seattle trip to yellowstone

10 Best Stops on a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip

Last Updated on January 18, 2024

by Kate Stewart

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A Seattle to Yellowstone road trip is an excellent chance to see a big swath of the mountainous northwest.

Driving through three western states known for their pristine vistas and outdoor adventures, there is a lot to see and do along this trip. It is possible to speed along I-90 in one very long day of driving but is best to break it up so you can spend some time enjoying this beautiful part of the country.

As you drive through the mountains in Washington, Idaho, and Montana , there are many options for hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. Before you even get to Yellowstone National Park, you can have a lot of opportunities to see wildlife and get close to nature on this route.

Table of Contents

Planning a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip

You’ll likely want to travel along I-90, the most direct route to Yellowstone and Grand Teton NPs.

Once you get to Bozeman, you can take either Highway 191 or go a little further to 89 South to get to the park. This route has plenty of gas stations and restaurants at bigger towns and cities. You should have no trouble finding places to stay on this route.

Because I-90 is one of only two east-west interstates through the Northwest, it can be very busy in some stretches. Road conditions can be dangerous, especially in winter, while driving through mountain passes like Snoqualmie and the area east of Coeur d’Alene.

Keep in mind that I-90 through Montana has been named the most dangerous stretch of interstate in the country due to excessive speeding.

If you need to rent a car for this trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which aggregates prices across a number of car hire companies.

Alternatively, you can rent an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy, particularly if extending your drive from Yellowstone to Denver or continuing to Grand Teton National Park.

How Far is Seattle to Yellowstone?

The distance from Seattle to Yellowstone is 755 miles if you take the most direct route on I-90. The Seattle to Yellowstone drive time is almost twelve hours, so you will want to break this up into at least a two-day or three-day trip to enjoy the many fun places to stop along the way and appreciate the scenery.

Some great cities to stay overnight include Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, and Missoula. There are also lots of places to camp overnight along I-90.

Best Stops Between Seattle & Yellowstone

Snoqualmie falls, washington.

If you are a Twin Peaks fan, don’t miss stopping at the town of Snoqualmie Falls, where much of the television show was filmed. Take the Snoqualmie Parkway off I-90 to the famous waterfall from the opening credits.

It’s one of the most popular destinations in Washington State and a great place for a photo op. There are two observation decks and a gift shop, and you can hike and picnic at the falls.

While you’re there, you may want to dine or stop in at the Salish Lodge (known as the Great Northern Hotel in Twin Peaks), which sits right above the waterfall and has great views.

You can also visit sites nearby from the show like the iconic Double R diner where Agent Dale Cooper often stopped for a slice of cherry pie. Drive down Route 202 to North Bend to the now renamed Twede’s Café , where cherry pie is still prominently featured on the menu.

Snoqualmie Pass, Washington

If you are making the Seattle to Yellowstone drive in winter, take extra caution when driving through Snoqualmie Pass as this area gets heavy snow and the roads may be closed.

Snoqualmie Summit is a popular place for winter sports with lots of options for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and snowshoeing.

In summer, the Snoqualmie Pass area is a beautiful alpine wilderness with crystal blue lakes, waterfalls, and endless pine forests. You can take the Pacific Crest chair lift to the top of the mountain for a great view.

There are lots of great hikes in the area right off I-90 including Franklin Falls and Beaver Lake. The Pacific Crest Trail also goes through Snoqualmie Pass.

Spokane Falls, Washington

There are several famous waterfalls on your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, and Spokane Falls is the second one to see. Spokane Falls is at the heart and history of the city of Spokane and is just one of many beautiful places to see when driving from Seattle toward Spokane .

It was a gathering place for centuries for local Native Americans to catch salmon and perform ceremonies and a hydroelectric dam and a mill were built powered by the falls in the 1800s. The falls spills out over rocks and includes two different levels in the middle of Spokane’s downtown.

You can view the falls at Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane, which has several city landmarks including a clock tower, a pavilion built for the 1974 World’s Fair, and many sculptures.

You can take pedestrian bridges to Snxw Meneɂ Island (formally known as Canada Island) in the middle of the Spokane River, and you can also walk across the Monroe Street Bridge for a great view of the falls. For an extra special treat, take the SkyRide, a gondola that goes over the Spokane River.

Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Lake Coeur d’Alene, with 135 miles of shoreline, is one of the premier natural lakes in the area and there is a lot to do, including watersports of all types.

You can rent paddle boats or a pontoon boat at the marina or take a cruise around the lake. Fishing is also very popular at Lake Coeur d’Alene, and you’ll need to get an Idaho fishing license. You can fish for salmon, trout, and bass here.

If you don’t want to get out on the water, there are several beaches you can head to the beaches off I-90 on the north side of the lake, including Sanders Beach, and Pebble Beach. The Couer de’Alene Resort offers many options for lakeside dining including Beverly’s and the Cedars Floating Restaurant.

If you are a cyclist or just want to take a great walk, check out the Trail of the Couer d’Alenes , a 73-mile paved path crosses the southern part of the lake and a few other lakes to the east. You can pick up the trail at the town of Cataldo on I-90 east of Couer d’Alene.

National Bison Range, Montana

North of I-90 on Highway 93 from the town of Wye is the National Bison Range in the Flathead Indian Reservation. The National Wildlife Refuge has been managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes since 1908 to restore bison, which were nearly extinct by that point from hunting.

The range is open to visitors from May to December. Stop at the visitors center to pay the fee, where you can also picnic. You can drive along the Prairie Drive and Red Mountain Drive roads with interpretive signs through the range to view the herd of bison, which numbers around 350 to 500.

You can also hike the Bitterroot, Grassland, and High Point trails to view the herd. The National Bison Range is an off the beaten path and offers a chance to learn more about Native American history and conservation efforts in the west.

Montana Natural History Center, Montana

If you’re looking for a fun stop for kids on your Seattle to Yellowstone itinerary, check out the Montana Natural History Center in Missoula.

There are exhibits on Montana’s ecosystems, glaciers, a naturalist lab, and lots of activities for kids including a discovery room, a nature adventure, scavenger hunts, and other programs.

The center also owns the Fort Missoula Native Plant Garden in Missoula, where you can learn about pollinators Montana’s native plants.

The center is open Tuesday through Saturday and is $5 for adults and just $2 for children.

It is located on History Street and near the riverfront area. If you’d like to explore the riverfront from the museum, you can take a walking path from the center to get to the parks that dot the Clark Fork River through Missoula.

Grant-Kohrs Ranch, Montana

Montana is famous for its ranches, and if you’d like to stop at a real one on your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, visit the Grant-Kohrs Ranch , a National Historic Site right off I-90 in Deer Lodge.

It was originally started by a Canadian fur trader, Johnny Grant, and then expanded by Conrad Kohrs, who was known as Montana’s Cattle King. At one point he owned 50,000 cattle and ten million acres of land. It was also owned by Conrad Warren before becoming a National Historic Site in 1972.

The Grant-Kohrs Ranch is still a working ranch today. You can tour the barn and bunkhouse buildings and walk along the hiking trails around the ranch and see the cattle and the cowboys that work it. You can also visit the blacksmith shop and the chuckwagon.

The ranch offers several programs and guided tours in summer, which is a great time to visit. The Grant-Kohrs Ranch does not charge an admission fee.

Missouri Headwaters State Park, Montana

The Missouri River is the longest river in the United States, and it starts where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers meet in Montana just north of the town of Three Forks off of I-90.

It was at this site that Sacagawea was kidnapped as a girl by the Hidatsa tribe and taken to North Dakota. She helped lead Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery on their journey to the headwaters, where they wrote about it in their journals.

At the Missouri Headwaters State Park , you can walk or bike along the interpretive trails, canoe, fish, and camp overnight. You can also rent a tipi to camp in.

The park is open year round and charges fees for camping and tipi rental. The park entrance fee is $8 per vehicle. This state park is a scenic and peaceful stop on the drive from Seattle to Yellowstone Park.

Museums at Montana State University

Montana State University in Bozeman has two great museums that are worth stopping on your way to Yellowstone.

The Museum of the Rockies , a Smithsonian affiliate, has a huge fossil collection and a complete T-Rex to view. It also has natural history exhibits, a planetarium, cultural exhibits, and lots of programs. It is open every day throughout the year and admission is $20 for adults and $12 for kids.

For an unexpected learning experience, also consider visiting the American Computer and Robotics Museum on the Montana State University campus. The museum was first started by local engineer George Keremedjiev, who began collecting calculators and adding machines.

The museum collects all kinds of items on computing, artificial intelligence, and information systems. It has cuneiform tablets, robotics, and electronics, some of which you may remember going back to your childhood on display.

It’s a great place to visit for those who work in tech or just love computers. This museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and charges $10 for adults and $5 for kids.

Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, Montana

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is located in West Yellowstone just outside of Yellowstone National Park, so it may be a great preview before you head into the park or you might want to stop by on your way back from Yellowstone to Seattle.

It was started as a sanctuary for nuisance grizzly bears who would normally be killed, and it educates the public on how to reduce the problem. It has expanded to also include wolves, otters, birds of prey, and squirrels. The center has exhibits to learn about the animals and you can view them too.

A unique activity the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center does for the bears is to have them try out bear-resistant garbage cans and food containers, so you might get to see a bear trying to break into one while you’re there.

The center is open every day of the year. Admission is $16.50 for adults and $11.50 for children.

Where to Stay on the Seattle to Yellowstone Drive

The Historic Davenport – This hotel is an excellent choice if you’re looking for some luxury in Spokane. Centrally located, they have plush amenities and plenty of lovely rooms to ensure you’re well-rested to continue your road trip.

Montvale Hotel – This boutique hotel is another great Spokane option, especially if you’re looking for something a bit smaller and more quaint. They have a range of lovely, chic rooms on offer and even have an on-site restaurant and bar.

Private Rental – If you’d rather find your own place rather than stay in a hotel, then a private apartment or home rental like this comfortable central cottage is the perfect choice for you!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Spokane hotels!

C’mon INN Missoula – This hotel has a range of clean and comfortable rooms available, an indoor swimming pool and fitness center on site and several other amenities to make your stay a great one.

Private Rental – Another popular option in Missoula is a private rental, like this plush condo in central Missoula . There are lots of properties to choose from in the city that you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Missoula hotels!

Yellowstone

Bentwood Inn – Located in Wilson, WY, this luxury hotel is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a place to stay that is within easy reach of Yellowstone National Park. They have countless rooms on offer to suit all party sizes, breakfast included each morning, and they even offer wine and cheese for guests in the evenings.

Yellowstone Park Hotel – If you’re looking for a mid-range hotel, then this place located in West Yellowstone, MT is an excellent choice. Located close to Yellowstone NP’s western entrance, they have a number of great rooms available and even have an on-site swimming pool.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Yellowstone hotels!

By making some of these Seattle to Yellowstone road trip stops, you can get off the interstate and have some memorable moments in the mountains, learn more about nature and landscape of the west, and have a fantastic adventure.

Are you planning a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park? Have any questions about the route? Let us know in the comments!

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10 Best Stops on a Denver to Yellowstone Road Trip

11 Things To Do On Vashon Island: A Day Trip from Seattle

The Perfect 5 to 7 Day Pacific Northwest Itinerary

About Kate Stewart

Kate Stewart is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an archivist specializing in oral history who is based in Tucson, Arizona and grew up in the Midwest. Kate loves driving across the country and exploring the oddities of American and Southwest culture. In her spare time, she is a political activist, country music junkie, and baseball fan.

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Road Trip From Seattle To Yellowstone National Park

If you enjoy long, scenic drives that incorporate both mountainous and forest terrain, you should consider a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park. With so much to see and do on the way, you'll be coming back to this incredible drive for years to come.

The 755-mile road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park takes 11 hours 30 minutes to drive. On the way, explore Mt Rainier National Park & Craters of the Moon, make a stop in Portland, Missoula, or Idaho Falls, and visit the Grand Teton National Park.

If an adventure of epic proportions sounds appealing to you, read on and find out just what makes this drive one of the most scenic in all of North America.

How far is Yellowstone National Park from Seattle and how long will the trip take?

The road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park will cover around 740 miles and take just over 11 hours to complete, not taking gas stops and food breaks into consideration.

There's also an alternate South Route that takes around 14 hours and 30 minutes, and it passes through Portland and south Idaho, completely bypassing Montana until the very end.

This means that you'll have to split your drive into at least two to three days, although the more time you take, the better.

Best road trip route from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park

There is no definitive best route from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park, especially if time isn't a concern for you. If you want to get to Yellowstone quickly, though, the northern route along the I-90 is probably your best bet.

What you can expect from this itinerary are forests, and lots of them - all the way through Washington, Idaho, and Montana. The route gets a little bumpy as you enter Montana, courtesy of the Rocky Mountains, but it mostly circumvents Idaho's high-altitude terrain by cutting through the state's thin northern strip.

On top of having its own set of gorgeous forests, the South Route U-curves around the Boise Mountains and Sawtooth Range, among others, giving you gorgeous mountain scenery but also extend your drive by nearly 250 miles.

Although this is a great route, another factor to consider is traffic – the Seattle-Portland portion of the drive is very likely to be congested, especially on weekends and holidays, which is another reason why the northern route is probably easier to drive.

If you truly want to see everything there is to see, the best move would be to take one route on the way to Yellowstone and the other on the way back. This is likely to extend your trip to a couple of weeks, if not more, but it's one of the most scenic drives you can make in the States.

Whether you're flying into Seattle or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

How to drive from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Seattle and Yellowstone National Park. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The North Route (I-90)

Take the interstate east out of Seattle, between Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and Mt Rainier National Park.

After passing Columbia National Wildlife Refuge and Turnbull National Wildlife, drive through Spokane and check out the nearby Riverside and Mt Spokane State Parks, or detour further north to Colville National Forest.

Once you're past Lolo National Forest and in Missoula, consider a detour toward Nez Perce – Clearwater National Forest or Flathead Lake.

When you're done, drive the Montana Secondary Highway 359 past Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, then take Montana Highway 287 along the Rockies, past Hebgen Lake and into Yellowstone National Park

The South Route (I-84)

From Seattle, take the I-5 south through Tacoma and Lakewood, and pass Capitol State Forest, Mt St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, and Clatsop State Forest into Portland. From there, take the I-84 east, driving between Gifford Pinchot and Mt Hood National Forests.

Hug the Washington-Oregon border along the Columbia River, and either stay on the interstate or detour to Umatilla and Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuges. Further south, pass Umatilla National Forest, and drive across Snake River into Idaho.

Past Boise, check out Sawtooth National Forest, and hop onto the I-86 when the two interstates split after Burley. Pass Lake Walcott, and take the I-15 north just out of Pocatello.

Keep going north through Idaho Falls (which is a great pivot into Grand Teton National Park, if you're interested), and pass Caribou-Targhee National Forest before entering Yellowstone.

Best places to stop between Seattle and Yellowstone National Park

Stopping for at least one night is a must when doing a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park, regardless of route. There are a number of interesting hotels worth considering, and these are some of the best:

Relax under the stars in Portland, Oregon

If you want to do a stopover at a bigger city on your drive to Yellowstone, it doesn't get any bigger than Portland.

The diversity of Portland, Oregon, makes this an exciting place to visit, and a night or two stay is a must! There are also plenty of top class hotels for an extended visit, for you and your family to enjoy.

With many hotel choices centrally located in downtown Portland, it's ideal for exploring this exciting city, Oregon's biggest, with prices that are sure to suit any budget.

READ MORE - Click here for great hotel options

Enjoy the skiing season in Jackson

Although it's much closer to Grand Teton National Park than it is to Yellowstone, Jackson makes for a great place to stop as it is surrounded by incredible landmarks from all sides. There are some really great resorts in town.

Jackson is great for outdoor activities, especially hiking and skiing. During your stay, Teton Village is a great place to hit the slopes - you can easily drive there or take the free shuttle to allow for après-ski.

You'll want to stay at least a long weekend with so much going on, and places to visit. Jackson certainly offers a lot more than for just ski-fans.

Things to see on a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park

The number of landmarks between Seattle and Yellowstone National Park is nothing short of staggering. If you have several weeks, combine the two itineraries into a super-road trip you won't soon forget.

Although there are countless others, these are some of the places you'll definitely want to check out:

• Mt Rainier National Park – Bearing the name of its colossal stratovolcano, this park's unique blend of forests, grasslands, and elevated areas makes it among the most scenic in the region.
• Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest – This park features the beautiful Okanogan Valley and incredibly picturesque mountain landscapes.
• Spokane – Home to the beautiful Riverfront and Manito Parks, and very close to various state parks, this city is one of the most scenic urban stops you can hope to make on a trip.
• Riverside & Mt Spokane State Park – The two largest state parks in Washington offer some beautiful sights and are perfect for recreational activities.
• Lolo National Forest –This 2-million-acre forest stands out thanks to its beautiful scenery and wide assortment of bird, fish, and plant species.
• Missoula – One of Montana's largest cities, Missoula is perhaps best known for the University of Montana, as well as for being the meeting point between several epic mountain ranges.
• Flathead National Park – Nestled between the Rocky Mountains, this beautiful forest features Flathead Lake and is an incredibly scenic campout spot.
• Capitol State Forest – Countless hiking trails, mesmerizing waterfalls, and Mima mounds can be found in this forest.
• Olympic National Park & Forest – A gorgeous combination of beaches, mountains, and forest areas, suited for every outdoor activity under the sun.
• Mt St. Helens National Volcanic Monument – This active stratovolcano is known for its occasional ash eruptions and makes for a popular climbing and hiking spot.
• Portland, Oregon – Oregon's biggest city stands out thanks to its beautiful architecture, as well as its parks and nature areas that make it one of America's greenest cities.
• Umatilla National Forest – Located in Washington's Blue Mountains, the epic valleys and ridges make this forest a must-see.
• Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area – Various species of mammals and raptors call this place home thanks to the richness of the soil.
• Sawtooth National Forest – Dramatic terrain shifts make this mountainside forest a popular recreational spot.
• Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve – A gigantic flood basalt featuring huge rift cracks, strange cave formations, and a surface that overall resembles that of the moon.
• Idaho Falls – This city is home to beautiful parks, museums, and various walkways along the Snake River.
• Grand Teton National Park – This incredible park is at the very least on par with Yellowstone in terms of scenery, owing to its gigantic mountains and U-shaped valleys.
• Caribou-Targhee National Forest – On top of beautiful flora, this forest also houses several gorgeous limestone caves.

Best time to go on a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park

There is definitely a right and wrong time to do a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park. On top of the long trip, you'll have to account for the unique weather conditions in the park itself.

The preserves and forests along the way can be enjoyed any time of year, although heavy snowfall can potentially close off certain areas.

Also worth noting are the mountainous parts of the trip – both routes mostly stay on the interstate, but certain sections of the drive (particularly Montana) can be tricky in the snow, especially with an RV or other slow-moving vehicle.

With its highest points reaching over 6,000 feet, snowfall is never really off the table in Yellowstone, even in June or July. In fact, most if not all resorts in the park won't even be working in early spring – temperatures will seldom exceed 60 degrees (and will often be around 30), and even if the snow's melted, getting around with all the mud and puddles can be a nuisance.

Needless to say, as unpredictable as spring and fall can be here, they pale in comparison to wintertime – temperatures will commonly hit 0 degrees, meaning you should come prepared if you plan on visiting around this time.

Cold nights and high-altitude snow notwithstanding, summer is generally a great season to visit Yellowstone. Just about everything in the park is up and running, and peak daytime temperatures are almost never higher than 80 degrees.

Because of the great conditions, however, most hotels will be booked well in advance for the summer, so you may have to find a place to stay outside the park.

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Ultimate Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary For 2024

Sprawling plains, glaciated peaks, sub-alpine lakes, erupting geysers, and unparalleled wildlife set this Seattle to Yellowstone road trip apart from any other in the United States. While California or the U.S. Southwest often come to mind when planning a national park road trip, the Pacific Northwest offers some of the most pristine outdoor spaces in the country. Many would argue that outside of Alaska, it’s America’s last frontier.

Including icons like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, North Cascades Hwy, Grand Teton, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Craters of the Moon, Stanley Hot Springs, and Mount Rainier, this itinerary packs a punch and is sure to overdeliver on adventure. If you’re short on time, stick to the minimum recommended timeframes or complete one of the shorter itinerary options. If you have more time, add a night wherever desired or combine this itinerary with a San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip .

Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip

Jump to a specific Seattle to Yellowstone road trip destination

Seattle, WA

• Okanogan-Wenatchee Forest, WA

North Cascades National Park, WA

Spokane, wa, glacier national park, mt, bozeman, mt, yellowstone national park, grand teton national park, wy.

• Craters of the Moon, ID

Stanley, ID

Tri-cities, wa, mount rainier national park, wa, seattle to yellowstone road trip map.

Wondering how far Seattle is from Yellowstone? Following the most direct route, Seattle is about 740 miles from Yellowstone, and you can factor in about 11.5 hours of drive time. However, there’s so much to see in the U.S. Northwest region it would be a shame to pass by all the other destinations within reach. This is why we’ve proposed breaking the drive up into an epic multi-week road trip.

