Badlands National Park to Yellowstone National Park

from $113: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Badlands National 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.

Bus, Drive

15h 9m

Fastest

$113-258

Bus, Shuttle

16h 54m

Cheapest

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Badlands National Park to Yellowstone National Park

The journey from Badlands National Park, with its rugged and colorful landscapes, to Yellowstone National Park, known for its geothermal wonders and diverse wildlife, offers a fascinating contrast in natural beauty and adventure.

Best Neighbourhoods in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park features diverse neighborhoods filled with unique natural beauty.

Mammoth Hot Springs

• Home to stunning terraced hot springs.

• Historic Fort Yellowstone offers guided tours.

Old Faithful

• Iconic geyser erupts predictably every 90 minutes.

• Visitor center provides educational exhibits and dining options.

Lake Yellowstone

• Scenic views of the largest lake in the park.

• Great spot for boating and fishing activities.

Best Times To Visit Yellowstone National Park's Attractions

Timing your visit to Yellowstone can greatly enhance your experience.

Old Faithful

Visit in early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and a magical atmosphere.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Spring and fall offer vibrant colors and fewer visitors, enhancing tranquility.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Go early in the day to enjoy clearer views and avoid peak visitors.

Yellowstone National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Yellowstone experiences a varied climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for avoiding crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so being prepared for shifts in temperature and precipitation helps enhance your overall adventure.

Dining Recommendation in Yellowstone National Park

At the dining room in the historic Old Faithful Inn, savor the bison short ribs, which offer a rich, hearty flavor that reflects the wild landscapes surrounding you. This experience stands in contrast to the more casual dining options in Badlands, emphasizing local ingredients and a setting steeped in the park's history.

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

by busBest price

825.4 kmDistance

7h 40m Fastest

Badlands National Park - Yellowstone National Park operators

Explore transport companies operating between Badlands National Park and Yellowstone National Park, with prices starting at $113. These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Website

united.com

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Jackson (JAC)

Average Duration

4h 44m

Estimated price

$280-950

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Bozeman (BZN)

Average Duration

4h 56m

Estimated price

$240-650

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Cody (COD)

Average Duration

5h 32m

Estimated price

$310-1130

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Idaho Falls (IDA)

Average Duration

5h 32m

Estimated price

$260-1131

Website

aa.com

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Jackson (JAC)

Average Duration

6h 34m

Estimated price

$310-1130

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Bozeman (BZN)

Average Duration

6h 51m

Estimated price

$260-950

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Idaho Falls (IDA)

Average Duration

9h 5m

Estimated price

$280-1132

Website

delta.com

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Bozeman (BZN)

Average Duration

6h 53m

Estimated price

$1133-650

Website

allegiantair.com

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Idaho Falls (IDA)

Average Duration

5h 8m

Estimated price

$1134-1135

Bus

Contact phone

+1 (406) 556-3540

Website

karststage.com

Bus from Bozeman, MT - Airport to West Yellowstone, MT

Average Duration

Estimated price

0-0

Bus from Huntley Lodge at Big Sky Resort to West Yellowstone, MT

Average Duration

1h 37m

Estimated price

0-0

Contact phone

+1 208-656-8824

Website

saltlakeexpress.com

Bus from Idaho Falls, ID to Rexburg, ID

Average Duration

35m

Estimated price

$1136-1137

Bus from Rexburg, ID to West Yellowstone, MT

Average Duration

1h 50m

Estimated price

$2581-2582

Contact phone

+1-858-800-8898

Website

jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Wall, SD to Billings, MT

Average Duration

7h 50m

Estimated price

$2583-2585

Bus from Billings, MT to Bozeman, MT - Wal-Mart

Average Duration

2h 15m

Estimated price

$2586-2587

Contact phone

+1 406.995.6287

Website

skylinebus.com

Bus from Walmart to Confluence

Average Duration

53m

Estimated price

$2588-2588

Bus from Bozeman, MT - Wal-Mart to Mountain Village Center

Average Duration

1h 50m

Estimated price

$2588-2588

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:

The distance between Badlands National Park in South Dakota and Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is approximately 400 miles. By car, the journey typically takes around 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. If you opt for a bus or shuttle service, travel times may vary, generally taking longer due to scheduled stops. For air travel, the nearest major airport to Yellowstone is Jackson Hole Airport, but you'll need additional time for ground transportation from there.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient way to travel from Badlands National Park to Yellowstone National Park is typically by car, especially if you're traveling with a group, as it allows for shared fuel costs and the flexibility to make stops along the way. Driving directly takes around 7 to 8 hours, making it relatively quick compared to other modes of transportation. Alternatively, if you're looking for a budget option, consider utilizing a bus service, though it may take significantly longer due to scheduled stops. For those who prefer to fly, taking a flight to Jackson Hole and then renting a car can be efficient but often comes at a higher cost.

Travel costs from Badlands National Park to Yellowstone National Park can vary significantly based on your mode of transportation. For a road trip by car, fuel expenses typically range from $60 to $100, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Bus fares may range from $50 to $150 per person, but they can take longer and may require transfers. If you choose to fly to a nearby airport like Jackson Hole, airfare can range from $100 to $300, excluding car rental costs, which can add another $50 to $100 per day.

To travel from Badlands National Park to Yellowstone National Park without using public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car. The most direct route typically takes you through highways like I-90 and US-89, offering scenic views along the way. Another option is to consider a guided tour or private shuttle service, which can provide an organized journey while allowing for stops at interesting sights. Ensure you plan your trip in advance and check for any road conditions or closures that may affect your travel.

Traveling from Badlands National Park to Yellowstone National Park without a car can be done by arranging a private shuttle service or a taxi for a more direct, though potentially costly, option. Alternatively, you could consider using a rideshare service to connect with other travelers heading in the same direction. For a more adventurous approach, look into booking a guided tour that includes transportation to Yellowstone, which often allows for sightseeing along the way. Be sure to plan ahead and check availability, as options can be limited in more remote areas.

There is no direct public transportation link between Badlands National Park and Yellowstone National Park, as the distance and remote locations make such options limited. Most travelers typically need to rely on private transportation, such as rental cars or shuttles, to make the journey. However, some tour companies may offer guided trips that connect both parks, providing a more structured option for visiting. It's advisable to plan ahead and check for any seasonal tour services that might facilitate travel between the two destinations.

There are no direct flights between Badlands National Park and Yellowstone National Park, as both are located in relatively remote areas without major airports. However, the nearest airports are Rapid City Regional Airport for Badlands and Jackson Hole Airport for Yellowstone, which are about 400 miles apart. A flight between these two airports, with potential layovers, would generally take around 2 to 3 hours of flying time, not including layover periods. The cost of such flights can vary widely, generally ranging from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the time of booking, the season, and airline prices.

There are several accommodation options near Yellowstone National Park, ranging from hotels and lodges to campgrounds. Popular areas to stay include West Yellowstone, Montana, where you'll find various hotels like the Gray Wolf Inn & Suites and the Holiday Inn. For a more rustic experience, park-operated lodges like Old Faithful Inn and Lake Yellowstone Hotel offer unique access to the park itself. Additionally, there are numerous campgrounds within and around the park for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.