Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and many travelers come from Chicago to experience the geothermal features, wildlife, and stunning scenery. Understanding the distance between Chicago and Yellowstone is key to planning a trip, and there are several routes available for driving or catching a flight.
The most direct route from Chicago to Yellowstone is approximately 1,400 miles and will take around 20 hours of continuous driving. If you decide to drive, you can take I-90, which passes through South Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana on the way to Yellowstone. However, you should keep in mind that this route will take you through some very rural towns and you might encounter some unexpected delays due to construction or inclement weather. There are other routes available such as I-80, I-70, I-94, and I-76, but they will all add additional miles and time.
If driving is not an option, you can take a flight to get to Yellowstone. Flying is generally the fastest and most convenient way to get from Chicago to Yellowstone, although it is somewhat more expensive. There are several airports in the vicinity of Yellowstone such as Bozeman, MT, Jackson Hole, WY, and Idaho Falls, ID, all of which are served by various airlines. Generally, flights from Chicago to the nearest airport to Yellowstone will take around three and a half hours, and once you arrive, you will still need to drive or take a shuttle to the park itself.
No matter how you decide to get to Yellowstone, it’s important to remember that the journey will take time, and it is recommended that travelers plan ahead and be aware of any potential delays that may arise. Planning well in advance will ensure that you have the best possible experience and will be able to enjoy the park to its fullest.
The Distance From Chicago To Yellowstone National Park
Are you wondering how far it is from Chicago to Yellowstone? Yellowstone National Park is located in the northwest corner of Wyoming and is the home to some of the most majestic wildlife and natural wonders in the US. The total distance from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park is approximately 987 miles, as the crow flies. The total drive time takes around 15 hours and 27 minutes, depending on the route.
The route from Chicago to Yellowstone is fairly straightforward, as the shortest route passes through Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. The highway will take you past some of the most beautiful scenery in the Midwest, and if you’re looking to take a break, there are plenty of stops along the way. You can take the I-90 west from Chicago to Wisconsin, take the I-94 west to Minneapolis, and then I-90 west to South Dakota. From there, take the I-90 west to Wyoming, and finally take the I-25 north to Yellowstone.
The approximate cost for a one-way trip from Chicago to Yellowstone is $139 in gas. You can also expect to pay an additional $20 for the toll roads, and an extra $30 in hotel and food costs if you plan to stop overnight during the journey. Additionally, you should factor in any entrance fees, camping fees, and other related costs.
If you’re looking for a more scenic route, you can take the I-80 west from Chicago to Omaha, Nebraska and then the I-25 north to Wyoming. This route is slightly longer and passes through some beautiful parts of the Midwest, but it also adds an extra two hours of drive time. Additionally, you can also take the I-94 west from Chicago to Milwaukee, and then take the I-90 west to South Dakota. This route adds an extra two hours of drive time, but it also takes you past some of the most picturesque areas of the Midwest.
The table below provides an overview of the total distance, approximate drive time, and approximate cost for a one-way trip from Chicago to Yellowstone.
| Distance | Drive Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 987 Miles | 15 Hours, 27 Minutes | $189 |
The Fastest Way To Travel From Chicago To Yellowstone
Traveling from Chicago to Yellowstone is not a feat that can be achieved in one day. The trip is more than 1,400 miles and is estimated to take more than 20 hours. While driving may be the most cost-effective way to reach Yellowstone, it is definitely not the fastest. For those who want to get to Yellowstone in the shortest amount of time possible, flying is the best option.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Yellowstone is by air. Most airlines offer non-stop flights from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Yellowstone Regional Airport (WYS). The total flight time is about three and a half hours, and tickets can range from $500 to $1000 depending on the time of year and the airline.
The benefits of flying include convenience, speed, and the ability to avoid traffic. There is no need to worry about finding a place to stay for the night or taking lengthy pit stops. Plus, passengers can avoid the long stretches of roads that may be subjected to extreme weather conditions. Flying from Chicago to Yellowstone will cut several hours off the overall travel time.
The following table provides an overview of the fastest way to travel from Chicago to Yellowstone:
| Method | Average Travel Time | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Flying | 3.5 hours | $500 – $1000 |
| Driving | 20+ hours | Varies |
If you are looking for the fastest way to travel from Chicago to Yellowstone, flying is the best option. Although it is the most expensive option, it is also the most convenient and will get you to your destination in a fraction of the time it would take to drive.
The approximate driving distance from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park is about 1,400 miles (2,253 km).
It may take around 22 hours of driving time from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park.
Yes, there are many great places to stop on the way from Chicago to Yellowstone, such as Minneapolis, Mount Rushmore, and Cody, Wyoming.
The best route to take from Chicago to Yellowstone is generally traveling east along I-90 then south on I-94.
Major cities you may pass through on the way from Chicago to Yellowstone include Minneapolis, Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Cody, Wyoming.
Yes, you may be able to visit Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and Theodore Roosevelt National Park along the way.
Yes, the route from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park is a popular choice for road trips.
Yes, there are many scenic routes to take on the way, such as US-14 and US-212 in Wyoming.
Yes, there are toll roads in some parts of the route, such as the South Dakota Toll Road.
The best time of year to drive from Chicago to Yellowstone is usually in the summer months, from June to August.