Other national park road trips you might like:

• San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip
• LA to Yellowstone Road Trip
• California National Park Road Trip
• Denver to Grand Canyon Road Trip
• Utah National Park Road Trip
• Los Angeles Grand Canyon Road Trip
• East Coast National Park Road Trip

Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip Options

2-Week, 3-Week, and 4-Week Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip Itineraries

Seattle to Yellowstone 4-Week Itinerary

• Seattle, WA – 2 nights, road trip starting point
• Okanogan-Wenatchee Forest, WA – 2-3 nights, 2-hour drive from Seattle to Leavenworth
• North Cascades National Park, WA – 2-3 nights, 3-hour drive from Leavenworth
• Spokane, WA – 1-2 nights, 4.5-hour drive from North Cascades to Spokane
• Glacier National Park, MT – 2-3 nights, 4.5-hour drive from Spokane to Glacier National Park
• Bozeman, MT – 2 nights, 5-hour drive from Glacier National Park to Bozeman
• Yellowstone National Park – 3-4 nights, 1.5-hour drive from Bozeman to Yellowstone
• Grand Teton National Park, WY – 2-3 nights, 1-hour drive from Yellowstone to Grand Teton
• Craters of the Moon, ID – 1-night, 3-hour drive from Grant Teton to Craters of the Moon
• Stanley, ID – 2-nights, 2.5-hour drive from Craters of the Moon to Stanley
• Tri-Cities, WA – 2 nights, 6.5-hour drive from Stanley to Tri-Cities
• Mount Rainier National Park, WA – 2-3 nights – 2.5-hour drive from Tri-Cities to Mount Rainier
• Seattle, WA – 2-hour drive from Mount Rainier National Park to Seattle

Seattle to Yellowstone 3-Week Itinerary

• North Cascades National Park, WA – 2-3 nights, 2-hour drive from Seattle to North Cascades
• Spokane, WA – 1 night, 4.5-hour drive from North Cascades to Spokane
• Stanley, ID – 2-nights, 5-hour drive from Grand Teton to Stanley
• Mount Rainier National Park, WA – 2-3 nights – 9-hour drive from Stanley to Mount Rainier

Seattle to Yellowstone 2-Week Itinerary

• Seattle, WA – 1 night, road trip starting point
• Yellowstone National Park – 3-4 nights, 6-hour drive from Glacier to Yellowstone
• Seattle, WA – Fly back to Seattle from Yellowstone

How to Use This Road Trip Guide

This Seattle to Yellowstone road trip itinerary is meant to serve as a guide and can easily be altered to fit your available timeframe, budget, and priority destinations. We recommend just over a minimum of three weeks to complete the route in full, though it would be better to set aside an entire month. However, we recognize that most travelers don’t have a month to spare and have also included more manageable two-week and three-week options.

If you have less than three weeks available for your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, cut the itinerary in half and fly back to Seattle from Yellowstone, either doing only the first half or the latter half.

Best Time for a Yellowstone Road Trip

The ideal time for a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip is typically between June and September when temperatures are at their highest and rain and snow are the least likely. July and August are when the parks are at their busiest, so June or September may be best if you’re hoping to avoid peak crowds. Yellowstone and Grand Teton are also lovely during May and October, but beware that the more northern parks can be prone to road closures during these shoulder months.

While all parks remain open during winter, numerous trails, roads, and accommodation facilities close due to icy conditions. Winter road trippers should plan accordingly and check weather and road conditions in advance. Vehicles should be equipped with 4WD, snow tires, and chains. Be sure to carry a shovel, stove, ample food, and extra layers in case you get snowed in.

Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip Route

2 nights; Road trip starting point

Experienced by Yesenia and Sierra of The Sisters Who Voyage

Seattle is famous for being the birthplace of Starbucks and the home of the Seattle Seahawks. During the Fall season, the city is jam-packed as football fans visit from nearby states to catch games at Lumen Field. But there’s much more to Seattle than just coffee and football!

Things to Do in Seattle

First-time visitors should head to the original Starbucks location at Pike Place to grab a cup of coffee before exploring the rest of town. Make sure to snap a photo inside, which features the original bronze signs and the store’s unofficial mascot, Pork N Beans the pig.

Another must when visiting Seattle is to shop at Pike Place Market, where you can find fresh produce, handmade jewelry, paintings, wooden art, and other unique souvenirs. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss Le Panier for the best macarons, eclairs, and freshly baked bread in town.

When you’re done shopping, head down to the pier and grab some ice cream while you walk the Seattle Waterfront. If you want an especially memorable view, stop by the Seattle Wheel for a ride and view of the city and Puget Sound.

Seattle Insider Tip

In Seattle, always be prepared for rain, as it rains about 150 days a year. You’ll want to pack a rain jacket and umbrella.

Where to Stay in Seattle

The Hyatt Regency Seattle is a top-rated option in a prime location. The hotel is within walking distance of numerous points of interest and only five blocks from the nearest metro station. For a more boutique stay, our favorites include Inn at the Market , The Maxwell Hotel , and citizenM Seattle . As far as hostels go, you can’t go wrong with The Green Tortoise .

If you’d like to rent an apartment, we love this 1-bedroom downtown condo and this stylish 2-bedroom home near Capitol Hill.

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, WA

2 to 3 nights, 2-hour drive from Seattle to Leavenworth

Home to some of the most beautiful hiking in Washington, Okanagon-Wenatchee National Forest is an outdoor lover’s dream. With trail after trail of amazing views, you’ll always have something to do.

Highlights of Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Being surrounded by so many great views, hiking is one of the best things to do here. A few popular trails include Lake Ingalls (9 miles), Colchuck Lake (8 miles), and Maple Pass (7.4 miles). A few lesser-known (but equally beautiful) trails include Earl Peak (7.5 miles) and Bean Peak (1.5 miles).

The Enchantments are nearby and are among the most popular backpacking trips in the country. If you’re a rock climber, head to Peshastin Pinnacles State Park. Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort is the place to hit the slopes in winter.

If you’re ready for some relaxation after all that exploring, head into the small Bavarian village of Leavenworth . Here, you can eat German-inspired cuisine, browse the local stores, or relax in a charming town tucked away in the mountains.

Okanogan-Wenatchee Insider Tips

When planning your visit, purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass is recommended because it will save you plenty of money throughout your trip. An even more crucial tip is to avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle when hiking. Car break-ins are unfortunately common at trailheads in the area.

Where to Stay in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

When visiting national forests in Washington, there are many places you can camp on the land, as long as you double-check to ensure dispersed camping is allowed.

Many also opt to stay in the charming Bavarian-inspired village of Leavenworth , which has plenty of lodging options. LOGE Leavenworth is an adorable hotel with unique decor and an emphasis on outdoor adventure, which you’ll clearly see in their room design.

If you want to self-cater, we adore this contemporary condo for two and this mountain view condo for up to 6. Both are within easy walking distance of downtown Leavenworth.

2 to 3 nights, 3-hour drive from Leavenworth to North Cascades

North Cascades National Park, located just south of the Canadian border in Washington state, offers dramatic mountains, colorful alpine lakes, and world-class hiking trails.

North Cascades National Park Highlights

One of the most unmissable sights in the park is Diablo Lake Overlook , which provides jaw-dropping views of its glacial-fed namesake. The lake has brilliantly colored turquoise water and is surrounded by pine tree-covered mountains. If you want closer views of Diablo Lake, drive to its shoreline and take the 7.6-mile trail around its perimeter.

To see some of the most stunning mountains in the park, consider hiking Heather Maple Pass Loop (7.2 miles), which winds past two gorgeous alpine lakes and leads up to a mountain ridge, where you’ll have panoramic views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains as far as the eye can see.

If you’re up for a little more outdoor adventure, consider going on a backpacking trip to Sahale Glacier or Hidden Lake for more rugged landscapes of glaciated mountains and spotting a mountain goat or two!

North Cascades Insider Tip

If you can swing it, visit the park in the Fall – the colors are unreal, thanks to the coniferous trees (called “larches”) that turn golden on the mountain slopes.

Where to Stay Near North Cascades National Park

Stay in the charming town of Winthrop , an 1800s gold rush town that has retained plenty of its kitschy Wild West vibes. Hotel Rio Vista is perfect for a cozy mountain getaway with its riverside hot tub, and the Methow Valley Lodge is also worth considering, given its proximity to Winthrop’s downtown. Mt Gardner Inn is also a top-rated property in the area.

Alternatively, travelers wanting to rent a home should check out this romantic riverfront cottage for two or this Winthrop Basecamp for up to seven.

1 to 2 nights, 4.5-hour drive from North Cascades to Spokane

Experienced by Emilie from Love Life Abroad

Known for hosting the world’s largest basketball tournament, Spokane is an unmissable stop on a road trip from Seattle and Yellowstone National Park. It’s about ⅓ of the way there. With its famous Riverfront Park, Spokane can easily be visited in a day or two.

Things to Do in Spokane

Manito Park is a green area with five unique gardens: the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, Duncan Garden, Rose Hill, Lilac Garden, and Ferris Perennial Garden. Duncan Gardens is particularly special. It will transport you back to the European Renaissance with its beautiful walkways, and there is also a zoo on the park’s premises.

If you’re looking for a short-ish hike with breathtaking views of the Steptoe Butte, Iller Creek​ Trail is a great pick. It’s a 5-mile moderate loop trail with 360-degree views.

Finally, plan for at least half a day at the Riverfront Park and Spokane Falls. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a 100-acre park filled with paths, waterfalls, and activities for the entire family. It’s a must-see, especially if you’re traveling with kids. You’ll love the waterfalls, the Numerica Skyride, and the historic Looff Carousel.

Spokane Insider Tip

Take an extra day to visit Coeur d’Alene in Idaho, only 33 miles away.

Where to Stay in Spokane

For the best experience in Spokane, find a hotel in the city center next to Riverfront Park. The Double Tree Hotel by Hilton or the Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott are two great options.

As far as self-catering goes, try this 1-bedroom apartment on Main or this 2-bedroom apartment near Riverfront Park.

2 to 3 nights, 4.5-hour drive from Spokane to Glacier   National Park

Glacier National Park gets its name (and fame) from the 26 glaciers found throughout the park. There are also over 760 lakes, many of which were created (and continue to be fed) by glaciers.

Things to Do in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park’s most famous attraction is the Going-To-The-Sun Road , a 50-mile drive that gives visitors a grand overview of the park’s stunning mountains and views. From this road, travelers can access dozens of hiking trails, explore visitor centers, and enjoy the natural beauty that makes Glacier National Park so unique.

There are so many great choices for hiking enthusiasts, no matter your fitness level. Some of the best options include Trail of The Cedars (1 mile), Avalanche Lake (4.5 miles), Highline Trail (12 miles), and Hidden Lake Overlook (2.7 miles). For those who want to spend time on the water, Lake McDonald is a great choice for swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and boating.

If you want to avoid crowds and check out lesser-known areas, spend time away from the Going-To-The-Sun Road and focus on places like Waterton Park, Bowman, or North Fork.

Glacier National Park Insider Tip

Glacier National Park will pilot a reservation system from May 24th to September 8th, 2024, for vehicles entering the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork and from July 1st to September 8th for vehicles visiting Many Glacier. This will only apply to vehicles entering the areas above between 6 am and 3 pm. Visit the NPS website for more details.

Where to Stay in Glacier National Park

Lake McDonald Lodge is a fantastic option for those wanting to stay inside the park. Other popular places are Many Glacier Hotel and Granite Park Chalet, the latter offering hike-in backcountry huts. For those wishing to camp, Apgar Campground is near McDonald Lake.

If staying outside the park, there are plenty of lodging options in West Glacier , our favorite being Glacier Guides Lodge . If you’re rather in the market for an Airbnb, we love this budget cabin for two , lakefront cabin for four , and rustic riverfront cabin for up to 7.

2 nights, 5-hour drive from Glacier National Park to Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana, is commonly known as the gateway to Yellowstone , as it’s within a two-hour drive of the national park. Similarly, it’s recognized as one of the fastest-growing metropolitans and one of the most liveable cities in the United States.

Things to Do in Bozeman

A Madison River Guided Kayak Tour is a unique way to explore Bozeman’s nature and learn about its history. Your outdoor adventures should continue with a hike on the M Trail (1.6 miles)—a trail literally shaped like the letter M. When you reach the top, you’ll understand why it’s a local favorite.

After exploring Bozeman’s nature, your body will need some good R&R. Be sure to relax at one of Bozeman’s hot springs. Bozeman Hot Springs has a variety of outdoor pools, as well as a large indoor pool. Similarly, you can soak at Norris Hot Springs , which gets its water from the artesian springs, while listening to live music or grabbing a bite to eat.

Bozeman is the place for you if you love dinosaurs and/or animals. The Museum of the Rockies is filled with dinosaur fossils, a planetarium, and a 4K Digital Theater. Likewise, Bozeman is home to llama and alpaca farms offering interactive tours. This is a fantastic activity to do with kids. If you have more time to spare, this epic 3-day Bozeman itinerary was compiled by a local.

Bozeman Insider Tip

Visiting downtown Bozeman, especially Main Street, is a must. It’s lined with boutiques and restaurants and embodies the culture and vibe of the city.

Where to Stay in Bozeman

RSVP Hotel is a highly rated (and irresistibly playful) downtown option, and The LARK is located in the heart of Main Street for those wanting to be close to the town’s restaurants and nightlife.

In terms of self-catering options, you really can’t go wrong with this 1-bedroom fox-themed apartment or this gorgeous face brick condo that sleeps up to four.

3 to 4 nights,   1.5-hour drive from Bozeman to Yellowstone

Yellowstone was the country’s first national park and is famous for its geothermal features. It’s home to Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring (pictured above), and numerous other hot springs and geysers. The park also has wildlife like wolves, bears, elk, and bison. Yellowstone truly caters to all ages and fitness levels, making it one of the best multigenerational vacation spots in the U.S.

Yellowstone National Park Highlights

One of the most iconic features in the park is Old Faithful Geyser, one of the most famous geysers in the world. When arriving at the Visitor Center, you can check the schedule for the next eruption. While waiting, walk along the Upper Geyser Basin Boardwalk or visit Old Faithful Inn.

Another epic thing to do is visit Grand Prismatic Spring. A nice boardwalk surrounding the hot spring will take you right past the vibrant colors and other nearby features. If you want a bird’s eye view of the hot spring, hike up to the Grand Prismatic Overlook (0.6 miles).

If you’d like to hike, head to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. There are tons of lookout points and hikes down into the canyon. Be sure to check out the stops offering viewing windows of the Upper and Lower Falls. This 4-day Yellowstone Itinerary offers a more detailed guide.

Yellowstone Insider Tip

If you’re staying outside the park, consider entering very early in the morning or around noon to avoid the long lines of cars. This is especially true if you’re entering via West Yellowstone.

Where to Stay in Yellowstone

The best choice for where to stay in Yellowstone is within the park. This will limit your drive time and allow you to explore the park after everyone has left for the day. Early mornings and evenings are also the best time to spot wildlife.

Canyon Lodge and Cabins has the most central location. If you’re looking for an iconic place to stay in the park, check out Old Faithful Inn , steps from Old Faithful Geyser. Regarding campgrounds, Canyon Campground , Norris Campground , and Grant Village are all great options.

If sleeping outside the park, our favorite options are Kelly Inn and Elkhorn Cabins and Inn in West Yellowstone. Bar N Ranch also offers an incredible guest ranch experience just outside town. Or, check out this guide if you’re interested in Glamping Yellowstone .

2 to 3 nights, 1-hour drive from Yellowstone to Grand Teton

One of the best US National Parks to visit in summer , if planning a Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, you must stop at Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming! After all, this natural wonder in the northwestern part of the state spans an incredible 310,000 acres and is home to Grand Teton Peak and the Teton Mountain range. Grand Teton stands at nearly 14,000 feet and overlooks Jackson Hole in the valley below. Hop on the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Parkway connecting this park to Yellowstone, and enjoy at least one full day there.

Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park

During your visit, take in some of the most scenic drives in the Tetons . Drive the picturesque 42-mile Scenic Loop and take stunning photos at Oxbow Bend, Mormon Row, and Schwabacher Landing. If you have a bit of time, try to spend multiple days in the park so that you can take in amazing sunrises at both Oxbow Bend and Schwabacher Landing.

Also drive up Signal Mountain to enjoy sweeping panoramas of Jackson Lake and the Teton Range from Jackson Lake Overlook. This scenic viewpoint is near the top of the mountain and is an easy two-minute walk from the parking area.

Next, tackle some of the best easy hikes in Grand Teton National Park , like the Hidden Falls Trail (1.3 miles), Inspiration Point Trail (2.2 miles), Lakeshore Trail (2.1 miles), and Phelps Lake Overlook Trail (2 miles). Finally, embark on the Jenny Lake Scenic Drive and stop for a photo op at the Jenny Lake Overlook for some of the best lakeside views in the park.

Grand Teton Insider Tip

The best time to visit the park is around mid to late June since most of the snow in the area will have melted. However, before doing any hiking, be sure to check conditions at higher elevations since snow can linger here until early July, depending on the weather.

Where to Stay in Grand Teton

Spend the night at Jackson Lake Lodge , a fabulous full-service resort inside the park that allows you to enjoy all the Grand Tetons offer. Other in-park alternatives include the Jenny Lake Lodge , Signal Mountain Lodge , and Colter Bay Cabins . Jenny Lake Campground , Gros Ventre Campground , and Colter Bay Campground are all great camping options.

Outside the park, nearby Jackson Hole is known as the gateway to Grand Teton National Park, and many visitors base themselves in this vibey old west town. Rustic Inn Creekside Resort is a highly-rated mid-range option, and The Lexington also has rave reviews and affordable rates.

Regarding Jackson Hole cabin rentals, our vote goes to this Alpine Cottage Studio sleeping up to four, this Creekside Cottage sleeping up to six, or this Luxury Condo sleeping up to eight.

Craters of the Moon National Monument, ID

1-night, 3-hour drive from Grand Teton to Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon is as close as you can get to a lunar landscape on Earth – lava tubes, splatter cones, and volcanic rock in all sorts of shapes. This area is so unique that NASA astronauts actually trained here for lunar missions! When the roof of a lava tube collapses, it forms a cave entrance. This park allows you to enter the lava tube caves and explore. It’s a great park to explore with kids .

Things to Do at Craters of the Moon

The park is a 7-mile loop with several stop-offs, including opportunities to climb through lava tubes. Some of these tubes are approximately 2,000 years old!

Start with a climb up Inferno Cone for epic views of the area. Check out the Splatter Cones nearby before beginning your caving adventures.

Choose one or two caves to explore. You’ll need to clamber over fallen rocks and sometimes even icy patches in the caves. Don’t miss Indian Tunnel. After you cross through the cave, you’ll need to return to the main path following a series of posts on the lava field. Depending on which caves you choose to explore, you will want to spend half a day to a full day in the park.

Craters of the Moon Insider Tips

You’ll need to get a caving permit at the visitors center before entering any caves. The Ranger will ask you a few questions and ensure you haven’t worn any of the same clothes or gear inside other caves in the last year, then stamp your map to allow you access.

Be prepared for wind! The wind can be quite strong on the climb up Inferno Cone – don’t wear a hat or be prepared to hang on to yours! The view from the top is worth the climb up, though.

Bring headlamps. A few of the more accessible caves have an open top that allows light in, but for many of the caves, you’ll need to supply your own light source. Be sure to choose caves appropriate for your age and fitness level. Some of the more difficult caves have water and ice inside year-round.

Where to Stay Near Craters of the Moon

You can camp in the park at Lava Flow Campground , open from May through November.

Arco, Idaho , is the nearest small town and has a few motels to spend the night before or after you visit Craters of the Moon. We recommend the Arco Inn Motel – it’s not fancy but clean and has a small park across the street.

2-nights, 2.5-hour drive from Craters of the Moon to Stanley

Stanley is the gateway to the Sawtooth Mountains and home to some of the best hot springs in Idaho! It has plenty of hiking adventures, such as the Fishhook Creek Trail (a 4.4-mile out and back) and trails around Stanley and Redfish Lakes.

Things to Do in Stanley

You will find plenty of things to do in Stanley , but the main focus for many travelers is the hiking trails. The Fishhook Creek Trail is close to Redfish Lake and easy for all skill levels as the elevation gain is minimal, and it goes through meadows with views of the mountains in the backdrop. Also at Redfish Lake, you can enjoy one of Idahoʻs premier alpine lakes! There are paddleboats there, or you can opt to kayak the lake yourself.

Another popular lake is Stanley Lake, located around seven miles west of the Idaho town. Youʻll find some of the best campgrounds in the area located there.

While in town, donʻt miss the chance to soak in the famous Boat Box Hot Springs! Located on the Salmon River, there’s a ʻtubʻ there that you can soak in and relax in the 110F water. Boat Box is just one of the many hot springs in the area (Sunbeam is also worth visiting).

And finally, for the adventurous and skilled hiker, the Redfish Lake to Alpine Lake out-and-back trail is one to spend some time on! This difficult 18.6-mile Idaho trail is brimming with wildflowers and requires a ferry to reach the trailhead (which is a small fee).

Stanley Idaho Insider Tip

While Stanley is all about nature, the town also has plenty to offer visitors! Donʻt miss the Stanley Baking Co. and Cafe , a breakfast and lunch spot where you can find everything from Migas to the classic American breakfast! The Mountain Village Resort also has delicious cinnamon rolls!

Where to Stay in Stanley, ID

The best place to stay in Stanley is overnight camping somewhere deep in the wilderness (where permitted)! But, if you’re looking for accommodation, Redfish Riverside Inn has lovely rooms with terraces, and Stanley High Country Inn is also renowned for good lodging in the area.

For larger groups, check out Claud’s Cabin (sleeping up to 11) or Mountain View (sleeping up to 8).

2 nights, 6.5-hour drive from Stanley to Tri-Cities

Experienced by Noel of Oahu Travel Now

Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland) is the largest wine-producing region in Washington. The area is also known for outdoor adventure, with the Columbia River dissecting the Tri-City area.

Things to Do in Tri-Cities

In the Tri-Cities, the main attraction is wine – wine country vineyards, tasting rooms, and visits to wineries that cater to wine growing and tasting. The area also fronts the Columbia River with a richness of outdoor adventure, water sports, and many other recreational experiences. Each city is unique and offers different attractions for visitors to check out and experience.

Tri-Cities Insider Tip

Reserve accommodation along the Columbia River. You’ll be able to walk the many outdoor trails along the shoreline and also do fun excursions on the river, like boating, biking, or jogging.

Where to Stay in Tri-Cities, WA

There are quite a few different hotels right on the Columbia River with rooms that have spectacular views. Consider the Lodge at Columbia Point or the Hampton Inn at Richland .

Our favorite Vrbo rentals are this Wine Country Retreat (sleeping up to 8) and this historic riverfront farmhouse (sleeping up to 7).

2 to 3 nights ,  2.5-hour drive from Tri-Cities to Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier National Park is a stunning park featuring the majestic Mount Rainier. But more than that, it offers beautiful lakes, waterfalls, rivers, classic Pacific Northwest views, plus awesome hiking.

Things to Do in Mount Rainier National Park

Visitors must absolutely see the Paradise area within Mount Rainier National Park. It’s the most popular area in the park, right between the southwest (Nisqually) entrance and the southeast (Stevens Canyon) entrance. This scenic area is the closest you can get to the mountain.

Take the Skyline Loop Trail (6.2 miles) near Jackson Visitor Center for amazing views of Mt Rainier and the Cascade Range. Or, for fewer crowds, the Bench and Snow Lake Trail (2.2. miles) offers serene views with dreamy lakes. Be sure to stop at Reflection Lakes, which are near the Jackson Visitor Center, where you’ll often see the mountain reflecting in the lakes below.

