gateways to Yellowstone National Park, including Bozeman, West Yellowstone, and Jackson.

By Train: Amtrak provides train service to several nearby towns, including West Yellowstone, Montana, and Idaho Falls, Idaho. From these towns, visitors can rent a car or take a bus to the park.

By Tour: Several tour companies offer guided tours of Yellowstone National Park, including sightseeing tours, wildlife viewing tours, and hiking tours. These tours typically depart from nearby towns and cities, including Jackson, Wyoming, and Bozeman, Montana.

What is the best time to travel to Yellowstone National Park

The best time to travel to Yellowstone National Park depends on your interests and activities. The park is open year-round, but the peak season is from June through August when the weather is warmer, and all the park’s facilities are open. However, this is also the busiest time of year, and you may encounter large crowds.

If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting Yellowstone in the spring (April to May) or fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather can be unpredictable, and some facilities may be closed, but you can still enjoy the park’s natural beauty and wildlife.

If you are interested in winter activities, such as skiing or snowmobiling, then the winter season (December to February) may be the best time to visit Yellowstone. The park is less crowded during the winter, and you can enjoy unique activities, such as guided snowshoe tours and wildlife watching.

It is always best to check the park’s website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information on park conditions and facilities.

How to get around Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park has several options for transportation within the park.

Car: The most common way to get around Yellowstone is by car. There are several roads throughout the park that offer scenic drives and access to popular attractions. However, roads may close due to weather conditions, so it’s important to check the park website or contact the park for current road conditions.

Shuttle: Yellowstone offers a shuttle system that runs throughout the park during the summer months. The shuttle system is a great way to reduce traffic and parking congestion, and it provides access to popular destinations such as Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Tours: Yellowstone offers a variety of guided tours, including bus tours, boat tours, and guided hikes. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insight and information about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.

Bicycles: Bicycles are allowed on most park roads and offer a great way to explore the park at a slower pace. Bicycle rentals are available at several locations within the park.

Hiking: Yellowstone has over 1,000 miles of hiking trails that provide access to some of the park’s most remote and scenic areas. Hiking is a great way to explore the park and experience its natural beauty up close.

Accommodations in Yellowstone National Park

There are several accommodations available in and around Yellowstone National Park, ranging from camping and RV sites to hotels and lodges. Some of the popular lodging options in the park include:

Old Faithful Inn: This historic lodge located near the famous Old Faithful geyser is one of the most popular places to stay in the park. The inn has a rustic feel with wooden architecture and features a large stone fireplace in the lobby.

Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins: This historic hotel located near Yellowstone Lake offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The hotel has been recently renovated and features modern amenities.

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins: This hotel located near the Mammoth Hot Springs features a beautiful stone building and offers easy access to many of the park’s attractions.

Roosevelt Lodge and Cabins: This rustic lodge located in the northern part of the park offers cabins and a frontier-style restaurant. The lodge is close to many hiking trails and offers horseback riding and other outdoor activities.

Camping and RV sites: There are several campgrounds and RV sites available in the park, ranging from primitive to full hookups. Some of the popular campgrounds include Madison, Bridge Bay, and Canyon.