Yellowstone National Park is a vast and breathtaking natural wonder, attracting millions of visitors each year. To make the most of your Yellowstone adventure, it’s essential to understand the airport options available near the park. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the closest airports, their amenities, and the best ways to get to Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone National Park Airports: The Closest Options
Yellowstone National Park is surrounded by several airports, ranging from regional to major international hubs. Here are the key details for each airport:
Regional Airports
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Yellowstone Airport (WYS): Located in West Yellowstone, Montana, this airport is just 5 minutes (3 miles) from the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Served by Delta and United, it operates from May to mid-October.
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Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD): Situated in Cody, Wyoming, this airport is 55 miles from the East Entrance of the park. It offers year-round service with Delta Connection and United Express flights.
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Jackson Hole Airport (JAC): Located in Jackson, Wyoming, this airport is 49 miles from the South Entrance of Yellowstone. American, Delta, and United provide service to this airport, which operates year-round.
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Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA): This airport in Idaho Falls, Idaho, is 108 miles from the West Entrance of Yellowstone. Delta, United, and Allegiant offer flights to this airport, which is open year-round.
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Billings-Logan International Airport (BIL): Situated in Billings, Montana, this airport is 130 miles from the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone. It offers year-round service with multiple airlines.
International Airports
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Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, this airport is 4 hours and 50 minutes (325 miles) from the West Entrance of Yellowstone. It operates year-round with multiple airlines.
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Denver International Airport (DEN): This major international airport in Denver, Colorado, is 8 hours (550 miles) from the East Entrance of Yellowstone. It offers year-round service with a wide range of airlines.
Choosing the Best Airport for Your Yellowstone Adventure
When selecting an airport for your Yellowstone National Park visit, there are a few key factors to consider:
Cheapest Airport
The cheapest airport to fly into will depend on your starting location and travel dates. Generally, larger airports like Salt Lake City and Denver offer more affordable options, but they require longer drives to the park.
Best Airport for Multiple Parks
If you plan to visit both Yellowstone and Glacier National Park, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is an ideal choice, as it’s conveniently located between the two parks.
Airport Services
Most airports near Yellowstone offer basic services like restaurants, gift shops, and car rentals. Some airports, like Jackson Hole, have more extensive services and scenic views, making them a more enjoyable starting point for your Yellowstone adventure.
Getting to Yellowstone National Park from the Airports
Once you’ve chosen your airport, the next step is to plan your transportation to Yellowstone National Park. Depending on the airport, you can opt for a rental car, shuttle service, or even a private transfer to get you to your desired entrance.
If you’re flying into one of the regional airports, such as Yellowstone Airport (WYS) or Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD), you’ll have a relatively short drive to the park. However, if you’re arriving at a more distant airport like Salt Lake City or Denver, you’ll need to factor in a longer road trip.
Regardless of which airport you choose, it’s essential to research your transportation options and plan your route in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival at Yellowstone National Park.
Conclusion
Yellowstone National Park is a true natural wonder, and with the right airport and transportation plan, you can make the most of your visit. By understanding the various airport options near the park, you can choose the one that best fits your travel needs and budget, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free Yellowstone adventure.
References
- Well Planned Journey. (2024). Closest Airports to Yellowstone: The 8 Best Flight Options. Retrieved from https://www.wellplannedjourney.com/airports-near-yellowstone/
- Yellowstone Park Net. (n.d.). Yellowstone National Park Airport, Flights & Airlines. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstoneparknet.com/transportation/airports.php
- Yellowstone Park. (n.d.). Airports Closest to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstonepark.com/road-trips/airports/
- Dirt in My Shoes. (n.d.). How to Get to Yellowstone National Park (Best Airports and Roads). Retrieved from https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/how-to-get-to-yellowstone-national-park-best-airports-and-roads/
- Just Go Travel Studios. (2023). Best Airports Near Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.justgotravelstudios.com/blogs/just-go-travel-blog/airports-near-yellowstone-national-park