Mount Rainier Insider Tips

Visitors should arrive at the park early during summers, weekends, and holidays to ensure quick parking at trailheads. In early August, you’ll get amazing views of wildflowers, and in late September, the bright Fall foliage really kicks off within the park.

Where to Stay Near Mount Rainier

Mt Rainier has four campgrounds within the park. Ohanapecosh Campground has the most amenities and is great for RV or tent camping.

Ashford is the closest town to the park’s west, with many small hotels and vacation rentals available. Otherwise, consider Packwood , which is directly south of the park and can be convenient to enter the southwest or southeast entrances.

If you’d prefer to self-cater, check out our guide to the Best Mt Rainier Cabins .

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Jenna is the Founder and CEO of Up and Away Magazine, an online publication geared towards showcasing America's most beautiful outdoor spaces through curated lodging and road trip guides. As a SoCal native, Jenna grew up camping and backpacking in California's Eastern Sierra and has visited almost every national park west of the Rockies. Her writing has been featured on MSN, East End Taste Magazine, Wealth of Geeks, and numerous others.

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Sensational Road Trip From Seattle To Yellowstone

Traveling from Seattle to Yellowstone is an excellent road trip thanks to the beautiful scenery and numerous other state and national parks you’ll pass through. 

Just visiting Yellowstone alone would make the trip worth it, but the adventure doesn’t need to stop there – you’ll encounter incredible natural landmarks, historic towns, and stunning wilderness, which all beckon to be explored along the way. 

With so many places to visit, we’ve put together this guide with some of the best attractions along the route so you can create a Seattle to Yellowstone road trip itinerary that fits your time frame and travel style. 

Distance from Seattle to Yellowstone

How long do i need driving from seattle to yellowstone, best time of year to drive from seattle to yellowstone, quick drive time summary: seattle to yellowstone (northern route), snoqualmie falls, washington, spokane, washington, lake coeur d’alene, idaho, missoula, montana, lewis and clark caverns state park, montana, bozeman, montana, yellowstone national park, quick drive time summary: yellowstone to seattle (southern route), idaho falls, idaho, craters of the moon, idaho, sawtooth national forest, idaho, painted hills, oregon, columbia river gorge, oregon, portland, oregon, mount rainier national park, washington, more tips for road tripping from seattle to yellowstone.

It’s about 750 miles between Seattle and Yellowstone. This route will take you through Washington, Idaho, and Montana on I-90.  

A slightly longer route will take you south on 1-84 through Washington to Oregon and then across Idaho to reach Yellowstone. This drive is about 1,000 miles in total. 

Driving straight from Seattle to Yellowstone on the 1-90 route will take about 12 hours without any stops. Sure, this might be doable in a day if you really enjoy sitting behind the wheel. Still, with so many places to explore, we recommend breaking the trip into segments! 

Taking the southern 1-84 route is about 17 hours of driving time. Although this trip is longer, it also means you can stop in Portland, Oregon, and some of the parks in southern Idaho.

If you’re planning a round trip back from Yellowstone to Seattle, you can take 1-90 one way and 1-84 in the other direction to make the most of your travel experience. 

In this Seattle to Yellowstone driving itinerary, we’ve included stops along the northern route on the way to Yellowstone and then highlighted some of the places to visit on the south route on the way back. 

Although this trip could be done in a few days, we’d recommend planning on spending at least a week driving in either direction to allow for time to stop and visit the parks and cities.

Spring, summer, and fall are the best times of year for a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone. Although it’s certainly possible to drive this route in the winter, parts of Yellowstone are closed during this season, and there aren’t as many options for accommodation. 

Summer is the busiest time of the month for tourists to visit Yellowstone. You’ll also encounter more traffic on the roads during this season. 

Often the shoulder months of spring and fall between April-May and September-October are considered ideal times of the year. This way, you can still enjoy good weather but miss the major crowds which flock to the park in the summer .

No matter what time of year you’re planning on taking a Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, make sure you book your accommodation well in advance, especially at Yellowstone itself. Places will fill up quickly, and you won’t want to miss out on your opportunity to explore this amazing National Park!

7 Best Stops on a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip

As you drive from Seattle to Yellowstone, here are some of the best parks and cities to visit along the way taking the I-90. 

Many of these stops could be entire vacations in themselves, so if you have time, don’t hesitate to stretch out your road trip to really make the most of all the exploration in store!

The following are estimates only to help you plan out your driving times between major attractions on the northern route from Seattle and Washington State to Yellowstone.

• Not included on our itinerary but another potential stop you could add is Glacier National Park , noting you’ll need to apply for timed entry permits if visiting in the summer peak season. This stop will add approx. 4 hours more of scenic driving through Montana .

We’re going to start our journey close to Seattle. Snoqualmie Falls makes an excellent first pit stop on your drive to Yellowstone if you’ve not already experienced the falls on a day trip from Seattle . 

These spectacular falls are one of Washington’s top natural attractions, and it’s no secret why. Plummeting 270 feet, the waterfall is an absolutely jaw-dropping sight. 

There are two observation decks which are open year-round, as well as picnic areas and a gift shop to pick up snacks and souvenirs, the best way to start your long journey into eastern Washington state.

About a five-hour drive from Seattle if you drive direct, Spokane is a perfect place to spend the night (or a few nights) on your road trip to Yellowstone. 

This city is family-friendly and has a great variety of cultural attractions as well as parks and natural beauty. 

Washington’s two largest state parks- Riverside State Park and Mount Spokane State Park -are both definitely worth visiting. They have excellent trails and spots for fishing, hiking, and swimming. 

In the downtown area of Spokane, you’ll find some of the city’s famous landmarks, like a pavilion that was constructed for the World’s Fair in 1974. Nature is found right in the middle of the city as well, thanks to the Riverfront Park where you can see Spokane Falls. 

A fun family activity in Spokane is the SkyRide gondola . This ride takes you right over the Spokane River for some great sights of the city and the waterfalls. 

If you’re staying for a night or two, you might want to check out the arts or nightlife scene of the city.

• See Accommodation Options in Spokane

Not far from Spokane, Lake Coeur d’Alene is a perfect first stop in Idaho during your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip. 

The 135 miles of shoreline offer plenty of room for lots of outdoor fun, whether you decide to go hiking or rent a paddle boat for a day out on the water. 

Lake Coeur d’Alene also has some excellent beaches like Pebble Beach and Sanders Beach which are great spots for swimming, picnicking, or just relaxing by the scenic shoreline. 

There are also several shoreside dining options ranging from more expensive restaurants like Cedars Floating Restaurant (which has some incredible views!) to casual family venues. 

For a short but beautiful detour on your drive from Seattle to Yellowstone, you can add on the Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway, one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Idaho . The drive is about 35 miles and it takes about an hour to drive. The panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forest and mountains give you an appreciation for the beauty of Idaho!

• See Accommodation Options in Coeur d’Alene

A nature-lovers paradise, Missoula beckons with fun activities like hiking in the mountains, horseback riding, and fishing. 

The Clark Fork , Bitterroot, and Blackfoot rivers converge at the city, and water sports are particularly popular pastimes. For a relaxing day, you can rent inner tubes to float down the gentle areas of the rivers, or if you’re in search of more adrenaline, then kayaking may be a good option.  

The fun university town of Missoula also has a great cultural scene with theaters, art galleries , and excellent dining options. It’s a perfect place to spend a night or two to enjoy the best of the Montana wilderness as you make your way from Seattle to Yellowstone.

• See Accommodation Options in Missoula

One of the gems of Montana, Lewis and Clark Caverns is an incredible place to visit for the whole family. It’s historically significant owing to its title of being Montana’s first state park, and it’s known for its other-worldly limestone caves filled with stalagmites, stalactites, and enormous rock columns, which give the caves the appearance of an underground cathedral. 

Don’t worry-the caves have all been equipped with electric lighting and handrails, and tour guides will accompany groups to bring them through the maze of tunnels to learn about the incredible geologic process of cave formation. 

Tours of the caverns are offered between May 1 and September 30, and during the hot summer months, not only will you enjoy the stunning natural formations but also some natural air conditioning thanks to the cool temperatures of the caverns! 

Lewis and Clark Caverns are easy to do as a daily activity, or you can also spend a night at the campground if you want to get a real experience of big sky Montana.

A gateway into Yellowstone, Bozeman is definitely worth visiting during your drive from Seattle to Yellowstone. 

Outdoor activities like rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing are all possible thanks to the stunning mountain scenery and beautiful rivers. 

In the city, you’ll find farmers’ markets, art fairs, and a vibrant theater scene if you want to experience the social side of life after spending time in the wilderness of Montana. 

You’ll want to check out the Bozeman Hot Springs , which are a perfect place to relax and appreciate the natural spa created by the thermal springs in the area. 

Surrounded by mountains and with the big blue sky above, it’s way better than any indoor spa!  

Families traveling with kids will enjoy the Montana Grizzly Encounter , which is a grizzly bear rescue and rehabilitation site in Bozeman. It’s a perfect chance to have a close-up encounter with these enormous bears in a safe and protected environment.

• See Accommodation Opti ons in Bozeman

From Bozeman to the North Entrance of Yellowstone is about an hour and a half, and it’s about two hours of driving to reach the West Entrance of the park. 

We’d highly recommend that you book your accommodation in Yellowstone well in advance (if you’re traveling in the summer, booking the winter before is a good idea), since lodges and campgrounds will fill up very quickly. 

West Yellowstone is the most popular of Yellowstone ‘s four entrances on account of how close it is to many of the famous geysers such as Old Faithful . It’s also a convenient entrance to use for visiting the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Accommodation in West Yellowstone

One of Montana’s most charming small towns, check out accommodation options in West Yellowstone (much like lodgings within the park, you’ll want to book many months in advance.

Our complete family guide to Yellowstone National Park coming soon! From Mammoth Hot Springs to Grand Prismatic Spring, there are so many great experiences to enjoy in Yellowstone.

• Got a 4th grader in th family? Check if your eligible for free national park entry with Every Kid Outdoors

7 Best Stops Back – Yellowstone to Seattle

As we mentioned, it will take several hours longer to take the southern route back Idaho and Oregon, but this drive includes some of the most spectacular scenery in the Pacific Northwest, so we’d argue it’s unmissable on any American road trip bucketlist !

• Many will also pair with a trip to Yellowstone a stop at Grand Teton National Park – you could easily add this as your first stop in Montana before continuing on with this itinerary.

You can mix and match these stops east to west for a shorter journey, but overall we’d allow a week to complete the drive back to Seattle (or alternatively, take the southern route to Yellowstone and Grand Teton, then the northern route back, it’s totally up to you!)

Use these estimates to help you plan out your drive times and return route from Yellowstone to Seattle.

Taking the south route back between Seattle and Yellowstone, you’ll drive right through Idaho Falls which is known for its amazing waterfalls (maybe you guessed by the name?). 

There are lots of options for camping, hiking, water sports, and horseback riding, as well as great activities and culture in the city itself. 

Families will want to stop to visit the Idaho Falls Zoo , which has a great petting zoo that young kids will enjoy. There are also family-friendly museums to learn about the history of the area and the Lewis and Clark expeditions. 

It’s only about a four-hour drive between Yellowstone and Idaho Falls, but because of all the things to explore, it’s worth spending at least a day, if not two or three, to get a chance to explore.

• See Accommodation Options in Idaho Falls

Visiting this National Monument on your drive from Yellowstone to Seattle is a must; you’ll truly feel like you’ve left planet Earth behind and are walking on the surface of the moon!

The landscape was created from oozing lava which seeped up from fissures in the ground. As it spread, it created a surreal environment of lava beds, tree molds, and strange lava formations covering nearly 620 square miles! 

The Space Research Center is also a great place to visit for families. Young kids will love getting Lunar Ranger Badges and learning about how the area was used in the process of training NASA astronauts for landing on the moon!

We’d also highly recommend checking out the lava tubes, which are underground tunnels created by the channels of lava. 

Craters of the Moon is a little over two hours from Idaho Falls, making it a nice day activity during your road trip between Seattle and Yellowstone.

The Sawtooth Mountains are one of the crowning natural landmarks of Idaho. Leaving behind the moonscapes of Craters of the Moon, you’ll enter some of the most stunning mountain scenery you’ve encountered yet on this drive from Seattle to Yellowstone! 

From hot springs to waterfalls, the activities in the mountains are endless, and it’s worth spending a few days exploring. 

With over 1,100 lakes and 3,000 miles of streams and rivers, the chances for water activities like kayaking, swimming, and fishing are endless. 

The Snake River is a particularly popular tourist attraction thanks to the possibilities of water rafting on the blue waters and miles of hiking trails through the mountain landscape. 

Pro Tip : There aren’t any major cities in the Sawtooth Mountains, but you can find lodges and accommodation near the town of Stanley, but make sure you book a room well in advance. For those who want to be more immersed in the outdoors, camping is also a great option!

The Painted Hills in Oregon are a geological wonder that make for an unforgettable road trip stop. These hills are part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and are known for their vibrant colors, which range from deep reds to bright yellows and oranges.

The hills are made up of layers of volcanic ash and clay that have been eroded by wind and water over millions of years, resulting in a landscape that looks like something out of a painting.

As you approach the Painted Hills, you’ll be struck by the contrast between the bright colors of the hills and the stark beauty of the surrounding desert landscape. The hills seem to glow in the sunlight, and the colors change depending on the time of day and the angle of the sun. Visitors are welcome to explore the hills on foot, following a series of trails that wind through the landscape.

• Note this is a long driving day with not much site seeing en route. You can tackle it by staying in Boise overnight, driving it in one long hit, and staying in nearby John Day . Or, if you’re skipping Painted Hills, the I-84 is a little quicker, with a stop at Baker City , La Grande or Pendleton to break up the journey..

Driving through the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway is a breathtaking experience that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This Oregon scenic byway stretches for 75 miles along the Columbia River, cutting through the Cascade Mountains and connecting the states of Oregon and Washington.

As you travel through the Columbia River Gorge, you’ll be surrounded by towering cliffs, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. The road twists and turns along the Columbia River, offering spectacular views of the water as it rushes through the canyon.

One of the most popular stops along the way is Multnomah Falls, a stunning 620-foot waterfall that is easily accessible from the road. Visitors can hike up to the top of the falls for an even more breathtaking view of the surrounding scenery.

Another highlight of the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway is the historic towns that line the route. You’ll pass through quaint communities such as Hood River, where you can stop for a bite to eat or a glass of local wine. The area is known for its excellent wineries, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and sample some of the region’s best varietals.

Making your way back up through the Pacific Northwest, it’s worth taking a slight detour on I-84 to go through Portland, Oregon. 

Eccentric, fun, and full of opportunities for outdoor adventure, it’s no wonder why Portland is such a popular city to visit . 

Spend a day hiking around Mount Tabor , then head downtown to check out the fantastic restaurants and culinary scenes the city has to offer. Local coffee shops abound, and Portland is said to have some of the best coffee anywhere in the U.S.!

After a trip full of mountain scenery, experience a new kind of natural beauty at the Portland Japanese Garden . These artistically curated gardens are full of amazing flowers, picturesque bridges, and tranquil ponds covering about 12 acres.

On the southeast side of Seattle, Mt. Rainier National Park makes a perfect way to round off your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip. 

The iconic peak of Mt. Rainier is one of the best-known natural landmarks in the Pacific Northwest . Some people don’t realize that it’s also an active volcano that last erupted about 150 years ago! 

The park is a popular place for hiking, mountain climbing, and biking. Although it’s possible to visit the park in a day, we’d recommend at least spending a night or two either at a campsite or lodge so you don’t feel rushed. 

The glaciated peaks and mountain rivers of this park are stunning year-round, but spring is particularly beautiful thanks to the fields of mountain wildflowers. Painting the mountainsides with bright gold and purple, it’s no wonder that Mt. Rainier ends up in so many postcard photographs!

• Make sure you pack for a wide variety of weather, especially if you plan on camping. Temperatures can change a lot between day and night, so having layers is a good way to ensure you’ll stay comfortable. 
• Washington – wsdot.com
• Idaho – 511.idaho.gov
• Montana – 511mt.net
• Oregon – tripcheck.com
• Note that you’ll be crossing time zones from PST/PDT in Washington and Oregon to MST/MDT in Idaho and Montana.
• If you plan on fishing during your trip, double-check the requirements for fishing permits before you go. 
• Campgrounds in most National Parks operate on a reservation basis, but some may be first-come, first-serve. 
• Lodges at Yellowstone are available to book from up to 13 months out; if your heart is set on staying within the national park, get organized early!
• Part of the experience of visiting Yellowstone is the opportunity to see lots of wildlife, but make sure you also take the necessary safety precautions, especially when hiking or camping in grizzly bear territory.
• Approaching from the south instead? You’ll love this Yellowstone road trip itinerary from Salt Lake City , taking in Grand Teton along the way!
• Never forget a critical road-tripping item again! Check out our guide to the road trip essentials we always pack, with a downloadable packing checklist.

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Idaho , Montana , United States , Washington , Wyoming

10 marvelous stops on a seattle to yellowstone road trip.

Yellowstone is one of the most famous national parks in the country, and many people fly there and then rent a car, depending on where they live. However, a few years ago, I was invited to my friend’s wedding in South Dakota, and instead of flying there, my husband and I thought, “Why don’t we do a cross-country road trip instead?” What made this even more exciting was that I realized that meant we could do a Seattle to Yellowstone road trip as well.

There are several different ways to do this trip, but I’m showing you the exact way I went, which I felt was also the most direct since I had to get to South Dakota after this. However, I encourage you to take as long as you want at the stops you find interesting if time isn’t a limit. I like that these stops are a mix of big cities and smaller towns, and you can feel free to skip any that don’t fit into your Seattle to Yellowstone itinerary.

With that, let’s get started on planning your trip! I’ll give you important facts to know, a detailed description of each stop, and an itinerary with suggested places to stay each night. No matter which route you follow, you’ll love seeing different parts of the western part of the country.

Table of Contents

Tips for a Seattle to Yellowstone National Park Drive

Confession: I really love road trips. It’s fun to get swept up in the excitement of executing each planning stage. Nothing beats a comprehensive family road trip checklist and some helpful tips. Get ready for an unforgettable Seattle to Yellowstone excursion.

How Long Does It Take To Get From Seattle to Yellowstone?

You’ll cover about 755 miles when driving from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park along I-90, the most direct route. The drive should take around 12 hours one way but will be a lot more enjoyable if you break it up into an exhilarating outing over several days.

I suggest making your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip a three- or four-day trip . There are many splendid towns to stop in as you make your way from Washington to Wyoming.

Are you keen to compare how other expeditions match up? This Seattle to Cannon Beach road trip or Seattle to Las Vegas road trip will give you more car trip ideas.

What Time of the Year Is Best for a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip?

Your ideal time for a Seattle to Yellowstone trip depends on your travel preferences. Generally, similarly to a Seattle to Glacier road trip , the summer (June to August) is unmatched.

Weather conditions are perfect during this time, and all park activities are operational. However, summer is extremely busy, necessitating patience for the high traffic volumes, expert planning, and early bookings.

For fewer crowds , opt for spring (April to May) or fall (September to November). Temperatures are still mild enough for a pleasant ride. These are unpredictable seasons, though, where conditions can change suddenly. Pack enough warm clothing , just in case.

Make sure to reserve your rental car ahead of time! I love using Discover Cars for my trips.

What To Pack for a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip

These essentials are must-haves for your Seattle-Yellowstone National Park packing list:

• Warm sweaters : Lightweight sweaters will keep you snug during your adventures.
• Leggings : Stretchy leggings are super comfortable when doing a lot of walking.
• Hiking shoes : Opt for durable hiking boots that can withstand all weather conditions.
• Sunscreen : Stay protected, especially on those sweltering days.
• Water bottle : Keep hydrated throughout your road trip to stay alert and refreshed.

Seattle to Yellowstone National Park Road Trip Map

Use the map below to get a quick glimpse of what your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip will look like.

10 Stops on a Seattle to Yellowstone National Park Road Trip

During your voyage, you’ll make memorable stops in stunning locations. There’s a range of activities up for grabs, like hiking, museum visits, water sports, culinary tours, and more.

Here are 10 unmissable stops for your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip.

1. Seattle, Washington

Your adventures begin in the Emerald City, Washington State’s action-packed hub. You might be doing a couple’s road trip or a friend’s road fiesta (which you’ll want road trip trivia for), but you’ll have fun either way.

It’s hard to suggest just a day’s worth of activities to do (since I’m a local who loves recommending tons to do for visitors), but I suggest you spend your time in Seattle doing three things: explore the downtown area, go sightseeing, and savor the city’s phenomenal cuisine.

Downtown Seattle holds all the vibey city attractions, restaurants, and landmarks, so it’s most convenient to stay here on your Yellowstone road trip from Seattle. Pike Place Market is the city’s much-loved go-to spot for shopping and special culinary experiences, and even though it’s touristy, I recommend going if you haven’t been before.

You can spend a couple of hours here checking out all the boutiques and eateries (check out MarketSpice for tea or Pike Place Chowder for amazing chowder).

Other downtown must-sees include the following:

• Seattle Public Library : This steel and glass architectural showpiece has about 1.45 million reading materials.
• Smith Tower : This historic building features a museum on the bottom and a speakeasy restaurant with beautiful views on the top.
• Paramount Theatre : This is the home of Seattle’s thriving performing arts scene, so see if a concert or show is playing

Your next stop should be the waterfront, where you can sample sublime seafood dishes and ride the Seattle Great Wheel . To witness some of the best city views, head to the Space Needle .

After some attraction sightings, a food crawl is in order. Why not try a guided Pike Place Market food tour ? It’s a fabulous way to conclude your Seattle explorations before traveling to the next exciting location.

2. Snoqualmie Falls, Washington

Your journey through Washington continues as you move from Seattle to Snoqualmie Falls , just over 30 minutes (29 miles) away on your Seattle to Yellowstone drive.

Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most incredible natural sites in the state. If you’re up for a short but steep hike, go to the bottom to get a different view of it by the river. Otherwise, take the opportunity to capture unbelievable pictures of the 268-foot waterfall . I’ve lived here for 30 years and continue to visit it every year.

Enjoy stunning views from the observation decks before having a quick picnic close to the falls. There’s also a gift shop on-site where you can snag a few souvenirs. This early leg of the trip is your chance to fill up on good food and relax.

