Yellowstone National Park is a vast and diverse destination, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, serves as an ideal base camp for exploring the park. With its close proximity to the South Entrance of Yellowstone, Jackson Hole offers unparalleled opportunities to experience the park’s natural wonders, from geothermal features to abundant wildlife.
Overview of Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a true natural wonder, spanning an impressive 2.2 million acres across three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Established in 1872, it is the world’s first national park, dedicated to preserving its unique hydrothermal and geologic features for all to enjoy.
The park is home to a diverse array of landscapes, including the iconic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, the majestic Yellowstone Lake, and over 10,000 geothermal features, including hot springs, mudpots, and the famous Old Faithful geyser. Yellowstone is also renowned for its abundant wildlife, with bison, elk, grizzly bears, and countless other species roaming the park.
Planning Your Visit from Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole, located in northwestern Wyoming, is an ideal base camp for exploring Yellowstone National Park. The South Entrance of Yellowstone is approximately 60 miles from Jackson Hole, making it the closest entrance to the town. The drive from Jackson Hole to the South Entrance takes around two hours, while the drive to the North Entrance takes approximately five hours.
For those flying in, Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is located within Grand Teton National Park and offers direct flights from 11 major U.S. cities. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Gallatin Field Airport (BZN) in Bozeman, Montana, which is closer to the North Entrance of Yellowstone.
Top Attractions and Activities
Yellowstone National Park is home to a wealth of must-see attractions and activities. Some of the top highlights include:
- Old Faithful: This iconic geyser is one of the park’s most famous features, erupting with remarkable regularity.
- Yellowstone Lake: The largest high-altitude lake in North America, Yellowstone Lake offers stunning views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife watching.
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: This breathtaking canyon, carved by the Yellowstone River, features stunning waterfalls and vibrant colors.
- Hayden Valley: This lush, open valley is a prime spot for wildlife viewing, with bison, elk, and grizzly bears often spotted.
- Midway Geyser Basin: Home to the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States and one of the most colorful.
- Firehole Canyon Drive: This scenic drive offers stunning views of the Firehole River and its surrounding geothermal features.
- Mammoth Hot Springs: These terraced hot springs, formed by the deposition of calcium carbonate, are a unique and visually stunning attraction.
In addition to the park’s natural wonders, Jackson Hole offers a range of outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, fly fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife tours.
Accommodations and Services
Jackson Hole provides a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, from luxury hotels to family-friendly motels and vacation rentals. Within Yellowstone National Park, there are nine park lodges, with two open during the winter months.
For those who prefer camping, Yellowstone has 12 campgrounds with over 2,000 campsites, some of which take reservations and others that operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Both Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park offer a range of dining options, from world-class restaurants to casual cafes and general stores. Free Wi-Fi is available at visitor centers and some hotels, though cell phone service can be limited within the park.
Tips and Essentials
When planning your visit to Yellowstone National Park from Jackson Hole, keep the following tips and essentials in mind:
- Entrance Fees: Seven-day passes cost $35 for private vehicles, $30 for motorcycles or snowmobiles, and $20 for individuals entering on foot or by bike. Annual passes are available for $80.
- Seasonal Information: Park roads are open from April to November, with all roads, services, and facilities open during July and August. Winter visits require oversnow travel by guided snowmobile or snowcoach tours.
- Cell Phone Service: Cell phone service is limited within the park, so plan accordingly and bring a map or GPS device.
By staying in Jackson Hole, you can easily access Yellowstone National Park while enjoying the amenities and activities that Jackson Hole has to offer. With its close proximity to the park, Jackson Hole serves as the perfect base camp for exploring one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders.
References:
– Yellowstone National Park
– Jackson Hole, Wyoming
– Jackson Hole Airport
– Gallatin Field Airport