Getting to Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park sits in WY, United States, with Cody the nearest town of any size — about 71.2 mi (115 km) out, or roughly 2 hr 8 min of driving.
Yellowstone National Park does not gate the entrance itself. Specific roads, hikes, or tours still need a permit or timed ticket.
Drive times from Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park sits close enough to Grand Teton National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Teton National Park | 56.7 mi (91.2 km) | 1 hr 48 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Cody | 71.2 mi (115 km) | 2 hr 8 min |
| Jackson | 78.5 mi (126 km) | 2 hr 18 min |
| Powell | 86.3 mi (139 km) | 2 hr 30 min |
| Lovell | 105 mi (169 km) | 2 hr 56 min |
| Star Valley Ranch | 115 mi (185 km) | 3 hr 10 min |
| Greybull | 121 mi (194 km) | 3 hr 18 min |
| Basin | 122 mi (197 km) | 3 hr 21 min |
| Pinedale | 124 mi (199 km) | 3 hr 23 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Yellowstone National Park?
Cody, about 71.2 mi (115 km) away — roughly 2 hr 8 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Yellowstone National Park?
The practical bases are Cody, Jackson, and Powell — all within a reasonable drive of the park.