Best and Nearest Airports To Yellowstone National Park - National Parks Discovery Travel Guide

Yellowstone National Park, a captivating natural wonderland known for its geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, draws in millions of visitors each year. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, the park spans three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. While Yellowstone’s remote location adds to its charm, it’s essential to know about the nearest airports that can serve as gateways to this extraordinary destination. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, an adventure with friends, or a solo exploration, understanding your options for air travel and find the best airport and the right airport for your itinerary is crucial for a seamless and enjoyable trip.

Skip down to my personal recommendations

**Please note these recommendations apply only for late spring to early fall travel only**

Please see the winter airport recommendation for Yellowstone

Yellowstone Quick Guide

When to go: summer is the best season
Where to fly: Bozeman, or Jackson
Where to stay: in the park at Canyon, Old Faithful, and Mammoth
How to get around: a car is a must unless you are on a guided tour
What to see: check out our recommended list
How long to stay: at least 2-3 days plus add on Grand Teton National Park

Yellowstone Airport (WYS): Gateway to the West

Yellowstone Airport, located in West Yellowstone, Montana, is the park’s closest airport, offering unparalleled access to its iconic attractions. Situated just a stone’s throw away from Yellowstone’s West Entrance, this small regional airport provides a convenient starting point for visitors eager to experience the park’s wonders.

While Yellowstone Airport may not offer a whole lot of flight options due to its smaller size, it does cater to travelers looking for a more direct route to the heart of Yellowstone. The airport’s proximity to popular sites such as Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring makes it an attractive choice for those who value convenience and a quick transition from landing to exploring.

Location: West Yellowstone, Montana
Open: May-mid October
Distance to Yellowstone’s West Entrance: 6 miles
Distance to Lamar Valley: 2.5 hours
Distance to Old Faithful: 1 hour
Distance to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 1.5 hours

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN): The Northern Gateway

For those seeking more flight options and a larger airport, Bozeman Airport in Bozeman, Montana, is a prime choice. Positioned approximately 90 miles north of the Yellowstone North Entrance, BZN serves as the closest major airport. It also has a great gift shop to grab your last minute souvenirs.

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport boasts a wider range of flight connections, making it a popular entry point for travelers arriving from various parts of the country. Its relative proximity to the park’s northern attractions, including the Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley, makes it an ideal starting point for visitors eager to explore this portion of the park.

Location: Bozeman, Montana
Open: year round
Distance to Yellowstone’s North Entrance: 1.5 hours
Distance to Lamar Valley: about 2.5 hours
Distance to Old Faithful: about 3.5 hours
Distance to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: about 3 hours

Jackson Hole Airport (JAC): A Scenic Southern Entry

Travelers with an eye for breathtaking scenery and the desire to experience both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park often choose Jackson Hole Airport in Jackson, Wyoming. Located about 60 miles south of Yellowstone’s South Entrance, JAC provides an opportunity to enjoy two national treasures in one trip.

Jackson Hole Airport offers travelers stunning views of the Grand Teton mountains as they land or depart, setting the tone for a captivating adventure ahead. While it’s not as close as some other options, JAC’s unique location and convenient access to both parks make it an attractive choice for those seeking a comprehensive experience of the region.

Location: Jackson, Wyoming
Open: year round
Distance to Yellowstone’s South Entrance: 1 hour
Distance to Lamar Valley: 4.5 hours
Distance to Old Faithful: 2.5 hours
Distance to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 3 hours

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA): Western Approach

If you’re aiming to explore Yellowstone Park’s western attractions, Idaho Falls Regional Airport in Idaho Falls, Idaho, is worth considering. Positioned approximately 110 miles west of the park’s West Entrance, IDA serves as an entry point for visitors interested in sites such as the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the geothermal wonders of the Lower Geyser Basin.

While Idaho Falls Regional Airport offers a range of flight connections, it’s important to note that the drive to the West Entrance might be longer than from other airports. Nonetheless, for those willing to trade a bit more travel time for a chance to immerse themselves in Yellowstone’s captivating western landscapes, IDA can be a valuable option.

Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Open: year round
Distance to Yellowstone’s West Entrance: 2 hours
Distance to Lamar Valley: 6 hours
Distance to Old Faithful: 3.5 hours
Distance to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 3.5 hours

Cody Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD): Eastern Exploration

For an entry point to Yellowstone’s eastern attractions, Cody Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming, is an excellent choice. Located around 50 miles east of the park’s East Entrance, COD provides access to the captivating landscapes and unique features of the eastern part of the park.

Cody Yellowstone Regional Airport offers a regional airport experience, with flight connections catering to travelers interested in exploring the attractions around the East Entrance. This small airport is a great starting point for those eager to venture into the heart of Yellowstone’s rugged beauty.

