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Estes Park, CO, USA to Yellowstone National Park, WY, USA from $109: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Estes Park, United States of America
to
Yellowstone National Park, United States of America

How to Get from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$109 - Car, Train, BusBest price
9844 kmDistance
5h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$345-615
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Train
Bus
Average Duration
25h  48m
Estimated price
$109-505
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 9844 km
Duration: 5h 45m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  1m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
10h  51m
Estimated price
$112-162
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
24h  8m
Estimated price
$260-691
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
7h  29m
Estimated price
$286-550
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  44m
Estimated price
$311-799

Traveling From Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park

Embarking on the journey from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park offers a delightful contrast between the vibrant, mountainous ambiance of Colorado and the expansive wilderness teeming with geothermal wonders and diverse wildlife in Wyoming.

Best Neighbourhoods in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park features diverse areas each offering unique experiences.

Mammoth Hot Springs
• Famous for stunning travertine terraces.
• Home to the historic Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel.
Old Faithful Village
• Site of the iconic Old Faithful geyser.
• Offers easy access to other geysers and thermal features.
Canyon Village
• Close to the breathtaking Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
• Great starting point for various hiking trails.

Best Times To Visit Yellowstone National Park's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your Yellowstone experience.

Old Faithful
Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening reduces crowds.
Mammoth Hot Springs
Visiting during spring or fall offers stunning colors and fewer visitors.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Early morning during summer provides solitude and breathtaking sunrise views.

Yellowstone National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Yellowstone experiences a varied climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making the shoulder seasons of spring and fall ideal for exploring without the summer crowds. Weather can change rapidly, influencing trail conditions and wildlife sightings, so it's wise to come prepared for all elements.

Dining Recommendation in Yellowstone National Park

At the Old Faithful Inn's dining room, you can try bison short rib, which showcases local ingredients in a rustic yet stunning lodge atmosphere that’s a departure from the casual dining found in Estes Park. The combination of rich flavors and the historic setting, overlooking geysers, creates a memorable culinary experience that emphasizes the park's natural beauty.

Estes Park - Yellowstone National Park operators

Explore transport companies operating between Estes Park and Yellowstone National Park, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Shuttle

Shuttle from Estes Park, CO to Denver International Airport

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane

Plane from Denver (DEN) to West Yellowstone (WYS)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$345-615

Plane from Denver (DEN) to Jackson (JAC)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$311-799

Plane from Denver (DEN) to Bozeman (BZN)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$0-0

Plane from Denver (DEN) to Cody (COD)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$286-550
Drive

Drive from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park

Average Duration
10h 51m
Estimated price
$112-162

Drive from Estes Park to Winter Park/Fraser

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0
Train

Train from Winter Park/Fraser to Salt Lake City

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$750-750

Train from Salt Lake Central Station to Ogden Central Station

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0
Bus

Bus from Estes Park Visitor Center to Union Station

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Denver Union Station to Park City Transit Center

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Salt Lake City Airport to Rexburg

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Rexburg, ID to West Yellowstone, MT

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$260-691

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park.

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The distance between Estes Park and Yellowstone National Park is approximately 550 miles. By car, the drive usually takes around 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. If you opt for a train or bus, the travel time can vary significantly, often exceeding 12 hours due to transfers and waiting times. Flying is another option, with the nearest airport to Yellowstone being in Jackson which would require additional travel to reach the park itself.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park is typically to drive, as it allows for flexibility and can be cheaper than buying multiple tickets for public transportation. Carpooling or renting a vehicle can also help lower costs if you're traveling with a group. Alternatively, flying from a nearby airport to Yellowstone, such as Jackson Hole, can save time, but it may be pricier due to added flight costs and transportation to the park afterward. If you're considering public transportation, a combination of bus services can be used, but it's generally slower and less convenient than driving.
Travel costs from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park can vary widely based on your mode of transportation. If driving, expect fuel costs to be around $70 to $100 depending on your vehicle's efficiency and current gas prices. Bus tickets may range from $70 to $150 per person, though schedules and routes can affect availability. If opting for a flight to Jackson Hole, ticket prices can range from $200 to over $500, not including the additional costs of transportation to Yellowstone after landing.
To get from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent a vehicle for the trip. The drive takes about 10 to 12 hours, following scenic highways and offering opportunities for sightseeing along the way. Alternatively, consider carpooling with friends or family, which can make the journey more enjoyable and cost-effective. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, you might also look into hiring a private guide or shuttle service, although that option may be pricier.
Traveling from Estes Park to Yellowstone National Park without a car can be accomplished by arranging a private shuttle or using a rideshare service. You might also consider booking a tour that includes transportation, allowing for a guided experience. Alternatively, some travelers opt to rent a motorcycle or bicycle for a more adventurous journey, depending on their comfort and fitness level. Additionally, reaching nearby airports like Denver International Airport and then taking a connecting flight to Jackson followed by a shuttle to Yellowstone, is another option, though it may take more time.
There is no direct public transportation link, such as a bus or train, between Estes Park and Yellowstone National Park. Most travelers typically need to use a combination of transportation methods, such as a shuttle service, rideshare, or driving part of the way. Additionally, flights from nearby airports to Jackson would require further travel to reach the park. Therefore, planning your route in advance is essential to ensure a smooth trip.
Since Estes Park does not have its own airport, the nearest major airports are in Denver or Fort Collins-Loveland. A typical flight from Denver International Airport to Jackson Hole Airport, the closest airport to Yellowstone, takes about 1.5 hours. Ticket prices can vary widely, generally ranging from $150 to $400 depending on the time of year, how far in advance tickets are booked, and airline choice. Once you arrive in Jackson, additional travel time is required to reach Yellowstone, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.
There are various accommodation options near Yellowstone National Park, including lodges, hotels, and campgrounds. Inside the park, you can stay at historic lodges like the Old Faithful Inn or Lake Lodge, which offer unique experiences but often require advance booking. Outside the park, towns like West Yellowstone and Gardiner provide several hotels, motels, and cozy cabins. For a more rustic experience, camping is also popular, with numerous campgrounds available that offer stunning views and access to nature.