The distance from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to Yellowstone National Park depends on the entrance you choose. The South Entrance, the most common route, is about 57 miles (92 km) away and takes 1.5 to 2 hours to drive. Other entrances, such as the West Entrance (127 miles) or North Entrance (170 miles), require longer travel times. Whether you're planning a scenic road trip through Grand Teton National Park or looking for the closest airport to Yellowstone, knowing the best routes, seasonal access, and travel tips ensures a smooth journey.
Direct Distance and Route Options
Distance Between Jackson Hole and Yellowstone
The distance from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to Yellowstone National Park varies depending on the entrance used. The most commonly used route is via the South Entrance, which is approximately 57 miles (92 km) from Jackson Hole. This drive typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
If traveling to other entrances of Yellowstone, the distances are as follows:
- West Entrance (via South Entrance and West Thumb): Around 127 miles (204 km), taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
- North Entrance (via South Entrance and Mammoth Hot Springs): Approximately 170 miles (274 km), requiring 4 to 5 hours of travel.
- Northeast Entrance (via South Entrance and Lamar Valley): Roughly 160 miles (257 km), with a drive time of 4 to 5 hours, depending on stops.
Main Route via the South Entrance
The most direct and popular route from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone is via U.S. Highway 191 North, which takes travelers through Grand Teton National Park before reaching the Yellowstone South Entrance. This route is particularly scenic, offering breathtaking views of the Teton Range, Jackson Lake, and various wildlife sightings.
Key travel points along this route:
- Jackson Hole to Grand Teton National Park Entrance: About 12 miles (19 km), taking 15–20 minutes.
- Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone South Entrance: Around 45 miles (72 km), requiring 1–1.5 hours.
Alternative Route Options
While the South Entrance route is the most common, travelers can also consider alternative routes based on their destination within Yellowstone:
- Via West Yellowstone (West Entrance): Travelers can take U.S. Highway 20 West through Idaho, passing through Teton Valley and entering Yellowstone via West Yellowstone, Montana. This route is longer but offers a different perspective of the region.
- Via Cody, Wyoming (East Entrance): A scenic but less commonly used route, travelers can take U.S. Highway 14/16/20 through Cody, known for its rich Western history, and enter Yellowstone through the East Entrance.
- Via Gardiner, Montana (North Entrance): For those heading to Mammoth Hot Springs or the northern regions of Yellowstone, traveling through U.S. Highway 89 North to Gardiner, Montana, provides access to the North Entrance.
Seasonal Considerations
Road conditions and accessibility vary by season:
- Spring & Summer: Roads are fully open, and traffic increases significantly due to peak tourism.
- Fall: Fewer crowds, but early snow may impact travel in higher elevations.
- Winter: The South Entrance to Yellowstone is closed to regular vehicles from early November to mid-April, requiring travel via snowcoach or snowmobile. The North Entrance near Gardiner, Montana, remains open year-round.
Understanding these distances and route options is crucial for planning a smooth and enjoyable trip from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park.
Travel Time Considerations
Distance and Estimated Drive Time
The drive from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to Yellowstone National Park varies in length depending on the chosen route and entrance. The most common route takes travelers north through Grand Teton National Park and into Yellowstone via the South Entrance.
- Jackson Hole to Yellowstone South Entrance: Approximately 60 miles (97 km), with an estimated drive time of 1.5 to 2 hours without stops.
- Jackson Hole to Old Faithful (via South Entrance): Around 100 miles (161 km), requiring about 2.5 to 3 hours of travel time.
- Jackson Hole to Yellowstone West Entrance (via Idaho): About 130 miles (209 km), typically a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
These estimates do not account for stops, traffic, or road conditions, which can significantly impact travel time.
Seasonal Road Conditions
Yellowstone’s roads are subject to seasonal closures due to snow and weather conditions, particularly in the winter months.
- Summer (June–September): All park roads are typically open, but traffic congestion can add delays, especially near popular attractions.
- Spring & Fall (April–May, October–November): Some roads may be closed or have restricted access due to lingering snow or early winter storms.
- Winter (December–March): Most park roads are closed to regular vehicles, with access limited to snowcoaches or snowmobiles.
