Planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park? The nearest airport to Yellowstone is Yellowstone Airport (WYS), located just 3 miles from the West Entrance. However, this airport operates seasonally and offers limited flight options, so many travelers also consider Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) or Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) as alternatives. In this guide, we’ll explore the best airports near Yellowstone, including regional and major alternatives, to help you find the best option for your trip. If you're also considering a visit to Glacier National Park, check out our guide on where to fly into for Glacier National Park.
Primary Gateway Airport: Yellowstone Airport (WYS)
Location and Proximity to Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is the closest airport to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, situated just three miles north of West Yellowstone, Montana. This strategic location makes it one of the most convenient options for visitors looking to access the park quickly. The west entrance is a popular entry point due to its proximity to major attractions such as Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Norris Geyser Basin.
Seasonal Operations
Unlike larger commercial airports, Yellowstone Airport operates on a seasonal basis. It typically opens from late May through mid-October, aligning with the peak tourist season for Yellowstone National Park. Outside of this window, the airport ceases operations due to harsh winter conditions and lower visitor demand. Travelers planning a winter visit to Yellowstone will need to consider alternative airports such as Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) or Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), both of which offer year-round service.
Airlines and Flight Routes
Yellowstone Airport is a small regional airport with limited but essential commercial airline service. Delta Air Lines, operated by Delta Connection, provides seasonal flights connecting WYS to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). This route offers travelers a convenient link to a major hub with numerous domestic and international flight connections. Given the limited flight options, it is advisable to book flights well in advance, especially during the peak summer months when demand is highest.
Airport Facilities and Services
As a small regional airport, Yellowstone Airport offers basic amenities designed to support travelers heading to the national park. Facilities include a terminal building with rental car services, a small café, and essential passenger services. While it lacks extensive dining and shopping options found in larger airports, its primary advantage is its close proximity to Yellowstone, reducing overall travel time to the park.
Ground Transportation Options
Visitors arriving at Yellowstone Airport have several transportation options for reaching the park and surrounding areas:
- Rental Cars – Several major rental car companies operate at the airport, allowing travelers to pick up a vehicle upon arrival for easy access to Yellowstone National Park.
- Shuttle Services – Limited shuttle services may be available from local tour operators and hotels, though advance reservations are highly recommended.
- Taxis and Rideshares – Taxi services are available, though rideshare options like Uber and Lyft may be limited in this remote region.
Best for Travelers Who:
- Want the shortest travel time to Yellowstone National Park.
- Are visiting during the peak summer and early fall season.
- Prefer a small, easy-to-navigate airport experience.
- Plan to rent a car for park exploration.
While Yellowstone Airport (WYS) provides the most direct access to the park’s west entrance, its seasonal nature and limited flight options mean travelers should plan accordingly. Those visiting outside of the operating season or seeking more flight choices may need to consider alternative airports with year-round service.
Major Alternative Airports
If you're unable to fly into one of the primary gateway airports for Yellowstone National Park, several alternative airports may offer convenient access depending on your travel route, budget, and flight availability. These airports may require a longer drive to the park but can provide additional flight options, often at lower prices.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Salt Lake City International Airport is one of the largest airports in the region, offering extensive flight options from major U.S. cities and some international destinations.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 320 miles (515 km) to the park's West Entrance
- Flight Availability: Year-round service with numerous airlines
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars, shuttle services, and bus options available
- Pros: More frequent and competitively priced flights, major airline hubs
- Cons: Requires a 4.5- to 5-hour drive to reach the park
Denver International Airport (DEN)
For travelers seeking a major airport with a broad range of flight options, Denver International Airport provides an alternative entry point to Yellowstone.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 510 miles (820 km) to the park’s East Entrance
- Flight Availability: Extensive national and international flights year-round
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars and regional flights to smaller airports closer to Yellowstone
- Pros: Major airline connections, competitive airfare prices
- Cons: Requires a long drive (8+ hours) unless connecting to a regional flight
Spokane International Airport (GEG)
Spokane International Airport in Washington is another alternative for accessing Yellowstone via Montana or Idaho.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 400 miles (645 km) to the West Entrance
- Flight Availability: Year-round domestic flights with multiple carriers
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars available for road trips to the park
- Pros: Less crowded airport, lower-cost flights compared to smaller regional airports
- Cons: Long drive (6+ hours) to reach Yellowstone
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
Located in South Dakota, Rapid City Regional Airport is an option for those also planning to visit Mount Rushmore or the Black Hills before heading to Yellowstone.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 400 miles (645 km) to the park’s East Entrance
- Flight Availability: Domestic flights with major U.S. airlines
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars available for road trips
- Pros: Ideal for combined trips to other national parks and landmarks
- Cons: Requires a long drive to Yellowstone
Missoula Montana Airport (MSO)
Missoula Montana Airport provides a regional alternative for travelers coming from the northwest.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 260 miles (418 km) to the West Entrance
- Flight Availability: Limited airline service but year-round flights
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars and shuttle services available
- Pros: Closer than some major alternatives, scenic drive through Montana
- Cons: Fewer direct flights and limited airline options
Great Falls International Airport (GTF)
Great Falls International Airport in Montana is another regional airport that provides a viable alternative for accessing Yellowstone.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 200 miles (322 km) to the North Entrance
- Flight Availability: Year-round service with limited airline options
- Ground Transportation: Rental car options available for self-drive trips
- Pros: Closer than some larger alternatives, less crowded airport
- Cons: Limited flight availability and fewer direct routes
Choosing an Alternative Airport
Selecting an alternative airport depends on several factors, including flight availability, cost, and personal travel preferences. While these airports may require longer drives, they can offer more affordable flights and greater flexibility in travel plans. If you’re considering a road trip as part of your Yellowstone adventure, using one of these alternative airports might be a great option.
