Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonder and a true icon among U.S. travel destinations. From steaming geysers and thundering waterfalls to roaming bison and vast open plains, Yellowstone is a place of breathtaking diversity and raw beauty. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for more, this guide covers everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip – clear, current, and reliable.

• 1. History & Background
• 2. Getting There, Park Entrances & Fees
• 3. Wildlife & Safety in the Park
• 4. Park Infrastructure: Hours, Food, Gas & Lodging
• 5. Final Preparations & Pro Tips

1. History & Background

Established in 1872 as the world’s first national park, Yellowstone remains a symbol of wilderness preservation and untamed nature. Spanning over 3,500 square miles (around 9,000 km²) across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, the park is famed not only for its geothermal features but also for its abundant wildlife and unique geology – Yellowstone sits atop a supervolcano, making it one of the most geologically active areas on the planet.

2. Getting There, Park Entrances & Fees

Yellowstone has no public transportation, so having a car is essential for exploring its many sights and regions. Your route into the park will depend on your travel direction – and your plans once inside.

Main Entrances to Yellowstone

There are five main entrances, each offering access to different areas of the park:

• West Entrance (West Yellowstone): The most popular choice, especially for travelers coming from Idaho or Salt Lake City.
• South Entrance: Perfect if you’re combining your trip with Grand Teton National Park, which borders Yellowstone directly to the south.
• North Entrance (Gardiner): The only entrance open year-round, giving access to the Mammoth Hot Springs area.
• Northeast Entrance (Cooke City): Remote and scenic – a fantastic entry point for those heading into the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley.
• East Entrance (Cody): A beautiful route for visitors coming from the east or Denver. We personally entered through this gate after traveling through the Badlands. (Read more in our travel series: Road Trip Series NYC to LA – Part 6: Through South Dakota to Yellowstone)

Closest Airports

Flying in? These are the best nearby airports for accessing Yellowstone:

• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), Montana: Ideal for those entering via the North Entrance (Gardiner).
• Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), Wyoming: Great if you’re also visiting Grand Teton National Park or entering through the South Entrance.
• Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA), Idaho: A convenient option for access via the West Entrance.

From all airports, a rental car is a must – and booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak season.

Entrance Fees

Admission to Yellowstone costs $35 per vehicle and is valid for up to 7 consecutive days. If you’re planning to visit several national parks within a year, the “America the Beautiful” annual pass is well worth it – for $80, it grants access to all U.S. National Parks and many other federally protected areas.

You can pay your entry fee directly at the gate or purchase your pass online in advance — especially helpful during the busy summer season, when lines can be long.

3. Wildlife & Safety in the Park

Yellowstone is home to more than 60 species of mammals, including:

• Bison (the most common large animal)
• Wolves, elk, grizzly bears, and black bears
• Bald eagles, coyotes, and the elusive mountain lion

Nature is wild here – keep your distance and your respect. Follow these safety guidelines:

• Keep at least 100 meters (328 ft) from bears and wolves
• Stay 25 meters (82 ft) away from all other wildlife – yes, even bison
• Never feed or approach animals
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it

4. Park Infrastructure: Hours, Food, Gas & Lodging

Opening Times

At over 2,000 meters (6,500+ feet) elevation, Yellowstone is heavily influenced by the weather. Most roads are only open from mid-May through late October due to snow and ice. During winter, only limited areas – such as the route from Gardiner to Mammoth Hot Springs – remain accessible, often requiring guided tours or snowmobiles.

Food Options

There are several restaurants, cafés, and general stores in tourist hubs like Old Faithful, Canyon Village, and Lake Village. For budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer flexibility, it’s wise to bring snacks, sandwiches, fruit, and plenty of water.

Don’t Forget to Fuel Up

Yellowstone is vast, with only a few gas stations inside the park, located at spots like Canyon Village, Fishing Bridge, and Grant Village. You may drive over 60 miles (100+ km) between fuel stops. Tip: Fill up whenever you can and avoid going below half a tank – especially with unexpected wildlife delays (yes, bison traffic jams are real).

Where to Stay

Camping & Lodges: Staying inside Yellowstone is possible – but not something to leave to chance. The park offers 12 campgrounds, some reservable (like Madison, Canyon, Grant Village) and some first-come, first-served (like Indian Creek or Lewis Lake). Arrive early for non-reservable sites! Campgrounds are clean but basic. If you prefer more comfort, Yellowstone features historic lodges and cabins, operated by Yellowstone National Park Lodges, including: Cozy cabins in Canyon Village, The majestic Old Faithful Inn, and The elegant Lake Hotel.

View Yellowstone National Park Lodges

Backcountry Camping: For a true wilderness experience, you can hike and camp in the backcountry with a permit. These can be obtained online or at visitor centers. Strict rules apply – especially regarding bear safety and environmental protection.

Important: Overnight parking or camping in cars outside designated areas is strictly prohibited and may result in fines.

5. Final Preparations & Pro Tips

Here are a few practical pointers to make your trip smoother:

• Use the official website and NPS app: The free National Park Service app provides real-time updates on road conditions, geyser activity, and wildlife sightings – and works offline.
• Dress in layers: Weather can change fast – from sunny to snowy in a single day. Layer up!
• Stay patient: Wildlife traffic jams (aka “bison jams”) are part of the Yellowstone experience. Take it slow and enjoy the show.
• No drones allowed: Drones are strictly banned throughout the park to protect nature and wildlife. Bring binoculars instead – and savor the moment.

Our conclusion: Yellowstone isn’t just a national park – it’s a world of its own. The better prepared you are, the more you’ll enjoy everything it has to offer. With a balance of smart planning, flexibility, and deep respect for the natural world, your Yellowstone adventure is sure to be unforgettable.

Tag your favorite road trip buddies & share your best Yellowstone memories in the comments!

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