Checking Yellowstone’s official website for road conditions is crucial before setting out.
Traffic and Peak Travel Times
Yellowstone is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, and travel times can be affected by high visitor numbers.
- Peak season (June–August): Expect heavier traffic, particularly at park entrances and near major attractions such as Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring.
- Best time to drive: Early morning or late afternoon helps avoid the busiest travel periods.
- Wildlife-related delays: Animals such as bison and elk frequently cross roads, causing traffic jams that can add unexpected delays.
Fuel and Rest Stops
There are limited fuel stations inside Yellowstone, so refueling before entering the park is recommended.
- Last fuel stop before entering from the south: Jackson or Moran Junction.
- Fuel stations inside Yellowstone: Available at select locations, including Old Faithful, Grant Village, and Mammoth Hot Springs.
Rest areas and picnic spots are available throughout the drive, especially within Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Stopping for breaks not only offers a chance to stretch but also enhances the experience with stunning views and wildlife sightings.
By carefully considering travel time factors, road conditions, and seasonal variations, visitors can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park.
Seasonal Access Information
Understanding the seasonal access conditions when traveling from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey. The availability of roads, weather conditions, and travel restrictions vary throughout the year, impacting how and when visitors can access the park.
Summer Access (June – September)
Summer is the most popular and accessible time to travel from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone. During this period:
- All park entrances are open, including the South Entrance, which is the primary access point from Jackson Hole.
- Road conditions are optimal, with dry pavement and clear visibility making for an easier drive.
- Longer daylight hours allow for extended sightseeing and safer travel.
- High visitor traffic is common, particularly in July and August, leading to potential delays.
- Lodging and campgrounds fill up quickly, so advance reservations are highly recommended.
Fall Access (October – November)
Fall offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds and stunning autumn foliage, but travelers should be aware of changing conditions:
- Park roads remain open through mid-October, depending on snowfall and weather conditions.
- Cooler temperatures can bring unpredictable weather, including early snowstorms.
- Wildlife activity increases, as animals prepare for winter, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing.
- Limited services in Yellowstone, with many lodges, visitor centers, and campgrounds closing by mid-October.
Winter Access (December – March)
During winter, access to Yellowstone from Jackson Hole is significantly restricted:
- The South Entrance is closed to regular vehicles due to heavy snowfall.
- Snowcoach and snowmobile tours are the only means of entry into Yellowstone from Jackson Hole.
- Teton Pass and surrounding highways may experience closures or require chains due to icy conditions.
- Grand Teton National Park remains accessible, offering winter recreation like skiing and wildlife viewing.
Spring Access (April – May)
Spring is a transitional season with gradually improving access, but conditions remain variable:
- Limited road openings, as most park roads begin reopening in mid-April to early May.
- Unpredictable weather, with lingering snow at higher elevations and occasional spring storms.
- Wildlife emerges, with opportunities to see bears, bison, and other animals returning to active areas.
- Fewer tourists, making it a peaceful time to visit before peak season.
Key Considerations for Seasonal Travel
- Check road conditions before departure by visiting the National Park Service (NPS) website or local travel advisories.
- Plan accommodations accordingly, as availability varies by season.
- Be prepared for changing weather, especially outside of summer months.
- Allow extra travel time during winter and early spring due to road closures and difficult driving conditions.
Each season offers a unique experience when traveling from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park. Whether you're visiting during the bustling summer months or the serene winter landscape, understanding seasonal access can help ensure a safe and memorable trip.
Planning Your Journey
Best Time to Travel
Choosing the right time to travel from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park can significantly impact your experience. The best time to make the journey is typically between late spring and early fall (May to October) when the roads are fully accessible, and the weather is favorable. Summer months (June to August) offer warm temperatures and longer daylight hours, but they also bring the highest volume of visitors. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider traveling in late spring or early fall when wildlife is active, and the scenery is stunning with seasonal changes.
Route Duration and Distance
The distance from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park varies depending on your chosen route and entrance point. The most common route is via the South Entrance, which is approximately 60 miles (97 km) from Jackson and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours of driving time under normal conditions. However, traffic congestion, roadwork, and wildlife crossings can extend the travel time.
