Denver to Yellowstone Road Trip: Best Routes, Scenic Stops, Top Eats

Yellowstone
Written By Kelly W

Planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado, to Yellowstone National Park is a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of the Rocky Mountains and beyond. With a little over 500 miles separating these two destinations, there are plenty of scenic views, unique attractions, and outdoor activities to explore. Whether you’re looking for a direct, one-day route or prefer to take your time exploring the scenic parks and charming towns, there’s an itinerary for everyone. In this guide, we’ll outline key stops, driving tips, and essential information to help you make the most of your road trip from Denver to Yellowstone.

Colter Bay Marina in Grand Teton National Park, driving through Bow Medicine National Forest (© Wirestock via Canva.com), and Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

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    Denver to Yellowstone: The Details

    • Denver is approximately 500 miles from Yellowstone's South Entrance. It takes about 8-9 hours of driving time (without long stops), depending on traffic and road conditions.

    • The most direct route includes a mix of interstate highways and scenic roads through the Wyoming wilderness.

    • It’s possible to complete this drive in one day. We drive from Dallas to Yellowstone mulitple times each year and generally stop for the night in Denver, driving the entire way from Denver to Yellowstone’s North Entrance the following day. The route highlighted in this post is even shorter since you’re entering the park from the south.

    • If you’d like to stop for the night, we highly recommend a night in Jackson, WY, or Grand Teton National Park so you’re able to explore the Tetons on your way to Yellowstone. Jackson, WY, is about 8 hours from Denver, CO. Medicine Bow National Forest (near Snowy Range Ski Area) could also make a great overnight destination if you’re interested in exploring the nearby trails.

    • Most of the drive is on major highways, so road quality is generally good. However, be prepared for potential slowdowns in mountain areas, especially when approaching Wyoming and during the colder months. There are also some sections with limited cell service, so either keep your gps going in more remote areas, download an offline map, or print directions ahead of time.

    • You’ll enter Yellowstone National Park via the South Entrance, which brings you to the east side of Grand Teton National Park. (We highly recommend exploring Grand Teton National Park on your way to or from Yellowstone.) Once you pass through Yellowstone’s South Entrance, you’ll be close to popular Yellowstone attractions like Old Faithful Geyser and Yellowstone Lake.

    • June through October is generally the best time to drive from Denver to Yellowstone, as weather is ideal and all roads are open in Yellowstone.

     

    (Most Direct) 1-Day Denver to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary

    Here’s a look at the most direct route from Denver to Yellowstone’s South Entrance. This direct route has you making stops only for food, gas, and restroom breaks, but if you're looking for one or two overnight destinations, consider Rocky Mountain National Park, Bow Medicine National Forest, or Jackson, WY.

    Start: Denver, CO

    Stop 1: Fort Collins, CO

    • Stretch Your Legs—Roadside: Riverbend Ponds Natural Area: This 160-acre area features a network of ponds, wetlands, and trails, making it a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking. The area is also equipped with picnic areas and benches, making it a great place for families or groups to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors.

    • Fun For Kids: Fort Collins Museum of Discovery: This interactive museum features exhibits on local history, science, and nature. Highlights include hands-on activities, a digital dome theater, and a collection of artifacts that tell the story of Fort Collins and the surrounding area.

    • Dining & Shopping: Downtown Fort Collins: This vibrant area is known for its charming historic architecture, lively arts scene, and numerous boutique shops.

    • Nearby Hiking: Horsetooth Mountain Open Space: This beautiful open space offers a variety of trails, with one of the most popular being the Horsetooth Falls and Horsetooth Mountain Loop. Enjoy stunning views of the foothills and the city of Fort Collins, as well as a picturesque waterfall along the way.

    Stop 2: Laramie, WY

    • Restaurant: The Crowbar & Grill: This popular eatery features a laid-back atmosphere with a diverse menu, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches.