Secondary Airport Options
While the primary gateway airports provide the most convenient access to Yellowstone National Park, several secondary airport options are available for travelers looking for alternative routes, lower airfare, or different travel experiences. These airports may require a longer drive to the park but can offer benefits such as better flight availability, lower costs, or access to additional scenic routes.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Salt Lake City International Airport is one of the largest airports in the region and serves as a major hub for travelers heading to Yellowstone.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 320 miles (515 km) to the park’s West Entrance (West Yellowstone, MT)
- Flight Availability: Year-round service with extensive domestic and some international flights
- Airlines: Delta, Southwest, United, American, Alaska, JetBlue, and more
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars, shuttle services, and bus routes available
- Best For: Travelers looking for a large airport with frequent flights, competitive pricing, and the option to combine a Yellowstone visit with other destinations in Utah and Idaho
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport is another major hub that provides access to Yellowstone, though it requires a longer drive.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 510 miles (820 km) to the nearest park entrance
- Flight Availability: Extensive year-round service with numerous domestic and international connections
- Airlines: United, Southwest, Delta, American, Frontier, and multiple international carriers
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars and long-distance bus options available
- Best For: Travelers looking for a major airport with lower airfare options and the opportunity to explore Colorado and Wyoming en route to Yellowstone
Missoula Montana Airport (MSO)
Missoula Montana Airport is a regional airport that serves as a viable alternative for travelers looking to explore Montana before reaching Yellowstone.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 260 miles (418 km) to the West Entrance
- Flight Availability: Year-round service with seasonal variations
- Airlines: Alaska, Delta, United, American
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars and limited shuttle options
- Best For: Those interested in visiting Montana’s scenic areas, including Glacier National Park, before heading to Yellowstone
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
Located in South Dakota, Rapid City Regional Airport is a unique option for travelers wanting to combine a trip to Yellowstone with a visit to Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 450 miles (725 km)
- Flight Availability: Year-round service with seasonal fluctuations
- Airlines: American, Delta, United, and Allegiant
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars available; no direct shuttle services to Yellowstone
- Best For: Visitors planning a road trip that includes multiple national parks and historical sites
Spokane International Airport (GEG)
Spokane International Airport in Washington is a viable alternative for travelers who want to explore the Pacific Northwest before heading to Yellowstone.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 400 miles (644 km)
- Flight Availability: Year-round service with several domestic connections
- Airlines: Alaska, Delta, Southwest, United, American
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars and regional bus services available
- Best For: Those looking to explore Idaho and Montana on a scenic road trip to Yellowstone
Great Falls International Airport (GTF)
Great Falls International Airport provides another Montana-based option for accessing Yellowstone, particularly for those coming from the northern U.S.
- Distance to Yellowstone: Approximately 200 miles (322 km)
- Flight Availability: Year-round service with fewer flight options compared to larger airports
- Airlines: Alaska, Delta, United, and Allegiant
- Ground Transportation: Rental cars available; limited shuttle services
- Best For: Travelers seeking a quieter arrival point with access to Montana’s scenic landscapes
Each of these secondary airports provides unique advantages depending on flight availability, pricing, and preferred travel routes. While they may require longer drives to Yellowstone, they can offer more flight options, lower fares, and the opportunity to explore additional destinations along the way.
Comparing Airport Choices
When planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, selecting the best airport depends on various factors, including distance, flight availability, seasonal considerations, costs, and ground transportation options. Below, we compare the primary airport choices to help you make an informed decision.
Distance to Park Entrances
The proximity of an airport to Yellowstone’s entrances can significantly impact travel time:
- Yellowstone Airport (WYS) – Located just 3 miles from the park's West Entrance, this is the closest airport to Yellowstone.
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) – Approximately 90 miles from the North Entrance, taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.
- Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) – Situated about 60 miles from the South Entrance, with a scenic drive through Grand Teton National Park.
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – Around 110 miles from the West Entrance, roughly a 2-hour drive.
- Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) – Located in Cody, Wyoming, about 53 miles from the East Entrance, taking approximately 1 hour.
- Billings-Logan International Airport (BIL) – Roughly 130 miles from the Northeast Entrance, with a 2.5-hour drive via the scenic Beartooth Highway.
Flight Availability and Frequency
Flight availability varies based on seasonality and airport size:
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) offers the most year-round flight options, with connections to major U.S. cities.
