yellow bus tours of yellowstone

Historic Yellow Bus Tour

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Historic Yellow Bus Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Historic Yellow Bus Tour

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Historic Yellow Bus Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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Yellowstone Tours

3-day salt lake city to yellowstone national park, grand teton and salt lake city tour tour code : gol-slc-129.

Departure City : Salt Lake City Utah

Available Days : Mon, Wed, Frid & Sun

Highlights : According to travelers Salt Lake City, Yellowstone NP & Grand Teton are all perfect places to have an adventurous time period with mates. 

3-Day Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park and Elk Antler Arches Park Tour Tour code : GOL-SLC-140

Available Days : Thu, Sun

Highlights : Spend 3 days and 2 nights in Yellowstone National Park, guaranteed to visit 15 major attractions! Visit four famous national parks, one national recreation area and two Native Tribal Parks! Stay at West Yellowstone hotel for two nights, and enjoy your chance for a free upgrade to stay in a real Western Cabin! Free upgrade to a Five-Star Hotel in Las Vegas! Guaranteed new buses, best tour guides and your Satisfaction!    

4-Day Salt Lake City to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park In-depth Tour Tour code : GOL-SLC-102

Available Days : Tue, Thu, Sat & Sun

Highlights : Start on this tour to visit magnificent places beginning from Yellowstone, Norris Geyser, Old Faithful, Fishing Bridge, Grand Prismatic, Fountain Paint Pot, Mud Volcano, Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Grand Teton National Park, Snow covered mountains, shimmering alpine lakes, abundant wildlife, Jackson Hole, Elk Antler Arches, Salt lake city, Utah State Capitol and Great Salt Lake.

4-Day Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park, Fishing Bridge, Hayden Valley, Antlers Park and Grand Teton National Park Tour Tour code : GOL-SLC-138

Available Days : Mon, Wed, Fri & Sun

Highlights : Tired of the fancy tour groups? Looking forward to the special treat of a true travel expert? This is the in-depth experiential travel product you are looking for! Take a visit to 17 major attractions in Yellowstone National Park, and you will be see the famous Eye of the Earth! Follow us and head to the beautiful Grand Teton National Park, enjoy the winding Snake River, tranquil forests, and eternal glaciers. Boat riding and hiking will give you so much fun!

• Hotel breakfast is included.

4-Day Salt Lake City to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Mt. Rushmore, Rocky Mountains and Independent Rock Tour Tour code : GOL-SLC-132

Available Days : Wed, Fri & Sun

Highlights : Grand Teton, Yellowstone National Park, Rocky Mountains, Devils Tower, Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Independent Rock, State Capitol, Temple Square and Salt Lake City in these 4 Days.

4-Day Salt Lake City to Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park and Elk Antler Arches Park Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-SLC-141A

Available Days : Wed & Sat

Highlights : Spend 3 days and 2 nights in Yellowstone National Park, guaranteed to visit 15 major attractions! Visit four famous national parks, one national recreation area and two Native Tribal Parks! Stay at West Yellowstone hotel for two nights, and enjoy your chance for a free upgrade to stay in a real Western Cabin! Free upgrade to a Five-Star Hotel in Las Vegas! Guaranteed new buses, best tour guides and your Satisfaction!

5-Day Seattle to Grand Teton, Yellowstone National Park, Idaho falls and Antler Arches Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-SEA-151

Departure City : Bellevue, WA, Seattle WA

Available Days : Sat

Highlights : [Deep Yellowstone] Visit Yellowstone National Park in depth, Longkou Spring, Emerald Cave, Cat's Eye Pool, Old Faithful Spring and other landmarks are not lost; [City Scenery] Visit the smallest host city of the World Expo, and stop at the 50,000 silver dollar store to create personalized silver dollars; [National Parks] Visit two major national parks: see the geothermal wonders and canyon fountains in Yellowstone, enjoy the lakes and mountains in Grand Teton, and there is no additional fee for entering the mountains; [Style Town] Jackson, a famous cowboy style town in the west of the United States, visit the gate made of thousands of antlers in the Antler Park; [Special Arrangement] The location of the hotel was upgraded for two nights. In the original itinerary, the Idaho Falls Hotel was changed to a special arrangement for two nights to stay in the West Yellowstone Lake View Chalet this year.

5-Day Salt Lake City to Jackson, Yellowstone National Pak, Grand Teton National Pak, Antlers Park, Great Salt Lake and Utah State Capitol Tour Tour code : GOL-SLC-137

Highlights : [Travel Guru]: Tired of superficial tour groups? Looking forward to a truly expert-level and special travel experience? This is the in-depth experiential travel product you've been searching for! [Yellowstone Depth]: Explore Yellowstone National Park for 3 days and 2 nights, ensuring stops at 17 major attractions, including the Earth's Eye waiting for your exploration! [Exclusive Play]: Capture the scenic beauty of Grand Teton National Park, witness the winding Snake River, tranquil forests, and ancient glaciers, indulging in a fairyland. Enjoy endless fun with boating on the lake, mountain hiking, and more! [Luxury Configuration]: The entire journey includes sumptuous breakfasts! Specially arranged with a brand-new high-top vehicle and a top-notch guide, ensuring a high-quality and in-depth itinerary. The ultimate cost-effectiveness provides you with a unique and unparalleled experience! Suitable for: Those seeking something different and the best local resources.

•  Breakfast is included.

5-Day Salt Lake City to Temple Square, Grand Teton NP, Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National park In-depth Tour Tour code : GOL-SLC-122

Highlights : A quick and efficient way to tour Yellowstone by parachuting into Salt Lake City! Three days and two nights in Yellowstone Park, ensuring visits to 15 major attractions!

5-Day Vancouver to Spokane, Yellowstone National Park, Coeur d’Alene, Ellensburg and Seattle Tour Tour code : GOL-VAN-266

Departure City : Burnaby BC, Richmond CA, Surrey, BC

Available Days : Special Dates

Highlights : Visit German villages and towns with traditional Bavarian customs, especially arrange to taste the famous 1/8 German dish Salted Pork Elbow and drink German beer at your own expense. Take an in-depth tour of Yellowstone National Park and explore all the classic scenic spots there! Punch in Funko headquarters, all kinds of theme series and limited-edition games are played at once, and the experience of surprise blind boxes and DIY dolls cannot be missed! Go to shopping center for free shopping!

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West Yellowstone Snowcoach Tours

SNOWCOACH TOURS LEAVING FROM WEST YELLOWSTONE, MT

The only way to access Yellowstone in winter is by way of snowcoach, snowmobile, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. You need these alternative modes of transportation to get around, but they also make for great recreation vehicles! Your winter vacation in Yellowstone National Park isn’t complete without a thrilling and engaging snowcoach tour. We offer several kinds of interpretive tours that can easily be accessed from your hotel.

GALLERY & CONTACT

Contact details.

Yellowstone Vacation Tours 201 Grizzly Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 800-426-7669

2025 RESERVATIONS ARE AVAILABLE NOW! 2025 Season – Beginning December 15, 2024

GET DIRECTIONS

SNOWCOACH TOURS

OLD FAITHFUL EXPLORER

Enjoy Yellowstone’s most popular tour, offered daily. Here, you’ll visit the world’s most concentrated geothermal area with knowledgeable local guides. Tours can include stops at Madison Junction, Fountain Paint Pot, Black Sand Basin and Biscuit Basin, and lots of wildlife stops. We also allow for lunch and sightseeing time at Old Faithful.

*Availability of winter activities subject to weather and snow conditions.

Tours available December 15, 2024 through March 15, 2025. Reserve today!

CANYON EXPLORER

Visit Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon with a chance to see the Lower and Upper Falls, along with Gibbon Falls, Beryl Spring and more! You’ll also discover abundant wildlife along the Madison River. This tour is also offered daily. Boxed Lunches are required.

Tours available December 15, 2024 through March 4, 2025. Reserve today!

DAILY PRIVATE/CUSTOM TOURS YELLOWSTONE EXPLORER - Up to 13 People

Let us help create a custom or theme tour for your school, group or family. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing your departure time, destinations, how much time you want to spend at each stop. For options and pricing, please contact Yellowstone Vacation Tours at 800-426-7669 or use the booking buttons.

TESTIMONIALS

There’s nothing on earth like seeing the unique awe inspiring scenery of Yellowstone for the first time. It honestly renders me speechless.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

LOOKING FOR A MORE “HANDS ON” WAY TO SEE YELLOWSTONE?

