Enhancing Your Yellowstone Experience: Navigating Transportation
Traveling to and within West Yellowstone can sometimes pose challenges, yet the captivating beauty and memorable experiences awaiting you are absolutely worth the effort. When you plan out how to get here and get around, it can transform a good trip into an exceptional adventure.
This guide provides essential insights into reaching West Yellowstone and efficiently navigating its surroundings. Discover useful tips to simplify your trip. These tips will help you fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and diverse experiences that this place has to offer.
Flying Here
There are a few options for flying into West Yellowstone, but make sure to always call ahead regarding transportation once you land.
Yellowstone Airport
The Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is the closest and most convenient airport for West Yellowstone. Located just a few miles from West Yellowstone, it is open from mid-May through mid-October, during the peak season for visiting. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines serve here, operated by Sky West Airlines. With some rental car companies at the airport and numerous nearby lodging, you’ll have everything you need and be exploring nature in no time. If you are planning to rent a car, be sure to call ahead and reserve as vehicles are limited.
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is the closest airport that offers year-round travel near West Yellowstone. As the busiest airport near Yellowstone, BZN provides non-stop flights to more than 20 cities in the United States with connections all over the world. This airport is located 90 miles north of West Yellowstone, so you’ll need to sort out further travel plans with a nearby shuttle, taxi, or car rental company to make the journey down to West Yellowstone. Although the trek from Bozeman to Yellowstone contributes to your long day of traveling, the journey will be beautiful and the destination will be extremely rewarding.
Idaho Falls Regional Airport
Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) is another option for year-round travel to West Yellowstone. The airport is 110 miles south of West Yellowstone, so be sure to schedule travel from the airport to West Yellowstone prior to landing. IDA provides non-stop flights from 13 cities in the United States, like Las Vegas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, and Oakland, CA.
Driving Here
From Salt Lake City, Utah
Take 1-15 N to Idaho Falls, Idaho for 213 miles. At exit 119, take ramp RIGHT to US-20 E.
From Idaho Falls, Idaho
Take US-20 E approximately 110 miles.
Bozeman, Montana
Take US-191 S approximately 90 miles
From Jackson Hole, Wyoming & Grand Teton National Park
Take WY-22 W for 17.1 miles over the Teton Pass in Idaho. Stay on ID-33 NW for 23.9 miles. Turn RIGHT (north) onto ID-32 for 28.4 miles toward Ashton. Turn RIGHT (north) onto US-20 E for 37 miles to West Yellowstone.
Driving Tips
Year Round:
- Always use turnouts to let others by
- No littering
- Watch for wildlife on the road
Winter
- Drive slow as roads can be snow-packed and icy
- Always carry chains from November through April
- Keep your gas tank and windshield wiper fluid full
Summer
- Keep air conditioning off to prevent overheating
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Arriving in West Yellowstone: Shuttles, Buses, and More
Whether you’re flying into one of the more convenient airports or are traveling from a nearby destination like Salt Lake City, you’ll need transportation from the airport to your accommodations in West Yellowstone. Several companies can make traveling easy, no rental car necessary—but be sure to call ahead to learn about what’s available during your trip.
Bus/Shuttle
Bus and shuttle services are available from several operators for transfers to and from airports in Bozeman, Montana; Idaho Falls, Idaho; and Salt Lake City, Utah. Reservations are required and fees do apply. Local shuttles can also provide drop-offs from the West Yellowstone area to Yellowstone Park trailheads in the warm season and by snow coach in the winter.
Taxi
Taxi service is available year-round in West Yellowstone and to drop-off locations within Yellowstone Park. Reservations are required.
Exploring West Yellowstone: Rental Cars and More
Once you’ve arrived in West Yellowstone, you’ll need to get around in order to see all the sights and do all the unique activities Yellowstone has to offer. You can call around beforehand to find shuttle services to help you explore the area without the extra expense of a rental car; however, renting a car can maximize your freedom for exploration during your adventure in Yellowstone.
Car Rentals
Rental cars are available on a seasonal basis in West Yellowstone at multiple locations, including the Yellowstone airport and in-town businesses. You can also check online for car rentals through websites like Turo.
Guided Tours
During the warm months, park-approved tour operators offer tours into Yellowstone Park and the Grand Teton National Park/Jackson area. Guided winter tours into Yellowstone Park and the Custer Gallatin National Forest are offered via snow coach or snowmobile. Learn more about guided tours.
Check out our travel planner to learn more about traveling in and around West Yellowstone.