Think about seeing geysers, waterfalls, and wildlife in one of the most beautiful places in the United States. Millions of people visit Yellowstone National Park annually to enjoy its natural wonders.
Whether you are entering from the North, South, East, or West or visiting the nearby Grand Teton National Park, several airports are nearby to make your trip easier.
Here is a simple guide to the airports around Yellowstone to help you pick the best one for your visit.
1. North Entrance: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is a great option for those heading to the North Entrance of Yellowstone.
Located near Bozeman, Montana, this airport is about an hour and a half from Yellowstone’s North Entrance. It is also a convenient gateway if you visit Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.
Bozeman offers a variety of flight options from airlines like Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Sun Country, and United.
This airport is ideal for those who want to visit the park year-round, as the North Entrance is the only entrance that remains open throughout the year. Additionally, Bozeman’s location provides easy access to many scenic drives and nearby attractions.
The drive from the airport takes you through beautiful Montana landscapes, and since the North Entrance is often less crowded than other gates, you’ll enjoy a more serene start to your trip.
- Website: bozemanairport.com
2&3. West Entrance: Yellowstone Airport (WYS) and Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA)
The closest airport to Yellowstone’s West Entrance is Yellowstone Airport in West Yellowstone, Montana. This small airport is just over five minutes from the park entrance, making it the best choice if you want to minimize driving time.
Airlines like Delta and United operate here, with most flights connecting through Salt Lake City and Denver. However, Yellowstone Airport is only open seasonally, from May to mid-October, so it's best suited for summer travelers.
- Website: www.yellowstoneairport.org
If you’re looking for an airport that operates year-round and is more budget-friendly, Idaho Falls Regional Airport is a solid alternative. Located about two and a half hours from the West Entrance, Idaho Falls also offers access to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
While the drive from Idaho Falls is longer, it takes you through picturesque landscapes, and the airport serves a wider range of airlines, including Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, and United, making it a convenient and cost-effective choice for many travelers.
Airlines serving Idaho Falls include Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, and United.
- Website: www.idahofallsidaho.gov/181/airport
4. East Entrance: Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD)
If you plan to enter Yellowstone through the East Entrance, consider flying into Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming. This airport is less than an hour from the park entrance, offering convenient access to the eastern areas of Yellowstone, such as Yellowstone Lake and the Fishing Bridge.
Cody is famous for its rich Western heritage, and many visitors enjoy spending a day or two exploring the local attractions dedicated to Buffalo Bill Cody, the town’s namesake. United Airlines offers flights connecting through Denver, making it a practical and affordable choice for visitors.
Cody’s proximity to the park, combined with its unique cultural experiences, makes this airport an appealing option for travelers interested in both history and nature.
- Website: flyyra.com
5. South Entrance: Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
For those heading to Yellowstone’s South Entrance, Jackson Hole Airport is the closest and most scenic option. Situated inside Grand Teton National Park, this airport provides breathtaking views of the Teton Range as you land.
Jackson Hole is about an hour’s drive from Yellowstone’s South Entrance, which makes it perfect for those who want to explore both Grand Teton and Yellowstone in a single trip. Major airlines such as Alaska, American, Delta, and United operate here, though flights can be more expensive, particularly during the winter ski season.
Jackson Hole Airport offers the shortest drive to Yellowstone from the south, and the scenic route through Grand Teton National Park adds an extra layer of beauty to your journey.
- Website: www.jacksonholeairport.com
6. Northeast Entrance: Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)
Billings Logan International Airport is a good choice for those entering Yellowstone through the Northeast Entrance. Located about three hours from the park, Billings is an ideal option for budget-conscious travelers, especially if you plan to explore the stunning Beartooth Highway and Lamar Valley on your way to the park.
The airport is served by major airlines such as Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, and United, offering a range of flight options and prices.
Although the drive is longer than some other airport options, the route offers some of the most scenic vistas in the region, particularly along the Beartooth Highway, which is known for its breathtaking views and wildlife sightings.
- Website: www.flybillings.com
7. Closest International Airport: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
For international travelers or those looking for budget-friendly flight options, Salt Lake City International Airport is the closest major international hub to Yellowstone.
Located about five hours from the park’s West Entrance, Salt Lake City is a hub for Delta Airlines and offers direct flights to most major U.S. cities and many international destinations.
Although the drive to Yellowstone is longer than from some other airports, Salt Lake City provides excellent flight deals and a well-connected airport, making it a popular choice for travelers flying in from far away.
- Website: slcairport.com
8. Largest Airport: Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport is the largest and busiest airport within driving distance of Yellowstone, located about eight hours from the East Entrance. As a major hub for United Airlines, Denver offers numerous international and domestic flight options at competitive prices.
While the drive from Denver is quite long compared to other airport choices, some travelers prefer it for its affordability and the wide range of services available at this large airport. Denver is also an excellent option if you’re combining your Yellowstone trip with a tour of Colorado’s scenic attractions.
- Website: www.flydenver.com
Finding the Perfect Airport for Your Yellowstone Trip
When planning your trip to Yellowstone, it’s essential to consider not just the distance from the airport to the park but also the seasonal accessibility of each entrance.
For instance, the North Entrance near Bozeman is the only one open year-round, while the West, East, and South Entrances are typically closed from early November to late April due to snow. Travelers visiting during the winter should account for these closures when selecting their airport.
Car rentals are available at all of the airports mentioned, but booking early is recommended, especially during the peak summer season. While all airports offer car rentals, prices can vary significantly, with smaller airports like Jackson Hole and West Yellowstone tending to have higher rates.
If you're traveling on a budget, consider flying into larger airports like Idaho Falls, Billings, or Salt Lake City, where rental rates are often more competitive.
In addition to car rentals, some airports, such as Jackson Hole and Bozeman, offer shuttle services to nearby tourist destinations. However, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft may be limited in more remote areas, so it's essential to have a transportation plan in place.
For those planning to explore areas beyond Yellowstone, such as the Grand Teton National Park or Glacier National Park, Bozeman and Jackson Hole airports offer easy access to both parks.
If you’re flying into Billings, don’t miss the opportunity to drive the Beartooth Highway, a spectacular scenic route leading to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance. Alternatively, those flying into Salt Lake City can enjoy a beautiful drive through Grand Teton National Park on their way to Yellowstone.
Choosing the right airport can significantly impact your Yellowstone experience. By considering factors such as distance, seasonal access, budget, and surrounding attractions, you can ensure that your trip is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
Safe travels, and enjoy your adventure in one of the most remarkable natural wonders in the United States!