Snowcoach Tours are one of the most popular ways to tour Yellowstone in winter, but some folks may be in the mood for a more active, personalized experience. If that sounds like an appealing way to see Yellowstone National Park in winter, please also consider one of our guided Snowmobile Tours!

Our West Yellowstone snowcoaches are the same buses we use for our summer tours, mounted on oversized low-pressure tires. These tires allow our coaches to travel smoothly over the snow, while keeping you higher up for better viewing.

Disclaimer: Actual tour buses may differ than what is represented in photographs.

If you are staying in West Yellowstone or Gardiner, our driver will pick you up right at your hotel lobby. If you are coming in from out of town, please meet at the following locations:

• West Yellowstone Snowcoach tours meet at Yellowstone Park Hotel, located at 201 Grizzly Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758
• Our Summer Bus Tour office is located at 415 Yellowstone Avenue, West Yellowstone, MT 59758.
• Our Gardiner office is located at 905 Scott Street W, Gardiner, MT 59030.

We kindly ask that you be in your hotel lobby ready to go by 8:00am. If you are not staying overnight in West Yellowstone or Gardiner, please meet at the main office no later than 8:00am.

Purchasing boxed lunches for your party is highly recommended for all tours, particularly during the winter months when food service inside the Park is extremely limited, but during the summer months as well since summer crowds can result in long wait times for food service. Boxed lunches can be reserved directly through Yellowstone Vacation Tours when you call in to book your tour, but must be ordered at least 24 hours in advance so they can be ready for pick-up on the morning of your tour.

Our snowcoaches do have heaters, but please come dressed for winter weather. We make several stops for you to get out and take pictures or take a short walk around, so you’ll be grateful to be dressed warmly during your time off the bus. We suggest dressing in layers so you can regulate your own personal temperature.

Gardiner Snowcoach Tours

Yellowstone Vacation Snowmobile Tours

Two Top Snowmobile Tours

West Yellowstone Summer Bus Tours

Yellowstone Vacations Snowmobile Rentals

Two Top Snowmobile Rentals

Car Rentals

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• Vehicle Preservation
• Vehicles on Display
• Historic Garage
• Historic Vehicles

Welcome to the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust

Make us your destination, visit our showroom of historic yellowstone park vehicles and take a trip up the beartooth highway.

The Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust is a 501(c)3 nonprofit all-volunteer organization located in Red Lodge, Montana.  Founded in 2008, our mission is to historically preserve in original operating condition a collection of all makes and models of motorized vehicles used in Yellowstone Park prior to World War II, and to share with others the importance and experience of these vehicles in the park.

Our vehicles are showcased in a historic garage located in the historic commercial district of Red Lodge.   The garage was built in 1936 and is the home to one of the oldest, if not the oldest service stations that operated continuously in the State of Montana.  The garage is primarily open to the public on weekends (late spring through early fall), for special events and by appointment.  Individuals and groups are free to enter the building when open and view all that is showcased therein.  There is no charge for entry. 

Bus trips in an all-original 1937 Model 706 Yellowstone Park Bus on the scenic Beartooth Highway are provided by reservation only for families and groups.  The reservation is for the “bus” that can accommodate up to 10 passengers; not for individual seats on the bus. If the group or family exceeds 10 passengers, a second bus can be reserved when needed and if available.  The cost for each bus taken on the trip is $2,000.  Those who take the trip can plan on traveling about 35 miles up the Beartooth Highway from Red Lodge at an elevation of 5,500 feet, to the West Summit of the Beartooth Pass at an elevation of 10,947 feet.  The bus slowly travels along about 15-18 mph, to and from the Summit providing ample time to enjoy the breathtaking vistas.  The canvas top of the bus is rolled back as weather permits, allowing riders to stand and take in the majestic views.  Interested individuals are encouraged to round-up 10 of their friends or family and make a reservation by calling 406-860-5910 or emailing [email protected] . 

A 1937 Model 706 Yellowstone Park Bus on the Beartooth Highway

donate to Our Cause

Your donations help preserve our historic park vehicles and the historic garage in which they reside.  Donations may be made by clicking on “Donate Now” or by mailing to Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust, PO Box 1522, Red Lodge, MT 59068.

Thank you for supporting us! 

Buses Of Yellowstone Preservation Trust

Mailing Address:

PO Box 1522 Red Lodge MT 59068 US

[email protected]

124 N Broadway Ave, Red Lodge, Montana 59068, United States

(406) 860-5910

Weekends Late Spring Through Early Fall or By Appointment

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Auto Stages in Yellowstone 

Yellow buses & the white motor co. , copyright 2020 by robert v. goss. all rights reserved. no part of this work may be reproduced or utilized in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by an information storage and retrieval system without permission in writing from th e author..

Yellowstone Park Transportation Co.

Automobiles take over the roads.

Before the Auto Stages - The Early Days . . .

Prior to the founding of Yellowstone National Park in 1872, travel in the park was limited to small horse parties and mule pack outfits. Up until 1883 these folks were generally on their own in this wilderness, perhaps guided by or having taken the advice of an acquaintance that had traveled there previously. The earliest commercial transportation venture in the Park seems to be the log toll bridge built by Jack Baronett in 1871 just upstream of the confluence of the Yellowstone and Lamar (East Fork of the Yellowstone) rivers, near what is today known as Tower Junction.  He had hoped to seize upon traffic to the gold mines near the northeast entrance of the park and the occasional explorers and hunters in Yellowstone. Following along the shores of the Yellowstone River was the easiest route of travel in those early days.

Baronett's Bridge in 1871,

photo by Wm. Henry Jackson

In 1873, John Werks, George Huston , and Frank Grounds embarked on the operation of a primitive pack and saddle business from Mammoth Hot Springs into the depths of the park. A year later stagecoach service to Mammoth from Bozeman, Montana commenced on a weekly basis by Zack Roots Express . Park Supt. Philetus Norris and his crew began construction of a primitive road in 1878 from Mammoth to Lower Geyser Basin. In a couple of years sections of the interior of Yellowstone opened to wagon travel and allowed Marshall & Goff to initiate a stagecoach business in 1880 to the Geyser Basins and Marshall’s Hotel. Continued expansion and improvement of the road system over the years enabled a variety of transportation operations to improve and diversify.

Above :  Ad for Frank Grounds and George Huston's pack train that trekked into Yellowstone from Mammoth Hot Springs.

[ Bozeman Avant-Courier , 11Jun1875]

Right :  Ad for George Marshall's Stage Line for travel between Virginia City, Mont. and the Fire Hole Basin, 1881.

[Robert Strahorn, Montana and Yellowstone Park , 1881]

During the next 36 years numerous companies operated stagecoach lines, including Wakefield & Hoffman in 1883, Monida & Yellowstone Stage Co . in 1898, Yellowstone & Western in 1913, and Holm Transportation Co . in 1912. In 1886 the Yellowstone Transportation Co. (YTC) became the first of the successive companies that led to the current transportation operation in the park. It was followed by the Yellowstone National Park Transportation Co. (YNPTCo) in 1891, which was taken over in 1898 by the Yellowstone Park Transportation Company (YPTCo) under the ownership of H.W. Child , Silas Huntley and Edward Bach. By 1902 Huntley had passed away and Bach sold out, leaving Harry Child as the sole owner of the company, although heavily backed financially by the Northern Pacific Railroad . A variety of camping companies also operated their own stage and wagon operations for their customers, including the Wylie Camping Co. , Shaw & Powell Camping Co ., Bassett Brothers and many others.   (See my Stagecoach & Camping pages for detailed info on these various operations)

This plethora of transportation options came to an abrupt termination with the close of the 1916 season. In an effort to streamline and standardize the concession operations in the park, the new National Park Service consolidated the various transportation, hotel, and camping entities. The big winner in the transportation arena was Harry Child, who became sole provider of transportation within the park’s boundaries. And as owner of the Yellowstone Park Hotel Co . he also obtained monopoly status on all hotel ventures. Of even greater significance in this huge upheaval was the requirement to eliminate the stagecoaches and replace them with automobiles. Gone were the mighty steeds of yore, unceremoniously turned out to pasture and replaced with the noisy, smoking, gas-guzzling, although admittedly faster and more efficient auto stages. A new era was launched in Yellowstone.

Cody-Sylvan Pass Motor Company . . .