    • History & Education: Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site and the University of Wyoming Geological Museum: The Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site in Laramie offers a glimpse into the Old West. This historic prison, which operated from 1872 to 1903, housed notorious outlaws like Butch Cassidy. Today, it's a well-preserved museum where visitors can explore original prison cells, the warden’s office, and the broom factory where inmates worked. There’s also the nearby University of Wyoming Geological Museum, showcasing a rich collection of fossils, minerals, and geological specimens from Wyoming and beyond. One of the main highlights is the full-size fossil skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex and the state’s own Apatosaurus. Admission is free, making it an excellent stop for families and science enthusiasts alike.

    • Take the Scenic Route: Medicine Bow National Forest: A short drive from Laramie, Medicine Bow National Forest offers stunning hiking trails suitable for all levels. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway is a popular route, with access to trails like Medicine Bow Peak Trail and West Lake Marie Trail. Consider taking the scenic route—the Snowy Range Scenic Byway—on your way from Laramie to Rawlins, WY.

    Stop 3: Rawlins, WY

    • Roadside Attraction: The Wyoming Frontier Prison: This historic prison, built in 1901, is now a museum where visitors can explore its history. The prison features guided tours that provide insight into the lives of inmates and the prison system in Wyoming, making it an intriguing stop for history enthusiasts.

    • Roadside Attraction: The Carbon County Museum: This small but interesting museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of Carbon County. Visitors will find exhibits on local mining history and the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, as well as artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring to life the rugged frontier days of Carbon County. Admission is free, and the museum offers a unique perspective on the heritage of Rawlins and the surrounding area.

    Stop 4: Moran, WY

    • Quick View of Grand Teton National Park: Colter Bay Marina: To explore the Tetons, we highly recommend extending your road trip with lodging for one or two nights in Jackson, WY, or Grand Teton National Park. However, if you only have time to drive through and want a quick but beautiful view, stop in Colter Bay Village. This is on your way to Yellowstone’s South Entrance and offers a gorgeous marina and mountain view in Grand Teton National Park.

    • Roadside Wildlife & Photography Overlook: Oxbow Bend: This stunning viewpoint is also on the way and located within Grand Teton National Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Teton Range reflected in the waters of the Snake River. The area is also rich in wildlife, making it an excellent location for spotting animals such as moose, deer, and various bird species.

    • Restaurant: Trapper Grill: Located at the nearby Signal Mountain Lodge, this restaurant in Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning views of Jackson Lake and the Teton Range. The Trapper Grill offers a casual dining experience with menu items like bison burgers, trout, and their famous huckleberry hotcakes.

    Arrive: Yellowstone National Park

    • Highlight: Everything! Enter through Yellowstone’s South Entrance, then drive west to Old Faithful to witness an eruption of one of the park's most famous geysers—or drive east to pass by the shore of Yellowstone Lake on your way to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You can’t go wrong no matter which direction you head first.

     

    (Most Scenic) 3 to 4-Day Denver to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary

    This scenic route from Denver to Yellowstone allows for overnight stops with tons of scenic views and vistas. Consider overnight stops in Estes Park, CO, or Rocky Mountain National Park, Bow Medicine National Forest, and Jackson, WY, or Grand Teton National Park. If you live in Denver, you might want to skip some of the earlier stops on this itinerary as maybe you’ve been there and done that. But if you’re flying into Denver for your road trip, then these earlier stops are good for seeing a bit of Denver and nearby attractions!

    Start: Denver, CO

    Stop 1: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

    • Highlight: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Just outside of Denver, this world-famous outdoor concert venue is set amidst stunning red rock formations. Align your road trip with the summer concert schedule and catch a live performance or simply stretch your legs and hike one of the nearby scenic trails with panoramic landscape views.

     

    Stop 2: Boulder, CO

    • Hiking Highlight: Flatirons: The Flatirons are perhaps Boulder’s most iconic feature, consisting of a series of steep, slanting rock formations that rise dramatically against the skyline. The Flatirons Loop Trail is a popular hiking option that offers stunning views of these formations, with varying difficulty levels to accommodate different skill levels.