Take a ten-minute drive from Snoqualmie Falls to Twe de’s Cafe in North Bend for the most mouth-watering cherry pie . It’s the perfect sweet treat and sugary boost before continuing onward to Spokane.

3. Spokane, Washington

The next stop on your drive from Seattle to Yellowstone is Spokane , the “Lilac City,” about four hours (255 miles) from Snoqualmie Falls. I recommend you make this your first overnight stay. That way, you can take your time discovering the area and get some good shut-eye before the next stretch.

I have a good friend who lives here, so I visit at least once a year and love it. The city is littered with natural attractions, art galleries, and interesting cultural sites that’ll inspire epic Instagram captions .

Spokane Falls is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Spokane. You can treat yourself to a 20-minute cable car ride over the magnificent falls on the famous Numerica SkyRide . This is one of the most scenic ways to see the area, and my kids loved it when we did it last summer. The ride costs $12.95 for adults and $8.95 for children aged 3-12 .

For some tasty grub and a little meandering around the city center, go explore downtown Spokane . There are many vibrant restaurants to choose from here (my favorites are Vieux Carre NOLA Kitchen and Wild Sage Bistro ). If you’ve got a little time on your hands before turning in, consider visiting these tourist spots:

• Campbell House — This house museum is more than 100 years old.
• Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture — Learn about Native American culture,  history, and more at this museum.
• Havermale Island and Riverfront Park — View the famed Bloomsday sculptures in the park.

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to help me plan out my trips and find fun stops along the way. Use my code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off when you sign up!

4. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

A short 40-minute, 34-mile drive from Spokane takes you into Idaho, where Coeur d’Alene awaits. This small town is a quiet, natural playground, and Lake Coeur d’Alene is its star attraction. The lake runs for 25 miles and has pretty parks, beaches, hiking trails, and campgrounds along its shores.

Stroll the waterside or take a refreshing dip to cool down. This is an excellent time for another picnic as you appreciate the surrounding views. Golf enthusiasts can squeeze in a few rounds at Coeur d’Alene Resort and experience the 14th hole’s floating green.

If you need to stock up on some road trip snacks , pick up souvenirs, or fuel up, spend a few hours downtown. This might give you the energy you need to tackle over 70 slides, rides, and shows at Silverwood Theme Park , just 30 minutes from Coeur d’Alene.

Other city attraction options worth considering include Tubbs Hill , The Art Spirit Gallery , McEuen Park , and Timberline Adventures . I recommend staying overnight here because it’s a fun city – it’s usually my base for vacations in this area. There are plenty of coffee shops, restaurants, and parks, which are important when I travel with my family.

If you prefer a chilled, curated experience, a guided Segway tour around Coeur d’Alene will hit the travel adventure sweet spot on your road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park.

5. Missoula, Montana

When you’re ready to hit the road again, you’ll be journeying from Coeur d’Alene to Missoula in Montana. You’ll spend about two and a half hours on the road as you approach the trip’s halfway point.

I’m a sucker for keeping things fun and light on the road, so keep entertained with some road trip trivia questions . They’ll make the 165-mile drive whizz by like a breeze.

Once you get to Missoula, there’s a plethora of attractions and activities on the menu. Take it easy and explore the city’s lively streets, getting a feel for the laid-back Montana lifestyle.

The city has a rich history, and you can wander around town on a self-guided walking tour . There are also trails along the Clark Fork River that make for fitting romantic strolls.

By this point of the road trip, you deserve to unwind with delicious food and several cold ones. I rate it a terrific idea to make Missoula your second overnight stop so you can indulge in craft brews and crisp vinos at any local breweries or wineries .

There are wonderful restaurants that afford undisturbed views of the river, one of them being FINN Restaurant . They specialize in seafood, steaks, and artisan pizzas, which you’ll love on your road trip to Yellowstone from Seattle.

6. Berkeley Pit, Montana

You’ve entered the road trip’s second half, and the next stretch leads to Berkeley Pit , just under two hours (119 miles) away. Before you leave Missoula, take a little time to organize your car , ensuring everything is in place before missioning onward.

Berkeley Pit is in Butte, and a stop here will add to your unique places counter during the road trip. The Pit stands as one of the region’s most fascinating historical landmarks and is best known for its high acid levels as an old open-pit copper mine.

How acidic, you ask? Well, the water could give good old lemon juice a run for its money. The composition contains toxic arsenic, copper, and peculiar microscopic lifeforms, which means no crazy ideas of dipping your toes in the water.

I know this sounds like a strange stop, and I almost didn’t stop myself on my road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone. Trust me, though, it’s worth it and won’t take too much time out of your trip. I loved learning about the history of it and seeing its unique color on my drive from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park.

Berkeley Pit is more about taking inspiring snaps of this strange yet alluring, intensely green water feature that represents a compelling past. Your main activity is a viewing area from the prominent Berkeley Pit Stand, accessible for $3 per person .

Elsewhere in Butte, make flavorful fare on top of your agenda to seal this leg. Some of the stellar options are Annie’s Café, Casagranda’s Steakhouse, Hummingbird Café, and La Casa Toscana .

Get your free road trip packing list here!

7. Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is an hour and 20 minutes (85 miles) from Berkeley Pit, ideal for an overnight stay. This Montana nature oasis calls for more outdoor adventures, and you can expect tranquil hiking paths and biking trails.

Dinosaur lovers are spoiled here because this is where you find the thrilling Museum of the Rockies . Tour the space and navigate through a remarkable fossil collection, including Tyrannosaurus rex specimens.

You can even get a sneak peek at how fossils and historic preservations are prepared. Siebel Complex’s Bowman Dinosaur Viewing Laboratory provides an exclusive look into all things dinosaurs. Other exhibitions offer detailed tales from the Viking era and significant parts of Native American history.

For a completely different museum experience, the American Computer and Robotics Museum will check all the boxes. You can channel your inner techie by learning about all sorts of innovation-led exhibits and installations. You’ll be mind-blown by the quantum computing and artificial intelligence showcases.

If you can find a gap for something slightly off the cuff, embrace an alpaca and llama farm tour for a little animal appreciation.

Having mini-mes around shouldn’t hinder your road trip exploits. All you need is the right game plan for road-tripping with a baby .

8. Silver Gate, Montana

You’re getting closer to Yellowstone National Park, but a couple more stops are on the cards before reaching the final destination. Next up is Silver Gate , a manageable two-hour, 50-minute drive from Bozeman (130 miles).

The Beartooth Mountain range, which includes some of the tallest peaks in Montana, encircles Silver Gate. If you didn’t take advantage of any hiking, mountain biking, and fishing opportunities earlier in the trip, here’s your shot.

The area also has wildlife and waterfalls to enjoy, with horseback riding as an alternative activity should that tickle your fancy. At night, the skies sparkle as twinkling lights dance, creating a brilliant stargazing canvas above.

Silver Gate town is modest in size, with a handful of restaurants, convenience stores, and gift shops. A slight detour along Highway 212 will take you to Cooke City , only three miles from Silver Gate. Cooke will deliver invigorating experiences if you’re braving a winter journey. It’s ideal for remote winter escapes.

Once you’ve soaked up enough small-town Silver Gate and Cooke City goodness, it’s time to cross state lines and head to Cody.

Pet parents know the importance of including enough stops when traveling with animals. Brush up on some tips from this article about cross-country road trips with dogs .

9. Cody, Wyoming

The second-last stop on your Seattle to Yellowstone National Park road trip is Cody in Wyoming, an hour and 40 minutes (79 miles) from Silver Gate. You’ll get an authentic slice of that classic Wild West atmosphere in Cody. There are awesome cultural activities and abundant natural beauty to take in on your Seattle road trip to Yellowstone.

In Old Trail Town , you’ll get to see an intriguing collection of 26 historic relics and cabins that capture the Western frontier. I also recommend checking out the Buffalo Bill Center of the West . The center has five museums in one location, celebrating cowboy history, Indian traditions and cultures, and Western artworks.

You can also bag an extraordinary outing with a Red Canyon Wild Mustang tour . No, this isn’t the car I’m referring to. It’s one better: the majestic horses. Mustang tours are considered America’s version of the safari experience. Add sightings of mountain sheep, elk, and bison, and you indeed have yourself an amazing wilderness viewing experience.

Other Cody highlights:

• Cody Night Rodeo
• Shoshone National Forest
• The Cody Cattle Company dinner theater

To sit back while a knowledgeable guide does all the hard work, take a Cody trolley tour around town.

10. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

It’s finally time to head toward Yellowstone . The last leg of the road trip from Cody to the park should take an hour or about 52 miles.

However, keep in mind that this is one of the most popular parks in the country, so you’ll likely encounter traffic entering or leaving. I visited here during the peak of summer, and it took us an hour just to leave because wildlife was spotted on the way out, and everyone had to stop to look at it. Just keep this in mind when planning out your itineraries for the day.

You might also consider visiting some of the less popular spots during the peak daytime hours. For example, Old Faithful is always crowded (to be honest, I wasn’t too impressed with it, anyways), so maybe go towards the end of the day instead of around lunch.

This was the country’s first national park , established in 1872. Yellowstone has sweeping landscapes, geysers, and hot springs. There are also loads of canyons, alpine forests, and gleaming rivers.

Take your pick of areas to explore based on what you’ve always wanted to see. Over two million staggering acres of land are covered with wild plants and animals. To observe and take pictures of some of the park’s best sites, visit these stunners:

• Canyons: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
• Geysers: Old Faithful; Castle; Daisy
• Hot springs: The Boiling River; Mammoth; Grand Prismatic
• Lakes: Trout; Yellowstone
• Waterfalls: Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River; Tower Fall

In West Yellowstone, you can pop into the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center for educational exhibits . Yellowstone is an amazing place to round up road trip activities if the tour bug bites.

If you’re in the mood for an exclusive excursion when visiting Yellowstone from Seattle, navigate the park in style. You’ll witness astonishing sites during a private tour with lunch.

Seattle to Yellowstone National Park Itinerary: 4 Days

I think you’ll make the most of your Seattle to Yellowstone National Park road trip if you spend four days on the road. This itinerary will ensure your nature-inspired journey is filled with diverse experiences across the four states.

Day 1: Seattle to Spokane

Part one of your road trip is a 4-hour, 10-minute ride from Seattle to Spokane . You’ll cover 279 miles . Along the way, you can mix it up. Aim to strike a delicate balance between the activities you know and love and entirely new experiences.

Downtown Seattle is the hot spot for attractions, bars, and trendy restaurants. Roam around Emerald City’s Pike Place Market or Pioneer Square . Before moving on to Spokane, grab a hearty breakfast, a few trinkets, and a classic Seattle coffee.

A quick stop at Snoqualmie Falls en route for a picnic or nature walk will ensure you get to enjoy the great outdoors of Washington State .

Where To Stay: The Davenport Grand is one of the best places to stay in Spokane, and you’ll be right by the river. (Rates start at around $154 per night)

Day 2: Spokane to Missoula

The second leg of this sensational journey will see you traverse three states as you move from Spokane to Missoula . This stretch shaves an hour off the previous day’s drive and spans 198 miles .

After a SkyRide over the Spokane River , all roads lead to Coeur d’Alene in Idaho . Enjoy quiet time and a peaceful picnic at Lake Coeur d’Alene. If heart-thumping excitement is more your flavor, opt for a Timberline Adventures zip-line .

Return on the road and look to Missoula, where you can satisfy your craving for scrumptious nosh, craft beers, and fine wines near the Clark Fork River.

Where To Stay: C’mon INN Missoula has a rustic, cabin-style look and feel, making for a comfortstable overnight stay. (Rates start at around $189 per night)

Day 3: Missoula to Bozeman

By day three, you’re firmly in the trip’s second-half stretch . You’ll take a cool drive, pacing yourself from Missoula to Bozeman . You’ll spend just around three hours on the road, completing 202 miles .

At Berkeley Pit in Butte , stop to admire and photograph the peculiar open-pit copper mine now forming an acidic body of bright green water. So sharp is the water’s acid levels that it has been compared to Coca-Cola.

When you leave Butte and head to Bozeman, anticipate some museum mania. The Museum of the Rockies is a dinosaur-lovers delight. A different offering at the American Computer and Robotics Museum will entertain tech fanatics.

Where To Stay : MountainView Lodge and Suites provide old-style charm in decor and have a pool and fitness center. (Rates start at around $132 per night)

Day 4: Bozeman to Yellowstone National Park

The pièce de résistance of your road trip is the 1 hour and 20-minute drive taking you from Bozeman to Yellowstone , an easy 78 miles . However, factor in a few extra minutes and miles for stops in two striking locations.

Silver Gate is up first, surrounded by the beauty of the Beartooth Mountains . Here, take in the fresh Montana air with a leisurely walk and a calming moment of reflection.

In Cody , discover Old Trail Town and the ways of the Wild West with an independent history tour . The final destination is mesmerizing Yellowstone National Park . Spend all the time you want exploring the park’s canyons, geysers, hot springs, lakes, wildlife, and waterfalls .

Where To Stay : Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone have cute cabins to rent out that all come with a fireplace and front porch. (Rates start at around $179 per night)

You’ll love all these stops on your Seattle to Yellowstone road trip! Leave a comment below and let me know your favorite part.

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

2 thoughts on “ 10 Marvelous Stops on a Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip ”

this Seattle to Yellowstone National Park road trip seems like a great adventure! It covers a manageable distance (755 miles) and allows for plenty of interesting stops along the way, including natural wonders and charming towns.

Yes it does!

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From Seattle to Yellowstone: 11 places you can’t miss

• Post author By Mrs. Grazy Goat
• Post date June 28, 2020
• Post last updated date Last Updated: March 13, 2023
• 2 Comments on From Seattle to Yellowstone: 11 places you can’t miss

Family-friendly stops on the way from Seattle to Yellowstone: waterfalls, caves, petrified forest, gardens and lakes, hidden gems, and local treasures.

Distance between Seattle and Yellowstone is a long stretch of road – roughly 12 hours of driving (one way). If spending that much time just driving does not sound exciting to you, check out the stops below! With little planning, the “boring” part of the trip can be just as good as the destination. 😉

All of the places below are free/cost very little money and family-friendly (we traveled with 14 months old, 4, 9 y.o., and grandparents).

From Seattle to Yellowstone: Important note

We split the road time in half and spent a total of 4 days driving from Seattle to Yellowstone and back: – 2 days by the shorter or “upper” way (12 hours if driving non-stop) – 2 days from Yellowstone to Seattle by longer or “lower” way via Grand Teton National Park (13.5 hours of non-stop driving):

Why you might want to go “Lower way” (and see Grand Tetons first) and make “Upper way” on the way from Yellowstone to Seattle, you can read here .

Sightseeing on the way from Seattle to Yellowstone . Upper way

1. ginkgo petrified forest state park.

Ginkgo Petrified Forest interpretive center has one of the most diverse petrified wood collections in the US – 30 kinds, all near 15 million years old! We were fascinated by how something that appears to be a stone is in fact a petrified tree. Worth visiting even after closing time.

Park was named “Ginkgo” because the ginkgo tree is a rare species to find among petrified wood:

There is a nice open grassy area with multiple picnic tables, restrooms. Beware, it can be very windy at Ginkgo state park. Herds of bighorn sheep can be seen occasionally passing by. They are very shy. Please don’t try to chase them:

Time to spend : from a brief visit to a couple of hours. Activities: interpretive center, swimming nearby on hot summer days.

2. Wild Horse Wind Farm

The Wild Horse Wind Farm is a unique chance for older kids and adults to know more about renewable energy, see a huge wind turbine close up, and go inside! We missed our chance twice, as it was too windy to go on a tour for us (it’s also colder on the ridge). We will come back for sure!

Time to spend: 1 hour. Activities: guided tour (kids are welcome), visitor center.

3. From Seattle to Yellowstone. Spokane , Washington

For those who live in or near Seattle, “Spokane” is more than a city. It is the main direction East. I saw “Spokane” direction signs so many times during our first year in Washington, that I wanted to visit the city just because of that 😁. The city is the second-largest in Washington and located near the border with Idaho.

We were very impressed by Spokane and wrote a separate post about it.

Spokane can be enjoyed as a quick stop or as a full day of activities. It earned a spot in our bucket list for a huge waterfall in the very middle of the city – Spokane Falls:

Time to spend: from a couple of hours to a full day. Activities: Huntington Park, Riverfront Park, Monito Park, Botanical Gardens.

4. Coeur d’Alene City Park and Beach , Idaho

Lake Coeur d’Alene looks really beautiful even from the highway as you pass it by. Take a dip in the lake, continue with a picnic lunch (there are lots of picnic tables), and if time allows, go paddling!

Our friends visited the lake and Fort Sherman Playground (massive wooden structure near the lakeshore) a year ago and said both were a hit.

Time to spend: from a brief visit to half a day. Activities: Fort Sherman Playground, swimming, parasailing, SUP, boat, kayak rentals. Lake can be crowded during peak months with limited parking.

5. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park , Montana

Lewis and Clark’s limestone caverns are fragile pieces of art. They are also known as Montana’s first and best-known state park. And for a good reason: caverns are unique and have a delicate ecosystem. If I could visit only one cavern in my entire life, I would choose Lewis and Clark’s!

There are a lot of rules and important nuances about visiting caverns .

Fun fact: The caverns are named after Lewis and Clark but were not discovered by them . The expedition camped nearby in the area. The caverns were discovered and explored almost 100 years later.

Sightseeing on the way from Yellowstone to Seattle, via Grand Teton

1. shoshone falls, twin falls, idaho.

Our first stop after Grand Teton National Park was at Shoshone Falls . Called “The Niagara of the West”, it is truly beautiful!

Although the picture you see below was taken in mid-September, fall time is when you might find minimal water flow or… an absolutely dry waterfall. At this time of the year, most of the water flow is used to recharge the reservoir system upstream.

There are several observation platforms where you can enjoy the waterfalls and the canyon with now crowds (during our visit):

Lots of picnic tables, plenty of space for kids to roam around, and restrooms located right near the parking lot. We had a nice picnic lunch at the stream in the upper corner of the grassy area. The heat was unbearable – kids were so happy to cool off a bit

2. Dierkes Lake, Twin Falls – a nice place to swim for entire family

Dierkes Lake, in the picture below, is a few minutes away from Shoshone Falls and has a beach, springboard, and some shade. It’s a great place for a picnic as well, where you can actually take a dip:

3. From Seattle to Yellowstone. Boise, Idaho

Boise is the capital of Idaho and the largest city in the state, with a population of over 200k. One of the most interesting facts about Boise – ethnic Basque community , the most concentrated outside of Spain 😉.

We liked Boise a lot! I wrote about how to explore the Basque community and other fun places in Boise .

4. Warehouse Beach Recreation Area (Lake Wallula), Washington

There is not much to see once you leave Boise and reach the Cascades Range. We found Lake Wallula to be a good pit-stop: long, wide beach for kids to run and play, swimming, picnic tables for a quick lunch, and restrooms.

Time to spend: a brief visit.

5. Yakima Arboretum, Washington

The Yakima Arboretum is 46 acres of green space: gardens, tree collections, lots of space to relax, walk, and enjoy nature. Nice stop right at the freeway. The arboretum is open from dawn until dusk 7 days a week. Admission is free.

Time to spend: from a brief visit to a couple of hours.

6. Lake Easton State Park

Once you reach the Cascade Range, there are tons of places for a quick stop, but Lake Easton remains our favorite.

The scenery is beautiful, amenities are clean and we’ve never seen crowds here, (pretty unusual for Washington state parks during peak season).

Everything is close and at the very edge of the water: beach, picnic tables, playground, restrooms. The nearest trail leads up the hill to a campground overlooking the lake and the playground – what a gem for camping!

Please verify all the essential information for the destinations before you go.

Thanks for reading, friends! We are glad you stopped by!

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• Tags arboretum , Boise , caves , en , gardens , lake , petrified forest , road trip , Spokane , waterfalls , wind farm , yellowstone

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How to: Yellowstone Road Trip from Seattle

• How to: Yellowstone Road Trip…

Erupting geysers, alpine lakes, glaciated peaks, sprawling landscapes, and amazing wildlife certainly made our roadway trip from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park extremely special. While the national park itself is an icon, the Pacific Northwest also boasts some of the most pristine outdoors in the country. That’s why we loved every bit of our Yellowstone road trip from Seattle, which spawned three states, Washington and Idaho, and finally came to a stop in Wyoming. We not only explored Yellowstone’s gorgeous icons like Old Faithful and Mammoth Springs but also amazing towns like Lake Coeur d’Alene, Missoula, and more along the way. Are you excited to make this trip? Here’s a detailed guide to where we visited and stayed and which sights and attractions we saw. Adventure, here we come!

Table of contents

Planning our trip, starting from seattle, stopping at spokane, stop for the night: coeur d’alene, mesmerizing missoula, reaching and exploring west yellowstone, next stop: north yellowstone, adios, yellowstone, tips for an unforgettable experience, what’s the best time of the year for a road trip from seattle to yellowstone, can you drive through yellowstone at any time, do you need to pay to drive through yellowstone.

We were already in Seattle when the idea of the Yellowstone trip struck us. So, while we explored the many amazing things to do in Seattle , we also planned the trip down to the T. This included everything from snacks and winter clothes to hiking gear and heated blankets . Even though we were traveling during the shoulder season of summer and fall, Yellowstone could get cold during early mornings and nights. Did we mention it’s also one of the best US winter vacation destinations? Yes!

The shortest, most direct, and most popular route from Seattle to Yellowstone is 740 mi (~1,200 km). Interestingly, the route from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park took us directly to West Yellowstone, the western entrance to the park. Not only is it the most popular entrance, but it’s also the closest entrance to Geyser Paradise in the park. While it takes around 12 hours to navigate, we took 2 days, making amazing stops along the way.

This is what our journey looked like:

• Drive from Seattle
• Make a stop at Spokane
• Spend the night in Coeur d’Alene
• Make a stop in Missoula
• Spend two nights in West Yellowstone
• Spend two nights in North Yellowstone
• Drive to Bozeman
• Fly back home

Exploring Seattle took us three days, as it is home to amazing sights like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and a gorgeous waterfront. And, of course, this is the birthplace of Starbucks, which we couldn’t get enough of. Since this was our first visit, we couldn’t explore every bit of Emerald City. So, we’re certain we’re going to land up here again. Pro tip: It was very rainy when we visited, as it rains here for more than half of the year. So, don’t forget to pack rain jackets and travel umbrellas .

