Flying to Yellowstone National Park requires choosing the best airport based on convenience, budget, and available flight options. While there are no commercial airports inside the park, visitors can fly into several nearby airports, each offering different advantages. Whether you prefer the closest option or a major hub with more flights, this guide will help you find the best route to Yellowstone.
Nearest Airports to Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is located in the northwestern United States, primarily in Wyoming but also extending into Montana and Idaho. Due to its remote location, there are no major commercial airports within the park itself. However, several regional and international airports provide convenient access to Yellowstone. Below are the nearest airports that serve as gateways to the park.
Yellowstone Airport (WYS) – Closest Airport
- Location: West Yellowstone, Montana
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 3 miles from the park’s West Entrance
- Airlines: Seasonal flights operated by Delta Connection
- Best For: Visitors entering through the West Entrance
- Notes: This airport operates only seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall. Rental car services are available for easy transportation into the park.
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
- Location: Jackson, Wyoming
- Distance to Yellowstone: About 50 miles from the South Entrance
- Airlines: Served by major airlines like American, Delta, and United
- Best For: Travelers planning to visit both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone
- Notes: The only commercial airport located inside a U.S. national park. Offers stunning views of the Teton Range during landing and takeoff.
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
- Location: Bozeman, Montana
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 90 miles from the North Entrance
- Airlines: Major carriers including Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, and United
- Best For: Visitors entering through the North Entrance at Gardiner or the West Entrance at West Yellowstone
- Notes: Open year-round with numerous direct flights from major U.S. cities. Rental cars and shuttles are available for park access.
Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA)
- Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho
- Distance to Yellowstone: About 110 miles from the West Entrance
- Airlines: Served by Alaska, American, Delta, and United
- Best For: Travelers approaching from the southwest, including those coming from Salt Lake City
- Notes: A good alternative for those looking for more flight options and affordable fares. Rental cars are available for the drive to Yellowstone.
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)
- Location: Billings, Montana
- Distance to Yellowstone: About 130 miles from the Northeast Entrance
- Airlines: Served by Alaska, American, Delta, and United
- Best For: Visitors exploring the scenic Beartooth Highway or entering via the Northeast Entrance
- Notes: Offers year-round service with multiple direct flights. Ideal for those planning to visit Yellowstone and other attractions in Montana.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – Major Hub
- Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
- Distance to Yellowstone: Around 320 miles from the West Entrance
- Airlines: A major hub with extensive domestic and international flight options
- Best For: Travelers looking for the widest range of flight options and potentially lower fares
- Notes: Though farther from the park, this airport is a great option for those who don’t mind a longer scenic drive (about 5-6 hours) to Yellowstone.
Choosing the Best Airport for Your Trip
The best airport for your Yellowstone trip depends on several factors, including flight availability, budget, and the entrance you plan to use. If you prefer a short drive, Yellowstone Airport (WYS) or Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) are the closest. However, for more flight options and better year-round availability, Bozeman (BZN) and Salt Lake City (SLC) are excellent choices.
Choosing the Best Airport
When planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, selecting the right airport can significantly impact travel time, convenience, and overall experience. Several airports serve as gateways to the park, each with its own advantages depending on factors like distance, flight availability, and transportation options.
Closest Airports to Yellowstone
Yellowstone Airport (WYS)
- Location: West Yellowstone, Montana
- Distance to Park: Less than 5 miles from the park’s West Entrance
- Best For: Travelers looking for the closest possible airport to the park
- Considerations: Limited flight availability, primarily seasonal service
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
- Location: Jackson, Wyoming
- Distance to Park: About 50 miles from Yellowstone’s South Entrance
- Best For: Visitors also exploring Grand Teton National Park
- Considerations: Offers year-round service, but flights can be expensive
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
- Location: Bozeman, Montana
- Distance to Park: Around 90 miles to the North Entrance
- Best For: Travelers looking for a balance of flight availability and proximity
- Considerations: Offers more airline options and competitive pricing
Other Regional Airport Options
Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA)
- Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho
- Distance to Park: Approximately 110 miles to the West Entrance
- Best For: Those seeking lower airfare and rental car availability
- Considerations: Requires a longer drive to reach the park
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)
- Location: Billings, Montana
- Distance to Park: About 130 miles to the Northeast Entrance
- Best For: Travelers looking to explore Montana before entering Yellowstone
- Considerations: Longer drive time, but often more affordable flights
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Airport
Flight Availability and Pricing
Larger airports like Bozeman (BZN) and Billings (BIL) tend to offer more flight options and competitive pricing compared to smaller regional airports like Yellowstone Airport (WYS). If budget is a concern, consider comparing fares from multiple airports.