    • Shopping & Dining: Pearl Street Mall: Boulder's vibrant pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining district features an array of unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

    • Sip and Savor: Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse: This beautifully decorated teahouse features stunning hand-painted murals, intricate carvings, and a serene atmosphere for enjoying a wide selection of teas and delicious dishes.

    Stop 3: Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP)

    • Stop for the night in: RMNP or Estes Park, CO: Stopping for the night in Rocky Mountain National Park will give you some time to explore scenic hiking trails and byways and watch for wildlife. If you can’t find lodging in Rocky Mountain National Park, look in nearby Estes Park, Colorado.

    • Scenic Drive: Trail Ridge Road: Drive this scenic byway to see incredible alpine views and spot wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park.

    • Highlight Hiking: Bear Lake Trail: Enter through Estes Park or drive Trail Ridge Road from Grand Lake, CO, to hike Bear Lake Trail for stunning views of the lake and surrounding peaks. (Reservations are required.) From this trailhead, you can reach Bear, Emerald, Dream, and Nymph lakes, some of the most popular spots in Rocky Mountain National Park.

    Note: Be sure to buy the America the Beautiful Pass if you’re stopping in Rocky Mountain National Park on your way to Yellowstone. This will be the most cost effective way to enter multiple national parks on your road trip!

    Stop 3: Fort Collins, CO

    • Stretch Your Legs—Roadside: Riverbend Ponds Natural Area: This 160-acre area features a network of ponds, wetlands, and trails, making it a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking. The area is also equipped with picnic areas and benches, making it a great place for families or groups to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors.

    • Fun For Kids: Fort Collins Museum of Discovery: This interactive museum features exhibits on local history, science, and nature. Highlights include hands-on activities, a digital dome theater, and a collection of artifacts that tell the story of Fort Collins and the surrounding area.

    • Dining & Shopping: Downtown Fort Collins: This vibrant area is known for its charming historic architecture, lively arts scene, and numerous boutique shops.

    • Nearby Hiking: Horsetooth Mountain Open Space: This beautiful open space offers a variety of trails, with one of the most popular being the Horsetooth Falls and Horsetooth Mountain Loop. Enjoy stunning views of the foothills and the city of Fort Collins, as well as a picturesque waterfall along the way.

    Stop 4: Laramie, WY

    • Restaurant: The Crowbar & Grill: This popular eatery features a laid-back atmosphere with a diverse menu, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches.

    • History & Education: Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site and the University of Wyoming Geological Museum: The Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site in Laramie offers a glimpse into the Old West. This historic prison, which operated from 1872 to 1903, housed notorious outlaws like Butch Cassidy. Today, it's a well-preserved museum where visitors can explore original prison cells, the warden’s office, and the broom factory where inmates worked. There’s also the nearby University of Wyoming Geological Museum, showcasing a rich collection of fossils, minerals, and geological specimens from Wyoming and beyond. One of the main highlights is the full-size fossil skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex and the state’s own Apatosaurus. Admission is free, making it an excellent stop for families and science enthusiasts alike.

    • Take the Scenic Route: Medicine Bow National Forest: A short drive from Laramie, Medicine Bow National Forest offers stunning hiking trails suitable for all levels. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway is a popular route, with access to trails like Medicine Bow Peak Trail and West Lake Marie Trail. Consider taking the scenic route—the Snowy Range Scenic Byway—on your way from Laramie to Rawlins, WY.

    Stop 5: Rawlins, WY

    • Roadside Attraction: The Wyoming Frontier Prison: This historic prison, built in 1901, is now a museum where visitors can explore its history. The prison features guided tours that provide insight into the lives of inmates and the prison system in Wyoming, making it an intriguing stop for history enthusiasts.

    • Roadside Attraction: The Carbon County Museum: This small but interesting museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of Carbon County. Visitors will find exhibits on local mining history and the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, as well as artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring to life the rugged frontier days of Carbon County. Admission is free, and the museum offers a unique perspective on the heritage of Rawlins and the surrounding area.