            Prior to this shakeup, private automobiles had been allowed into the park in August of 1915 and they had shared the roads with the stagecoaches. The mixture of the two foreign modes of travel proved incompatible and provoked the eventual transition to automobiles. By the end of the 1915 season the Holm Transportation Company had gone bankrupt, leaving no service provider from Cody and the east entrance into Yellowstone. To alleviate this situation, the Park Service authorized the creation of the Cody-Sylvan Pass Motor Co. for the 1916 season. This company became the first commercial motorized transportation concern allowed into the park and it journeyed from the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy railroad depot in Cody to Lake Hotel where passengers were loaded onto YPTCo stagecoaches for travel into the interior of the park.

Left: 1916 Letterhead from the Cody-Sylvan Pass Motor Co. Courtesy Bruce Austin, it lists the officers involved in the company.

Above :  Kid Wilson in from of the Irma Hotel in Cody, driving a 1916 White TEB for the Cody-Sylvan Pass Motor Co..

This was a cooperative venture with Frank Haynes of the Yellowstone & Western Stage Co . owning 40% of the shares and Harry Child and Billy Nichols of YPTCo controlling 35%. A.W. Miles of the Wylie Permanent Camping Co . and J.D. Powell and Leo C. Shaw of the Shaw & Powell Camping Co . shared 25%. This new company was incorporated April 4, 1916 in West Virginia to avoid higher taxes in Wyoming and a lease was received on June 16 for the period January 1, 1916 to December 31, 1916. Daily service began on July 1, a late start in the season to allow the snow to melt on lofty Sylvan Pass. Seven 3-4 ton White Motor Co. buses with open bodies and five Buicks were brought into service. After the end of the season, the vehicles and assets were sold to YPTCo on January 29, 1917 for $25,000.

Click Here to read New York Times article about the passing of the stagecoach, from April 29, 1917.

White Motor Company Buses in Yellowstone . . .

In 1916 Harry Child began negotiations with Walter C. White of the White Motor Co. in Cleveland OH for the purchase of motorized vehicles to supplant the stagecoaches for the 1917 season. After negotiating a new 20-year contract with the Park Service, Child obtained a mortgage for $427,104.67 from the railroad companies serving Yellowstone and purchased one hundred ¾-ton 10-passenger White TEB open-sided buses and seventeen White 7-passenger touring cars. He also contracted for seven ¾-ton service trucks and one 4-5 ton truck. The TEBs featured acetylene gas headlights powered by a canister mounted on the running board, front and rear kerosene running lights, a canvas top with detachable bows at each seat, along with side curtains and celluloid windows for use during inclement weather. General practice specified the open top when practical.

Above :  Model TEB bus filled with Yellowstone tourists in 1917. 108 of these models were puchased between 1907 and 1923.  The windshields  were two piece, top & bottom. 

[YNP #115013]

Above : News article from the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, April 15, 1917.  It discussed the White Motor Co. buses and the replacement of stagecoach era that had lasted 30 years.

Above : White 7-Passenger Touring Cars at Mammoth Hot Springs, undated photo.

[YNP #129342-1]

The new vehicles were stored at Mammoth Hot Springs (current Xanterra Aspen dorm site) in an elaborate barn built in 1903-04 that was designed by Old Faithful Inn architect Robert Reamer and originally used for the stagecoaches. For his transportation superintendent, Child hired Fred E. Kammermeyer, a native of Iowa and military transport officer during WWI. Kammermeyer proved to be an excellent choice and remained in that position until his retirement in 1948.

Left :  "Tires in use two seasons. Average mileage so far 8000. Blowouts to date 6. No wonder they use Goodyears only on Yellowstone Park busses." View of the transportation facilities at Mammoth Hot Springs.

[Goodyear Tires post card ca1924]

According to the Anaconda Standard on March 9, 1917, the new auto-stage would be:

“Leaving the factory at Cleveland May 10, 100 motorcars for use in the transportation of tourists in the Yellowstone park will travel west by special train, and after being- exhibited fn Chicago, Milwaukee, Indianapolis and the Twin cities, will arrive here in time for the opening of the park on June 20, The equipment is being purchased by the Yellowstone Park Transportation company of this city, recently formed through a merger of the principal camping companies which have been operating in the park, and will replace the horses and stage coaches heretofore used.”

Between 1918 and 1924, Child purchased forty-seven additional White 7-passenger touring cars, two 8-passenger cars, 104 ten-passenger buses, along with a few Lincoln touring cars. Beginning in 1920 YPTCo began purchasing White Model 15/45 tour buses. These 10-passenger units sported a split windshield right and left, with twin openings top and bottom – a key distinguishing feature from the TEBs, which had a full windshield, split top and bottom. The 15/45s also had a slightly longer wheelbase and improved chassis and motor. Twenty-four units arrived in 1920, twenty each in 1921 and 1922, and sixty in 1924.

Right :  White model 15/45 buses in front of the Mammoth Hotel ca1920. Note the split windshield top-bottom and right-left

White Model 50 bus in front of the Mammoth Hotel ca1923. [YNP Archives]

In 1923 the YPTCo purchased two White Model 50 buses that were used to transfer passengers from West Yellowstone to Old Faithful. There were six side doors opening onto seven benches to seat 25 passengers plus the driver. The Bender body had a 198” wheelbase with a 4-cylinder GN motor. The roof was solid and luggage could be stored on the roof rack. They had electric lights and utilized 36” x 6” tires all around, with duals on the rear and 198" wheelbase. Previous modelsutilized acetylene gas lights.

Disaster Strikes the Yellow Buses in 1925 . . .

All seemed to running smoothly and life was good, when suddenly – an unspeakable disaster occurred:

On March 30, 1925, around 2:15 in the afternoon, fire broke out in the Mammoth main bus barn. Apparently an oil furnace exploded sending fiery debris all over the shop. With a swift breeze from the south, the fire spread quickly and furiously - within an hour, the entire Reamer-designed barn was a total loss. Included in the damage were the carpenter and paint shops, the top shop, oil house, new storage shed and the residences of Fred Kammermeyer and J.C. Drew, the master painter. Fortunately another garage containing 215 vehicles was saved. However, inside of the main storage barn lay the smoldering ruins of about 93 vehicles, including 22 7-passenger White touring cars, 53 10-passenger White buses, 6 White trucks, 4 Ford roadsters, and 8 other vehicles, 4 of which belonged to the YP Camps Co. Luckily there were no fatalities or serious injuries. Damages were estimated to be close to a half million dollars.

Left : 1925 Fire at Mammoth   

[Courtesy Bill Chapman]

Right :  1925 Fire at Mammoth  

Bottom Left :  Aftermath of 1925 fire at Mammoth

[YNP #36487]

Bottom Right :  Aftermath of 1925 fire at Mammoth

[YNP #36488]

But now – what to do? The opening of the summer season would arrive in a mere 2-1/2 months – the vehicles had to be replaced!  Harry Child quickly got in touch with Walter White of the White Motor Company. Negotiations were soon finalized for the purchase of ninety model 15/45 buses, along with five 2-1/2-ton trucks and two 4-5 ton trucks. Because of the tremendous business potential involved, the White company scrambled together all their resources and focused their production on Yellowstone Park. They were successful and the new vehicles arrived in time for the opening of the 1925 season.

Coincidently, YPTCo had been constructing larger and more modern garage facilities in Gardiner. Although originally scheduled to open in the fall, this project too was rushed to completion in time for the June opening. This new facility included modern mechanics stalls, body and upholstery shops, carpenter shop, blacksmith shop, tire and battery shop, paint shop, and a coal-fired heating plant. The building is still in use and accommodates Xanterra Parks & Resorts Transportation and Human Resource divisions.

Above : Magazine ad from 1924 showing a new White Model 15-45 in front of Old Faithful geyser. At right are Harry Child and Walter White. After the fire the following year, Walter White came to the rescue with 90 replacement buses.

Above :  View of the bus garage in Gardiner with White Motor Co. buses in front, undated. The building is still used by Xanterra Parks & Resorts for the vehicle repair shop & human resources.

Above :  View of the bus storage barn in Gardiner, located where the former horse & carriage barns stood. This was built around 1926. It is still in use by Xanterra Parks & Resorts. 

[YNP #32072, 1951 photo]

A New Era is launched . . .

Visitors entering and leaving Yellowstone via the Cody Road through Wapiti Valley and Sylvan Pass gained significant touring comfort in 1931 when YPTCo introduced eight new White Model 614 buses. These 14-passenger units featured permanent tops, glass side windows, and an opening roof cover so that guests could stand up to enjoy the heights of scenery offered on this scenic thoroughfare. They also provided better protection from the frequent storms and inclement weather. The buses had a more powerful 75hp engine to facilitate climbing the pass and hydraulic brakes provided increased safety.