Driving Distance to the Park
While some airports are closer to Yellowstone, others may offer a more scenic or practical drive. For example, flying into Jackson Hole (JAC) allows visitors to experience Grand Teton National Park en route to Yellowstone.
Rental Car and Transportation Options
Most airports servicing Yellowstone provide rental car facilities, but availability and pricing can vary. Bozeman (BZN) and Billings (BIL) generally offer more rental car options at competitive prices compared to smaller airports.
Seasonal Flight Availability
Some airports, such as Yellowstone Airport (WYS), only operate seasonally. Be sure to check flight schedules in advance, especially if traveling outside of peak summer months.
By carefully considering the best airport for your trip, you can optimize travel time, budget, and overall convenience when visiting Yellowstone National Park.
Planning Your Flight
Choosing the Nearest Airport
Yellowstone National Park does not have a commercial airport within its boundaries, so visitors must fly into a nearby airport and continue their journey by car or shuttle. The closest airports to Yellowstone include:
- Yellowstone Airport (WYS) – Located in West Yellowstone, Montana, this is the closest airport to the park's west entrance. It mainly operates seasonal flights.
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) – Approximately 90 miles from the north and west entrances, BZN offers a wider range of flight options.
- Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) – Situated about 60 miles from the park's south entrance, JAC provides a scenic entry point through Grand Teton National Park.
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – Located around 110 miles from Yellowstone’s west entrance, offering multiple domestic flight connections.
- Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) – Roughly 130 miles from the park’s northeast entrance, BIL is a good option for those traveling from the eastern U.S.
Finding the Best Flight Deals
To secure the best airfare to Yellowstone, consider the following tips:
- Book in Advance – Flights to Yellowstone’s surrounding airports can fill up quickly, especially during peak summer months. Booking early can help secure lower fares.
- Use Fare Comparison Tools – Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak can help compare prices across multiple airlines.
- Consider Alternative Airports – If prices are high for your preferred airport, check flights to nearby airports like Salt Lake City (SLC), which is about a 4.5-hour drive from the park.
Connecting Transportation from the Airport
Once you arrive at your chosen airport, you’ll need to arrange transportation to Yellowstone. Options include:
- Rental Cars – Available at all major airports, a rental car is the most flexible way to explore the park.
- Shuttle Services – Some airports, like Bozeman and Jackson Hole, offer seasonal shuttle services to Yellowstone.
- Ride-Sharing & Taxis – Limited availability in remote areas, so booking in advance is recommended.
Best Time to Book Your Flight
The best time to book flights to Yellowstone depends on your travel season:
- Summer (June–August) – The busiest time, requiring advance booking for the best prices.
- Spring & Fall (April–May, September–October) – Shoulder seasons offer better flight deals and fewer crowds.
- Winter (November–March) – Limited flight options due to seasonal closures, but often lower airfare prices.
By carefully planning your flight and choosing the best airport, you can ensure a smooth and convenient trip to Yellowstone National Park.
Ground Transportation from Airports
When flying to Yellowstone National Park, the closest airports are Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), Yellowstone Airport (WYS), and Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA). Upon arrival, various ground transportation options are available to help you reach the park efficiently.
Rental Cars
Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to travel from the airport to Yellowstone. Major airports near the park have rental car agencies offering a range of vehicles, including SUVs for rugged terrain. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak summer months.