Location: Cody, Wyoming
Open: year round
Distance to Yellowstone’s East Entrance: 1 hour
Distance to Lamar Valley: 4.5 hours
Distance to Old Faithful: 3.5 hours
Distance to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 2.5 hours

Salt Lake City International Airport

Salt Lake City airport is a bit further than Jackson Hole or Bozeman but it does offer more flight and rental car options to help you save money. You could also add on some of the Utah National Parks to your road trip as well to maximize time and location.

Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Open: year round
Distance to Yellowstone’s West Entrance: 5 hours
Distance to Lamar Valley: 7.5 hours
Distance to Old Faithful: 6 hours
Distance to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 6.5 hours

Denver International Airport

Another great option for more budget friendly flight and rental car options. You can also add on Rocky Mountain National Park very easily to your itinerary.

Location: Denver, Colorado
Open: year round
Distance to Yellowstone’s South Entrance: 8 hours
Distance to Lamar Valley: 11.5 hours
Distance to Old Faithful: 9.5 hours
Distance to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 10 hours

Billings Logan International Airport (BIL): Exploring the Northeast and the Beartooth Highway

For travelers looking to combine their Yellowstone adventure with a breathtaking scenic drive, Billings Logan International Airport in Billings, Montana, is an exceptional choice. Positioned approximately 130 miles northeast of the park’s Northeast Entrance, BIL offers access not only to the park’s captivating Lamar Valley but also to the renowned Beartooth Highway. Even though it is a long drive in total it is one of the best drives in America.

Location: Billings, Montana
Open: year round however the Beartooth Highway is only open in the summer
Distance to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance: 3 hours
Distance to Lamar Valley: 3.5 hours
Distance to Old Faithful: 7.5 hours
Distance to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: 5 hours

The Beartooth Highway: A Journey to Remember

The Beartooth Highway, often referred to as one of the most spectacular drives in the United States, is a 68-mile-long stretch of highway that winds its way through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and leads to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The highway offers a remarkable experience, combining awe-inspiring vistas, alpine tundra, and unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains.

Beartooth Highway Pass in Montana on a sunny summer day

Starting from Red Lodge, Montana, the Beartooth Highway takes travelers on a journey through rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems. As you ascend in elevation, you’ll witness a dramatic shift in scenery, from thick forests to vast alpine meadows. The highway reaches an elevation of over 10,900 feet at Beartooth Pass, offering panoramic vistas that seem to stretch forever.

Combining Yellowstone and the Beartooth Highway: A Perfect Pairing

Choosing Billings Logan International Airport as your entry point not only provides access to Yellowstone’s northeastern attractions but also sets the stage for an unforgettable road trip along the Beartooth Highway. This scenic route is perfect for travelers who appreciate the beauty of the journey as much as the destination.

As you make your way from Billings to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone, you can embark on the Beartooth Highway adventure, taking in the stunning landscapes and stopping at overlooks to capture the natural beauty on camera. The highway offers opportunities for short hikes, wildlife viewing, and, of course, plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Factors to Consider for the Beartooth Highway

Weather Conditions: The Beartooth Highway is typically open from late spring to late fall (end of May through September), depending on weather conditions. Plan your trip accordingly to experience the highway during its open season.

Scenic Overlooks: The highway features several pull-offs and overlooks where you can pause to take in the views, have a picnic, or simply revel in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Altitude and Safety: Beartooth Pass reaches high elevations, so be prepared for potential altitude-related effects. Also, ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the drive, as the highway’s twists and turns can be demanding.

Billings Logan International Airport in a great option as it provides an enticing entry point for adventurers seeking to combine the wonders of Yellowstone National Park’s northeastern attractions with the unforgettable journey along the Beartooth Highway. This dual experience offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in both the natural beauty of the park and the breathtaking vistas of one of America’s most scenic drives. Whether you’re drawn to the wildlife-rich landscapes of Yellowstone or the awe-inspiring alpine views of the Beartooth Highway, this airport choice promises a remarkable adventure that showcases the best of the region’s natural treasures.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Airport

1. Proximity to Attractions

Consider which park entrance you plan to use and which attractions you want to prioritize. Choosing an airport closest to your desired entry point can help minimize drive time and maximize your exploration time within the park.

2. Flight Options:

If flight availability is crucial to your travel plans, larger airports in more major cities like Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport or Jackson Hole Airport might be preferable due to their broader range of flight connections. There might be few non-stop flights or direct flights if flying into the closest regional airport.

