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Rapid City, SD, USA to Yellowstone National Park, WY, USA from $107: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Rapid City, United States of America
to
Yellowstone National Park, United States of America

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

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$107 by busBest price
786.3 kmDistance
6h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rapid City 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
Drive
Average Duration
6h  47m
Estimated price
$455-909
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
13h  29m
Estimated price
$107-242
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 786.3 km
Duration: 6h 47m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
15h  14m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  21m
Estimated price
$90-140
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
8h  51m
Estimated price
$360-1170
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
7h  48m
Estimated price
$360-1170

Traveling From Rapid City to Yellowstone National Park

The journey from Rapid City offers a blend of urban charm and breathtaking natural beauty, transitioning from the lively streets and attractions of the city to the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Yellowstone National Park.

Best Neighbourhoods in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park features diverse areas, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Mammoth Hot Springs
• Home to stunning hot springs terraces.
• Historic buildings reflect early park history.
Old Faithful
• Famous for its predictable geyser eruptions.
• Offers ample visitor facilities and lodging.
Canyon Village
• Close to the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
• Great access to scenic hiking trails.

Best Times To Visit Yellowstone National Park's Attractions

Timing your visit to Yellowstone's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Old Faithful
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning eruptions.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Late spring or early fall offers beautiful weather and vibrant colors.
Mammoth Hot Springs
Visit in the early morning for tranquil views and fewer visitors.

Yellowstone National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Yellowstone experiences a diverse climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable visits and stunning scenery. Weather can greatly influence your travel experience, so being prepared for sudden changes is essential.

Dining Recommendation in Yellowstone National Park

At the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room, savor the bison short rib, which beautifully highlights local ingredients and flavors distinct from the fare in Rapid City. The dining experience here, set against stunning lake views, combines rustic elegance with a sense of place that elevates your meal beyond the typical restaurant atmosphere.

Rapid City - Yellowstone National Park operators

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

Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Rapid City to Jackson

Average Duration
4h 44m
Estimated price
$4551-4550

Plane from Rapid City to Bozeman

Average Duration
4h 56m
Estimated price
$4552-4553

Plane from Rapid City to Cody

Average Duration
5h 32m
Estimated price
$4554-4555
Website
delta.com

Plane from Rapid City to Bozeman

Average Duration
6h 53m
Estimated price
$4556-4553
Website
aa.com

Plane from Rapid City to Jackson

Average Duration
6h 34m
Estimated price
$4554-4555

Plane from Rapid City to Bozeman

Average Duration
6h 51m
Estimated price
$4557-4550
Bus
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Rapid City, SD to Billings, MT

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$4558-4559

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

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$9090-9091
Contact phone
+1 406.995.6287
Website
skylinebus.com

Bus from Walmart to Confluence

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$9092-0

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

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$9092-0
Contact phone
+1 (406) 556-3540
Website
karststage.com

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

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
0-0

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

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
0-0

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Rapid City and Yellowstone National Park is approximately 350 miles. Typically, driving from Rapid City to Yellowstone takes around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. If you prefer to fly, there are also regional airports near Yellowstone, such as Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, that offer connecting flights from Rapid City with a shorter travel time.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Rapid City to Yellowstone National Park would likely be to drive. Driving allows you the flexibility to explore and stop along the way while also being more economical compared to flying or taking a train. Additionally, driving may also be quicker compared to other modes of transportation as you can set your own schedule and have more control over your travel time.
The prices for traveling from Rapid City to Yellowstone National Park can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Driving typically incurs costs related to gas, tolls, and possibly lodging if an overnight stay is necessary. Flying may have variable airfare rates depending on the time of booking and availability of flights. Additionally, taking a train or bus could offer more budget-friendly options but may involve longer travel times. It is recommended to research and compare prices for each transportation mode to find the best option that fits your budget and travel preferences.
One option to get from Rapid City to Yellowstone National Park without using public transportation is to drive your own vehicle or rent a car. The journey typically involves taking I-90 east from Rapid City to US-212, which will take you into the northeast entrance of Yellowstone. Another option is to join a guided tour or hire a private shuttle service for a more personalized and convenient travel experience. Ensure to plan your route and accommodations ahead of time for a smooth and enjoyable road trip to Yellowstone.
If you prefer not to use a car, you can consider taking a combination of flights and shuttle services to get from Rapid City to Yellowstone National Park. You can fly from Rapid City Regional Airport to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport and then take a shuttle or private transfer to the park. Another option is to take a connecting flight to Billings Logan International Airport in Montana and arrange for ground transportation to the park from there. Plan your flights and transfers in advance to ensure a seamless and comfortable journey to Yellowstone without a car.
There is no direct link such as a direct train or bus service between Rapid City and Yellowstone National Park. The most efficient way to travel between the two locations is typically by flying from Rapid City to regional airports near Yellowstone, such as Bozeman or Billings, and then arranging for ground transportation to the park. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a combination of public transportation and shuttle services, although this may involve longer travel times and multiple transfers.
The flight duration between Rapid City and Yellowstone National Park varies depending on the specific route and any layovers, but it typically takes around 2-3 hours. The cost of a flight also varies based on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and availability, but it can range from $200 to $500 for a one-way ticket. It's recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for your travel between Rapid City and Yellowstone.
There are various accommodation options near Yellowstone National Park, including lodges, cabins, campgrounds, and hotels. Inside the park, you can find accommodations at Yellowstone Lake Hotel, Old Faithful Inn, and Canyon Lodge. Outside the park, popular nearby towns like West Yellowstone, Gardiner, and Cody offer a range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals for visitors to choose from. It's advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.

Trips from Rapid City

Trips to Yellowstone National Park