Shuttle Services
Several shuttle companies provide services from airports to Yellowstone National Park and nearby destinations. These shuttles often operate on a schedule and may require advance reservations. Some services offer direct routes to park entrances, while others stop at accommodations in gateway towns like West Yellowstone, Gardiner, and Cody.
Rideshare and Taxis
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available at larger airports such as Bozeman and Jackson Hole, but their availability may be limited in remote areas near the park. Traditional taxi services are also an option, though they can be costly for longer distances.
Private Transfers
For a more personalized experience, private car services and chartered transportation can be arranged. These services are ideal for families, groups, or travelers seeking direct transport to their lodging without multiple stops.
Bus and Public Transportation
Public transportation options to Yellowstone are limited. However, some regional bus services operate routes from major cities to nearby towns, where visitors can arrange further transportation into the park. It’s important to check schedules and availability in advance.
Bicycles and Alternative Transport
For adventurous travelers, some nearby towns offer bicycle rentals, allowing visitors to cycle parts of the journey to Yellowstone. Keep in mind that distances between airports and the park can be significant, so this option is best for only short segments of the trip.
Planning transportation ahead of time ensures a smooth journey from the airport to Yellowstone National Park, allowing visitors to focus on enjoying the park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Tips and Recommendations
When planning your trip to Yellowstone National Park, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Below are some tips and recommendations to help you with your travel plans.
Choosing the Best Airport
Yellowstone National Park is not directly served by a major airport, so selecting the most convenient airport is crucial. Here are some of the best options:
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) – Located in Montana, this airport is one of the most popular choices for visitors due to its variety of flight options and proximity to the park’s North and West Entrances.
- Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) – Situated in Wyoming, this airport is the closest to the South Entrance and offers stunning views of the Grand Tetons.
- Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) – Located in Cody, Wyoming, this airport provides easy access to the park’s East Entrance.
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – A good option for those entering through the West Entrance, offering a balance between convenience and affordability.
- Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) – A bit farther from the park, but ideal for those who want to explore Montana before heading to Yellowstone.
Booking Flights in Advance
Yellowstone is a popular destination, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and early fall). To secure the best flight deals and availability:
- Book your flights at least three to six months in advance for the best prices.
- Consider flying on weekdays for lower fares.
- Use fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to monitor price fluctuations.
Renting a Car for Flexibility
Since public transportation options are limited, renting a car is the best way to explore Yellowstone:
- Choose an all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle if you plan to visit during winter or explore rugged areas.
- Consider fuel efficiency, as gas stations inside the park are limited and fuel prices may be higher.
- Pick up your rental at the airport to start your journey immediately.
Best Times to Travel
- Summer (June – August): Most popular but also the busiest season. Expect higher prices and crowded locations.
- Spring (April – May) & Fall (September – October): Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and a great time for wildlife viewing.
- Winter (November – March): Limited access due to snow, but ideal for those interested in winter sports and solitude.
Preparing for Road Conditions
Yellowstone’s roads can be unpredictable, especially during early spring and late fall. Keep these tips in mind:
- Check road conditions on the National Park Service website before your trip.
- Have a backup plan in case of unexpected closures due to weather or maintenance.
- Carry emergency supplies like a flashlight, blanket, and extra food and water.
Alternative Transportation Options
If you prefer not to drive, consider these alternatives:
- Shuttle services – Some tour companies offer shuttle services from major airports to Yellowstone.
- Guided tours – A great way to explore the park without worrying about navigation and logistics.
- Biking – Some areas allow cycling, but be prepared for long distances and challenging terrain.
By following these tips and recommendations, you can ensure a well-planned and enjoyable trip to Yellowstone National Park.
Choosing the best airport for your Yellowstone trip depends on your travel priorities—whether it’s convenience, budget, or scenery. By planning ahead, booking smartly, and selecting the right transportation, you can make your journey to Yellowstone stress-free and enjoyable. Start your adventure today by comparing flight options and choosing the airport that works best for you.