How far is Bozeman from Yellowstone? The answer: not too far at all! Depending on which entrance you choose to go through, it can take less than two hours by car.
Bozeman sits smack between two entrances to Yellowstone National Park — the North Entrance in Gardiner, MT, and the West Entrance in West Yellowstone, MT. Either entry is good access for a day trip or an overnight stay, or you could spend a few days looping through the Park and ending up back in Bozeman.
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If you're headed to Yellowstone, Bozeman is the perfect area to set up a home base. Download our free Travel Guide for tips on where to stay, how to get to Yellowstone, and sights to see while you're in town.
How Far Is Bozeman from Yellowstone? (West Entrance)
US 191 S through Gallatin Canyon, 89.3 miles, 1 h 48 min
If you haven't experienced Gallatin Canyon, get ready to be awed. The majestic rock walls line either side of the road, the river flows directly next to it, and lush meadows pop up along the way, making this route the perfect scenic drive.
From Bozeman, the road winds along the Gallatin River to the turn-off to Big Sky. If you enjoy fishing, we recommend making some stops along the way — this is one of the most popular spots near Bozeman for fly fishing. This stretch is also known for whitewater rafting and kayaking. If you don't have time to participate, simply enjoy the sights from your car window.
About halfway to Yellowstone, you'll come to a stoplight at the Big Sky turnoff. If you continue straight, you'll arrive in West Yellowstone. Stay on the main street, and it will take you right to the entrance. This entrance is closest to Old Faithful and Yellowstone Lake.
Keep in mind: Travel in the winter can be slower due to inclement weather through the canyon.
US 287 S through Ennis, 123.7 miles, 2 h 15 min
Though a bit longer, this route to West Yellowstone is just as scenic, but the roads are usually better in the winter.
Heading out past Four Corners to Norris, you'll drive through rolling hills with mountain backdrops, following the Madison River. At Norris (we highly recommend the hot springs), turn left to Ennis (a fishing mecca) and continue until you reach US 191 S. Turn right, and you'll end up in West Yellowstone.
How Far Is Bozeman from Yellowstone? (North Entrance)
I-90 E to Livingston, US-89 S to Gardiner, 78.1 miles, 1 h 23 min
Head over the pass to Livingston (maybe stop for a bite or to peruse the shops) and then through the aptly named Paradise Valley to Gardiner, MT.
You'll pass through Roosevelt Arch into Yellowstone. Just inside the Park, you'll find Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley, one of the best wolf-watching hotspots.
Visit the National Park Service website to plan your trip in Yellowstone.
Taking a Bus to Yellowstone
If driving isn't your thing, the KARST Stage offers charter services from Bozeman to Yellowstone.
And speaking of buses — if you would like to tour the Park on the Historic Yellow Bus Tour, you can get a unique experience and an insider's tour inside the Park from May to October.
Getting to Bozeman
These days, getting to Bozeman is easy! With nine major airlines and 24 direct flights into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, you can be here in no time.
If you’re driving, be ready to be wowed. The mountain vistas are breathtaking from every direction. And, as always, watch for animals and traffic that comes from watching animals. There are beautiful and amazing sights to see. Be safe on the road!
For more information about available routes and road closures, check out the Yellowstone National Park road information.
If you enjoyed this blog, take a look at some of our other related articles:
- Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Yellowstone National Park from Bozeman
- What Is the Best Time to Visit Yellowstone?
- Exploring Around Yellowstone: Make Bozeman Your Base!
In our never-ending quest to keep up with all things new in Bozeman, we have been producing content for years and can't possibly update every blog when new businesses open or existing businesses close. Please reference the publish date and do your own due diligence when making plans.