Are you planning a road trip to Yellowstone National Park, but wondering how much it will cost? Well, the answer to this question depends on several factors such as your mode of transportation, duration of the trip, accommodation options, and activities you plan to do. Let’s break down the costs and give you an estimate.
Mode of Transportation:
The most common way to reach Yellowstone is by car. If you already own a car, the cost of fuel will be your main expense.
According to current gas prices (as of August 2021), the average price per gallon in the United States is around $3.13. The distance from major cities like Salt Lake City, Denver or Seattle are around 300-500 miles which adds upto $45-$75 in fuel for a one-way trip. Alternatively, if you don’t own a car or prefer not to drive long distances, you can fly into nearby airports such as Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport or Jackson Hole Airport and rent a car from there.
Duration of the Trip:
Yellowstone National Park offers countless sights and activities that can keep you busy for weeks. However, if you’re tight on budget or time, we recommend spending at least 3-4 days exploring the park. This gives you enough time to see all major attractions while keeping costs low.
Accommodation Options:
Yellowstone offers various accommodation options ranging from camping grounds to luxury lodges. If you’re on a budget and enjoy camping, campsites are available for around $30-$35 per night during peak season. Alternatively, if you prefer staying indoors with modern amenities then lodges are also available starting at $100 per night.
Activities:
Yellowstone offers plenty of activities for visitors such as hiking trails, scenic drives and wildlife watching tours. Most of these activities are free except for guided tours which can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 depending on the type of tour and duration.
Overall Cost:
Based on the above estimates, a road trip to Yellowstone National Park can cost anywhere from $300 for a 3-day camping trip to $1000 or more for a week-long stay in a luxury lodge. This estimate includes gas, accommodation, and some activities but does not include food or souvenirs.
- Gas: $45-$75 (one-way)
- Accommodation: $30-$200 per night
- Activities: Free to $200 per tour
Tips for Saving Money:
While the costs may seem high, there are several ways to save money during your Yellowstone trip. Here are some tips:
- Camp instead of staying in lodges.
- Bring your own food instead of eating out.
- Take advantage of free activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.
- Avoid peak season (June-August) when prices are at their highest.
In conclusion,
A road trip to Yellowstone National Park can be an unforgettable experience that doesn’t necessarily break the bank. By planning ahead and making smart choices, you can enjoy all that this amazing park has to offer while staying within your budget.
We hope this article has given you a better idea of how much a road trip to Yellowstone may cost and how you can save money along the way. Happy travels!