how far is yellowstone national park from seattle

How Far is Yellowstone National Park from Seattle?

The distance between Seattle, Washington and Yellowstone National Park is roughly 800 miles. The drive typically takes around 12-14 hours without accounting for traffic, stops, or potential road conditions. Depending on which entrance you plan to use, the mileage might vary slightly.

Driving Distance and Routes

The most common route to Yellowstone from Seattle involves traveling east on I-90 to Montana, then heading south towards one of Yellowstone’s entrances. The total distance covered can fluctuate based on your destination entrance to the park. The North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana and the West Entrance in West Yellowstone, Montana are often the most accessible from this direction. Expect to cover between 780 and 850 miles, translating to approximately 12-14 hours of driving time under ideal conditions. It’s highly recommended that you check road conditions, especially during the winter months, as snow and ice can significantly impact travel times.

Alternative Transportation

While driving is the most popular option, flying into a regional airport closer to Yellowstone can save time. The closest airports are Yellowstone Airport (WYS) in West Yellowstone, Montana, and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) in Bozeman, Montana. Flying into either of these airports will significantly reduce your drive time to the park’s entrances. From either airport, it’s generally a drive of one to two hours to reach various entrances of Yellowstone.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your road trip from Seattle, be sure to factor in rest stops, meals, and potential overnight stays. Breaking the journey into two days can make the trip more enjoyable. Consider stopping in cities like Missoula or Bozeman, Montana. Check Yellowstone National Park’s Wikipedia page for updated information about the park, including operating hours, road closures, and available facilities. Also, reservations are crucial during peak season, so plan well ahead of your trip.

FAQ’s

How long does it take to drive from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park?

The drive typically takes 12-14 hours without accounting for stops or traffic.

What is the closest airport to Yellowstone National Park from Seattle?

Yellowstone Airport (WYS) in West Yellowstone and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) in Bozeman are the closest.

What is the best route to drive from Seattle to Yellowstone?

The most common route is I-90 east to Montana, then south towards the park. Consider using a navigation app to get up-to-date route conditions.

Is it possible to drive to Yellowstone in one day from Seattle?

Yes, but it’s a very long day and not recommended. Breaking the trip into two days is more comfortable.

What should I consider when planning my trip to Yellowstone from Seattle?

Factor in rest stops, meals, potential overnight stays, and possible road closures due to weather. Make reservations well in advance, especially during peak season.

Summary

Traveling from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park requires careful planning due to the distance of approximately 800 miles. While driving offers flexibility, flying into regional airports can save time. Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, remember to consider road conditions, book accommodations in advance, and allow ample time to explore the wonders of Yellowstone.