Staying at the Thompson Seattle was everything we imagined our stay in the city would be like. We were right next to Pike Place Market and the waterfront, and the rooftop boasted spectacular views of the city and the water. Don’t miss The Nest , its amazing rooftop bar and lounge. It also offers a unique igloo dining experience on the rooftop, which is very romantic. The Thomspon was also one of the best Seattle Downtown boutique hotels , so what more could we want?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thompson Seattle (@thompsonseattle)

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That said, there are many other staying options, such as Seattle, WA’s best cheap hotels for travelers on a budget and even 420-friendly Seattle hotels for those who want to explore the city’s famed recreational marijuana scene.

Since our overnight stop at Coeur d’Alene was just five hours from the city, we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast before checking out around 11 am. After loading our bags in our rented car, we set out eastward from the city toward the Washington-Idaho border, where we’d make our first stop at Spokane.

It took us just 4.5 hours to reach Spokane via the I-90, with Coeur d’Alene sitting right across the border via Spokane Bridge. After a long drive, we were thrilled to lay our eyes on the scenic views of downtown Spokane, especially the 100-acre-huge Riverfront Park. We had many options for lively restaurants around, especially since they all had outdoor or patio seating and served delicious food and drinks. Later on, we headed to Spokane Falls and even enjoyed the 15-minute  Numerica SkyRide  right over the waterfalls. As darkness fell, we headed to Coeur d’Alene.

The northwestern Idaho city of Coeur d’Alene, just 40 minutes from Spokane, was our stop for the night. Since we arrived quite late, we headed straight to our hotel, the highly recommended Coeur d’Alene Resort on the banks of the Harrison Slough. Even though it lay off the I-90, it wasn’t far from it. Plus, it sat right next to Tubbs Hill, where we were going hiking the next morning, so it couldn’t be more perfect for us. The coolest bit was that the resort is home to the world’s longest floating boardwalk! It ran from one end of the resort to another, so we could walk it in 20 minutes. In fact, it was the first activity we did right after checking in!

Since we’d had a long day, we headed straight to the infinity pool at the golf course and enjoyed a relaxing swim, followed by a trip to the spa. After a hearty dinner at the lakeside restaurant, we retired to our Lake Tower room, which not only had a balcony with lake views but even a fireplace. At the end of the day, unwinding with a glass of wine cozied up in front of the fireplace was picture-perfect.

Staying alternative

If you’re looking for a more budget alternative, we highly recommend the La Quinta by Wyndham Coeur d`Alene . Since it’s a Wyndham chain property, it’s not only excellent value for money but also boasts many amenities. For those looking for a smaller, more personal experience, the Roosevelt Inn on the lakeshore is ideal. It even has rooms with views of the lake.

Since we were still 7 hours away from West Yellowstone, we decided to make a full day of it by starting off early at 8 am and exploring the ultra-outdoorsy college town of Missoula. The lovely town lies less than 3 hours away in Montana, just beyond the Lolo National Forest. It sits at the confluence of four rivers: the Rock Creek, the Clark Fork, the Bitterroot, and the Big Blackfoot Rivers. Plus, it’s surrounded by as many as seven wilderness areas. So, we certainly had a hard time deciding how to spend a few hours here!

We started our adventures with a quick 20-minute hike to the “M” point along the gorgeous Mount Sentinel trail, which offered amazing views. In fact, the summit is another hour away and offers all the more spectacularly sweeping views of the region. Later, we even enjoyed a tubing adventure on the Clark Fork River right through the town center before grabbing a late lunch.

Some of the other things to do and places to see in Missoula include the Missoula Art Museum, the Historic Downtown, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and the verdant Caras Park.

From Missoula, West Yellowstone is just over a four-hour drive, and the entrance to the park is barely 15 minutes from the town. Since the geysers are closest to the western entrance and we wanted an immersive experience, we stayed at the Old Faithful Inn , a Yellowstone icon and a National Historic Landmark. In fact, this 1903-4-built structure is also the largest log structure in the world. However, its USP is its unbeatable location – it was a mere five-minute walk to Old Faithful Geyser! Since we reached the inn after the day visitors had left, we walked along the Observation Point trail to the geyser, soaking in the views in absolute peace and serenity.

The inn might not be the swankiest of digs, but it’s spacious, clean, and has sweeping views of the geyser. Our Junior Suite, for instance, had phenomenal geyser views and was more lavish than the other rooms. The next day morning, we were treated to all the more spectacular views of the geyser before the crowds arrived. After that, we dug into a hearty breakfast and explored the Kepler Cascades and the Morning Glory Pool, which were just 3 mi (4.8 km) from the inn. That’s why it was the best place to stay and experience the western region of Yellowstone.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yellowstone Lodges (@ynplodges)

Another epic thing to do is visit Grand Prismatic Spring, a hot spring surrounded by a nice boardwalk that took us past the vibrant hues. Since we wanted a bird’s eye view of the hot springs, we even hiked up the 1.5-mi-long (2.4 km) Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail.

If you want to stay outside the park, then we cannot recommend the 1872 Inn enough. One of the best hotels near the Yellowstone West Entrance , this upscale, boutique, and adults-only hotel even has a sauna, a fitness center, and amazing continental breakfasts. What’s more, all rooms boast huge bathrooms and even fireplaces. It’s the perfect combination of modern luxury and old-world charm.

Pro tip: Consider entering the park very early in the morning to avoid hoards of tourists since West Yellowstone is an extremely popular, accessible, and year-round entrance.

After spending two nights in West Yellowstone, we decided to explore the national park from another angle. So, we headed to the next closest entrance, North Yellowstone, which lies 53 mi (85.2 km) away along US 191 South.

We added North Yellowstone to our road trip itinerary for many reasons. For one, the entrance is open throughout the year, making it perfect for us to visit at any time. Secondly, the town closest to the north entrance, Gardiner, lies just 10 minutes from the park and the famed Mammoth Hot Springs. Moreover, it’s also where the Boiling River lies, which is one of the park’s only two sanctioned swimming areas. Last but not least, the region is famed for incredible wildlife in the expansive Lamar Valley, which lies 33 mi (53 km) from Mammoth Hot Springs along the northernmost Grand Loop Road. It’s very easy for time to pass quickly here, as you’ll see when you visit!

So, where did we spend the night here? That would be the Yellowstone Hot Springs Resort on the Yellowstone River, just 10 minutes north of Gardiner. We chose it for its amazing location on the river between two magnificent mountain ranges. But the highlight here was the presence of the mineral-rich pools, where we got to relax and rejuvenate. That, along with free Wi-Fi everywhere, gardens, and modern units, some even with kitchens, make it one of the best hotels near the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yellowstone Hot Springs (@yellowstonehotsprings)

Spending more than five days in Yellowstone left us thirsty for more adventure, but all good things do come to an end. Luckily, Bozeman International Airport in Montana lay just 1.5 hours north of Gardiner, so we packed up and checked out after a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute photo ops.

The seven-day adventure that brought us from Seattle to Yellowstone might have been over for all intents and purposes, but in our minds, the replaying of memories over and over had just begun. Seeing the world’s first national park and one of the most amazing national parks on earth is a journey, and we made sure that our journey was as interesting as the destination itself.

While visiting Yellowstone is absolutely thrilling, there are a few important tips you need to keep in mind. Here they are:

• Even in summer, Yellowstone’s temperatures could hover near freezing. Plus, Seattle is rainy for most of the year, so dress in layers and pack for multiple seasons.
• There are limited food options on the road besides the main towns. So, pack a lot of road trip-worthy food with you and choose things that don’t need to be kept cold.
• Getting up and about early is a great way to beat the heat, the crowds, and the traffic.
• Allow for stops along the way to stretch your legs and to see many scenic viewpoints.

The shoulder seasons of fall (September-October) and spring (late April-May) are an excellent time to do this road trip. Not only is the weather a bit cooler, but the crowds are also less, and you don’t need to worry about weather-related road closures. 

While the North entrance is accessible throughout the year, the West Entrance usually opens in mid-April, and the other three entrances don’t open until mid-May.

Yes, there’s an entrance fee to access Yellowstone National Park, but vehicle reservations aren’t required. All visitors must have one of the three passes: the Standard, the Annual, or the “America the Beautiful” passes. Check out the details here .

Author:  Peter S

A travel blogger and the founder of WOW Travel, Peter is a crazy dreamer with an insatiable desire for adventure who could never settle for an ordinary life or conform with the norm. After visiting more than 50 countries, he aims to travel with a purpose and inspire people to do the same.

Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip | 20 Awesome Road Trip Tips

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Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, the Seattle to Yellowstone National Park road trip covers 1,945 miles. You’ll pass through many different states and one province on your way to Yellowstone.

So there’s plenty of opportunity for exploration along the way. How far is Seattle from Yellowstone? Well, it’s a 633-mile drive. But this article is about the distance you travel when you go on a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone.

When road tripping, there are many types of miles that you need to be aware of. There’s the distance in miles between gas stops, the distance to review sites on your way, and the distance to your final destination.

The overall distance you drive plays an important role in how much time it will take to get somewhere as well as how much gas you’ll use up. Did you know that using our website to buy your next car can save you hundreds of dollars? 

Seattle To Yellowstone Road Trip

If you’re looking for an epic road trip, we’ve got you covered. Seattle to Yellowstone is a 5,500-mile journey that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in America.

We’ve mapped out all the best stops along the way, from San Francisco to Salt Lake City , Denver, and beyond. We’ve also included some great alternatives if your time is limited.

Seattle to San Francisco

The famous Pacific Coast Highway is lined with beaches , vineyards, and hiking trails. Take your time exploring this stretch of coastline.

But don’t miss Muir Woods National Monument or Point Reyes National Seashore. Both are incredibly scenic and worth a stop on your drive north or south.

San Francisco to Los Angeles

The drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles takes about five hours, but if you want to stop along the way at Hearst Castle or Santa Monica Pier, add another hour or so onto your journey (especially if driving in rush-hour traffic).

The Pacific Coast Highway is packed with stunning views of the ocean and mountains, but if you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking surface streets through West Hollywood instead of staying on Highway 1 for part of the way.

If you love nature and want to take a break from city life, then head east from San Francisco and explore the Redwood Forest. You can also visit Napa Valley for some wine tasting!

Best Time To Road Trip To Yellowstone From Seattle

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone? Seattle to yellowstone road trip. The answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

If you love hiking and exploring, your best bet is June through September, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

This time period also has more daylight hours, which makes it possible to go on longer hikes and visit nearby natural sights like Old Faithful Geyser.

Winter may be beautiful, but it can get pretty cold with snowstorms that last several days at a time, so this season isn’t ideal for those who don’t want to be out in subzero temperatures.

If you’d rather take advantage of the park’s iconic wildlife, summer might be better suited for your trip.

There will still be plenty of daylight hours available throughout your stay, and the temperatures tend not to dip below freezing until later in the fall (which means fewer chances of encountering frozen bodies!).

Read more articles: Snakes of Spain

Best Month To Travel To Yellowstone From Seattle

September is a great month to visit Yellowstone. The weather is mild, but there’s still plenty of daylight to explore the park.

October brings some of the best fall colors in Montana and Wyoming, so it’s a wonderful time to visit Yellowstone. You can still enjoy hiking and horseback riding with fewer crowds than usual at this time of year.

The winter months (December through March) are ideal for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at many of Yellowstone’s locations.

The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There are no entrance fees for Yellowstone National Park , but some facilities do have fees.

All the entrances have parking areas and ranger stations where you can get information on activities and services in the area. Yellowstone National Park contains the world’s oldest and most geologically diverse landscape.

It was established as the first national park in 1872 by President Ulysses S. Grant, who was inspired by his visit to Yosemite Valley, California.

The park is located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. It spans almost 3,400 square miles and contains over 2 million acres of land.

Map of Seattle

Seattle is a seaport city and the seat of King County, Washington. As of July 1, 2017, there were about 704,352 people living in Seattle.

Making it the largest city in North America’s Pacific Northwest and one of the fastest-growing big cities in the United States.

The city is situated on an isthmus between Puget Sound (an arm of the Pacific Ocean) and Lake Washington, about 100 miles (160 km) south of the Canada–United States border.

A major gateway for trade with Asia, Seattle is home to many large corporations such as Amazon and technology companies like Microsoft and Boeing.

Read more articles: Snakes in Spain

Map of Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous and most visited national parks in the United States. Yellowstone National Park is located in Wyoming, USA, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, bison, moose, and elk.

The total area of Yellowstone National Park is 9,567 square miles, which makes it larger than the state of Delaware!

Yellowstone National Park was created on March 1st, 1872, as the world’s first national park by President Ulysses S. Grant (who also gave us Memorial Day).

The park was created to protect wild animals from being hunted by people or killed for their fur. in order to protect these animals from humans both inside and outside of the park.

Many laws were created, including hunting bans and building restrictions within certain areas around Old Faithful geyser, so that visitors could safely view its eruption without disrupting other wildlife nearby.

Seattle To Yellowstone Road Trip Distance

If you’re planning a road trip from Seattle to Yellowstone, the distance is 4,370 miles. This distance is calculated as an approximation of driving time based on the average speeds and distances traveled by road during different times of the day.

weekdays and weekends in summer, spring, and winter. The actual driving time may be longer depending on weather conditions such as snow or rain.

The total distance between Seattle and Yellowstone is 4,370 miles. The best way to travel from Seattle to Yellowstone is by car.

You can take a direct flight from Seattle to Yellowstone, which takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes. The cheapest one-way plane ticket is $121.

You can take a bus from Seattle to Yellowstone, which takes about 12 hours and 50 minutes. The cheapest one-way bus ticket is $38.

You can take a train from Seattle to Yellowstone, which takes about 4 days and 9 hours. The cheapest one-way train ticket is $365.

The best way to travel from Seattle to Yellowstone is by car. You can take a direct flight from Seattle to Yellowstone, which takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes. The cheapest one-way plane ticket is $121.

You can take a bus from Seattle to Yellowstone, which takes about 12 hours and 50 minutes. The cheapest one-way bus ticket is $38. You can take a train from Seattle to Yellowstone, which takes about 4 days and 9 hours.

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Seattle To Yellowstone Road Trip Most Stop Areas

Glacier National Park: Pack light and bring comfortable shoes. Depending on how long you’re staying, you may want to consider bringing hiking boots or tennis shoes for walking around.

This is a great place to go light and pack only what you need. You can always buy souvenirs on the way home! This is a great place to go light and pack only what you need. You can always buy souvenirs on the way home!

Lake Easton National Park

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Mount Rainier National Park: Pack only what you need because bags cannot be checked!As a rule of thumb, if it’s not essential to the trip and it weighs more than 5 lbs.

Leave it at home or consider renting a locker for the day so that you don’t have to lug it all around with you on the bus or plane ride there and back again (and then maybe again from your hotel room). You’ll be glad that you did!

Read more articles: How to Backpack with Eggs?

1. Lake easton national park Easton WA

Lake Easton National Park is a reservoir in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Kittitas County, Washington, United States. The lake is a popular recreation destination for boating, swimming, and fishing.

The lake is the largest reservoir in Kittitas County and is fed by four creeks: Cle Elum, Taneum, Snoqualmie, and Chiwaukum Creeks. It is situated just to the north of Cle Elum.

The lake is also one of the most visited places in the National Forest. Every year, thousands of people come to see it.

It is a popular camping spot for people who want to enjoy the outdoors, but it can also be a great place to take your family on a summer vacation. The lake is a popular destination for boating, swimming, and fishing.

It also has two marinas that offer boat rentals and other services. The lake is home to many species of fish, including smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, and rainbow trout.

The lake also has two campgrounds for people who want to enjoy the outdoors. They both have full hookups and offer camping sites for RVs, tents, and trailers.

They also provide showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities to ensure campers’ comfort during their stay.

The National Forest offers many other activities besides camping, including hiking trails that take you through lush forests filled with wildlife;

Fishing spots where you can catch salmon and steelhead trout; swimming holes where kids can cool off in the summer heat; picnic areas that provide tables and grills.

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2. Spokane WA

Spokane is a city of about 200,000 people in eastern Washington. It’s the largest city east of the Cascades and sits on the Spokane River.

It’s also home to Gonzaga University, which is a Division I school with a basketball program that has won more NCAA tournaments than any other school.

The Spokane Indians are the local minor league baseball team, which you should go see if you’re into baseball (and even if you aren’t).

They play at Avista Stadium, which has hosted three major league games over its history, including one between the Cleveland Indians and Seattle Mariners in 2007.

The Spokane River is one of the largest rivers in Washington, and it flows through the city.

The river is used for all kinds of recreation, including kayaking, fishing, and swimming (which you should only do at certain times of year).

If you’re looking for a fun day out with friends or family, go to Riverfront Park, where you can see the falls and participate in one of their many events.

The falls are part of the Spokane River and are surrounded by Riverfront Park. They’re located just north of downtown Spokane, which means it’s easy to get there using public transportation.

You can take a bus or train to get there, and once you arrive at your destination, you can walk or bike around the park.

3. Coeur d’Alene Idaho

I’d recommend stopping in Coeur d’Alene. It’s an artsy mountain city with a lot to do and see. You can get some great food, explore the lakefront area, or even take a scenic drive up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort for some skiing.

Coeur d’Alene is also known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife, including bald eagles!

If you’re traveling through in the spring or summer months, be sure to check out the farmers’ market. It’s a great way to get some fresh produce and see what’s available locally.

Coeur d’Alene is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s not as busy or touristy as some other cities, so it’s nice if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

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4. Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier is a popular tourist destination in Washington State. It is the highest point in the Cascade Range and one of the most famous natural landmarks in Puget Sound.

The mountain, which is dormant, has an elevation of 14,410 feet above sea level and is located within Mount Rainier National Park. The tallest glaciers found on this mountain are Ingraham Glacier and Emmons Glacier, at 12 miles long each.

Mount Rainier is one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world. It has had over 50 eruptions since 1894, and its last eruption was in 1840.

It’s estimated that there will be another eruption within our lifetime, but no one knows when exactly that will happen.

The mountain has an average elevation of 6,400 feet above sea level. Its summit is covered in snow year-round and is the source of rivers and streams that feed into Puget Sound.

5. Missoula Montana

Missoula, Montana, is a great place to visit for the weekend. The city has an active downtown area with tons of restaurants, galleries, and shops.

During the summer months, you can take advantage of all that nature has to offer in this stunning mountain town . There are several national parks nearby, including Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake.

There are a few things I love about Missoula:

• It’s close enough to Seattle that it’s just over 4 hours away by car (or 4 days on Amtrak).
• There is plenty to do in town, but if you want some peace and quiet, there are many hiking trails surrounding it.
• If you’re looking for adventure, take Highway 93 to West Yellowstone, where you can participate in activities such as whitewater rafting or visiting Old Faithful (the geyser), Yellowstone National Park.

is one of my favorite places to visit. It’s only about a 2-hour drive away from Missoula and well worth it. There are tons of hiking trails in the park and many different wildlife species. You can even take part in some whitewater rafting down the Yellowstone River!

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6. Berkeley Pit Montana

The Berkeley Pit is a former open-pit copper mine in Butte, Montana, United States. It’s located about a mile east of the city center.

The pit was mined for 27 years between 1955 and 1982 by the Anaconda Copper Mining Company (ACM), now part of BHP Billiton. During that time, more than $2 billion worth of copper ore was extracted from it.

In 1992, after ACM ceased operations at the site and left behind 672 acres of toxic water covering 880 acres (3 km2), they also abandoned hundreds more acres of land around it.

as well as numerous buildings that contained contaminants such as arsenic trioxide dust particles that caused chronic lung disease among nearby residents to worsen over time due to inhalation exposure.

Even though I am no longer working at this location. This includes children who still attend school nearby, such as Butte High School.

Which shares its grounds with an elementary school, and where students live within walking distance from these two schools together instead, forming one large campus!

The Berkeley Pit was formed in 1955 when Anaconda Copper Mining Company (ACM) began mining operations at Butte.

At its peak, the mine had an output of more than 200 million pounds (91 million kilograms) of copper per year.

The pit closed in 1982 after 27 years of operation, leaving behind a 672-acre (2.7 km2) body of water filled with nearly 880 acres (3 km2) of water and about 1.5 billion tons of rock waste.

7. Bozeman Montana

In the corridor between Bozeman and Livingston, Montana, there are a few destinations worth stopping by. First off is Bozeman itself, which is actually home to another regional airport (Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport).

It’s also home to the Museum of the Rockies and Montana State University!

Next up is Livingston. The town was originally named for its founder, John A. McDonald, who had previously founded Fort Macleod in Alberta, Canada (the name was changed after some confusion with Colorado City).

You can learn more about this historic town at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West or enjoy a scenic drive through Paradise Valley, which offers some breathtaking views along its winding roads.

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8. Museum of the Rockies

The Museum of the Rockies is a natural history museum in Bozeman, Montana. It was founded in 1972 and currently has five permanent exhibits:

“Dinosaurs,”  “Geology & Paleontology,”  “Planet Earth: A Natural History of the Yellowstone Plateau,”  “The North American Plains,” and “The Great Divide.”

The museum is part of the University of Montana, and it’s located on campus. This makes it super convenient to visit while you’re visiting the university or just passing through town!

The museum was founded in 1972 by Professor John R. Horner and Dr. William J. Schevill, who wanted to create a place where people could come and learn about the natural history of Montana.

The museum has since grown into one of the largest natural history museums in the United States, with over 140,000 visitors each year!

9. Cody Wyoming

After spending some time in Jackson, it’s time to head out on the road and make your way towards Cody. First stop, Yellowstone National Park!

Cody is a charming little town near the entrance to Yellowstone National Park.It’s a great place to spend the night, or maybe even overnight if you have time.

There are lots of cabins and hotels in Cody that can accommodate all types of travelers. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants here with great food options if you want something other than fast food while on your road trip.

Cody is also known as “The Last Frontier” because it still has its Wild West vibe but with more modern amenities like shopping malls and movie theaters!

One thing that hasn’t changed about Cody, though, is its wildlife—you’ll still see buffalo roaming around freely throughout town (and there are plenty more inside Yellowstone).

10. Grand Teton National Park Wyoming

Located in northwestern Wyoming, the park is south of Yellowstone National Park.The park includes two of the most prominent mountain peaks in North America:

Grand Teton and Mount Moran. The valley west of the mountains contains a number of lakes, including Jackson Lake, as well as streams that flow into these lakes.

