I’ve roamed the globe, but there’s something truly magical about the vast wilderness of Yellowstone National Park. With its breathtaking geysers, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife, it’s a destination that beckons adventurers from all corners of the Earth. But before immersing yourself in the park’s natural beauty, you must consider how to get there.
Luckily, several airports near Yellowstone National Park are conveniently located, each offering its unique charm and accessibility. Join me and nationalparkshops.com as we explore the gateways to this iconic national treasure, ensuring your journey to Yellowstone is as smooth and enjoyable as the park itself! Let’s go!
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How to get to Yellowstone National Park?
Getting to Yellowstone can seem daunting due to its remote location in the northwest corner of Wyoming. However, with my extensive travel experience, I’ve learned that the journey to such a destination is part of the adventure. Over the years, I’ve flown into and out of various airports near Yellowstone, each offering unique advantages depending on your travel preferences, budget, and itinerary.
One of the first steps in your journey involves deciding whether to fly into a regional airport or to start your travels at a major international hub. Regional airports near Yellowstone National Park tend to be smaller, offering fewer flight options but often providing a more streamlined travel experience. On the other hand, international airports near Yellowstone National Park usually have extensive flight connections, which may lead to better rates but could entail longer driving distances to the park.
Once you’ve established a list of potential airports near Yellowstone National Park, weigh the pros and cons of each option. Consider your travel preferences, whether you prioritize convenience, affordability, or scenic routes leading into the park. This comprehensive overview will help guide you toward making the best choice for your Yellowstone adventure.
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6 Best Regional Airports near Yellowstone National Park
I know you are looking for the closest airports to Yellowstone National Park for your convenience. Because I am too. So I have explored and summarized for you 6 regional airports near Yellowstone National Park that I rate quite highly. You will not spend much time choosing, just trust me and refer to the following airports.
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
- Location: Jackson, WY
- Distance from Park: 1 hour / 50 miles from the South Entrance
- Airlines: Alaska, American, Delta, United
- Website: jacksonholeairport.com
Nestled within Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole Airport is approximately 60 miles south of Yellowstone’s South Entrance. This airport is particularly popular among travelers who wish to explore both parks, as it offers stunning views of the Teton Range upon arrival. Jackson Hole Airport is served by major airlines, including Delta, United, and American Airlines, with direct flights from cities like Denver, Salt Lake City, and Chicago.
The airport features a small, charming terminal with amenities such as a café and gift shop. Visitors can rent cars directly at the airport, making it easy to drive to Yellowstone. The scenic drive from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone takes you through beautiful landscapes, including the picturesque Jackson Valley and the Snake River.
Yellowstone Airport (WYS)
- Location: West Yellowstone, MT
- Distance from Park: 5 minutes / 3 miles from the West Entrance
- Airlines: Delta, United
- Website: yellowstoneairport.mdt.mt.gov
Yellowstone Airport, also known as West Yellowstone Airport, is one of the airports near Yellowstone National Park, located just 5 minutes (3 miles) from the West Entrance. This small airport primarily serves seasonal flights from Delta Connection and United Express, with connections from Salt Lake City and Denver.
Due to its proximity to the park, Yellowstone Airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to minimize travel time. The airport features a quaint terminal and offers car rental services, making it easy to access the park’s attractions. If you’re planning to visit popular sites like Old Faithful or the Grand Prismatic Spring, flying into WYS will allow you to get started on your adventure almost immediately.
Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA)
- Location: Idaho Falls, ID
- Distance from Park: 2 hours / 110 miles to West Entrance
- Airlines: Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, United
- Website: idahofallsidaho.gov/1743/Airport
Idaho Falls Regional Airport is located about 110 miles (approximately 2.5 hours) from Yellowstone’s West Entrance. This airport is a convenient option for visitors traveling to the park from the eastern side. It is served by major airlines such as Delta, United, and Allegiant Air, with flights from cities like Salt Lake City, Denver, and Las Vegas.
Idaho Falls offers a range of amenities, including dining options and car rental services. The drive from Idaho Falls to Yellowstone takes you through beautiful Idaho landscapes, including the scenic Teton Pass.
Billings-Logan International Airport (BIL)
- Location: Billings, Montana
- Distance from Park: 3 hours / 130 miles to Northeast Entrance
- Airlines: Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, United
- Website: flybillings.com
Billings Logan International Airport is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers, especially if you’re planning to explore the northeastern region of Yellowstone National Park. As one of the airports near Yellowstone National Park, Billings offers connections to several major airports across the western United States, making it a convenient choice for many.
While it is a bit farther from Yellowstone’s main attractions—about 130 miles from the park’s Northeast Entrance—this airport can be a smart choice if you find a great deal on flights or if you’re considering visiting other national parks in the surrounding areas, such as Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota. The drive from Billings to Yellowstone is scenic and offers a chance to experience the beautiful landscapes of Montana.