Left : Photo of Harry W. Child, undated

Right :  Obit for Harry  Child

[Billings Gazette, 5Feb1931]

Left : White Motor Co. Model 614 bus at the Upper Geyser Basin, undated. There were 8 of these models purchased in 1931.

[YNP #114503]

Right :  White Model 614 bus in Yellowstone, undated.

[YNP #114504]

Yellowstone Bus Draws Attention

The Missoulian , Sept. 17, 1930

The new bus Is designed to replace those now in use which are constructed after the pattern of touring cars with seating space for 11 passengers. The more modern design gives the bus the stability and comfort of a sedan while retaining visibility by eliminating the permanent covering customary in the construction of a sedan. The sides of the sedan top are supported by especially designed and upholstered beams made of light and strong metal. With six of these stays across the top join the sides. Another departure from the usual design is the omission of the ceiling. In case of storm the bus can be covered from an automatic roll which is made a part of the baggage section. The covering can be placed in less than three minutes.

By the mid-1930s, the Yellowstone buses were aging and it was decided that modernizing the fleet with buses utilizing more powerful engines and greater passenger capacity was necessary. Transportation operations in the other western national parks were facing the same problems and coming to the same conclusion. In response, representatives of those parks got together and began searching for a bus that would meet the needs of the rigors of travel in the mountainous west. Negotiations began with the major auto makers in 1935 and trials were conducted in Yosemite of various models. Participants included Ford, REO, GM, and White.

The model that best seemed to meet their current needs was White Motor Company’s Model 706. The proposed 14-passenger bus featured two squared-glass windshields, lantern-style rear running lights, 13A engine, and measured about 26 feet long. A canvas cover on the roof could be pulled back to allow for an open top and unobstructed views. Yellowstone acquired twenty-seven of these models for the 1936 season. Similar models became the norm in other western parks, including Yosemite, Glacier, Grand Canyon, Zion, Mt. Rainier, and Rocky Mountain national parks.  Content with the 706’s performance, YPCo purchased forty-one more in 1937 and twenty in 1938 which included improved 318 cubic inch 6-cylinder engines. A final purchase of ten more was made in 1939, bringing the total to ninety-eight Model 706 buses – more than any other national park.

This is one of the new busses to be used In Yellowstone park, designed by the White company and park officials especially for use In Yellowstone. The new busses carry 14 passengers and the driver, and have an exceptionally large baggage compartment in the rear.

    Yellowstone's new busses ride more comfortably than any of those previously used, and a particular feature of them is that they have roll tops which, under ordinary weather conditions, are rolled back Into a compartment In the top of each bus. This gives passengers an unlimited view, and many times during a trip, they may stand up and look out over the top of the bus, particularly when passing through the numerous park canyons. During inclement weather this top Is rolled forward and makes the bus as tight and warm as an ordinary commercial unit.

The new park busses perform equally well In all altitudes, officials say. They have to operate In altitudes of 5,300 foot at Gardiner, 10;200 feet over Mount Washburn and 11,000 over the summit of the road between Red Lodge and Cooke City.  [Helena Daily Independent, June 17, 1937. Note: the paper was a year late in announcing this, as 27 buses had already been purchased in 1936.

White Model 706, No. 386, purchased in 1936. This is a Real-Photo postcard. After guests unloaded from the train at West Yellowstone, a photo was taken of their bus that could be purchased upon their return. There are many thousands of the these type of cards available on internet auction sites.

White Model 706 buses parked at Tower Falls in 1939.

[YNP #185327-290]

White Model 706, No. 457, purchased in 1939. This was the 4th to the last 706 bus purchased in Yellowstone. Park Superintendent Garrison is standing at right of the bus filled with Park Service and concessionaire officials.

[YNP Archives]

White Model 706 buses parked at the Gorham Chalet in Silver Gate, a few miles from Cooke City, Mont. They would been traveling the route over the Beartooth Pass and Red Lodge, south of Billings Mont.

[YNP #185-327490]

End of an Era . . .

Sales of the older White buses began in earnest in 1936 and by 1940 seventy-eight 10-passenger buses and fourteen 15/45 models were sold. In the spring of 1938, a document from the Yellowstone Park Co. files indicated that the company had 200 White open-top autos that would be available for sale, plus two 25-passenger buses and ten 7-passenger Lincoln touring cars. The company was focusing on using the newer White 706 models. A $20,000 inventory of spare parts would accompany a mass purchase from a buyer. 

Times were a’changin’ in the world and in the park. WWII and the attendant gas rationing and tire shortages had put a huge dent in travel to the national parks, while the military became a prime user of rail services throughout the country. After the war the American public rapidly became infatuated with the idea of personalized travel in private vehicles, a trend that had been building for a number of years. Rail travel, once the primary source for Yellowstone’s bus tours, was rapidly fading into obscurity. Park bus tours, originally 5-1/2 days in the stagecoach days, had dropped to 4-1/2 days with the advent of auto tours and by 1940 had been reduced to 2-1/2 days.

The days of quaint, leisurely tours through the park were becoming a thing of the past. The demise of passenger rail service to the park started around 1948 and ended completely by 1960. Although Amtrak reinstituted some rail service in 1971, it was never became a significant travel factor in Yellowstone. With all these changes the fleet of hundreds of historic vehicles to cart visitors around the park was no longer needed. Changes in travel of a magnitude similar to that of the transition from horse-drawn stagecoaches to autos would assault the park late in the 1950s. Private vehicles became king of the road and the future for guided tours in park buses dimmed rapidly. The prospect of large, modern-looking and seriously unaesthetic buses for the remaining traffic loomed on the horizon.

Roads and parking area filled to the brim with automobiles tourists, eventually helping to put the railroad passenger lines mostly out of business.

Left to Right:  Cars lined up to see Giant Geyser, 1952 YNP #38969;  Canyon Village, ca1957 postcard;   Bear jam at unknown location, NPS photo.

These were difficult times for YPCo and the economic strain of the economy, added to park facility renovations demanded by the Park Service, heavily affected the company’s transportation options. Leasing school buses was apparently seen as the most cost effective plan to upgrade the fleet. The quaint ambiance and serenity of group travel in small buses would be no more. The beginning of a new era occurred in 1958, when YPCo signed a 5-year contract to lease six 41-passenger school buses from the Charter Bus Transportation System in Los Angeles. School buses for the L.A. City School System would spend their formerly idle summers now idling and smoking along the mountain roads of Yellowstone. These were Crown model A-779-11S with a 232” wheelbase and powered with a Hall-Scott 779 cubic inch engine. Fifteen more units were leased in 1959 while more of the classic old White buses unceremoniously hit the auction blocks.

Crown Model A-779-11, bus No.506, ca1959. It had returned from the LA School District and the "school bus" lettering was being covered over for summer use in Yellowstone. 

[Photo Motor Coach Today, Apr-Jun 2000]

Motor Coach Industries bus Model MC-5B, ca1990. It is parked in front of the Gardiner Service Center.

This trend toward larger and modern vehicles persisted with GM Model 5302 buses hitting the roads in 1965 and Crown diesel Model AD-743-11’s entering the scene soon after. In 1975 YPCo settled on fifteen MC-5B buses from Motor Coach Industries (MCI) with 8V-71 diesel engines. Eight of these carried forty-one passengers and featured a restroom. The remaining buses could hold about forty-five passengers. The following year ten more buses were acquired. A mere ten years or so later, TW Recreational Services (TWRS) ended the somewhat profitable out-of-park charter runs under pressure from the park service, thus reducing the need for much of the MC-5B bus fleet. Sales of the buses commenced and by 1999 only nine of the original twenty-five remained, and in 2019 more of the buses were sold off.. According to transportation manager Kelly McAdams, in 2020 only one MC-5B was left in the fleet. But three newer MCI buses were purchased around 2017, made by MCI, Model No. D4005, 47-passenger

Engine:                 Cummins X12 w/engine brake, 410hp, 1,450 lb-ft torque Transmission:     Allison B500 Gen V Front Axle:           Meritor® 16,000 lb (7,257 kg) with conventional bearings Drive Axle:           Meritor® 22,500 lb (10,206 kg) with pre-set wheel bearings Tag Axle:              D4505: Meritor® 14,000 lb (6,350 kg) with conventional bearings                              D4005: Meritor® 10,000 lb (4,536 kg) with conventional bearings Seating w/lav:    D4505: 55-passengers                              D4005: 47-passengers Wheels:               Hub-mounted steel, 22.5 x 9.0 Tires:                   Firestone FS400 315/80 R22.5 9.00" L-rated

Photo courtesy Kevinsbusrail.com, 7/2017

Above L-R : Nickel plated drivers badge, ca1930s;  YPTCo luggage Tag, unk date;  YPCo uniform patch, ca1970s.