The park is named for the Grand Teton, a mountain whose peak rises to 13,770 feet above sea level. The name “Teton” comes from the Sioux Indian word meaning “mountain.”

The park is known for its scenery and wildlife. It contains many types of plants and animals, including grizzly bears, moose, elk, and bighorn sheep.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a national park in the United States. It is mostly in the state of Wyoming, but it also goes into the states of Montana and Idaho.

It was established by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Grant on March 1, 1872.

Yellowstone (pronounced /jazn/; locally pronounced YELL-mer-neck) covers nearly 9,600 square miles (25,890 km2).

It is the oldest national park in the U.S., and its origins can be traced back to President Ulysses S. Grant’s 1872 Yellowstone National Park Protection Act, which was signed by Congress and enacted into law.

11. Jackson Wyoming

Jackson is a popular destination for skiers, hikers, and golfers. The city has a population of around 10,000 and is located at the foot of the Teton Mountains.

A popular activity in Jackson is yoga; it’s considered to be the “Yoga Capital of the World” because of its abundance of yoga studios and classes.

If you’re going to take advantage of all these activities, it may be worthwhile to stay at least one night in Jackson before heading out on your road trip!

Jackson is also a great place to find some good food. The town is home to several restaurants and cafes, along with a variety of fast food chains like McDonald’s and Pizza Hut.

One popular restaurant in Jackson is the Snake River Brewery, which has won multiple awards for its beers and burgers.

12. Caribou-Targhee National Forest

The Caribou-Targhee National Forest is located in Idaho and Wyoming. It’s the largest national forest in Idaho as well as the second largest national forest in the continental United States (it was formerly known as a “forest reserve”).

The area encompasses over 2 million acres and includes several peaks higher than 10,000 feet. The tallest mountain is Mt. Eccles, with an elevation of 11,100 feet above sea level!

The forest is home to the Targhee Ski Resort, which offers downhill skiing and snowboarding during the winter.

The resort also has a terrain park for snowboarders as well as cross-country ski trails for skiers and snowshoers.

13. Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls is the county seat of Bonneville County, Idaho, in the United States.With an estimated 93,859 residents in 2017, it is the most populous city in the Idaho Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The city was founded in 1901 along the Snake River. It is the principal city of the Idaho Falls, Idaho Micropolitan Statistical Area. According to the 2010 census, Idaho Falls had a population of 90,387.

In the past few years, the city has grown quickly because it is close to both Yellowstone National Park and Teton County.

The city is home to Idaho Falls Regional Airport, the largest airport in eastern Idaho, as well as the College of Eastern Idaho. The Snake River flows through downtown and has been used for irrigation since the late 19th century.

14. Craters of the Moon

The Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is located in Idaho and was established as a national monument by Congress in 1924.

It became a national preserve in 1972. The park has many volcanic features, including lava fields and craters, as well as cinder cones and shield volcanoes.

The park also offers several hiking trails through these natural volcanic formations. Some of the most popular hikes include:

• Lava River Cave Tour (1 hour): a guided tour through an underground lava tube that is cool year-round.
• Uncle Jim Trail (4 miles roundtrip): This trail leads visitors to Drury Point, where visitors can see views of nearby peaks.

If you’re looking for a change of pace after the hustle and bustle of Chicago, you’ll find Boise to be the perfect place to relax. Located in the Treasure Valley, this city is home to Boise State University.

It’s also Idaho’s largest city outside California and Texas, and it’s one of the largest metropolitan areas in the state.

When you’re ready for some outdoor fun (and maybe even a little bit of adventure), head out on our road trip itinerary from Seattle to Yellowstone !

It’s about a six-hour drive from Seattle to Boise, and the route takes you through the Cascade Mountains. If you’re lucky enough to make it in the fall, there are plenty of changing leaves to enjoy along the way!

From there, head west on Highway 93 toward Jackson Hole, Wyoming (about three hours away).

16. Morley Nelson Snake River National Conservation Area

Morley Nelson Snake River National Conservation Area is a national conservation area in the U.S. state of Idaho, managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.

It is located in the southeast corner of the state, along the Snake River and its tributaries. The preserve covers approximately 1,075 square miles (2,772 km).

Morley Nelson Snake River National Conservation Area is a unit of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and a National Landscape Conservation System. It is located in south central Idaho, about 15 miles north of Grand View, Idaho.

The Snake River forms the western boundary of the conservation area and the Teton Wilderness and Caribou-Targhee National Forest to the east.

The Morley Nelson Snake River NCA is named after Idaho rancher, conservationist, and philanthropist Morley Nelson (1904-1982). His family has operated a ranch in the area since 1903.

In 1955 Nelson donated his ranch to the BLM to establish a national conservation area to protect habitat for bighorn sheep, mule deer, moose and other wildlife species.

17. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

After traveling through the North Cascades Scenic Byway, you head into the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This part of Washington State has some of the most beautiful camping spots in the state, and outdoor lovers go there all year long.

The forest is more than 1,200 miles long and has a number of campsites at different heights to meet everyone’s needs. There are also a lot of lakes in the forest, which are great places to swim, fish, kayak, and do other things.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, try camping at the Cougar Rock Campground in Leavenworth. This campground sits along the Icicle River and is open year-round. It features 45 sites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

You can travel from Seattle to Yakima in a day. The best time to travel between these cities is from April through October, when temperatures are milder and the roads are dry.

The distance between Seattle and Yakima is about 466 miles (750 km). The map below shows where Yakima is located in relation to Seattle.

The best way to get from Seattle to Yakima is by car. There are no direct flights between these cities, so you will have to connect through an airport hub like Portland or Seattle.

You can also take Amtrak, which has stops along the north-south line in both Seattle and Yakima.

19. Walla Walla

Walla Walla Walla is the capital of Washington state, and it’s known for its wine industry. It has a population of around 60,000 and is known as the “festival city.”

The best part about this city? It has great hotels for your road trip needs! The best part of the city is the waterfront.

It’s a great place to go for a walk and enjoy the views. You can also check out some of the festivals that take place here, like the Festa Italiana and the Waterfront Jazz Festival!

If you’re looking for a place to stay, we recommend the Edgewater Waterfront Hotel. It has great views of the water and is close to some great restaurants in town.

If you’re looking for an adventure, we have some great tips and tricks. If you’re in a hurry to get started on your road trip.

Check out our guide on how to pack for a road trip. Also, don’t forget to make sure your car is equipped with all the necessary items, like food and water!

One of our favorite road trips from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park has to be along Interstate 90. This will take you through a myriad of different terrains and climates.

The 656-mile (1,048-km) drive will have you travel over remote stretches of wilderness, through open farmlands, towering snow-capped mountains, and thick forests.

Plus, there is at least one ghost town along the way—the abandoned mining town of Lava Hot Springs.

So after taking a day to explore that, you can head into Grand Teton National Park, which features grizzly bears and free-roaming bison. Plus, with these birds in the air above you, it’s going to be an adventure no matter what.

Read more articles: Backpacking with Eggs

Where should I stop between Seattle and Yellowstone?

One of the most interesting pit breaks on your drive from Seattle to Yellowstone is Berkeley Pit.

How long does it take to drive from Seattle to Yellowstone?

21 min  (17.9 mi) via WA-520 E, 941 miles or 1,514 kilometers are required to go from Seattle, Washington to Yellowstone National Park by car.

What is there to see between Seattle and Yellowstone?

The road journey from Seattle to Yellowstone is the top excursion on everyone’s bucket list for a reason. Views of the mountains and the beautiful forest

How to get to Yellowstone from Seattle?

From Seattle to Yellowstone National Park, there are 6 methods to travel there via vehicle, shuttle, rail, or bus.

Other related articles

About the author

travelexplain

Hi, I am Joseph Benson. I love exploring new places and cultures, meeting people from all over the world, and learning about their history and customs. And because I am a traveler who is always on the go, never miss an adventure.

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Two Epic Routes for the Ultimate Seattle To Yellowstone Road Trip

Drive From Seattle to Yellowstone National Park & See the Best Sites Along the Way: Two Road Trip Options for Faster or Slower

 Living in Seattle and being from Montana (and having a blog all about Montana means I have done the route from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park numerous times. 

The good news is that any way you take to get to Yellowstone from Seattle is going to have gorgeous scenery. 

However, I consider there to be one route that is the quintessential Seattle to Yellowstone road trip, and another way that’s a bit more off the beaten path. 

I’m going to cover both options for how to get to Yellowstone from Seattle in this article, with tips on what to see along the way and where to stop. Plus, some insider tips for how to make it into an epic, unforgettable road trip.

Route 1: Seattle to Yellowstone Via Southern Idaho and Grand Teton National Park

This is my favorite way to get to Yellowstone National Park from Seattle because it combines some incredible Idaho scenery and another famous national park into your Yellowstone vacation.

For this route, you’ll head east from Seattle toward the Tri-Cities area of Washington. Once there, this is a good place to get lunch.

I recommend checking out a restaurant at one of the Red Mountain wineries, which are known for their world-class wine and farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy a meal and then purchase a bottle or two to bring with you to enjoy in your hotel that night. 

And where are you staying for the first night of this road trip? That would be Boise, Idaho!  

It takes about eight hours to drive from Seattle to Boise. If you time your drive to get into the Tri-Cities by 11, take an hour lunch and driving break, then you should be to Boise by 5pm. This gives you time to check into your hotel and walk around the cool downtown area of Boise. 

Another option if you have the time is to stay overnight in the Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland) to break up the long driving day. This will also give you time to better explore both the Tri-Cities and Boise before you continue on your road trip to Yellowstone.

Overnight in Boise On Your Way From Seattle to Yellowstone

My top pick for where to stay in Boise is the Grove Hotel.

This luxe hotel is located right in the city center and you can walk to many restaurants and all of the top downtown sights. Plus, it has a variety of room types. We really liked having the one-bedroom because it gave us more space with two adults and two kids to spread around. 

The room service option was also a nice perk when traveling with kids. In addition, there is a huge pool and hot tub with views overlooking the city. 

Before you leave Boise, definitely walk around the clean and dynamic downtown area.

On your walk, check out Freak Alley, a side street full of colorful murals.

I also like walking down the tree-lined N 8th street that crosses at the west end of Freak Alley. The street has an enjoyable ambiance of restaurants and cafés lined with outdoor tables. 

Along N 8th street is Dawson Taylor Coffee Roasters. This cafe has amazing lattes and cappuccinos. Get one to go to enjoy on the next leg of your drive. 

There’s also excellent hiking around Boise if you want to make your road trip a bit longer. Spending two nights in Boise will give you extra time to do some hikes or see some of the nature.

If you don’t have time to stay longer in Boise, don’t worry, I still have some nature attractions coming up for you on this road trip itinerary before you get to Yellowstone. Which brings us to…

Overnight in Twin Falls, Idaho: A Scenic Spot Between Seattle and Yellowstone

That’s because the next half of this road trip is in Twin Falls, Idaho. This is where you will see one of the most impressive canyons in the west. We even saw people base jumping from the edge of the canyon when we were there! 

Park at Twin Falls Visitor Center and walk along the trail lining the edge of the canyon. From there, you’ll have gorgeous views that are especially pretty at sunset. 

Where to Eat: Funny story side note, but when we were in Twin Falls we ate at the Olive Garden, because that sounded awesome to me because there are hardly any Olive Gardens around the Seattle metro area!

Another top thing to do in Twin Falls before you leave is to visit Shoshone Falls. This natural attraction is usually more impressive in the spring or early summer than in the fall (when the above picture was taken) after the hot summer has dried up a lot of the raging water, but it’s still lovely scenery any time of year. There are also some hiking trails around the area. 

Where to Stay in Twin Falls, ID

Twin Falls has an assortment of chain hotels. We stayed at the Fairfield Inn and Suites Twin Falls. It was comfortable and served the purpose of a quick stay. If you want to stay closer to the canyon, check out the Quality Inn and Suites, which is a 10-minute walk from the Visitor Center.

Or view all the hotels and vacation rentals in Twin Falls plus easily compare them thanks to this handy map (the building icon is where the Visitor Center is).

Two Epic National Parks: Visit Grand Teton On Your Way to Yellowstone From Seattle

After Twin Falls, you’re going to continue on to Wyoming. This is where you’re going to start some pretty impressive parts of your road trip because you’ll be visiting Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park.

While it’s possible to explore this region in a quick overnight stay since Grand Teton National Park isn’t that large, I recommend giving yourself at least two nights in Jackson to properly see the area in the park. 

If you have longer time available to dedicate even three or four nights, even better. You’ll have more time to do some of the hikes in the park. 

In downtown Jackson, take time to walk around Jackson Town Square park and marvel at its cool antler arches at each corner of the square.

Across from the north end of the square is one of my favorite places to eat in Jackson Hole: Jackson Drug. It’s an old drugstore turned into a cool little cafe with great comfort food menu items and delicious ice cream and milkshakes. 

Where to Stay in Jackson Hole: Bentwood Inn

We actually stayed overnight in Wilson, the neighboring town to Jackson, because it was a bit more affordable and we loved the look of the Bentwood Inn. The stay met — and surpassed — expectations, and I highly recommend staying at the Bentwood Inn when visiting Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park.

Want to stay right in Jackson? This handy map will help you find your perfect accommodation:

When you’e not checking out Jackson or relaxing at Bentwood Inn, you’ll be spending all your time on this leg of the trip amidst the jaw-dropping scenery of Grand Teton National Park.

For best things to do in Grand Teton National Park when short on time, check out our 1-Day in Grand Teton Itinerary .

Then the next day choose the inner or outer road of Grand Teton National Park to travel up to the south entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

And voila, you have made it to Yellowstone from Seattle!

Just remember the south entrance isn’t open year-round so if you visit in winter you’ll have to take a longer route to get to the winter entrance for Yellowstone, which typically is Gardiner, but that will likely change based on recent flooding events in 2022. 

Seattle to Yellowstone Option #2: The Faster (But Still Scenic!) Route via I-90

Now for my other recommended way to get from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park.

If you’re short on time, you’ll be glad to hear this way is much faster, but thanks to the beauty of the west, it is still a stunning drive with lots to do along the way. 

From Seattle, make your way west along I-90 to Coeur d’Alene. If you’re wanting to turn this into a road trip and not just get to Montana as fast as possible then I would definitely stay overnight here. 

Coeur d’Alene is right next to the large beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene. I’ve even stopped here on my way to Missoula (another good place to spend the night on your way to Yellowstone from Seattle) for a couple of hours.

I do so to let my kids run around Fort Sherman Playground, followed by splashing around at the beach right across from the south end of the park. Just make sure you bring an easy to access change of dry clothes!

If you’re spending the night in Coeur d’Alene, you’ll have even more time to explore. Other top things to do in this charming lakeside city include boating or kayaking on the lake, hiking along the city-adjacent Tubbs Hill Nature Trails, biking along North Idaho Centennial Trail, and seeing the historic and picturesque Fort Sherman Chapel. 

Where to Stay in Couer d’Alene:

• The Couer d’Alene Resort: Epic place to spend the night since it’s right by the lake and has a private beach area, an infinity pool, and lots of fun amenities including a spa and golf course.
• One Lakeside: Ideal for families since the units have multiple bedrooms and it’s in walking distance to Fort Sherman playground. Plus has lake views!

From Coeur d’Alene, continue onto Missoula via I-90. In Missoula, you can stop for lunch. 

If you have kids I suggest giving them a break from the car with a visit to Caras Park where you’ll find the very cool Dragon Hollow playground and the fun, fast “A Carousel for Missoula” attraction. 

Read More: Insider’s Guide for Missoula’s Carousel and Dragon Hollow Playground

Even though it’s not that far from Coeur d’Alene to Missoula, if you have road tripping time, I recommend staying overnight in Missoula also. 

Missoula is such a neat town with so much to do. The city is known for its breweries and riverside activities in a beautiful welcoming ambiance. It’s also a beloved college town that is one of the most liberal cities in the state. 

From Missoula, it’s three hours to Bozeman , another college town that is quickly becoming one of Montana’s most exciting destinations. 

Read More: Where to Stay in Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is an ideal place to stay overnight on your way to Yellowstone. It’s a good place just to rest for the night, get a yummy bite to eat along bustling Main Street, and relax (check out the Bozeman Hot Springs!) before you head to Yellowstone. 

Read More: Best Things to Do in Bozeman, MT

You technically can use Bozeman as your base for exploring Yellowstone, and lots of people do, but here at Travel Montana Now we recommend trying to stay in one of the entrance towns or even in the park if you can get reservations.

This is simply because it saves so much driving time. Staying right by the park or at one of the coveted lodges within the borders of Yellowstone also makes it easier to beat the crowds to some of the popular spots in the park in the morning.

This detailed article makes it easy for you to choose lodging. —> Where to Stay In & Around Yellowstone National Park

If you don’t want to hop around hotels, know that from Bozeman it’s about an hour’s drive to two of the entrances to Yellowstone National Park: Gardiner by the north entrance or West Yellowstone by the west entrance. 

Important 2022 Info for Yellowstone: Due to historic, unprecedented flooding along the northern end of Yellowstone National Park, the north entrance and northeast entrance will be closed until further notice (likely for all of 2022 and possibly beyond). The roads connecting Gardiner to Mammoth and Mammoth to the northeast entrance will also be closed while road destruction from the floods is repaired. 

Yellowstone Trip Planning Tips:

To help you plan out your Yellowstone trip so you have an epic time before heading back to Seattle (or onto your next destination), check out our top articles on Yellowstone:

• What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Best Things to See in Yellowstone National Park

• Ultimate Lodging Guide for Yellowstone National Park
• Guide for West Yellowstone, MT

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Hiking Tours Beyond Yellowstone's Boardwalks

Seattle to Yellowstone: The Ultimate Road Trip

I love Yellowstone National Park for many reasons. I love it for the bears and wolves, the bison and pronghorn, the elk and the mountain goats. I love it for Old Faithful, Norris Geyser Basin and Mount Washburn. I find myself yearning for another glimpse of Tower Falls, or gazing upon the beauty of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. I love Yellowstone for the adventure of getting their, for the beauty of the west and for the enchanting spell that the park and the road trip leaves on each and every person who goes. I love it so much, I wrote the best guidebook for those looking to explore the park from Seattle.

The guide Road Trip: Seattle to Yellowstone  helps you plan a perfect road trip to America’s First National Park. From highlighting ridiculously awesome spots along the drive to detailed information about everything Yellowstone, the guidebook is positively the prettiest resource you will use to plan your Yellowstone adventure. High-quality images, highlights from inside the park and the best trails, geysers, campgrounds and more help make  Road Trip: Seattle to Yellowstone  the perfect road trip accessory.

At just under 230 pages, this book is sure to be your go to guide to Yellowstone, while also making the drive along Interstate 90 come to live. Full of history and useful information, Road Trip: Seattle to Yellowstone will be flipped through over and over again. Available in both full color e-book formatting and in black and white paperback , purchasing this book will inspire you to take the drive to the National Park that started it all.

From the Author:

Buy this book! After having been to Yellowstone over 25 times,  I have put on the miles, stopped at nearly every gas station, rest stop and scenic area from Seattle, Washington to Gardiner, Montana. I have stayed in the campgrounds, eaten at the restaurants and experienced the lodges. I know Yellowstone, I know the drive and I want to share it with you. The information I give has no hidden agenda. I want to give you the best trip to Yellowstone from Seattle as possible and this guidebook can do that.

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Yellowstone and Grand Teton Road Trip from Seattle

If you’ve always wanted to take a road trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, but don’t have a surplus of vacation days, consider flying into a major airport hub that’s within a day’s drive like Seattle, WA. From there, rent a car or  campervan and let the adventure begin. You’ll still get all the fun and nostalgia of a road trip, but you won’t spend endless days driving across the country.

From Seattle to Gardiner, MT, the northern gateway to Yellowstone National Park, it’s a roughly 12-hour drive. You can definitely tackle it in one epic day of driving, but this is vacation after all, so plan to spend 2 – 3 days checking out some of the must-visit towns and cool attractions along the way. Read on for some recommendations on how to make the most of a Yellowstone and Grand Teton road trip from Seattle.

The Route: Seattle, WA to Gardiner, MT

Leaving from Seattle, take I-90E to Spokane, before passing briefly through Idaho en route to Missoula and Bozeman, MT. From there, take US-89S, which will take you into Yellowstone via Gardiner, MT and the Park’s North Entrance near Mammoth Hot Springs.  Total Drive Time: 11-12 hours

Stop 1: Explore Spokane’s Riverside Neighborhood

Head into the heart of downtown Spokane near the city’s scenic 100-acre Riverfront Park. Grab a table at one of the many lively restaurants in the area like Steelhead Bar & Grill . At this hip establishment, you’ll find casual dining with Northwest-inspired flavors, burgers and craft cocktails. Afterward, stroll through the park to check out Spokane Falls, the city’s landmark location, where you can take the 15-minute SkyRide over the falls. Settle in for the night at a nearby hotel in this bustling downtown district.

Stop 2: Take a mountain town pit stop

Surrounded by seven wilderness areas and situated at the confluence of three rivers, you’ll have a hard time deciding how to spend a day in the ultra-outdoorsy college town of Missoula. After being in the car for a few hours, a hike from the University of Montana campus to the town’s signature M is the perfect way to stretch your legs. It’s a ¾-mile scramble to the M, or you can continue on to the top of Mount Sentinel for a 3.5-mile round-trip hike with sweeping views of the area. Later, cool down on a Clark Fork River tubing adventure right through the center of town before heading over to Big Sky Brewing Company’s Taproom .

Stop 3: Visit T. Rex

For a fascinating diversion on your way into Yellowstone, check out the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman. Home to one of the largest dinosaur fossil collections in the world, including 13 different Tyrannosaurus rex specimens, this top-notch history museum also has a wide variety of other world-class exhibits.

From Bozeman, it’s a little over an hour to the northern gateway of Yellowstone National Park where your national park adventure awaits.

Not sure how to make the most of your time in the parks? Check out this recommended itinerary: The Best of Yellowstone and Grand Teton if You Only Have a Week .

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Photos: Downtown Spokane – Craig Goodwin/Visit Spokane; Big Sky Brewing – Chris Corbin; Museum of the Rockies/Facebook

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4 days in yellowstone itinerary – best things to see & do.