Plus, with the vibrant city of Billings as your starting point, you’ll have access to a variety of restaurants, hotels, and attractions, ensuring your journey is enjoyable from the moment you land.
Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD)
- Location: Cody, WY
- Distance from Park: 1 hour 10 minutes / 55 miles from the East Entrance
- Airlines: United
- Website: flyyra.com
Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the eastern areas of Yellowstone National Park, including stunning spots like Yellowstone Lake and Fishing Bridge. This one of the airports near Yellowstone National Park provides a convenient gateway to these breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to dive right into the park’s natural beauty.
While it’s a bit farther from the park than the West Yellowstone or Jackson Hole airports, it can often be a more affordable option, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers. Additionally, Cody itself is a charming town with a rich Western history, and it serves as a great starting point for road trips to iconic destinations like Mount Rushmore. The drive from Cody to Yellowstone is filled with picturesque scenery, allowing you to soak in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
- Location: Bozeman, MT
- Distance from Park: 1 hour 40 minutes / 90 miles to North Entrance
- Airlines: Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Sun Country, United
- Website: bozemanairport.com
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is a great choice for travelers heading to both Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. It’s the nearest airport to the North Entrance of Yellowstone, which is the only entrance open throughout the winter months. Bozeman provides a more affordable option compared to regional airports near Yellowstone National Park and features better flight selections thanks to a greater number of airlines operating there.
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The closest International Airports to Yellowstone
If you’re looking for more flight options or traveling from international destinations, consider flying into two of the larger international airports near Yellowstone National Park. It might be just the option you need!
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
- Location: Salt Lake City, UT
- Distance from Park: 4 hours 50 minutes / 325 miles from West Entrance
- Airlines: Aeromexico, Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, United
- Best For: Budget-friendly, direct flights and international travelers
- Website: slcairport.com
Salt Lake City International Airport indeed offers a strategic advantage for travelers, especially those interested in exploring the majestic Yellowstone National Park. Its role as a major hub for Delta Airlines enhances its appeal, providing ample direct flight options which can significantly streamline travel plans. This connectivity, combined with the airport’s reputation for efficiency, makes it a practical choice for both domestic and international travelers looking to explore the natural wonders of the United States without enduring lengthy layovers or multiple flights.
If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone, flying into Salt Lake City International Airport not only minimizes travel time but also offers a scenic drive to the park, passing through beautiful landscapes that can enhance the overall travel experience. Additionally, the airport’s facilities are geared to handle a large volume of international traffic, making it a convenient entry point into the United States.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Location: Denver, Colorado
- Distance from Park: 8 hours / 550 miles to East Entrance
- Airlines: Aeromexico, Air Canada, Air France, Alaska, Allegiant, American, British Airways, Cayman Airways, Copa, Delta, Edelweiss, Frontier, Icelandair, JetBlue, Lufthansa, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, United, Volaris, WestJet
- Best For: Budget-friendly, direct flights and international travelers
- Website: flydenver.com
Denver International Airport indeed offers its own set of advantages, especially when it comes to the variety of flights and potentially lower costs due to its status as a major hub for United Airlines. The airport’s extensive list of direct domestic and international flights can be particularly appealing for travelers who prioritize flight availability and budget over proximity to destinations like Yellowstone National Park.
However, the longer drive from Denver to Yellowstone—approximately 8 hours to the East Entrance—can be a significant consideration. This extended journey takes travelers through diverse landscapes, including high plains and mountainous areas, which can be both scenic and daunting, depending on weather conditions and the traveler’s comfort with longer road trips.
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What is the cheapest Airport to fly into Yellowstone National Park?
When it comes to planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, figuring out the most budget-friendly airport can be a bit of a puzzle. It really depends on where you’re flying from, the time of year, and whether you catch any airline deals. Typically, big international hubs like Salt Lake City and Denver are your best bets for snagging a good price, thanks to the sheer number of flights and airlines buzzing around.
But don’t overlook those smaller regional airports near Yellowstone National Park like Jackson Hole and Bozeman! They can be surprisingly wallet-friendly, especially if you visit during the quieter months. To really nail down those savings, why not give flight comparison websites a whirl, book your tickets early, and stay open to adjusting your travel dates?
Conclusion
So, as we wrap up our journey through the “Airports Near Yellowstone National Park“, I hope you’ve found this guide as exciting and informative as my own travels have been. Remember, the key to unlocking the best travel experiences often lies in the details, and choosing the right airport can make all the difference in your adventure. Whether you’re swooping into the bustling hubs of Salt Lake City or Denver, or landing gracefully at the charming regional airports like Jackson Hole or Bozeman, each option offers its own unique charm and convenience.
Keep in mind, that flexibility is your friend when it comes to snagging those sweet deals, and a bit of research can lead you to the gateway that fits both your budget and your wanderlust. So, pack your bags with a sense of anticipation, and let the magic of Yellowstone National Park unfold before your eyes. Safe travels, and may your next adventure be as thrilling as the landscapes you’re about to explore!
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