Below - Metal Pinbacks, L-R :  Pin with twp bears, probably YPTCo;   YPTCo pin;  YPCo pin, Transportation Division;   YPCo pin, could be hotel, transportation or both, ca1960-70s

Return of the Yellows Buses - 2007

    While all of these changes were going on, Steve & Gayla Hites, of the Skagway Street Car Company in Alaska, had managed to acquire eight of Yellowstone’s 1936-38 Model 706 White buses from various collectors across the country. He put them back to work as tour buses in the quaint panhandle town of Skagway, located about 90 miles northwest of Juneau. In 2001 Hite decided to modernize his fleet and offered his old Yellowstone buses for sale. He contacted Xanterra Parks & Resorts (latest in the lineage of names changes from YPTCo to YPCo to TWRS to Amfac) and current operator of the hotels and transportation system in Yellowstone.

The original bus numbers with the current Xanterra bus numbers,

and their Skagway names are:

            1936 Models:  372 (516)        Cripple Creek

                                     377 (510)        Yellowstone   

            1937 Models:  404 (514)        Little Rocky    

                                     408 (511)        Hollywood

                                     413 (512)        Great Falls

                                     419 (517)        Monty (Full Monty when loaded)  

                                     434 (513)        Big Rocky

             1938 Model:   450 (515)        Mason City

Some of the Skagway Street Car Co.White buses upon their return to Gardiner Spring 2007. They were awaiting renovations.

[Photo by the author]

Looking to capitalize on an opportunity to restore the yellow buses to Yellowstone and score a historical, political and hopefully economic coup, Xanterra decided to purchase the eight buses. Sometime after their arrival in late September 2001, the buses were contracted to Transglobal Design and Manufacturing (TDM) in Livonia, Michigan for complete renovations.  Each bus was carefully removed from their original chassis and placed on a Ford E-450 chassis with a Ford 5.4 liter gas engine. TDM refurbished the interior seats and oak trim throughout the vehicle. They replaced the old canvas tops with more modern materials and installed a public address system for guides to narrate the tour. Other upgrades included heaters under the seats and boxes with warm lap blankets, so that even on brisk Yellowstone days, passengers could comfortably see the beauty of the park through the open top. Rotten wood in the body was replaced and wood floors were replaced with aluminum for better insulation. Years worth of paint were stripped to reveal the original yellow paint and find its match using modern paint-mixing techniques. The eight buses cost a total of $1.9 million to purchase and refurbish.

Return of the Yellow buses. A parade was held June 2, 2007, that passed through Gardiner, the Arch, and on to Mammoth Hot Springs. they ply the roads every summer now, thrilling crowds of excited tourists yearning for the old days.

[Photos by the author]

Below:  Refurbished 706 bus at Castle geyser, ca2000s.

Courtesy Xanterra Parks & Resorts

For more detailed information on Yellowstone's White busses, refer to: 

"Buses in Yellowstone National Park", Motor Coach Today , Apr-Jun 2000, by Bruce Austin, Robert Goss, & Jerry Pesman.

Reprints available from the Motor Coach Society website.

Also, please visit these other fine Yellowstone Yellow Bus organizations:

Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust

Jammer Trust

Boise to Yellowstone Road Trip: 4-Day Adventure

Beautiful and stunning capital of Idaho, Boise, sadly, rarely marks the beginning of a road trip to Yellowstone National Park.

Last updated: December 13, 2021

There’s a good reason behind it. The city is located almost 6 hours away from Yellowstone, making it the longest road trip compared to adventures that start in other destinations, closest to the park. Yet travelers who stick to off-the-beaten-path routes praise Boise to Yellowstone road trip for splendid landscapes and ample unexpected surprises along the way.

Off the Beaten Path: Boise to Yellowstone National Park Road Trip

Divided into 50 states, the United States boasts endless amount of astounding destinations and scenic road trips, such as Boise to Yellowstone National Park. It took me a couple of years of exploring mostly the western corner of the country to madly fall in love with this part of the world. I even made my mind to visit all 50 states one day.

The best and proven way to explore this diverse land is a good old road trip. A few months ago, itching for new places and road adventures, I stumbled upon pictures of Shoshone Falls. Located in Idaho, one of the U.S. largest natural waterfalls looked inspiring. After a few hours of thorough research, I already had a new road trip planned out. Boise to Yellowstone National Park road trip… It looked perfect on paper. It was time to give this road adventure a try. 

Why to Choose Boise to Yellowstone Road Trip

As I mentioned earlier, Boise sits nearly 6 hours away from Yellowstone – a road trip that takes almost an entire day to complete. Most roadtrippers preferrer to fly into Salt Lake City, Utah, and drive for less than 5 hours to see natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park.

I considered this city, instead of Boise, for our Yellowstone road trip at first as well. However, a few things reasoned me to hit the road in Idaho, exploring a few destinations in the Gem State before succumbing to the natural phenomena of Wyoming’s Yellowstone .

Boise – Yellowstone Road Trip Wins…

First, flying into Boise from Los Angeles can save you money . During an off-season, round-trip airfares from LAX to BOI are as low as $90. A similar, less than two-hour flight to Salt Lake City costs almost double.

Second, the route from Boise to Yellowstone encompasses remarkable destinations you can’t afford to miss on your road trip. I got my eyes on Shoshone Falls, but there’s a myriad of other interesting places to visit in Idaho.

Skipping the airports and using just a car tempted me as well. Yet additional 12-13 hours of driving one way would significantly prolong our Boise to Yellowstone road trip. Time, however, wasn’t on our side. So flying into the capital of Idaho, renting a car, and driving to Wyoming and then back won this time, leaving other possible road trip options for later. 

How Much Time do You really Need for Boise to Yellowstone Road Trip?

Boise to Yellowstone road trip still requires a lot of driving. You can spend the whole day just getting from the capital of Idaho to your final destination. Ideally, you should set aside 7 days for your Boise – Yellowstone road trip. Taking it easy and exploring Idaho before venturing into Wyoming rewards with many unexpected surprises.

In the real world, however, the majority of the travelers don’t have the luxury of spending a week for a road trip from Boise to Yellowstone. In this case, 4-5 days should suffice .

You can treat this Boise to Yellowstone road trip guide as a rough draft for you travel plans. Feel free to skip some of the destinations mentioned here or add any other of your choice. I’d still recommend to visit Shoshone Falls in Idaho.

If you devote just a few days to a round road trip from Boise to Yellowstone, get ready to run on a few hours of sleep a day. On the bright side, glorious colors illuminating the sky at sunrise and sunset should become your inevitable travel companions.

If nature’s wonders don’t satisfy your wanderlust, the incredible places you’re about to see and experience on this Boise to Yellowstone road trip should keep you awake for a lot longer.

TIP: Since you will stay only a few hours in any hotel, aim for budget-friendly accommodation. Who needs to spend a fortune for a place where all you need is a bed, pillow, and blanket. You should be back on the road in either Idaho or Yellowstone in no time anyway. 

The Best Time for Boise to Yellowstone Road Trip

Each season brings something special to cherish for years after your unforgettable Boise to Yellowstone road trip. Spring impresses with flower bloom and mild temperatures. Most roads in the national park are open by mid-April or May.

Waterfalls, fueled by melting snow, regain their power and present themselves in their full glory. Wildlife in Yellowstone and some parts of Idaho also seem to gravitate to the roads in search of food, making your trip even more impactful. 

Summer is one of the popular seasons to embark on a road trip to Yellowstone National Park from Boise or any other destination. All the roads are open by this time. Temperatures rise, bringing hot and humid days. Occasionally, afternoon rains and thunderstorms try to spoil your road trip adventure.

Fall , on the other hands, gives a much-needed break from the scorching summer heat. This season is also on a mission to enhance your road trip from Boise to Yellowstone with vibrant splashes of color. Some people purposely wait for this time of the year to venture into northwestern Wyoming to photograph away its gorgeous fall foliage.

On average, fewer travelers embark on a long road trip from Boise to Yellowstone, making the adventure more enjoyable and less chaotic.