3. Scenic Routes:

Some airports, like Jackson Hole Airport, offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes during takeoff and landing, adding an extra touch of awe to your journey. Also flying into Billings and then taking the Beartooth Highway to the Northeast Entrance is an experience in itself.

4. Seasonal Considerations:

Be aware that some airports might have reduced flight schedules or limited access during certain seasons. For instance, the road leading to Yellowstone’s East Entrance might be closed during the winter months due to heavy snow. So make sure to check when each park entrance opens and closes each year before booking travel.

5. Travel Time and Convenience:

Balance the convenience of a shorter drive from the airport to the park with the flight options and experiences each airport offers. Consider whether a bit more travel time is worth the unique features of a particular airport.

6. Evaluating Rental Car Prices: A Practical Consideration

When selecting the nearest airport to Yellowstone for your journey, it’s crucial to factor in the cost and availability of car rentals. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the park and its surrounding areas at your own pace. However, rental car prices can vary significantly based on the airport you choose. Here’s why evaluating rental car prices should be part of your decision-making process:

Airport Size and Demand:

Larger airports like Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport or Jackson Hole Airport might offer a more extensive selection of rental car options due to higher demand. This increased availability can sometimes lead to competitive pricing. Smaller airports, while convenient, might have fewer rental car providers, potentially affecting prices.

One-Way Rentals:

If you plan to fly into one airport and leave from another, known as a one-way rental, be aware that some rental car companies charge extra fees for drop-offs at different locations. Compare these fees across airports to determine the most cost-effective option for your itinerary.

Seasonal Variations:

Rental car prices can vary based on the time of year and local demand. During peak tourist seasons, such as summer, rental car prices might be higher due to increased traveler activity. Consider adjusting your travel dates to take advantage of potential off-peak rates.

Airport Location:

The distance between the airport and Yellowstone’s entrances can impact rental car prices. While closer airports might offer convenience, rental car rates could reflect that proximity. If you’re open to a slightly longer drive, you might find more competitive prices at airports that are a bit farther away.

Booking in Advance:

Booking your rental car well in advance can often lead to better prices. As your travel dates approach, rental car availability might decrease, and prices could rise. Research rental car options as soon as you’ve decided on your airport to secure a favorable rate.

Local Alternatives:

Consider exploring local car rental agencies in addition to larger national chains. Local agencies sometimes offer competitive prices and a personalized touch that can enhance your travel experience.

Best Airport for Accessing Yellowstone in Winter

When planning a winter visit to Yellowstone National Park, selecting the right airport becomes even more crucial due to the park’s unique seasonal challenges. Heavy snowfall and limited access points mean that choosing the best airport can significantly impact your winter Yellowstone adventure. Regional airports usually cannot handle the heavy snow of winter as well as larger airports.

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN): A Winter Oasis

herd-of-bison-walking-on-snowy-road-yellowstone-national-park

Among the various airport options, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) stands out as the best choice and a good option for accessing Yellowstone during the winter months. Here’s why:

Proximity to the North Entrance: Bozeman airport is conveniently located approximately 90 miles north of Yellowstone’s North Entrance. This entrance, in Gardiner, Montana, is the only one that remains open year-round, allowing access to the Mammoth Hot Springs area.
Snow-Ready Infrastructure: Bozeman is well-prepared for winter conditions. Roads leading from BZN to Gardiner are well-maintained during the winter, ensuring a safer and more comfortable journey to the park.
Availability of Winter Services: The airport and surrounding communities offer a range of services geared toward winter travelers. From rental cars equipped for snowy conditions to guided tours and winter activity providers, Bozeman provides the necessary resources for a successful winter Yellowstone adventure.
Gateway to the Northern Wonders: By choosing Bozeman as your entry point, you can explore the northern regions of Yellowstone, including the geothermal marvels around Mammoth Hot Springs. This area takes on an otherworldly beauty in winter, with steaming terraces and frosted landscapes.

Some of the other airports will also be open but their nearest Yellowstone entrances will most likely be closed to personal vehicles. The only way to get in the would be on above-snow vehicles like snow-coaches.

My Recommendations

I live a considerable 19-hour drive away from the park, and while I’ve made the scenic road trip once, flying has become my preferred choice for convenience. When I have the luxury of time on my side, I opt to fly into Billings. This way, I can relish the journey along the legendary Beartooth Highway, a route that promises breathtaking vistas and unforgettable moments.

However, when time is of the essence, I pivot towards flying into either Bozeman or Jackson Hole. My strategy involves comparing flight options and rental car prices at both of these airports to ensure I get the best possible deal. It’s all about finding the perfect balance between efficiency and adventure, and it allows me to tailor my Yellowstone experience to the time I have available.