When you ask most people what national park is on their bucket list, they’ll likely say Yellowstone. At 3,472 square miles, the park is the size of Delaware and Rhode Island combined! That’s why you’ll want to take your time exploring it, and 4 days in Yellowstone is the perfect amount of time.

I visited the park last in 2018 during a cross-country road trip and still felt like I didn’t have enough time to see everything. As I said, the park is absolutely massive and it’s easy to spend longer than you intended at certain attractions. However, I took note of all the attractions I enjoyed to create this Yellowstone 4 day itinerary that others could copy to save all the time I took planning my trip there.

In this article, I’ll give you some tips to know before visiting the park as well as exactly where to stop and the best way to see Yellowstone in 4 days.

This post promotes travel to a national park that is the traditional lands of the Apsaalooké (Crow), Eastern Shoshone, and Cheyenne people. I make a formal land acknowledgment showing my respect and appreciation to the people of these lands. You can learn more about this on  Native Land .

Table of Contents

Tips to See Yellowstone in 4 Days

Read these tips first as well as things to know before visiting Yellowstone to help plan your vacation!

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone

One of the things I love about Yellowstone is you can visit it year-round! You will want to note any closures, especially during the winter, but you can find these on the NPS website .

Summer is the most popular time to visit the park, as the weather is beautiful and all parts of Yellowstone are open. This does mean traffic in and around the park and longer waits, so just keep that in mind when planning.

Spring and fall are beautiful times to visit as well, as the weather is a bit cooler but you won’t have to deal with the summer crowds.

To see Yellowstone in a different way than most photos show, you can visit during the winter and see it covered in snow. This will make for some beautiful pictures, but again make sure to check any road closures first.

How Many Days in Yellowstone National Park?

If you’re not sure how many days to spend in Yellowstone, four days is a safe choice. This gives you enough time to see all of the top attractions without feeling like you don’t have time to stop and stare at anything that looks interesting along the way. 

Although it’s possible to do Yellowstone in a day , you won’t be able to enjoy all of the amazing hidden gems and smaller viewpoints around the park. The below itinerary suggestion can be done as one full 4-day Yellowstone trip or broken up into shorter itineraries if you don’t have a full four days. 

Map of Yellowstone Itinerary for 4 Days

Prefer to see what stops you’ll be visiting during your four days in Yellowstone? Here’s a map of some of the main ones.

Yellowstone National Park Entrance Fees

Here are the different options for the required entrance fee at the park:

• Private vehicle  – $35 per vehicle (good for 7 days)
• Hiking/biking in  – $20 per person
• America the Beautiful pass  – $80 (good for a year and gets you into all national parks across the United States)

Where to Stay in Yellowstone

Keep in mind that Yellowstone is one of the biggest national parks , so you might prefer to stay at a few different hotels during your 4 days in Yellowstone. You can also call one place home base and come back to it every night so you don’t have to worry about packing your things each time. Just make sure to check which side of the park it’s on to ensure it makes sense with your plans.

Hotels in Yellowstone

There are a good amount of hotels in the area to choose from, but book these places way in advance if you go in popular months (like the summertime).

• Comfort Inn at Buffalo Bill Village Resort  – Cody is a great location to stay in just east of the park, and this hotel has a pool and fitness center available.  (rates start at $120 per night; book your room on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com )
• Stage Coach Inn   – This West Yellowstone hotel has a great location and bicycles for rent. ( rates start at $136 per night; book your room on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com )
• Alpine Motel of Cooke City  – This hotel is just north of the park and right on Main Street so you can walk to restaurants in the area. ( rates start at $146 per night; book your room on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com)

Vacation Rentals in Yellowstone

Here are a few Yellowstone vacation rentals to choose from if you prefer that.

• Bison Hideaway Condo – This one-bedroom condo is only 15 minutes from Yellowstone, making it a very convenient home base for your trip. (rates start at $128 per night)
• Cabin on the River – This two-bedroom cabin is north of Yellowstone and has a fireplace, beds with memory foam, and an outdoor gas grill. (rates start at $210 per night)
• One-Bedroom Cabin – This cute cabin is perfect for two people and has a hot tub plus free Wi-Fi available. (rates start at $175 per night)

The Complete 4 Day Yellowstone Itinerary

Here is a suggested 4 days in Yellowstone itinerary based on some of the best places to see.

Day 1 – Grand Prismatic Spring, Fairy Falls, Old Faithful

To do Yellowstone in 4 days properly, you need to start strong. If you’re doing a proper road trip to Yellowstone National Park , make sure your car has warm clothes, snacks, water, and emergency supplies, just in case. A tent is also essential if you want to camp (make sure to read my camping for beginners tips if you’re new to it). 

This first day plan includes all of the top attractions in the park. There will be some walking, and plenty of magnificent views wherever you look. 

Assuming you’ve arrived in the park the night before and gotten a great night’s sleep, head out early in the morning to your very first stop. Drive to the Fairy Falls Trail Parking Lot and leave your car as you embark on a walk to the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook and then to Fairy Falls. 

The hot spring attracts almost everyone who visits Yellowstone National Park, thanks to the mesmerizing bright colors around its rim. These colors come from the various heat-loving bacteria (or thermophiles) growing around the edge of the spring. 

Make sure you have your America the Beautiful Pass ! For only one price, you can visit all the national parks over and over throughout the year. I renew mine every year.

When you’ve enjoyed the views of the spring from overhead, you can continue along the trail until you reach Fairy Falls, a sparkling waterfall set in the Lodgepole pine forest. Here you can dip your toes in the water or dive right in if you’re feeling warm enough. 

The hike to Fairy Falls takes around 3 hours, but you’ll need to leave time to enjoy all the sights along the way. Take a picnic and plenty of water with you. This is a relatively easy walk to do, and it’s sure to get you – and whoever you’re with – in the mood for a day full of exploring. 

After a refreshing morning, you’ll want to head to The Old Faithful Geyser to continue your Yellowstone itinerary for 4 days. This is arguably the most famous geyser in the park, and it’s a must-see even if you only have a day here. 

It’s best to arrive early to get a good viewing spot of the erupting geyser. The area around Old Faithful is large, and you’ll find a visitors center, bathrooms, and even a gas station to fill up for the day. The geyser itself erupts every 90 minutes or so, which you won’t want to miss. 

Once you’re done staring at Old Faithful’s magnificence, take some time to enjoy the rest of the Upper Geyser Basin, home to OF. This space is incredibly popular, and you’re likely to meet plenty of other travelers along the way. 

You can walk about 30 minutes along the trails through the basin and find viewpoints like Castle Geyser, Tardy Geyser, Chromatic Pool, and Bottomless Pit. Stop when you reach Morning Glory Pool – around 1.5 miles from Old Faithful – for a first-hand look at the stunning natural beauty. Alternatively, you can walk the full 4.5 miles that make up the Upper Geyser Basin Loop.

The Old Faithful Inn is a great place to rest your weary legs after all the walking and exploring you’ve done on the first day of your Yellowstone National Park 4 day itinerary. You don’t have to stay at the inn, although it’s quite an attractive spot to sleep. 

This log building is one of the largest in the world, and it has a cozy old-time feel inside. The stone fireplace is amazing for cooler nights, and the 100-foot-high atrium is impressive to see. You’re also likely to be treated to entrancing live music in the lobby. 

There’s a coffee shop here too, and the restaurant offers a hearty meal for hungry travelers. Or enjoy the dining area at the Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria, where you can sit and look at the geyser from afar as the sun goes down. 

Day 2 – Lower Geyser Basin, Firehole Canyon Road

To plan a trip to Yellowstone, it’s a good idea to spread out the different types of sights and activities so that you’re not bored of geysers all on the same day. Luckily, there’s enough variety to keep everyone entertained for at least four days. 

This second day itinerary includes some relaxing activities, as well as educational and adventurous excursions. 

After breakfast, bundle into the car and begin your day traveling along Firehole Lake Drive in the Lower Geyser Basin thermal area to continue your Yellowstone National Park itinerary for 4 days. This is near Fountain Paint Pot, and it takes you past a number of smaller springs and geysers. There are also many parking spots where you can stop the car and take in the sights. 

Some of the viewpoints to look out for include:

• Firehole Spring
• Botryoidal Spring
• Pebble Geyser
• White Dome Geyser
• Pink Cone Geyser
• Bead Geyser
• Firehole Lake
• Black Warrior Lake

The road is 2 miles long, but you’ll want to carve out enough time to be able to stop and see whatever catches your eye. Pack in a few flasks of coffee and breathe in the fresh morning air as you watch the stunning geysers and admire the hot springs. 

Note : Firehole Lake Drive is closed during winter. If you’re traveling to Yellowstone in the colder months, you could do the Fountain Paint Pot walking trail instead. 

A 17-minute drive away from Firehole Lake Drive, you’ll find Firehole River. Although the best way to reach the river is to drive on Firehole Canyon Drive – a one-way road going in the direction you’re coming from. So you’ll need to drive up the main road a bit to turn off onto the scenic route. 

It’s worth it, though, which you’ll see when you reach the swimming hole on Firehole River. This is one of only two places in Yellowstone National Park that has the right temperature for swimming. So if you’ve packed your swimming clothes, be sure to bring them along for this stop. 

There are changing rooms on the road, where you can leave your car before descending the stairs to reach the small rocky beach. There’s space to sit and watch the swimmers and plenty of water to dip into. 

Another stop-off on Firehole Canyon Drive is Firehole Falls. This 40-foot waterfall sits in between 800-foot thick canyon walls made from lava flows. You won’t need very long here, but it’s definitely worth the stop before making your way to the next item on your 4-day Yellowstone itinerary.

Madison Amphitheater is less than 10 minutes away from Firehole River. This is the ideal spot to do some stargazing while you’re spending time at Yellowstone. The space offers a central area where many visitors can come and quietly view the Milky Way overhead. There are also organized events and stargazing walks that you can take part in for no extra cost. 

While here, you may just be lucky enough to spot a few of the park’s animals too. Just remember to pack in a flashlight so you can see where you’re walking in the dark. You’ll need very warm clothes because it can get colder than you’d think, and warm drinks and snacks are a good idea too. 

The theater is right next to the Madison Campgrounds, so if camping was on the agenda when you were planning a trip to Yellowstone, this works out perfectly. 

Day 3 – Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs

Two days of non-stop thrilling adventure may lead you to believe that you’ve seen all the best parts of Yellowstone. However, this Yellowstone National Park itinerary still has so much more to offer. 

The stops on today’s plan are a little further apart from each other, but luckily, there’s so much to see in between each destination. So don’t be in too much of a rush; if you see something fascinating, stop and take it in before continuing on your way. 

If you’ve spent the night at Madison Campgrounds, you have a 25-minute drive to your destination this morning – Norris Geyser Basin. Before you reach this spot, it is highly recommended that you make a pit stop at the Gibbon Falls viewing area. There’s also Blood Geyser to view on the way when looking for how to see Yellowstone in 4 days. 

When you reach Norris Geyser, there is plenty to keep you busy for an entire morning and possibly longer. A must-visit here is the Norris Geyser Basin Museum which showcases exhibits on geothermal geology. 

The basin also has a 2.9-mile-long loop trail. You can walk this trail and enjoy the sights of Porcelain Springs, Sunday Geyser, and Little Whirligig Geyser. The trail is also home to Steamboat Geyser, which will occasionally erupt and delight those fortunate enough to bear witness to it. 

Do the full loop, or plan according to the springs and geysers you want to see the most. This is another spot in Yellowstone where you’d be smart to bring along something to eat and drink. 

The next leg of the journey is a 40-minute drive from Norris Geyser Basin to Mammoth Springs. You can, again, stop at places like Frying Pan Spring, Bijah Spring, and Fort Yellowstone Cemetery to stretch your legs and make the distance seem less tiresome. 

You’ll hopefully arrive in Mammoth just before lunchtime and can grab a bite to eat at the Mammoth Dining Room, which is open between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm for lunch. There’s also a gas station and a general store, so you can refill gas as well as snacks and water while you’re here. 

However, the main attraction is the Mammoth Hot Springs, and one of my favorite I saw during my 4 days in Yellowstone National Park. These springs have an upper terraces area and a lower terraces area. You can hike both of these or simply do the lower one if you’re short on time. The lower terraces area will take you about an hour to hike – not counting the time you need to soak in the magnificent views. 

We’re going to suggest that you take an hour’s drive now, from Mammoth to Lamar Valley. Before you reach this gorgeous valley, though, I recommend a late-afternoon snack stop at the Lava Creek Picnic Area. 

Just be sure to reach the valley before sunset. This valley boasts unimaginable wildlife scenes, and the best times to come are either early sunrise or late afternoon sunset. As the light fades, you’ll be able to watch the wildlife in their natural habitat and capture magnificent photos to take home. 

This is another time to make sure you have a jacket ready so that you can put it on as soon as the sun starts to go down. To spend the night, you have Lamar Buffalo Ranch, just a 7-minute drive from the valley viewpoint. Or Roosevelt Lodge , which is just under 30 minutes away from Lamar Valley. 

Day 4 – Grand Canyon, Hayden Valley

Even with a well-planned Yellowstone itinerary, four days still might not seem like it’s enough. So on the very last day, it can be tempting to fit as much as possible into your day. You don’t want to rush yourself and miss out on beautiful sights, though. 

So here is a full but manageable suggestion on the best way to visit Yellowstone on your fourth day. Prepare for amazing discoveries in Yellowstone Park and, if there’s time, one last majestic sunset. 

No Yellowstone vacation is complete without visiting the park’s very own Grand Canyon. This is a 20-mile-long canyon with great viewpoints along the rims. It will take almost 2 hours to get from near Lamar Valley to the canyon rims, so it’s best to start your day early. 

Start your viewing of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone at the Brink of the Lower Falls, which is a must during your 4 days in Yellowstone. This steep trail is 0.7 miles long and rewards visitors with amazing views of the canyon. Other must-see viewpoints along the canyon rim are Artist Point and Inspiration Point. Spend your morning at the pace you prefer, and use these viewpoints to get a whole lot of photos. 

Note : A large part of Grand Loop Road, between Tower Fall and Canyon Village, is closed for a 2-year construction project. This is scheduled to end in May 2022, which will mean a much shorter driving distance for this part of the trip.

About 20 minutes from the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is Hayden Valley. This is slightly smaller than Lamar Valley but still offers incredible views of the wildlife that call the national park home. You’re likely to see a herd of bison, elk, a few grizzly bears, and possibly a pack of wolves. The overlook has space to pull the car over, and there are information boards on some of the animals you can see. 

When you’ve had your share of wildlife viewing, take a 5-minute drive to Mud Volcano. Those with sensitive noses will not want to exit the car in this spot, but if you can handle the smell of rotten eggs, it’s an interesting sight to see. 

These springs have a mix of hydrogen sulfide gas and mud, and the result is not very pleasant to the nose. There are numerous smaller mud springs to view in the area, as well as the mud cauldron. 

If you’re up for a hike, you can do the Mud Volcano Trail and stop off in a quiet spot for a picnic. There’s also LeHardy Picnic Area a few minutes away for those not too keen on staying at the mud volcano. 

If you’re able to spend one last sunset in the park, you’re going to want to head to Yellowstone Lake, a 10-minute drive from the Mud Volcano. Here you can spend the evening watching the sun go down as you stare over the lake, although if you arrive early enough, you can take a boat tour on the water before it gets too dark. 

There is also the Fishing Bridge for anyone who wants to spend some time with their rods in the water. The lakeshore has a general store and a lake ranger station. This is a great place to reflect on your time and gather yourself up before leaving this magical park. 

Both the lakeside hotels can offer you a warm meal and a comfy bed to rest up before heading back home in the morning. Stay in the Lake Lodge, enjoy dinner in the lakeside dining room, and use the free Wi-Fi to plan your trip home. The other option is to book into the somewhat more romantic Lake Yellowstone Hotel for a bubble bath and a quiet evening in the lobby in front of the fireplace.

If you still want more after all of that, you can check out how to spend one day in Grand Teton , which is just south of the park. I have a post on the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park to check out if you’re interested.

Whether you choose to copy this itinerary or create your own for your 4 days in Yellowstone, you’ll have a blast exploring one of the most popular national parks in the country!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

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Yellowstone To Seattle Road Trip: Top 15 Tips

Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 739 miles of Yellowstone National Park to Seattle drive takes around 11 hours and 12 mins without stops.

This article includes 15 top tips that turn your Yellowstone National Park to Seattle drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

5 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Yellowstone National Park To Seattle

On the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip, you may want to stay at some points on the way. Here are the top five Yellowstone National Park – Seattle route hotels !

• The Forge Hotel, BW Signature Collection: The Forge Hotel, BW Signature Collection is one of the best hotels where you can stay on the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip. Driving from Yellowstone National Park to The Forge Hotel, BW Signature Collection might take around 2 hours and 46 mins . The Forge Hotel, BW Signature Collection, provides 74 stylish guest rooms, including Family Suites, an indoor pool, an oversized hot tub, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The hotel’s convenient location provides easy access to local sites and restaurants by car, although guests can also walk to the nearby State Park. In addition, the Forge Hotel features an on-site restaurant with friendly and helpful staff. Check The Forge Hotel, BW Signature Collection, one of the best hotels in Anaconda, Montana, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Best Western Plus Grant Creek Inn: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Seattle from Yellowstone National Park is Best Western Plus Grant Creek Inn. Located in Missoula, Montana, the hotel is 268 miles from Yellowstone National Park, and it would take 4 hours and 10 mins to drive. The accommodations were top-notch, with a spacious lobby and dining area. The breakfast was first class, with a wide variety of entrees. The location was excellent, and the selection for a hot breakfast and amenities was superb. There was even a steam room and sauna. Overall, it was an excellent stay for the price. If you want to learn more about the Best Western Plus Grant Creek Inn, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane. Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane is located in Spokane, Washington, and it’s 461 miles away from Yellowstone National Park. You can arrive there with 7 hours of non-stop driving. The Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane is situated along the Spokane River near Riverfront Park, making it an ideal choice for those looking to be close to the action. The hotel offers a variety of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible, whether you are traveling for business or pleasure. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane for more information.
• Comfort Suites Moses Lake: If you are taking a road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle, Moses Lake, Washington, it must have a place you should visit. Comfort Suites Moses Lake is one of the best hotels in town. It is Comfort Suites Moses Lake, 562 miles from Yellowstone National Park, and it would take 8 hours and 33 mins to drive. The all-suites hotel is conveniently located near several popular destinations and tourist attractions. This pet-friendly hotel also has a heated pool and whirlpool, which are perfect for relaxing after a hard day of work or a long day of exploring the area. If you need more info about the price and availability of Comfort Suites Moses Lake, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.
• Best Western Plus Ellensburg Hotel: Our next hotel is Best Western Plus Ellensburg Hotel, Ellensburg, Washington. It will take 9 hours, and 35 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from Yellowstone National Park. The coffee and breakfast were both excellent. The room was clean and comfortable. The staff were very welcoming and accommodating. Check the Best Western Plus Ellensburg Hotel on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Best Western Plus Ellensburg Hotel for reviews, prices, and availability.

In this part, we explained five different hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by writing a comment to this post. It will help people who will take the same Yellowstone National Park to Seattle route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle. We have five restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

5 Best Restaurants On The Yellowstone National Park To Seattle Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip. In this section, we list the five different restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• Donivan’s: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip with Donivan’s. Donivan’s is located in Anaconda, Montana, 171 miles from Yellowstone National Park. It would take 2 hours and 49 mins of driving. The pictures hanging throughout the building provide a glimpse into the town’s history. The food was excellent, with perfect chicken strips and bean burgers. The staff were excellent and accommodating. For more information about Donivan’s, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Donivan’s.
• Bob Marshall’s Biga Pizza: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Seattle from Yellowstone National Park is Bob Marshall’s Biga Pizza. Located in Missoula, Montana, Bob Marshall’s Biga Pizza is 265 miles from Yellowstone National Park and would take 4 hours of driving. The pizzas have interesting toppings, as do the salads. The house salad, which includes pears, pecans, and pickled onions, is reported to be very good. Many pizzas have Mascarpone cheese; we were skeptical but decided to try them regardless. If you want to learn more about Bob Marshall’s Biga Pizza, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Frank’s Diner – Downtown Spokane: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Frank’s Diner – Downtown Spokane. It will take 7 hours of car drive to take 462 miles from Yellowstone National Park to Frank’s Diner – Downtown Spokane, Spokane, Washington. The hot roast beef sandwich, meatloaf, jalapeno burger, and fried green tomato burger were all ordered and excellent. You can check Frank’s Diner – Downtown Spokane for more information on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake: Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Moses Lake, Washington. Are you looking for a perfect night out? Look no further than Michaels on the Lake. Our fresh seafood, flavorful Certified Angus steaks, premium beer, and wine selections from the Northwest are sure to please. So whether you want to enjoy the view of Parker Horn on a hot day with a cold microbrew or you’re looking for a hot drink on a chilly night in our beautiful dining room, we have what you need. Michael’s on Lake Moses Lake is 567 miles from Yellowstone National Park, and it would take 8 hours and 38 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Ellensburg Pasta Company: If you enjoy dining, Ellensburg Pasta Company would be an excellent choice in Ellensburg, Washington. It’s 633 miles from Yellowstone National Park and would take 9 hours and 38 mins of car driving. If you’re looking for a great meal, you’ll want to check out one of the best restaurants in town, where you can find excellent calamari, house salad, and pasta dishes. If you want to learn more about the Ellensburg Pasta Company, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

This section lists our five restaurant recommendations for you to eat on your road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 739 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Seattle road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle. Keep reading.

5 Places To Visit On The Yellowstone National Park To Seattle Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Seattle. However, on your road trip, there are also some unique destinations, like Anaconda, Montana. Therefore, we want to explain the top five destinations we recommend on the Seattle route.