Winter gives a break to most of the places outlined in this Boise to Yellowstone road trip. Especially relieved is the national park. Due to heavy snowfalls and unwelcoming conditions, the majority of the roads close for the season. Outdoor adventurers, however, can still enjoy a winter wonderland and have almost entire Yellowstone to themselves. On the other hand, they can enter the park only by snowmobiles or snowcoaches.

Some other sections of the route also become less convenient due to accumulation of the snow and occasion road closures. Nevertheless, a winter road trip from Boise to Yellowstone is too beautiful to postpone it for the warmer months. 

Boise to Yellowstone Road Trip: Map

Road Trip from Boise to Yellowstone: Day 1

A road trip from Boise to Yellowstone is long, to say the least. Driving for hours from one destination to another can be tedious and exhausting. Go at your own pace and take frequent breaks if it’s necessary.

Adding additional stops and exploring other places not mentioned in this road trip itinerary allows to dive deeper into culture and lifestyle of Idaho and Wyoming. If time permits, break down the first day itinerary of this Boise to Yellowstone road trip into two or three days.

Those who are pressed by time should endure the long driving hours and consider spending on average six hours a day on the road. After leaving Boise, you can swing by some of the destinations in this road trip guide or skip them altogether and drive straight to Yellowstone.

So adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences and availability. This Boise to Yellowstone road trip should be your guide, not directive. 

Start: Boise, Idaho

We flew into Boise late in the evening and didn’t have time to explore it during our first day here. For those who make it to the capital of Idaho early in the morning and are not ready to embark on a long journey to the national park until the next day, here are a few places you want to explore.

The greenest city in Idaho, Boise prepares you for a road trip to Yellowstone by training your eyes for scenic views at the Boise River GreenBelt . The popular park stretches 25 miles along the banks of the Boise River and offers a ten-mile biking or hiking route with a scavenger hunt, unveiling history of the city.

The Boise Art Museum does the opposite. Aware of lack of artistic outlets on your road trip through Idaho to Yellowstone National Park, this famous gallery in Boise strives to impress with contemporary artworks and exhibitions before you venture into the woods. 

The quintessential Capital City Public Market helps Saturday visitors stock up on food for their long journey.

Whether you start your road trip to Yellowstone by exploring Boise first or use the city only as a place to fly into, you need a car. The most convenient place to rent a vehicle is Boise Airport . The place includes a good number of car rental companies, such as Hertz, Alamo, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Dollar, National, Thrifty, and ample vehicles to choose from. 

Where to Stay in Boise

The area near Boise Airport has many hotels and lodges, ranging from budget-friendly accommodations to luxury hotels. As we didn’t rent our car until the next morning, we opted for Super 8 by Wyndham Boise , located less than a 10-minute walk from the airport. You can pick whatever suits your budget. To start you off, consider the following options.

• Best Western Northwest Lodge . The lodge lets you spend the first night of your Boise to Yellowstone road trip without draining your budget.
• For a homey feel and an interesting experience, check out Franklin House .
• Hilton Garden Inn Boise . The place allows you to start your Boise – Yellowstone road trip on the slightly higher end in terms of price. 

READ MORE : Boise Travel Guide and Day Trips from Boise

Stop 1: Shoshone Falls, Idaho

As I mentioned earlier, you can skip all other destinations suggested for the first day of the road trip from Boise to Yellowstone, but be sure to include Shoshone Falls in your itinerary.

Nestled 2 hours away from the capital of the state, the waterfall is known as a natural phenomenon on the Snake River. One of the largest waterfall in the United States, Shoshone Falls lies on the outskirts of the small city of Twin Falls .

Affectionally called the “ Niagara of the West ”, this natural attraction spreads over 900 feet wide. It reaches height of 212 feet, which is even higher than Niagara Falls itself.  

Shoshone Falls is safe to add to your Boise – Yellowstone road trip all year round. Spring visits, however, allows to see the waterfall in its full glory . The flow is at its highest during this time. Before planning our Yellowstone road trip, I read a few controversial articles. According to them, Shoshone Falls almost dries up by fall. We visited the place in late October, and it was a sight to behold even then.

TIP: If you didn’t do your grocery shopping for this road trip in Boise, it’s about time you do it in Twin Falls. The town has plenty of places to eat and shop. Be aware, though, that some of the stores in Twin Falls don’t accept credit cards. You can pay with debit cards, cash, or old-fashioned checks. Apparently, the latter are still a reliable type of payment even in the 21st century, at least in Idaho.  

READ MORE : Visit Shoshone Falls & Best Things to Do in Twin Falls, Idaho

Stop 2: Pocatello, Idaho

Pocatello, the fourth-largest city in Idaho, sits 1 hour 45 minutes east of Twin Falls via I-84 E and I-86 E. The city was originally nicknamed the “ Gate City ”. As gold miners and pioneer-settlers traveled along the Oregon Trail, they inevitably passed through the Portneuf Gap to continue on to Oregon or Montana . Surrounded by mountains from three sides, the town became a popular transportation junction in 1889. 

Today, it’s mostly known for its Museum of Clean . The biggest attraction in the city features an expanded collection of all sorts of items and devises related to cleanliness. Almost 1,000 vacuums and exquisite exhibits, such as Queen Elizabeth of Austria’s toilet and Don Aslett’s toilet travel suitcase, adorn the rooms of the complex. 

While you surely hope to meet some wild animals on your road trip from Boise to Yellowstone, don’t miss an opportunity to get acquainted with “locals” at Zoo Idaho . Originally opened in 1932 at a local trailer park with two animal-residents, monkey Josephine and raccoon Pete, the place has acquired more inhabitants with time. Today, it’s home to grizzle bears, mountain lions, bison, pronghorn antelope, red foxes, and many more. 

If you do decide to add Pocatello to your Boise – Yellowstone road trip, you should certainly explore Old Town Pocatello’s ethnic food scene . Famous for specialty shops and international restaurants, the place blows away your taste buds with Thai, Nepalese, Greek, Chinese, Italian, and Mexican dishes.

If your visit falls on Friday, you are in luck. Every first Friday of the month, Old Town Pocatello hosts Art Walk events that feature works of local artists, accompanied by local musicians.

Stop 3: Lava Hot Springs, Idaho

The next destination on your road trip from Boise to Yellowstone is Lava Hot Springs. Part of the Pocatello metropolitan area, the place sits approximately 36 minutes away, via I-15 S and US-30 E.

The city makes the headlines thanks to Lava Hot Springs Olympic Swimming Complex and Indoor Aquatic Center . Bubbling up from natural underground springs, the amusement park is open year round. Water temperature ranges between 102˚ F and 112˚ F and works its magic on the exhausted by the road travelers.

Although the place can be alluring and relaxing, I suggest that you don’t spent too much time in Lava Hot Springs. Your epic Boise – Yellowstone road trip still has many other intriguing places you can’t afford to miss.  

Stop 4: Soda Springs, Idaho

Another Idaho’s hidden gem nestles near the Wyoming border, 25 minutes east of Lava Hot Springs via US-30 E. The small city of Soda Springs is not the most frequently visited place in the state. Yet locals treat it as a crown jewel thanks to its famous Soda Springs Geyser or Idaho’s own “ Old Faithful ”.

The world’s only captive geyser was discovered by accident when drilling for a potential pool in 1937. The natural attraction has been trapped and timed since then. The geyser erupts every hour and reaches heights up to 100 feet. 

Similar to Pocatello, the area allured the exhausted strangers traveling along the Oregon Trail. It provided the pioneers with a number of hot springs to give rest to their tired bodies and abundance of fresh water to satisfy their thirst. Many of these springs, however, are buried beneath local reservoir nowadays. Nevertheless, you can still experience some of the natural hot pools at Octagon Springs Park .

If you decide to finish the first day of your Boise to Yellowstone road trip in Soda Springs, be sure to check out other highlights of the city. Visit the Pioneer Museum and Corrigan Park to learn history of the place through many artifacts and replicas or stop at the historic Idan-Ha Theatre for a movie session.  

READ MORE : Top 15 Places to Visit in Idaho: Bucket List Destinations

Stop 5: Jackson, Wyoming 

For those who can handle a few more hours on the road, continue on with your four-day trip from Boise to Yellowstone until you reach Jackson. The city sits 2 hours 30 minutes from Soda Springs via US-30 E.

Jackson is a small but popular town in northwestern Wyoming. Built in classic western style, it reminds of bygone days when the pioneers inhabited the Wild West. The quintessential town boasts mostly wooden structures and has a rustic feel about it.