    Route Choice: A fork in the road

    In Rawlins, WY, you can stay on the most direct route to Yellowstone National Park by keeping right on US-287 N toward Moran, WY. You’ll pass by Dubois on your way to the east side of Grand Teton National Park near Colter Bay Village. Your other option is to keep left in Rawlins on I-80 W toward to Jackson, WY, on the west side of Grand Teton National Park. This later route adds about an hour to your road trip, but offers the opportunity to drive through Grand Teton National Park on your way to Yellowstone. It’s a fantastic way to see both parks in one trip.

    Stop 6: Option A: Shoshone National Forest & Wind River Reservation

    • Roadside Attraction: Split Rock Pullout: Split Rock is a distinct rock formation that was used as a landmark by pioneers traveling westward during the mid-1800s. The gap in the rock is visible from miles away, making it a significant point of reference for those journeying through the vast and often featureless plains. At the pullout, you’ll find interpretive signs explaining the historical importance of the site and the role it played in guiding travelers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails.

    • Shoshone National Forest: One of the oldest national forests in the United States and spanning over 2.4 million acres, Shoshone National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. Consider the nearby Wind River Range, where stunning trails like the Popo Agie Falls Trail near Lander offer access to alpine scenery and waterfalls. Another access point is via Louis Lake Road, where you can explore trails around Louis Lake and the Blue Ridge Lookout, which offer panoramic views of the forest and surrounding mountains.

    • Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary: Located near Lander, Wyoming, on the Wind River Indian Reservation, this sanctuary is dedicated to preserving the legacy of America’s wild mustangs, providing a safe haven for horses that have been removed from public lands due to overpopulation. Here, you can take guided tours to see the wild horses roaming freely across the open range, set against the stunning backdrop of the Wind River Mountains.

    Stop 6: Option B: Rock Springs, WY

    • Take the Scenic Route: White Mountain Petroglyphs: Just outside Rock Springs, the White Mountain Petroglyphs site holds cultural significance for four Native American tribes, with rock art panels that are over 200 years old, depicting stories and symbols of the past. It is open to the public free of charge, making it an accessible and important stop for those interested in Native American history and art.

    • Sandsledding: Killpecker Sand Dunes: Keep following your scenic detour and head next to the Killpecker Sand Dunes, part of one of the largest active sand dune fields in North America. The dunes stretch over 100 miles, offering unique opportunities for off-roading, sand sledding, and hiking. While off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts love exploring the vast expanse of sand, the surrounding landscape also offers stunning views of nearby buttes and unique rock formations like the Boar’s Tusk, a volcanic remnant.

    • Overnight Detour: Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: Near Rock Springs, follow the Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway to the Flaming Gorge Recreation Area, which features a beautiful reservoir, scenic vistas, and numerous outdoor activities. Enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and camping while taking in the breathtaking views of the Flaming Gorge Canyon and the Green River. Head to the Flaming Gorge Dam Visitor Center or Lucerne Valley Marina, one of the main access points for boating, fishing, and other water activities.

    Stop 7: Option A: Moran, WY

    • Quick View of Grand Teton National Park: Colter Bay Marina: To explore the Tetons, we highly recommend extending your road trip with lodging for one or two nights in Jackson, WY, or Grand Teton National Park. However, if you only have time to drive through and want a quick but beautiful view, stop in Colter Bay Village. This is on your way to Yellowstone’s South Entrance and offers a gorgeous marina and mountain view in Grand Teton National Park.

    • Roadside Wildlife & Photography Overlook: Oxbow Bend: This stunning viewpoint is also on the way and located within Grand Teton National Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Teton Range reflected in the waters of the Snake River. The area is also rich in wildlife, making it an excellent location for spotting animals such as moose, deer, and various bird species.

    • Restaurant: Trapper Grill: Located at the nearby Signal Mountain Lodge, this restaurant in Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning views of Jackson Lake and the Teton Range. The Trapper Grill offers a casual dining experience with menu items like bison burgers, trout, and their famous huckleberry hotcakes.

