With so many landmarks and natural attractions, Yellowstone National Park is the type of destination where you can spend an entire week or more.
However, it’s still possible to visit most of the best sites in as little as two days. Check out our Yellowstone 2-day itinerary below for some inspiration!
Yellowstone National Park Basics
Best Time to Visit Yellowstone
The summer months between May and October are the best time to visit Yellowstone. Though the park is technically open year-round, most roads and entrances close in the winter. The North Entrance at Gardiner is the only entrance open during winter.
In 2022, unprecedented flooding has also led to road closures, and other areas of the park is prohibited. Always be sure to consult the official website prior to departure to find out exactly what entrances and roads are open.
Entrances
There are five entrances to Yellowstone National Park:
- West Entrance (West Yellowstone, MT)
- North Entrance (Gardiner, MT)
- South Entrance (Jackson Hole, WY)
- East Entrance (nearest city is Cody, WY)
- North East Entrance (near Cooke City, MT)
Admission
Yellowstone admits entrance for $35 USD per vehicle. Individuals with bicycles or skis can enter for $20, while motorcycles and snowmobiles can enter for $30.
Visitors Centers
- Old Faithful Visitor Education Center
- West Yellowstone Visitor Center
- West Thumb Information Station
- Madison Information Station
- Grant Visitor Center
- Albright Visitor Center
- Canyon Visitor Education Center
- Fishing Bridge Visitor Center
- Norris Geyser Basin Museum
- National Park Ranger
How to get to Yellowstone National Park
The closest major airport to Yellowstone National Park is Bozeman International Airport in Montana, which connects to 21 domestic airports. The airport is around a two-hour drive from Yellowstone, though the driving time can be affected by which entrance you choose.
Additionally, you can fly into Jackson Hole Airport, which is only 45 minutes south of the park and gives you easy access to Grand Teton National Park as well as Yellowstone.
Though guided tours to Yellowstone are available, renting your own car or RV puts you in control of your schedule, particularly if you have limited time.