- Billings-Logan International Airport (BIL) also provides year-round service with multiple airlines.
- Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) has strong seasonal flight availability, especially during summer and winter.
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) and Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) offer limited but consistent service.
- Yellowstone Airport (WYS) operates seasonally from June through September with limited flights.
Seasonal Considerations
Seasonal access is a critical factor when choosing an airport:
- Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is only open during the summer months, making it ideal for peak-season visitors.
- Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) experiences high winter and summer traffic due to its proximity to Grand Teton and ski resorts.
- Bozeman (BZN) and Billings (BIL) remain operational year-round, providing reliable access regardless of season.
- Idaho Falls (IDA) and Cody (COD) are also good year-round options but may have fewer available flight routes in winter.
Price Comparisons
Flight prices can vary widely based on demand, season, and airport:
- Bozeman (BZN) and Billings (BIL) often have the most competitive flight prices due to higher traffic and multiple airline options.
- Jackson Hole (JAC) tends to have higher fares, especially in peak travel seasons.
- Yellowstone Regional (COD) and Idaho Falls (IDA) may offer lower-cost flights, but limited routes could increase overall travel expenses.
- Yellowstone Airport (WYS) has fewer flights and higher fares due to its seasonal nature.
Ground Transportation Options
Once you arrive at the airport, transportation to Yellowstone is another key consideration:
- Bozeman (BZN) and Billings (BIL) offer the best rental car availability, shuttle services, and guided tour options.
- Jackson Hole (JAC) provides rental cars and shuttles, but availability may fluctuate during peak tourist seasons.
- Yellowstone Airport (WYS) has limited ground transportation services, so advance reservations for rental cars or shuttles are essential.
- Cody (COD) and Idaho Falls (IDA) offer rental car services but fewer public transportation options.
By weighing these factors—distance, flight frequency, seasonality, cost, and transportation—you can determine the best airport for your Yellowstone adventure based on your specific travel needs and itinerary.
Making Your Selection
Choosing the right airport for your Yellowstone visit depends on several factors, including distance, flight availability, cost, and transportation options. Below are key considerations to help you make the best decision.
Best Airports by Season
The time of year you plan to visit Yellowstone can significantly impact your airport choice. Some airports, like Yellowstone Airport (WYS), operate only seasonally, while others, such as Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), offer year-round service.
- Summer (June–August): All airport options are available, including the seasonal Yellowstone Airport (WYS) near West Yellowstone.
- Fall (September–November): Bozeman, Jackson Hole, Idaho Falls, Cody, and Billings remain good options as seasonal routes begin to wind down.
- Winter (December–February): West Yellowstone Airport is closed. Bozeman, Jackson Hole, and Billings provide the most reliable access.
- Spring (March–May): Some park roads may still be closed due to snow, making access from year-round airports like Bozeman and Billings more practical.
Considerations for Different Types of Travelers
Your travel preferences and priorities will play a major role in selecting the best airport.
- Families & Casual Tourists: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) offers a balance of convenience, affordability, and year-round service, making it a great choice for most visitors.
- Luxury & Scenic Travelers: Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) provides a breathtaking arrival experience and easy access to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park.
- Budget-Conscious Travelers: Billings-Logan International Airport (BIL) often has the most budget-friendly flights, though it requires a longer drive to the park.
- Adventure Seekers & Road Trippers: Cody's Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) allows access via the scenic Beartooth Highway, a route popular among road trip enthusiasts.
Cost vs. Convenience Analysis
When selecting an airport, balancing airfare prices and convenience is crucial.
- Lowest Airfare: Billings (BIL) and Idaho Falls (IDA) often have more affordable flights due to higher competition and larger flight networks.
- Shortest Drive to the Park: West Yellowstone (WYS) is the closest but operates only seasonally. Bozeman (BZN) and Jackson Hole (JAC) offer shorter drives to key park entrances.
- Best Overall Value: Bozeman (BZN) typically provides a combination of affordable flights, year-round access, and reasonable driving distances.
Planning Tips
To ensure a smooth trip, consider the following travel planning tips:
- Book Flights Early: Yellowstone is a popular destination, and flights to nearby airports can become expensive as peak season approaches.
- Compare Rental Car Costs: Some airports may have limited rental car availability or higher prices, so check rates in advance.
- Check Seasonal Road Conditions: If traveling in winter or early spring, verify which park roads are open to avoid unexpected detours.
- Plan for Ground Transportation: If you’re not renting a car, research shuttle services or guided tour options from your chosen airport.
By weighing these factors carefully, you can select the best airport for your Yellowstone adventure, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
The best airport for your Yellowstone trip depends on factors like travel season, budget, and convenience. Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is the closest but operates only in summer. Bozeman (BZN) and Jackson Hole (JAC) are excellent alternatives, while larger hubs like Salt Lake City (SLC) and Denver (DEN) offer cheaper flights but require a longer drive. No matter which airport you choose, planning ahead ensures a seamless and stress-free journey to one of the most breathtaking national parks in the world. Happy travels! 🚀