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Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is among the first national parks built in the world. This spans over 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. It boasts a variety of ecosystems and geothermal wonders like Old Faithful and the Yellowstone Caldera. Home to an abundance of wildlife, including bison, bears and wolves, it offers breathtaking landscapes with mountains, rivers and forests. Yellowstone’s geothermal activity is a geological marvel, featuring over 10,000 hydrothermal elements. Its historical and ecological significance attracts millions of visitors each year. Tourists come to witness its wonders, like stunning geysers and natural marvels.
Location
Photo: Acroterion / Wikimedia Commons
Yellowstone National Park location is in the west side of the United States, near different connecting cities. For instance, the distance from Jackson, Wyoming, to the South Entrance is roughly 57 miles. Conversely, Bozeman, Montana, is around 90 miles from the north entrance, while Cody, Wyoming, is located 53 miles from the east entrance. Interestingly, West Yellowstone, Montana, serving as a gateway town, is merely 1 mile from the West Entrance. Due to its vastness, visitors can explore distinct ecosystems and remarkable landmarks.
How To Reach
Photo: Ralf Roletschek / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Yellowstone National Park, situated in the USA, represents a highly sought-after destination. However, reaching this remarkable location requires planning, primarily due to its isolated location:
By Rail: The nearest stations are Amtrak stations in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Denver, Colorado. From these locations, visitors must continue their journey by road, as there are no direct train routes to the park.
By Air: Air travel is the swiftest means to arrive at Yellowstone. The closest airports are Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming around 53 miles from the East Entrance while the Jackson Hole Airport is 57 miles from the South Entrance. On the other hand, the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in Montana is 90 miles from the North Entrance. Each of these airports provides car rentals and shuttle services to reach the park.
By Road: For road trips, highways connect the park to nearby cities, such as the U.S. Highway 89 leading to the North Entrance. However, the U.S. Highway 20 provides entry to the West Entrance. The scenic routes offer stunning views of the Rockies. This makes the journey memorable.
5 Best Places To Visit Near Yellowstone National Park
Explore the five essential destinations in proximity to Yellowstone National Park, which presents breathtaking landscapes,
distinctive wildlife, and memorable experiences:
1. Gardiner, Montana
Photo: Reustli / Wikimedia Commons
Gardiner, Montana, is a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, marking the site of the park’s North Entrance. It is renowned for the Roosevelt Arch, which is a symbolic entryway into the park. Gardiner’s location along the Yellowstone River provides numerous opportunities for outdoor escapades like whitewater rafting and fishing. The town also functions as a base for exploring the northern regions of the park, including Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley and Tower Falls. The Gardiner also offers a blend of cosy accommodations, local eateries and gift shops. However, one must account for the changing seasons when visiting.
Timings: Accessible year-round
Entry Fees: The fee for park entry is $35 / ₹2950 per vehicle
2. Silver Gate/Cooke City, Montana
Photo: Mike Cline / Wikimedia Commons
Silver Gate and Cooke City are charming mountain towns situated near the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone. This area is renowned for its access to Lamar Valley, a prime location for wildlife observation. These towns provide rustic accommodations, small eateries and general stores, making them ideal for nature lovers. Silver Gate offers a peaceful escape, featuring log cabins and closeness to Soda Butte Creek. Both towns are surrounded by the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. This provides breathtaking mountain views and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities.
Timings: Open year-round
Entry Fees: No fee for the towns; park entry fee of $35 / ₹2950 per vehicle
3. Red Lodge, Montana
Photo: Chris06 / Wikimedia Commons
Red Lodge, Montana, is a mountain town recognised for its historical charm, serving as the portal to the beautiful Beartooth Highway. It is often regarded as the most stunning drive in America. The town boasts a lively downtown area, featuring boutique shops, art galleries and restaurants that offer local culinary delights. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy skiing at Red Lodge Mountain during the winter months. They can also explore hiking and biking trails when the weather warms up. Red Lodge hosts several annual events, including the Fourth of July Parade and the Red Lodge Rodeo.
