Transportation in Yellowstone National Park

# Transportation in Yellowstone National Park **Getting around America's first national park requires planning, as public transportation within Yellowstone is extremely limited.** The vast majority of visitors explore the park using private vehicles, which provides the flexibility needed to access the park's dispersed attractions across its 2.2 million acres. The park has a well-maintained road system forming a Grand Loop that connects major features like Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Be prepared for seasonal road closures (typically November through April) and summer traffic congestion at popular sites. **For visitors flying in, the closest airports are in Bozeman, Montana (about 90 miles north) and Jackson Hole, Wyoming (about 60 miles south).** Car rentals are essential from these airports, as there is no regular shuttle service into the park. Some tour operators offer guided transportation from gateway communities, but these must be arranged in advance. First-time visitors should note that cell service is very limited throughout the park, so download maps beforehand and plan your route. Gas stations within the park are sparse—fuel up before entering and whenever you see a station. **Quick tip:** Allow much more driving time than GPS suggests. Wildlife jams, construction, and the park's 45 mph speed limits mean that covering even short distances can take significantly longer than expected. The distance between park entrances and major features is substantial, so plan your accommodation location carefully based on what you want to see.

Download the NPS Yellowstone app before arrival as cell service is limited throughout the park

Park roads typically open late May and close in November due to snow - verify current road status before visiting

Free shuttle buses operate in Old Faithful and Canyon Village areas during summer season

Fill up with gas before entering as fuel stations inside the park have limited hours and locations