How to get to Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is located primarily in Wyoming, with entrances in Montana and Idaho. There are several ways to reach the park, depending on your starting point and preferences:

By Air

The closest major airports to Yellowstone are:

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) – Bozeman, Montana (about 90 miles to the North Entrance)
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) – Jackson, Wyoming (about 60 miles to the South Entrance)
Yellowstone Airport (WYS) – West Yellowstone, Montana (open seasonally, about 3 miles to the West Entrance)
Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – Idaho Falls, Idaho (about 110 miles to the West Entrance)
Cody Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) – Cody, Wyoming (about 53 miles to the East Entrance)

From these airports, you can rent a car or arrange shuttle/bus service (seasonal and limited) to the park.

By Car

Driving is the most popular way to reach and explore Yellowstone. The park has five entrances:

North Entrance – Gardiner, Montana (open year-round, near Mammoth Hot Springs)
West Entrance – West Yellowstone, Montana (open late April to early November)
South Entrance – near Jackson, Wyoming (open May to early November)
East Entrance – near Cody, Wyoming (open May to early November)
Northeast Entrance – near Cooke City, Montana (open year-round, but access limited in winter)

Major highways connect these entrances to nearby cities. Rental cars are available at all major airports and in gateway towns.

By Bus or Shuttle

Some commercial bus and shuttle services operate from Bozeman, Cody, and Jackson to park entrances, especially in summer. Check with local providers for current schedules.

Train

There is no train service directly to Yellowstone National Park. The nearest Amtrak stations are in Salt Lake City, Utah and Whitefish, Montana.

Getting Around the Park

There is no public transportation within Yellowstone. You will need a private vehicle, rental car, or guided tour to explore the park. Bicycles are allowed on park roads, and hiking is a great way to experience the scenery.

Tip: Always check current road conditions and seasonal closures on the official National Park Service website before your trip.