Timings: Accessible throughout the year, while the Beartooth Highway remains open from late May to early October
Entry Fees: Free
4. Big Sky, Montana
Photo: Jim / Wikimedia Commons
Big Sky, Montana, is a premier outdoor destination, situated about an hour’s drive from the West Entrance of Yellowstone. It is famous for its Big Sky Resort. This resort provides world-class skiing and snowboarding during winter and mountain biking during summer. The town also showcases scenic trails suitable for hiking, horseback riding and fishing in the Gallatin River. In addition to its outdoor pursuits, Big Sky has a thriving cultural scene, featuring music festivals, art galleries and excellent dining options. Its proximity to Yellowstone makes it a popular stop for those seeking a blend of luxury and adventure.
Timings: Open year-round
Entry Fees: No fee
5. East Yellowstone, Wyoming
Photo: Larry D. Moore / Wikimedia Commons
East Yellowstone, Wyoming, offers a unique fusion of outdoor adventure and rich Western history. The nearby town of Cody functions as the principal gateway, boasting attractions such as the Buffalo Bill Centre of the West and the Cody Nite Rodeo during summer. East Yellowstone is particularly recognised for its amazing drives through Shoshone National Forest. This ultimately leads to Yellowstone Lake and Hayden Valley. Here, visitors can observe bison, elk and grizzly bears, creating unforgettable experiences. Furthermore, the area’s guest ranches offer distinctive opportunities to immerse oneself in Wyoming’s cowboy culture and vast wilderness.
Timings: Opens from May to October
Entry Fees: No charge for Cody, yet the parking fee stands at $35 / ₹2950 per vehicle
Where To Eat
Photo: Vanished Account Byeznhpyxeuztibuo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The towns surrounding Yellowstone offer a diverse array of dining choices, ranging from budget-friendly cafes to upscale restaurants. In Gardiner, one can enjoy substantial meals at the Yellowstone Pizza Company or The Corral, particularly famous for its burgers. Silver Gate and Cooke City feature inviting establishments like the Log Cabin Café and Miners Saloon, both of which offer comforting, home-style cuisine. Red Lodge, on the other hand, provides a vibrant dining atmosphere with options such as Prerogative Kitchen, which is celebrated for its innovative dishes. Big Sky presents upscale selections, including Horn & Cantle, alongside more relaxed venues like The Shedhorn Grill. These various eateries contribute local flavours, making dining an essential part of your overall experience.
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation near Yellowstone varies significantly from rustic lodges to luxury resorts. Gardiner offers options such as the Yellowstone Gateway Inn and cabins located by the Yellowstone River. In Silver Gate and Cooke City, visitors can choose to stay in log cabins or motels, like the Alpine Motel. Red Lodge showcases cosy inns and vacation rentals. However, Big Sky has luxury resorts like Big Sky Resort and budget-friendly lodges. Cody offers hotels including Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel and local ranches for a truly Western experience. Inside the park, Yellowstone provides campgrounds and historic lodges, which include the Old Faithful Inn.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Chris Light / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park spans from late spring through early fall. During this timeframe, roads and entrances are fully operational, and wildlife is particularly active. May and June are especially favourable for observing baby animals and beautiful landscapes. July and August present warm weather, which is perfect for hiking and exploring geothermal features. Winter (from December to March) tends to be quieter, showcasing snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for snowmobiling and skiing. It is essential to choose the season based on your preferred activities and the experiences you wish to have.
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average trip cost to Yellowstone ranges between $1,500 / ₹1,26,550 and $3,000 / ₹2,53,100 for a week-long visit for two people. This estimate includes $35 / ₹2,950 for park entry, accommodation costs of $100 – $300 / ₹8440 – ₹25310 per night, depending on location and season, meals and activities like guided tours or rentals. Additional costs include transportation and souvenirs.
Tips For Travellers
- Pack layers as Yellowstone’s weather can be unpredictable.
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Stay hydrated and carry plenty of water, especially during hikes.
- Follow safety rules and keep a safe distance from wildlife.
- Use a zoom lens to capture the photos at Yellowstone National Park without disturbing the wildlife.
Yellowstone National Park provides an indelible blend of natural beauty and adventure. With appropriate planning and attention to costs, your excursion can be both seamless and enriching. Whether you’re exploring its geothermal wonders or capturing stunning wildlife photos, the park promises memories that will last a lifetime. Make the most of your journey by planning early with trusted travel resources of TripXL. They customize packages and provide expert assistance.
Cover Photo: MatthiasKabel / Wikimedia Commons