    Stop 7: Option B: Bridger-Teton National Forest

    • Highlight Hiking: The Sacred Rim Trail: This hidden gem near Pinedale, Wyoming, offers stunning panoramic views of the Wind River Range. It’s a relatively short and moderate hike, just about 3.5 miles round trip. The viewpoint, known as Sacred Rim, features dramatic cliff edges and expansive views, making it a great spot for photography, picnicking, and simply taking in the natural beauty. There are other great hikes in the area to consider, such as the Green River Lakes Loop.

    • R&R: Granite Hot Springs Pool: A 40-minute detour from Hoback Junction sits a natural hot spring in the wilderness of Bridger-Teton National Forest. The hot springs pool is perfect for a relaxing soak after a long day of driving.

    • Whitewater Rafting: Snake River Canyon near Jackson: This is an iconic spot for outdoor recreation. One of the top activities here is whitewater rafting, with Class II and III rapids offering an exciting adventure. The canyon also features scenic drives, fishing, and wildlife watching, with stunning views of the Snake River and rugged cliffs.

    Stop 8: Option B: Jackson, WY

    • Dining & Shopping: Jackson, Wyoming, serves as the gateway to Grand Teton National Park. While in Jackson, explore the historic Town Square with its famous antler arches, enjoy boutique shopping, and experience world-class dining. For those seeking adventure, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers activities year-round, from skiing in winter to hiking and mountain biking in summer. The National Elk Refuge is another must-see, providing opportunities to see thousands of elk in their winter habitat.

    • Restaurant With A View: Dornan’s Restaurant: Close to Moose Wilson Road, Dornan's is a beloved restaurant offering a terrace with stunning views of the Tetons.

    Stop 9: Option B: Grand Teton National Park

    • Highlight Photography: Mormon Row: This historic area is famous for the iconic Moulton Barn, one of the most photographed barns in America. With the Teton Range as a backdrop, it’s a favorite spot for photographers.

    • Scenic Drive: Teton Park Road: This is the main road that runs through Grand Teton National Park. Follow this on your way from Jackson to Moran. Teton Park Road follows the base of the Teton Range, starting where Teton Park Road intersects US Highway 89/191 near Moose, WY. From here, you’ll have access to amazing viewpoints and popular trailheads such as String and Leigh Lakes, Jenny Lake, and Taggart Lake.

    • Highlight Hiking: Jenny Lake: One of the park's most iconic spots, Jenny Lake offers breathtaking views, scenic boat rides, and easy access to hiking trails. The nearby Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, and Cascade Canyon hikes are popular hiking trails.

    • Quick View of Grand Teton National Park: Colter Bay Marina: To explore the Tetons, we highly recommend extending your road trip with lodging for one or two nights in Jackson, WY, or Grand Teton National Park. However, if you only have time to drive through and want a quick but beautiful view, stop in Colter Bay Village. This is on your way to Yellowstone’s South Entrance and offers a gorgeous marina and mountain view in Grand Teton National Park.

    • Restaurant: Trapper Grill: Located at the nearby Signal Mountain Lodge, this restaurant in Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning views of Jackson Lake and the Teton Range. The Trapper Grill offers a casual dining experience with menu items like bison burgers, trout, and their famous huckleberry hotcakes.

    Final Stop: Yellowstone National Park

    • Highlight: Everything! Enter through Yellowstone’s South Entrance, then drive west to Old Faithful to witness an eruption of one of the park's most famous geysers—or drive east to pass by the shore of Yellowstone Lake on your way to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You can’t go wrong no matter which direction you head first.

     

    Yellowstone Itineraries (Plus maps, seasonal advice, & more!)

    Plan the ultimate Yellowstone vacation with our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide! With insider tips, detailed maps, and tailored itineraries for each season, ensure you don’t miss out on the best things to do and see in Yellowstone year-round. Crafted from personal experience over 9 years and 10 trips (& counting), our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide is packed with expert advice for experiencing the best—and less-traveled—parts of Yellowstone National Park. Take the overwhelm out of planning a vacation to one of America’s largest national parks and make the most of your visit with our comprehensive, easy-to-use travel guide.

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    Happy Travels!

     
    Kelly W
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