If you're planning to visit other sections of the park, here are some estimated distances from Jackson Hole:
- Jackson Hole to Yellowstone South Entrance:
60 miles (1.5-2 hours) - Jackson Hole to Old Faithful:
97 miles (2.5 hours) - Jackson Hole to Yellowstone Lake:
79 miles (2 hours) - Jackson Hole to Mammoth Hot Springs:
139 miles (3.5 hours)
Essential Trip Preparations
Proper preparation is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are some essentials to consider before departing:
- Park Pass & Entry Fees: Ensure you have a valid national park pass. The entrance fee for Yellowstone is typically $35 per vehicle (valid for seven days).
- Weather Conditions: Check the forecast, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
- Road Conditions and Closures: Some roads in Yellowstone close seasonally, particularly from late fall through early spring. Check the National Park Service website for real-time updates.
- Navigation & Maps: Cell service can be limited in the park, so downloading offline maps or carrying a physical map is advisable.
- Food & Water Supplies: Facilities are available, but it's best to carry snacks and water, especially if planning to make stops along the way.
- Emergency Kit: Pack a first-aid kit, flashlight, and basic tools in case of vehicle issues.
Vehicle Recommendations
While any vehicle can make the drive from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone, certain factors should be considered based on the season and road conditions:
- Standard Vehicles: Suitable for summer and early fall travel when roads are clear.
- SUVs or 4WD Vehicles: Recommended for winter or early spring travel when snow or ice may still be present.
- RV & Camper Vans: Allowed but require careful route planning due to size restrictions on certain roads.
- Motorcycles & Bicycles: Allowed but should be used with caution due to unpredictable wildlife crossings and weather changes.
By carefully planning your journey and considering these factors, you can ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable drive from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park.
Additional Travel Tips
Check Weather and Road Conditions
Weather in the region can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Before setting out, check road conditions through the Wyoming Department of Transportation and the National Park Service websites. Snow and ice can impact travel in early spring and late fall, while summer thunderstorms may cause temporary delays.
Pack Essentials for the Journey
Given the remote nature of parts of the route, it's important to carry essentials, including:
- Extra water and snacks
- A physical map or downloaded GPS maps (cell service can be unreliable)
- A first-aid kit
- A flashlight and extra batteries
- Warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night
Fuel Up Before Entering the Park
Gas stations are scarce within Yellowstone National Park, and fuel prices tend to be higher. The last reliable places to fill up before entering the park from Jackson Hole include:
- Jackson, WY (multiple gas stations)
- Moose Junction (limited fuel availability)
- Flagg Ranch (near the South Entrance)
Observe Wildlife Safely
The roads between Jackson Hole and Yellowstone pass through prime wildlife habitats, including areas where bison, elk, moose, and bears are frequently spotted. Follow these safety guidelines:
- Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife
- Never feed animals
- Observe posted speed limits, especially in wildlife crossing zones
- Use pullouts for safe wildlife viewing and avoid stopping in the middle of the road
Plan for Limited Cell Service
Cell phone coverage is limited or nonexistent in many parts of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Download maps and important information in advance. If traveling in a group, establish meeting points in case you get separated.
Be Prepared for Park Entry Fees
Both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks require entrance fees. If you plan to visit multiple national parks, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass, which grants access to all U.S. national parks for one year.
Start Early to Avoid Crowds
During peak summer months, traffic congestion can be significant, especially at park entrances and popular attractions like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring. Departing early in the morning helps:
- Avoid long entrance lines
- Secure parking at major viewpoints
- Experience a quieter, more peaceful park environment
Respect Leave No Trace Principles
Both Grand Teton and Yellowstone are delicate ecosystems. Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact:
- Pack out all trash
- Stay on designated trails and boardwalks
- Respect wildlife and other visitors
- Follow fire regulations and restrictions
By keeping these travel tips in mind, your journey from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone will be safer, more enjoyable, and more respectful of the incredible natural landscapes along the way.
The drive from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park offers stunning scenery, diverse route options, and seasonal travel considerations that impact your trip. Whether you're heading through the South Entrance for direct access or exploring alternative routes, planning ahead ensures you make the most of your national park adventure.