Yellowstone National Park Day Trip

Taking a day trip from Bozeman, Montana, through Yellowstone National Park is a fantastic way to experience some of the most iconic natural wonders in the U.S. While it’s a lot to fit into a single day, it’s possible to enjoy several highlights with a bit of planning. Here are a few of the best day trip routes:

1. Bozeman to Yellowstone's North Entrance (Gardiner, MT)

• Distance: About 1.5 to 2 hours (about 80 miles one way)
• Route: Take U.S. Highway 89 South from Bozeman to Gardiner, the northern entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

Highlights along the route:

• Gardiner: Located just outside the park's North Entrance, this small town offers a picturesque start to your Yellowstone journey. You can explore the historic Roosevelt Arch, which marks the park's original entrance.
• Mammoth Hot Springs: Just inside the park's North Entrance, Mammoth Hot Springs is one of the park’s most famous geothermal features. The hot springs create stunning terraced formations of calcium carbonate deposits. Take a walk on the boardwalks to see the travertine terraces up close.
• Wildlife Viewing: This area is also great for wildlife watching. You may spot bison, elk, and even the occasional grizzly bear.

Tip: You could extend your trip to visit Lamar Valley (famous for wildlife sightings), but this would make for a longer day trip.

Highlights along the route:

• West Yellowstone: This charming town is located just outside the park’s West Entrance. It's a good place to stop for lunch or grab some souvenirs. The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a must-see for animal lovers, offering up-close views of bears, wolves, and other native species.
• Geyser Basin & Old Faithful: After entering through the West Entrance, head south to the Upper Geyser Basin, home to Old Faithful, one of the most famous geysers in the world. Be sure to catch its eruption, which happens about every 90 minutes.
• Grand Prismatic Spring: Another highlight in this area is Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the U.S. Its vibrant colors are a sight to behold from the ground and especially from the nearby overlook.

Yellowstone Park Day Trip 

On your way to Yellowstone National Park, you’ll travel through some outstanding scenery, driving through the mountains and along streams. Yellowstone is the country’s first National Park and has seen millions of visitors since its opening in 1872. Spend some quality time here and you’ll understand why.

Bozeman to Gallatin Gateway (13 miles)– Head west on Main Street to Four Corners and turn south on Highway 191. Drive about six miles and enjoy the historic Gallatin Gateway Inn.

Gallatin Gateway to Big Sky Resort (36 miles)– Continue south on 191 to Highway 64. Make a right and head up to the resort. Enjoy incredible views of the Rockies and the Gallatin Range atop Lone Peak.

Big Sky to West Yellowstone (48 miles)– Head back down Highway 64 and turn right onto Highway 191. Continue south on 191 until you reach West Yellowstone, a neat little town and one of the main entrances to Yellowstone National Park.

West Yellowstone to Gardiner (miles vary depending on route through park)– Once you make your way through the park, follow Highway 89 to Gardiner, the north entrance to the park.

Gardiner to Chico Hot Springs (30 miles)– Continue up Highway 89 through the Paradise Valley. With the views and serenity, this is an inspiring home for many artists. Stay on Highway 89 and head to Chico Hot Springs, following highway instructions. Here you’ll have great views of Emigrant Peak and some relaxing hot springs to take a dip in. 

Chico Hot Springs to Livingston (22 miles)– Stay on Highway 89 until you reach Livingston. Livingston offers up several museums, shops and restaurants to enjoy. 

Livingston to Bozeman (22 miles)– From Livingston, get on Interstate 90 west and head back to town. 

Tips for Your Yellowstone Day Trip:

1. Start early: Yellowstone is vast, and it’s best to get an early start to maximize your time in the park.
2. Park Entrance Fees: Be prepared to pay the entrance fee at the park’s gate. A 7-day pass costs around $35 per vehicle.
3. Check Road Conditions: Some park roads can be closed seasonally, so make sure to check conditions before heading out, especially if visiting in the winter or early spring.
4. Plan for Delays: Yellowstone can be busy, especially during peak season, so be prepared for traffic delays or stops for wildlife sightings along the way.

Each of these routes offers a different experience, from geysers and hot springs to wildlife sightings and scenic vistas. Depending on the time of year and your interests, any of these options can make for a memorable day trip from Bozeman!

5. **Bozeman to Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance (Silver Gate, MT)

• Distance: About 2.5 hours (140 miles one way)
• Route: Head east on U.S. Highway 191 and then take U.S. Highway 212 toward the Northeast Entrance.

Highlights along the route:

• Lamar Valley: Known as the Serengeti of North America, Lamar Valley is a prime location for wildlife viewing, particularly bison, wolves, and bears.
• Tower Falls: A short detour from the main route, Tower Falls is a beautiful waterfall in the park and worth a stop.