Some of the most remarkable places to visit here are the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum and Jackson Hole Playhouse . The latter keeps its visitors entertained until late in the evening by offering dinner and a play.

Where to Stay in Jackson

Letting your body relax after an eventful day is probably the most appropriate activity to do in Jackson. Here’s a couple of places you might want to consider staying at.

• Super 8 by Wyndham Jackson Hole . The place suits best people traveling on a shoestring. Designed in the western style, this budget hotel includes complementary breakfast and free WiFi.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Jackson Hole . SpringHill Suites adds a hint of luxury to your Boise – Yellowstone road trip. The hotel sits in downtown Jackson, within walking distance of city’s stores and restaurants.  

Boise to Yellowstone Road Trip: Day 2

Grand teton national park.

Wyoming is famous for two incredible national parks: Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Located in the northwestern corner of the state, both parks allure with their pristine natural wonders, astounding vistas, and abundant wildlife. Although Idaho’s territory from Boise all the way to the border of Wyoming surpasses any expectations you might have for this road trip, Grand Teton and Yellowstone often leave you speechless.

Ideally, you should spend at least a couple of days in each of these national parks. But if it’s impossible, devote at least a day to Grand Teton National Park while saving the second one for the hydrothermal features in Yellowstone National Park. 

The smallest of the Wyoming’s national parks, Grand Teton entices with its iconic mountain range that rises abruptly from the Jackson Hole Valley. A section of the park sits along US-191. No entrance fee is taken here. Thus, you can explore some of the most photographed places in the park for free.

I recommend driving along Antelope Flats Road early in the morning to explore the area near Jackson before venturing deeper into the park. Places such as the Mormon Row Historic District , Schwabacher Landing , and Snake River Overlook should certainly give a good start to the second day of your Boise to Yellowstone road trip.

Animal lovers might also want to linger around Blacktail Ponds where they have a better chance of spotting deer, moose, bison, and bears.

In the heart of Grand Teton, take a shuttle boat across Jenny Lake and enjoy the natural beauty of the park from different perspectives. The area also brims with hiking trails to stretch your legs and explore the place on a deeper level. For sunset, stop at Oxbow Bend , an iconic overlook with the best reflection views in the park. 

Where to Stay in Grand Teton National Park

• By the end of the second day of your Boise – Yellowstone road trip, you can return back to Jackson and spend another night here.
• If you travel during the summer season, Jenny Lake Lodge invites all Grand Teton’s visitors. Staying inside the park lets you resume your road trip early in the morning without wasting any time. The lodge, however, operates only from May until October.
• Those who travel from Boise to Yellowstone in winter and during the shoulder months should have an alternative plan. Again, Jackson along with Teton Village offer comfortable accommodations for all budgets.

Boise to Yellowstone Road Trip: Day 3

Yellowstone national park.

Yellowstone National Park at last. If you stayed in Jackson, make sure to start the third day of your Boise to Yellowstone road trip before dawn as the park is two hours away from the city. The most popular national park in Wyoming is adjacent to Grand Teton. The area is famous for its hydrothermal features, such as hot springs, geysers, mudpots, and travertine terraces.

The ever-changing environment of Yellowstone National Park has been raising interest since the late 19th century. After a series of expeditions and unexpected discoveries, the first national park in the United States was created in March 1872 . 

Today, Yellowstone still remains one of the most enticing places in the country. Despite its popularity, the park holds on tightly to its remote location. It takes hours and hours to reach the place by car, which this Boise to Yellowstone road trip is a proof of. 

Wyoming’s crown jewel boasts the highest concentration of geysers in the world . Nearly 500 geysers and almost 10,000 other hydrothermal features reside in the park, astounding the visitors with their colors and forceful patterns.

READ MORE : Yellowstone Beyond: 9 Things You didn’t Know about Yellowstone

Places to Visit in Yellowstone National Park

While every corner of Yellowstone brims with dazzling natural wonders, the Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful alway steal the show. The famous hot spring and geyser allure the biggest crowds and never cease to impress with their size and splendor. You can find the lesser-known hydrothermal features in the Norris Geyser Basin , Lower Geyser Basin , and West Thumb Geyser Basin .

Apart from the geysers, Yellowstone boasts diverse terrain. From the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River to the Mammoth Hot Spring Terraces , the area keeps impressing with scenic hikes, astounding vistas, and unexpected surprises. If you have more than one day to spend in Yellowstone before heading back to Boise, watch the abundant wildlife in Lamar and Hayden Valleys .

• 10 Things You Must See on Your First Visit to Yellowstone

Visit Midway Geyser Basin (Beyond Grand Prismatic)

Where to Stay

Old faithful inn.

For those who decide to extend their Boise – Yellowstone road trip and spend a few more days in the park, the Old Faithful Inn is one of the best places to stay at. Located in the Upper Geyser Basin, the hotel is known as the largest log hotel in the world. Its impressive size and elaborated decor speak about distinguishing architectural taste. A room in the Old Faithful Inn, however, comes with a hefty price tag.

TIP: You can find more information about the Old Faithful Inn and a few other old structures in Yellowstone in our guide to the historic buildings in the American West.

Stage Coach Inn

Whether you’re ready to go back to Boise or spend one more day exploring Montana’s Yellowstone, Stage Coach Inn offers comfortable rooms to stay overnight. This budget-friendly hotel sits less than a mile away from the West Yellowstone Entrance and provides complimentary breakfast.

White Buffalo

White Buffalo is also located near the West Entrance and lets you explore most of the local shops, situated a short walk from the hotel. 

Yellowstone – Boise Road Trip: Day 4

It’s time to change the direction of your road trip from Boise – Yellowstone to Yellowstone – Boise. It takes approximately 5 hours 45 minutes to get to the capital of Idaho from West Yellowstone. The road almost mirrors the route you took to get from Boise to Yellowstone National Park. For those who want to have a few more adventures before catching a flight back home, here are a couple of destinations in Idaho to add to this road trip itinerary. 

Yellowstone – Boise Itinerary for a Longer Road Trip

It takes approximately 6 hours to get to Boise from West Yellowstone while adding these two cities in Idaho to your road trip itinerary.

Stop 1: Idaho Falls

The City of Idaho Falls sits 1 hour 50 minutes west of Yellowstone via US-20 W. The distance is relatively short. However, if you need to stretch your legs, Idaho Falls invites you to stop at the Idaho Falls River Walk and Greenbelt . The place features the best scenery and connects many of the city’s attractions, including Sportsman Park and the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho . 

If for some reasons, Yellowstone didn’t spoil you with many chances to see its wildlife, it’s time to fix it at the Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park. The place features animals from around the world and organizes special events during its operating season, from March through October. 

Furthermore, experience Japanese gardening and architectural traditions at the Pavilion for Japanese Art . Officially opened to the public in 2016, the place celebrates friendship between Idaho Falls and the Japanese city of Tokaimura.  

Stop 2: Blackfoot, Idaho

The second destination of the day is Blackfoot, Idaho. The city is located 30 minutes away via I-15 S. This rather small place has the largest potato industry in any one area and is rightfully regarded as the “Potato Capital of the World”.

So it’s safe to assume that the city doesn’t let this fame go unnoticed. The Idaho Potato Museum invites the visitors to explore exhibits related to the history and cultivation of potatoes. The place has presented its expositions in a former train depot since late 1980s. 

End: Boise, Idaho

Back on the road to finish the road trip from West Yellowstone to Boise 3 hours 45 minutes after leaving Blackfoot. Once back in the capital of Idaho, it’s time to dust yourself off, return the car, and board an airplane.

Boise to Yellowstone Road Trip: On a Final Note

If time permits, you should certainly plan to spend more than 4 days road-tripping from Boise to Yellowstone. The route is dotted with the incredible places to see and explore. Yellowstone National Park alone asks for at least a couple of days. Yet if time is the biggest obstacle, make the best of this 4-day Boise to Yellowstone road adventure.

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Take the Sunset Tour! - Historic Yellow Bus Tour

• United States    
• Wyoming (WY)    
• Yellowstone National Park    
• Yellowstone National Park - Things to Do    
• Historic Yellow Bus Tour

We took the 5-hour Photo Safari with guide Noah, who was really great. My son and I had IPhones and... read more

A lovely introduction to the geyser basins. Stu was great and the bus was awesome. We covered a... read more

Take the Sunset Tour!

