Jackson, Wyoming, is a fantastic starting point for a road trip to Yellowstone National Park, one of the most iconic parks in the United States. The drive from Jackson to Yellowstone is full of scenic beauty, including mountain ranges, rivers, and canyons. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip, including driving distance and hours, the best driving route, stops along the way, and road trip tips.
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Jackson to Yellowstone National Park Drive
The drive from Jackson, WY to Yellowstone National Park is approximately 59 miles, and it takes about an hour and a half to reach the park’s entrance. The fastest and most direct route to Yellowstone from Jackson is via US-26 W/US-89 N. The drive is scenic, and you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Teton mountain range and the Snake River. Once you enter Yellowstone National Park, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking landscapes, including geysers, hot springs, and wildlife.
Jackson to Yellowstone National Park: How far is Jackson from Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park is vast, covering 2.2 million acres, and there are five entrances to the park. The closest entrance to Jackson is the South Entrance, which is 59 miles away. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the South Entrance from Jackson. However, if you’re starting your road trip from the North Entrance, it’s approximately 142 miles from Jackson, and it takes about 3 hours to get there.
How far is Jackson to Yellowstone National Park by plane?
The nearest airport to Yellowstone National Park is Jackson Hole Airport, located in Jackson. You can take a direct flight from several major US cities, including Salt Lake City, Denver, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Once you arrive at Jackson Hole Airport, it’s a 1 hour and 6 minutes drive to Jackson.
What is the time difference between Jackson and Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park is located in the Mountain Time Zone, while Jackson is located in the Mountain Time Zone or the Pacific Time Zone, depending on daylight saving time.
During the summer, Jackson observes daylight saving time, while Yellowstone National Park does not. So, during the summer, there is no time difference between Jackson and Yellowstone National Park. However, during the winter, Jackson is one hour ahead of Yellowstone National Park.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Jackson
If you’re traveling on a budget, taking a bus from Jackson, WY to Yellowstone National Park is the cheapest option.
You can take a bus from Jackson to West Yellowstone, Montana, which is located just outside the park’s West Entrance. From there, you can take a shuttle bus to various attractions within the park.
The bus fare from Jackson to West Yellowstone is approximately $30 per person, and the shuttle bus fares vary depending on the attraction.
Jackson to Yellowstone National Park Drive – Rent A Car In Jackson
If you’re planning to drive from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park, renting a car is an excellent option. There are several car rental companies in Jackson Hole, including:
- Hertz: starts at $41 per day
- Avis: starts at $52 per day
- Budget: starts at $52 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $43 per day
- Alamo: starts at $39 per day
- National: starts at $55 per day
Rental prices vary depending on the type of car you want to rent and the time of year. However, you can expect to pay around $45 per day for a midsize car. Gas prices in the area average around $3.00 per gallon.
Jackson to Yellowstone National Park – Driving Stops Along The Way
There are several stops along the way from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park that you shouldn’t miss. Here are some of the best ones:
Grand Teton National Park
Just a short drive north of Jackson Hole, you’ll find Grand Teton National Park, home to stunning mountain vistas, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife.
Snake River Overlook
This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Snake River winding through the valley, with the Teton mountain range as a backdrop. It’s a great spot for taking photos.
Oxbow Bend
Another popular viewpoint in Grand Teton National Park, Oxbow Bend is known for its stunning reflections of the Teton Range in the calm waters of the bend.
Yellowstone Historic Center
Located in West Yellowstone, Montana, this museum offers a fascinating look at the history of the Yellowstone region, including exhibits on Native American culture, early explorers, and the park’s wildlife.
Lower Yellowstone Falls
One of the most impressive waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park, Lower Yellowstone Falls plunges 308 feet into the canyon below. There are several viewpoints along the South Rim Drive that offer great views of the falls.
Tips for Driving from Jackson to Yellowstone National Park
Here are some tips to help make your road trip from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park a success:
Plan ahead
Make sure you have a map and know where you’re going. Cell service can be spotty in some areas, so it’s a good idea to have a paper map as a backup.
Check road conditions
Weather and road conditions can change quickly in this area, so make sure to check the latest updates before you set out.
Pack for the trip
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first aid kit. It’s also a good idea to have extra layers of clothing in case the weather changes.
Be aware of wildlife
Yellowstone National Park is home to grizzly bears, black bears, elk, bison, and other wildlife. Always keep a safe distance and never approach wildlife.
Drive safely
The roads in the park can be narrow and winding, so take your time and drive defensively. Stay alert for wildlife on the road and obey speed limits.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, a road trip from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park offers a scenic and unforgettable experience. The drive through US-26 W/US-89 N offers stunning views of the Teton mountain range and the Snake River. Visitors can explore the vast park through its five entrances, with the South Entrance being the closest to Jackson Hole. Travelers on a budget can take a bus from Jackson Hole to West Yellowstone, while those who prefer the convenience of driving can rent a car from the many car rental companies in Jackson Hole. With plenty of stops along the way, including natural wonders, historic sites, and recreational activities, a road trip from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park is a journey worth taking.