Planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park and wondering about the best airport to fly into? Yellowstone’s vast landscape means your choice of airport can significantly impact your travel time and access to different park entrances. This guide will help you determine the ideal airport for your Yellowstone adventure, whether you’re aiming for the North, South, East, or West Entrance.
Airports Near Yellowstone’s Entrances
For the quickest access to specific Yellowstone destinations, consider these airports closest to each entrance:
North Entrance
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) in Bozeman, Montana, is your gateway to Yellowstone’s North Entrance, approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. BZN is also strategically located for travelers intending to explore Glacier National Park, making it a perfect starting point for a broader Montana and Wyoming adventure.
West Entrance
The West Entrance offers several airport options. Yellowstone Airport (WYS) in West Yellowstone, Montana, is the most convenient, situated just 10 minutes from the park entrance. While smaller, WYS provides unparalleled proximity. Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA), about 2.5 hours from the West Entrance, is another viable choice, particularly if you also plan to visit Grand Teton National Park. For a larger airport with more flight options, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is about a 2-hour drive to the West Entrance and offers a wider range of services.
East Entrance
To reach Yellowstone’s East Entrance, Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) near Cody, Wyoming, is the closest option, less than an hour away. Cody, named after Buffalo Bill Cody, is a destination in itself, offering a rich Western history and attractions to explore before or after your park visit.
South Entrance
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) provides the most direct access to the South Entrance of Yellowstone, about an hour’s drive. Remarkably, JAC is located inside Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone’s southern neighbor.
Airports for Grand Teton National Park
If Grand Teton National Park is also on your itinerary, Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is exceptionally convenient. Located within Grand Teton, near the Moose Entrance, JAC is approximately a nine-mile drive from the town of Jackson. Shuttle services and car rentals are readily available at JAC for easy access to Jackson and Grand Teton.
Airports for Launching a Yellowstone Road Trip
For those planning an extended road trip to Yellowstone, flying into major airports in neighboring states can be a great starting point. Consider these airports for road trip adventures:
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois: Starting in Chicago opens up a scenic road trip through the Dakotas to Yellowstone.
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), Utah: Salt Lake City provides a western starting point for a road trip to Yellowstone, passing through diverse landscapes.
- Denver International Airport (DEN), Colorado: Denver is another popular hub for launching a Yellowstone road trip, offering a route through the Rocky Mountains.
Choosing the right airport is a crucial first step in planning your Yellowstone National Park visit. Consider which entrance you plan to use and whether you intend to explore other parks or regions nearby to select the airport that best suits your travel itinerary.