We took the Lake Butte Sunset Tour even though we were dubious because it was raining. But the rain went away and we had a fantastic sunset along with a great tour guide (Julie). She took us to a few places along the lake shore where we might see good views of the lake and spot some wildlife (mostly elk that day). Well worth the time and the price $ 35)

Found out from our tour guide that all the vintage buses have nicknames. Ours was Monty. Had just a great time, and touring Yellowstone in this bus was wonderful, the seats are very comfortable. The weather was good enough for our driver/guide to stop and take the roof off, and that made it even better. Looking up and seeing the trees and birds overhead and the blue blue sky was great. Our guide Mikael was very personable, and knew so much about the history of Yellowstone as well as so knowledgable about the wildlife, the plants, the springs, geysers....he made the experience very enjoyable. Would recommend this to anyone.

We booked the wildlife tour on a Vintage Yellow Bus. We were looking forward to a nice ride on the Vintage BUS. We went out of our way to make sure it was the vintage bus tour. We got up at the crack of dawn and show up to the pick up point and what shows up? Much to our disappointment it was a Modern short bus!!! We asked our guide who was very nice and he said that the vintage buses were out of commission. I told him that , I just saw the vintage buses yesterday. He apologized and said he did not know why they were not operating. We were very disappointed, but figured since we had to get so early we may as well continue the tour. Guess what passes us an hour later? A Vintage Yellow Bus with a tour group on it!!!!! Guess what we see when we get dropped off at the pick up point....you guessed it... a Vintage Yellow Bus working just fine.... running tours!! I will be contacting the tour company when we get home and will demand a refund. Lying to customers is a very poor business tactic.

our group of 12 took the Lamar Valley Yellow bus tour from Canyon village on July10,2014. The tour guide was outstanding in pointing out wildlife in the woods along the road that we would have missed if we were in our own transportation. The bison were numerous as well as 4 bears in the woods. We also experienced a bison jam along the road on the way back. The driver was outstanding in stopping and turning the bus around to find animals we saw before he did. The top was down on a beautiful day in Yellowstone. He answered all our questions along the way also.

This yellow bus tour served as an educational intro to geysers, hot springs and the other thermal activity at Yellowstone. We covered the beautiful Midway Geyser Basin on this well-timed tour.

We took the "Yellowstone in a Day" tour and instead of getting the cool open top historic bus shown on the website, we got a short "special needs" school bus for our tour. There was no front visibility for the passengers, and the view from the front passenger seats is so restricted that you are pretty much limited to almost 90° view and back. This bus just isn't appropriate for touring. I really do need to say that the tour itself was fantastic, despite the substandard tour bus. I did leave a glowing review of it under the "Yellowstone in a Day" activity heading. But I also added this review under the historic bus heading to warn others that no matter what you are shown on their website, the bus you get may not be anything like the bus you are lead to believe you will get. There was no type of offset offered, or even an explanation. They really do need to make this MUCH clearer when people book a tour.

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Memorable Meetings In Yellowstone

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Meeting in Yellowstone

There are the things you need for a meeting or event: spaces that meet your group’s requirements, comfortable lodging, food and beverage, and technology.  And then there are things that take the meeting to the next level: appealing activities, a helpful on-site team, and high-quality food. Yellowstone hits all of these categories.

Bride & Groom with a Historic Yellow Bus

“The draw of having our annual fall meeting in Yellowstone, at the Old Faithful Inn, played a significant role in its attendance being as high as it’s ever been,” says Chris Brown, the executive director of the Wyoming Hospitality & Tourism Coalition (WHTC), which rotates the location of its fall conferences around the state. “Normally, we have 100 to 120 people at the fall conference. When we had it in Yellowstone, there were 158 people. Everyone was excited to come. And for me, when planning the conference, the Xanterra team was responsive to every detail.”

Rick Hoeninghausen, the director of sales and marketing for Yellowstone National Park Lodges (YNPL), managed by the Xanterra Travel Collection, says, “We have the amenities that most conferences need and then we’ve also got Yellowstone National Park. Being able to share its wildlife, landscape, and activities with meeting participants is really special.”

Snow Lodge Meeting Room, Reception Style

The first national park in the U.S., Yellowstone is home to grizzly and black bears, bison, elk, and wolves, among other species. Within its 2.2 million acres — it’s bigger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined — are more than 10,000 thermal features, including more than 500 geysers (more than half of all the geysers in the world). Brown says, “People loved that they could go and watch Old Faithful erupt right outside of the meeting.”

Marisa Cleary, the event and meeting planner for the nonprofit Yellowstone Forever Institute based in Gardiner, Mont., agrees. “Yellowstone is an amazing amenity to be able to offer to our meeting and conference guests,” she says. “We’ve worked with Yellowstone National Park Lodges to create many unique experiences over the years.”

Cleary has planned Yellowstone Forever meetings and events all over the country and says those in Yellowstone are always special. “You can’t get the scenery, history, wildlife, and activities Yellowstone National Park offers anywhere else. Having a meeting or event in Yellowstone is such a special experience.”

All About Timing

Yellowstone National Park Lodges are rarely able to accommodate large groups and events during the park’s peak season in June, July, and August. “The fall (September, October, and November) and winter (January and February) are when we’re best positioned to offer full support to meetings and events,” Hoeninghausen says.

In early October, groups can also have the park’s two most iconic hotels, Old Faithful Inn and Lake Yellowstone Hotel , all to themselves. If your dates align and your group meets attendance and food and beverage minimums, Yellowstone National Park Lodges can keep either of these two properties open the week after they close to the public. This is what the WHTC did at Old Faithful Inn for their fall meeting. (The public makes reservations a year in advance to stay at this 120-year-old inn.)

With the Inn, considered one of the largest wood structures in the world, closed to the public, WHTC’s general sessions could take place in its seven-story lobby. “We put chairs around its fireplace and, of course, made sure the fires were roaring,” says Hoeninghausen, who was actually at the conference as an attendee and WHTC board member.

The Inn’s fireplace is made from 500 tons of rhyolite and has a soaring 82-foot-tall chimney. It’s photographed almost as much as the geyser it’s named after. Attendees slept in historic rooms and ate a tailored menu of steak and lobster in the dining room, which is one of the hardest reservations to get during peak season. “[Old Faithful Inn] was everything I hoped for and more, and everything was executed at the highest level,” says Brown.

While the timing of a meeting has to be just right to take advantage of having Old Faithful Inn and Lake Yellowstone Hotel to yourself (both properties close to the public in early October; a meeting has to start within several days of the closing day), Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is available from September through Thanksgiving and also in January and February. Thanks to a recent remodel that included the addition of dedicated meeting spaces, including conference rooms named after hot springs in the park, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel has facilities to host meetings for small boards up to groups as large as 350.

Event-Worthy Culinary Offerings

Meetings at the three hotels include catering from Yellowstone National Park Lodges’ culinary team. Cleary says that the team’s Western BBQ buffet and its Taste of Yellowstone buffet are guest favorites. The Taste of Yellowstone buffet includes roasted trout and bison tenderloin. “Having good meals is so important to an event,” she says. “I think that, even with how unique Yellowstone is, if there wasn’t good food, people wouldn’t like events here as much.”

Mammoth Hotel, Minerva Meeting Room, U-Shape Style

“I know the remote location of Yellowstone can make logistics difficult for catered events, but Yellowstone National Park Lodges has always carried them out so well,” adds Cleary. “And by doing their job so well, they’ve helped us offer many unique experiences to our donors and supporters over the years.” The YNPL team can also work with meeting organizers to develop custom menus as it did with the surf and turf menu WHTC wanted.

Activities in the Park

  But, naturally, meeting in Yellowstone is not just about good food. Take care of your business in the morning, and then spend afternoons cross-country skiing or hiking through geyser basins, watching wildlife, taking a photography workshop or a class in craft cocktails, or even painting en plein air alongside a local artist.

Weather prevented the WHTC group from doing its planned bike tour of one of the park’s geyser basins, but YNPL helped them pivot to a private tour of the geyser basin on a vintage bus.  Hoeninghausen says, “Groups tell us what they want to do, and we can put together activities for them.”

Memories to Last

  The YNPL retail department can customize park souvenirs ranging from clothing to glassware and also curate gift baskets for participants. “We can do all kinds of custom items for corporate and wedding groups,” Hoeninghausen says. “Attendees have something to take home that reminds them of their amazing experiences in Yellowstone.”

Dina Mishev is a freelance writer based in Jackson Hole, Wyo.