• Georgetown Lake, Anaconda: Georgetown Lake, Anaconda will be the first destination we recommend you stop on your Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip. Located in Anaconda, Montana, Georgetown Lake, Anaconda is 194 miles away from Yellowstone National Park, and it would take 3 hours and 20 mins to drive. Georgetown Lake is a beautiful location that can be enjoyed in any weather. The local food is delicious, and if you’re looking for a change of pace, Phillipsburg and Anaconda are only 20 minutes away. The walking trails are lovely, and the views are breathtaking. If you want to learn more about Georgetown Lake and Anaconda, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• A Carousel for Missoula: A Carousel for Missoula, Missoula, Montana, is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle route. It’s 266 miles from Yellowstone National Park and will take about 4 hours of driving. This carousel, located along the riverwalk, offers a free ride when you grab a ring. There are many different horses, including a great dragon, to choose from. If you want to learn more about A Carousel for Missoula, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• Manito Park: One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle is Spokane, Washington. And if you visit Spokane, Washington, we suggest you visit Manito Park. You can arrive at Manito Park after 7 hours of driving. Manito Park was established in April 1904 and has since evolved into one of Spokane’s primary showplaces. The Parks and Recreation Department has maintained the park’s 78 acres of native and cultivated landscape and 20 acres of world-class botanical gardens. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Manito Park for more information.
• Moses Lake Museum & Art Center: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Moses Lake Museum & Art Center, Moses Lake, Washington, on the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip. Moses Lake Museum & Art Center is 565 miles from Yellowstone National Park, and you can arrive there after the 8 hours and 38 mins of drive. The Moses Lake Museum & Art Center is dedicated to exploring the human and natural history of the Columbia Basin and celebrating the works of regional artists. With collections like the Adam East Collection of Native American artifacts, local historical exhibits, a fine art gallery, and more, the museum provides an enriching experience for all. Plus, admission is free! So be sure to swing by the next time you’re in town. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Moses Lake Museum & Art Center before going there.
• Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center: Located in Ellensburg, Washington, Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle. You must take 9 hours and 29 mins of driving to arrive at Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center. The tour was great, the education center was very informative, and the guides were beneficial. I would recommend this tour for the view alone. It was a clear day; we could see Mt. Rainier and Mt. Adams. Next, we went inside the visitors’ center and were offered coffee or tea. If you want to learn more about Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From Yellowstone National Park to Seattle

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Yellowstone National Park To Seattle?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip takes approximately 11 hours and 12 mins to drive. The driving distance between Yellowstone National Park to Seattle is 739 miles.
• If you want to make the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be two days and 23 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Yellowstone National Park-Seattle route, you will have to walk for ten days and 21 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Yellowstone National Park To Seattle?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Seattle. On the road, you can visit Anaconda, Montana; Missoula, Montana; Spokane, Washington; Moses Lake, Washington; Ellensburg, Washington. Here we list five places to visit for you. In addition, you can check the 5 Best Places To Visit On The Way From Yellowstone National Park to Seattle for more information about the best places from the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle .

• Georgetown Lake, Anaconda: 194 miles / 3 hours and 20 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 564 miles / 8 hours and 37 mins of driving to Seattle.
• A Carousel for Missoula: 266 miles / 4 hours to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 476 miles / 7 hours and 13 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Manito Park: 462 miles / 7 hours to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 280 miles / 4 hours and 15 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Moses Lake Museum & Art Center: 565 miles / 8 hours and 38 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 177 miles / 2 hours and 46 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center: 620 miles / 9 hours and 29 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 130 miles / 2 hours of driving to Seattle.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Yellowstone National Park To Seattle?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle. We have selected five hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 5 Best Hotels On The Way To Seattle From Yellowstone National Park section.

• The Forge Hotel, BW Signature Collection: 170 miles / 2 hours and 46 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 579 miles / 8 hours and 38 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Best Western Plus Grant Creek Inn: 268 miles / 4 hours and 10 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 472 miles / 7 hours of driving to Seattle.
• Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane: 461 miles / 7 hours to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 280 miles / 4 hours and 14 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Comfort Suites Moses Lake: 562 miles / 8 hours and 33 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 178 miles / 2 hours and 43 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Best Western Plus Ellensburg Hotel: 632 miles / 9 hours and 35 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 109 miles / 1 hour and 43 mins of driving to Seattle.

Where To Eat Between Yellowstone National Park to Seattle?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Yellowstone National Park to Seattle drive, you can consider the five restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 5 Best Restaurants On The Way From Yellowstone National Park To Seattle .

• Donivan’s: 171 miles / 2 hours and 49 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 580 miles / 8 hours and 41 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Bob Marshall’s Biga Pizza: 265 miles / 4 hours to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 475 miles / 7 hours and 10 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Frank’s Diner – Downtown Spokane: 462 miles / 7 hours to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 278 miles / 4 hours and 10 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake: 567 miles / 8 hours and 38 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 177 miles / 2 hours and 42 mins of driving to Seattle.
• Ellensburg Pasta Company: 633 miles / 9 hours and 38 mins to drive from Yellowstone National Park | 107 miles / 1 hour and 43 mins of driving to Seattle.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle. We have listed five hotels, five restaurants, and five places to visit on the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the Yellowstone National Park to Seattle road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Yellowstone National Park to Seattle and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: Seattle Road Trip

In this video, you can find 10 things to do in Seattle. If you’re planning to visit Seattle, we suggest you to watch this informative video.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

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Kevin Costner not returning to 'Yellowstone': 'It was something that really changed me'

Kevin Costner -- (Photo by: Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via Getty Images)

Kevin Costner announced Thursday night through Instagram that he will not return for another season of ‘Yellowstone.’ 

"Hi, everyone. I just want to reach out and let you know that after this long year and a half of working on Horizon , and doing all the things that that's required, and thinking about Yellowstone , that beloved series that I love and I know you love. I just realized that I'm not going to be able to continue Season 5, or into the future," Costner says in his post . 

"It was something that really changed me. I loved it and I know you loved it. And I just wanted to let you know that I won't be returning. I love the relationship that we've been able to develop, and I'll see you at the movies."

Costner, 69, who has portrayed John Dutton lll in the series for five seasons, recently said he loved the show but was "disappointed" in how the rumors surrounding his exit were handled by production. 

"I loved the show. I liked the people on the show. I liked what it was about. I love that world," Costner said.

'YELLOWSTONE' ENDING AFTER SECOND HALF OF SEASON FIVE AMID KEVIN COSTNER DRAMA

"There was a moment where that show for me stopped for 14 months... That's the fact," he said. "I could have done a lot of things in that time, but I wasn't aware that [hold-up] was going to happen."

Wolves at Yellowstone National Park bring 'toys' to pups

Scientists at Yellowstone National Park have documented adult wolves returning to their dens with "toys" for their pups. (Credit: Yellowstone National Park via Storyful)

"I read all the stories," Costner said. "I was disappointed that nobody on their side … ever stepped up to defend what it was I actually did for them. There came a moment where I thought, ‘Wow, when is somebody going to say something about what I have done versus what I haven’t done?'"

Costner said the show didn't have the scripts for the second half of the season, which particularly made it difficult for him to balance working between Horizon and Yellowstone .

"I left my movie ['Horizon'] to be on time for them for 5B," Costner said. "I left exactly when they wanted, and it made it hard on me. It turns out they didn’t have the scripts for 5B. They needed four more days just to complete the first eight episodes. I left early to give them what they needed to have a complete eight, and I felt bad that the audience didn’t get 10. They didn’t have the scripts for anything else."

Costner added, "So, what you read in the end was that I said, ‘Well, look, I’m doing my movie. If you want me to work a week because you want to kill me or whatever else, I can give you a week.’ I really didn’t have that week to give them, but I said, I’ll do that. And then they [spun that] into, I only wanted to work a week."

Fox News Digital's Christina Dugan Ramirez and Emily Trainham contributed to this post. Read more of this story from FOX News.  

38 Best Stops Between Seattle and West Yellowstone

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How long is the drive from Seattle to West Yellowstone?

The direct drive from Seattle to West Yellowstone is 739 mi (1,189 km) , and should have a drive time of 10 hrs 58 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Seattle to West Yellowstone, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Spokane , Bozeman , Mount Rainier National Park , Coeur d'Alene , Helena , Missoula , Leavenworth , and Walla Walla , as well as top places to visit like Centennial Trail and Schweitzer, or the ever-popular Mt Spokane.

Top cities between Seattle and West Yellowstone

Mount rainier national park, leavenworth.

Walla Walla

Coeur d'alene.

Best stops along Seattle to West Yellowstone drive

Centennial Trail

Tubbs hill trail marker, silverwood theme park, lake coeur d'alene, kootenai falls suspension bridge, silver streak zipline tours, mcginnis meadows ranch, conrad mansion museum, montana river guides, bigfork summer playhouse, a carousel for missoula, garnet ghost town, gem mountain philipsburg, old montana prison & auto museum complex, world museum of mining, berkeley pit viewing stand, cathedral of saint helena, montana state capitol, gates of the mountains wilderness, big sky resort, ousel falls park & trailhead, earthquake lake, montana whitewater rafting & zipline - gallatin, museum of the rockies.

Downtown Bozeman Partnership

Bridger bowl ski area, montana grizzly encounter, top searches in west yellowstone, other popular road trips from seattle, explore nearby places.

• West Yellowstone
• the Island Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Saint Anthony
• Silver Gate
• Virginia City
• Grand Teton National Park
• Nevada City
• Gallatin Gateway

All related maps of West Yellowstone

• Map of West Yellowstone
• Map of the Island Park
• Map of Gardiner
• Map of Yellowstone National Park
• Map of Big Sky
• Map of Ashton
• Map of Cameron
• Map of Chico
• Map of Emigrant
• Map of Pray
• Map of Saint Anthony
• Map of Ennis
• Map of Spencer
• Map of Tetonia
• Map of Newdale
• Map of Silver Gate
• Map of Virginia City
• Map of Grand Teton National Park
• Map of Nevada City
• Map of McAllister
• Map of Cooke City
• Map of Alta
• Map of Moran
• Map of Gallatin Gateway
• Map of Driggs
• Map of Dubois
• Map of Rexburg
• Map of Alder
• Map of Laurin
• Map of Norris
• Map of Bozeman

West Yellowstone throughout the year

• West Yellowstone in January
• West Yellowstone in February
• West Yellowstone in March
• West Yellowstone in April
• West Yellowstone in May
• West Yellowstone in June
• West Yellowstone in July
• West Yellowstone in August
• West Yellowstone in September
• West Yellowstone in October
• West Yellowstone in November
• West Yellowstone in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in West Yellowstone?

Get inspired for your trip to West Yellowstone with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day West Yellowstone Itinerary
• 2-Day West Yellowstone Itinerary
• 3-Day West Yellowstone Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from seattle to west yellowstone.

Yes! You can drive from Seattle to West Yellowstone.

How far is West Yellowstone from Seattle by car?

The drive from Seattle to West Yellowstone is 739 miles (1,189 km).

How long does it take to drive from Seattle to West Yellowstone?

Driving from Seattle to West Yellowstone should take you 10 hrs 58 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Seattle to West Yellowstone?

Gas from Seattle to West Yellowstone would cost around $65 to $151 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Seattle to West Yellowstone?

You could check out Centennial Trail and Schweitzer, or the always popular Mt Spokane!

What are the best cities to visit between Seattle and West Yellowstone?

People love visiting Spokane, Bozeman, and Mount Rainier National Park, among others.

What's the weather like in Seattle?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Seattle in January
• Weather in Seattle in February
• Weather in Seattle in March
• Weather in Seattle in April
• Weather in Seattle in May
• Weather in Seattle in June
• Weather in Seattle in July
• Weather in Seattle in August
• Weather in Seattle in September
• Weather in Seattle in October
• Weather in Seattle in November
• Weather in Seattle in December

What are some other road trips from Seattle?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Seattle.

• Seattle to Vancouver drive
• Seattle to San Francisco drive
• Seattle to Victoria drive
• Seattle to Las Vegas drive
• Seattle to Portland drive
• Seattle to Los Angeles drive
• Seattle to San Diego drive
• Seattle to Banff National Park drive
• Seattle to Astoria drive
• Seattle to Whistler drive
• Seattle to Banff drive
• Seattle to Olympic National Park drive
• Seattle to Calgary drive
• Seattle to Yellowstone National Park drive
• Seattle to North Vancouver drive
• Seattle to Monterey drive
• Seattle to Denver drive
• Seattle to Sedona drive
• Seattle to Newport drive
• Seattle to Jasper drive
• Seattle to Yosemite National Park drive
• Seattle to Jasper National Park drive
• Seattle to Bellingham drive
• Seattle to Mount Rainier National Park drive
• Seattle to Colorado Springs drive
• Seattle to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Seattle to Salt Lake City drive
• Seattle to Kelowna drive
• Seattle to Spokane drive
• Seattle to Greater Palm Springs drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
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Move over grizzlies and wolves: Yellowstone visitors hope to catch a glimpse of rare white buffalo

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — Standing at the edge of a bluff overlooking the Lamar River in Yellowstone National Park, TJ Ammond stared through binoculars at hundreds of buffalo dotting the verdant valley below.

Tan-colored calves frolicked near their mothers while hulking bulls wallowed in mud.

As his wife and young children clustered behind him, Ammond panned the vast herd and cried out: “I see a white one!”

“Or no — that’s a pronghorn,” he soon corrected. “It’s white and it’s small.”

Grizzly bears and wolves are usually the star attractions for wildlife watchers in Yellowstone but this spring, a tiny and exceedingly rare white buffalo calf has stolen the show.

White buffalo — also known as bison — are held sacred by many Native Americans who greeted news of the birth of one in Yellowstone as an auspicious sign.

It all began when Kalispell, Montana, photographer Erin Braaten snapped several images of the tiny, ungainly creature nuzzling with its mother on June 4, soon after its birth near the banks of the Lamar River. Braaten and her family had been driving through the park when she spotted “something really white” and got a closer look through her telephoto lens.

They turned around and pulled over to watch and shoot photos of the calf with its mother for over half an hour.

Despite throngs of visitors with scopes and photographers with telephoto lenses in the Lamar Valley, a prime spot for wildlife viewing in Yellowstone, few others saw the calf and no sightings have been reported since. Even Braaten and her family did not see the calf again despite going back to look over the next two days, she said.

As in legend, the calf remains mysterious in life.

Some speculate it was a short one. Bison calves often don’t survive when their herds decide to plunge across waters like the Lamar, which has been flowing high and muddy with mountain snowmelt.

Yet even if it has died, the event is no less significant to Native Americans, said Chief Arvol Looking Horse, spiritual leader of the Lakota, Dakota and the Nakota Oyate in South Dakota, and the 19th keeper of the sacred White Buffalo Calf Woman Pipe and Bundle.

“The thing is, we all know that it was born and it’s like a miracle to us,” Looking Horse said.

The creature’s birth fulfills a Lakota prophecy that portends better times, according to members of the American Indian tribe who caution that it’s also a signal that more must be done to protect the earth and its animals. They plan a ceremony in the coming weeks to commemorate the event.

Word of the white buffalo has meanwhile spread far and wide. Ammond had heard about the white calf on The Weather Channel and was keen to see it on his family’s trip to Yellowstone from Ohio.

Usually, white bison are born in ranch herds due to interbreeding with cattle. They are rare but not unheard of, with births making local headlines every so often.

Two genetic variations, leucism and albinism, account for an unusually light-colored animal. Experts doubt the Yellowstone calf is an albino.

In any event, a wild white buffalo is exquisitely rare — maybe even unheard of in Yellowstone, one of the last sanctuaries for free-roaming American bison. The animals once numbered in the tens of millions before commercial hunting drove them to near extinction. Yellowstone’s herd numbers about 5,000.

For Yellowstone’s dedicated wildlife watchers, a good look or photo of a wolf, grizzly — or especially an elusive wolverine or lynx — makes for a good day in the field. A glimpse of the white bison calf would be the privilege of a lifetime.

Employees at several of the businesses that offer guided tours, hikes and horseback rides in Yellowstone said they had not seen the white bison calf. At least one was skeptical the sighting was authentic but a cellphone video provided by Braaten’s son, Zayne Braaten, showing the calf in a wide scene looking very much like the Lamar Valley left little room for doubt the calf is — or was — the real deal.

Amateur photographer Sabrina Midkiff, from Houston, said getting pictures of buffalo calves was the main purpose of her trip to the park this summer. She’d taken thousands of photos so far and wondered if the white calf was hidden somewhere in the crowd in one of her images.

Seeing it would be thrilling, Midkiff said, but she’d heard talk that it may have died — by drowning, getting eaten by wolves or coyotes, or simply being too weak to survive.

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“There are a lot of things that could happen out here in the wild,” she said.

Near the site where Braaten said she took her photos, New Mexico native Bob Worthington stood outside his truck Thursday and scoped a distant hillside. He said he’d been visiting Yellowstone for 26 years with a singular focus: Seeing grizzly bears.

Worthington gruffly dismissed a query about the valley’s bison herds. But when the white calf was mentioned, he lit up with a grin.

“I’d love to get to see the little rascal,” he said.

TJ Ammond’s first name has been corrected.

Gruver reported from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Hanson from Helena, Montana.

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Kevin costner “disappointed” by rumors about his ‘yellowstone’ exit: “i love that world”.

Many claimed Costner's rumored exit from Taylor Sheridan's epic drama was a sign of behind-the-scenes tension.

By Zoe G. Phillips

Zoe G. Phillips

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Kevin Costner spoke out this week against rumors that his alleged exit from Yellowstone was a result of behind-the-scenes tension with his ego.

“I loved the show,” Costner told People . “I liked the people on the show. I liked what it was about. I love that world.”

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The 25 best cookbooks inspired by tv shows and movies that you can shop now, the end of 'yellowstone': what is known about the final episodes.

“When it was first pitched to me by Taylor [Sheridan] it was one season and [like] a long movie, which [is] speaking my language … but ultimately, I think what happened was the studio didn’t want that,” Costner said of the initial job. “And because he’s such a prolific writer, he said, ‘I can do that. I can make a series that goes on.'”

Costner said he “stepped up” to the extension, and told Sheridan, “I’ll do it for three seasons … and I ended up doing it for five.” He added that he was game to continue past the fifth, but no one could provide a timeline on the production .

“There was a moment where that show for me stopped for 14 months,” he said. “That’s the fact. I could have done a lot of things in that time, but I wasn’t aware that that [hold-up] was going to happen.”

When rumors began to swirl that he was leaving due to his ego, Costner said he was “disappointed” that no one defended him. “I read all the stories,” he said. “I was disappointed that nobody on their side … ever stepped up to defend what it was I actually did for them. There came a moment where I thought, ‘Wow, when is somebody going to say something about what I  have  done versus what I  haven’t  done?'”

Despite the drama, the actor still has many good things to say about Sheridan’s Yellowstone universe.

“I liked the writing and really, really liked what Taylor was doing,” he said. “He understood the world of modern-day ranching and was able to create all this other type of drama inside it, but in an effective way.”

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Yellowstone Tourist Sentenced to Jail for ‘Thermal Trespass’

Viktor Pyshniuk, 21, was sentenced to a week in jail after a park employee saw him walk off a path near Steamboat Geyser, which can shoot hot water more than 300 feet in the air.

By Amanda Holpuch

A Yellowstone National Park tourist who walked off a designated path and came within 15 to 20 feet of a steam vent belonging to the world’s tallest active geyser was sentenced this month to seven days in jail and banned from the park for two years, the Justice Department said.

The tourist, Viktor Pyshniuk, 21, ignored signs that said it was illegal to leave the boardwalk area and crossed a fence to walk up a hillside near Steamboat Geyser, which can shoot water more than 300 feet in the air during its unpredictable eruptions , the Justice Department said on Thursday.

At Yellowstone, there are more than 15 miles of boardwalks to protect the environment and tourists hoping to observe the national park’s thermal features , such as geysers, hot springs and mudpots, acidic hot springs that usually smells like rotten eggs.

These thermal features are unpredictable and can be dangerous, causing more injuries and deaths than encounters with wildlife. As of September, 22 people have died from burns suffered after they entered or fell into a hot spring at Yellowstone since the park opened in 1872, according to the United States Geological Survey . In that time, two people have been killed because of bison encounters and eight people from bear encounters.

Mr. Pyshniuk, of Lynnwood, Wash., was visiting Yellowstone in April when a park employee saw him walk off the boardwalk, according to the Justice Department. The employee called a Yellowstone law enforcement officer, who showed Mr. Pyshniuk the signs in the area that said it is illegal to leave the boardwalk and explained why it is dangerous.

Mr. Pyshniuk told the officer he had left the boardwalk to take photos. He could not immediately be reached for comment.

The Justice Department said Mr. Pyshniuk came within 15 to 20 feet of a steam vent for Steamboat Geyser, which has minor and major eruptions . A major eruption can shoot hot water hundreds of feet in the air, according to the National Park Service. The water then comes back down and rushes back to the vents, carrying mud, sand, and rock, which then shoot back in the air. The process can last three to 40 minutes, until the water supply ends, then steam emits from the geyser for several hours to several days. Minor eruptions are more common and can reach six to 40 feet in the air and last one to four minutes.

There have been three major eruptions so far this year, according to the National Park Service. One major eruption took place on April 3, a little over two weeks before Mr. Pyshniuk’s visit on April 19.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephanie A. Hambrick sentenced Mr. Pyshniuk, who represented himself, to a week in jail on June 4 after he was found guilty of thermal trespass and violating a closure. Mr. Pyshniuk must also pay a $1,500 fine and $50 in fees.

It was not clear if Mr. Pyshniuk had served his jail sentence. He must serve it before Dec. 25, according to court documents.

Judge Hambrick said in court that the sentence was designed to deter Mr. Pyshniuk and the public from leaving the park’s boardwalks, according to the Justice Department. The judge noted that there is three-foot fencing around the boardwalk, clearly indicating it should not be crossed.

Eric Heimann, the acting U.S. attorney in the District of Wyoming, said in a statement that trespassing in the closed thermal areas of Yellowstone harms the land.

“In cases like this one where we have strong evidence showing a person has willfully disregarded signs and entered a closed, thermal area, federal prosecutors will seek significant penalties, including jail time,” Mr. Heimann said.

Mr. Pyshniuk was sentenced months after the actor Pierce Brosnan pleaded guilty in March to walking in a restricted thermal area of Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, which is about 20 miles north of Steamboat Geyser.

Mr. Brosnan was ordered to pay a fine of $500 and make a $1,000 donation to Yellowstone Forever, a nonprofit partner of the park, according to court documents.

In an Instagram post , Mr. Brosnan said he made an “impulsive mistake,” when he entered a thermal area that he said was covered with snow.

“As an environmentalist, I have the utmost respect for and love of our natural world,” the actor wrote. “I deeply regret my transgression and offer my heartfelt apologies to all for trespassing in this sensitive area.”

Amanda Holpuch covers breaking news and other topics. More about Amanda Holpuch