Salt Lake City to Yellowstone Road Trip: Best Routes and Scenic Stops
A road trip from Salt Lake City is a fantastic way to get to America’s first national Park. Whether you're looking for the fastest route to get to the park or prefer a more scenic drive that takes you through Grand Teton National Park, both options offer plenty of attractions, dining, and outdoor adventures. Here's a guide to help you plan your perfect road trip from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone!
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Salt Lake City to Yellowstone: The Details
Salt Lake City is approximately 320 miles from Yellowstone National Park. Depending on route, traffic, and road conditions, it takes about 5-6 hours of driving time (without long stops).
The fastest route is from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone’s West Entrance (near West Yellowstone, MT) via I-15 N and US-20 E through Utah and Idaho. Another option is to drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone’s South Entrance, near Moran, WY. This route adds an hour to your road trip but follows US-191 N/US-287 N/US-89 N through Grand Teton National Park.
It’s possible to complete this drive in 1 day of driving—or you could plan a long weekend road trip. Key stops include Tremonton, UT (Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and Golden Spike National Historical Park); Lava Hot Springs, ID; Soda Springs, ID; and Jackson, WY. You could also visit Bear Lake State Park.
Consider booking overnight stays in Lava Hot Springs, ID, or Alpine, WY, depending on your interests. Enjoy some R&R at the hot springs pool in Lava Hot Springs or enjoy the stunning recreation adventure on Palisade Reservoir near Alpine, WY.
You’ll enter Yellowstone National Park via the West Entrance, near West Yellowstone, MT, or the South Entrance, which brings you to the east side of Grand Teton National Park. It’s about an hour faster to Yellowstone’s West Entrance—although we highly recommend driving to (or from) the South so you can visit Grand Teton National Park on your way there or back.
Early June through October are generally the best months to drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone, as roads are clear, national parks are fully accessible, and weather conditions are more favorable for hiking and sightseeing.
Bear Lake © [Savageslc] and Loaded Baked Potato © [bhofack2] via Canva.com
(Fastest) 1-Day Phoenix to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary
Here’s a look at the fastest route from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone’s West Entrance, near West Yellowstone, MT.
The fastest route from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone is a direct one-day route, but if you're looking for one or two fun stops, consider the following ideas.
Stop 1: Lava Hot Springs
Short Detour: Lava Hot Springs Foundation World-Famous Hot Springs: Though a short detour, grab some R&R at the world-famous hot springs in Lava Hot Springs. These pools are open year-round and offer a relaxing experience with beautiful surroundings.
Stop 2: Pocatello, ID
Roadside Attraction: Idaho Potato Museum & Potato Station Cafe: On the way north from Pocatello toward Idaho Falls, stop at the Idaho Potato Museum to learn all about Idaho’s most famous crop. Make sure to take a photo with the giant potato statue out front. If you’re looking for a meal to-go, consider ordering ahead of time so your potatoes are already baked to perfection once you arrive.
Stop 3: Idaho Falls
Stretch Your Legs: Idaho Falls River Walk: This picturesque walking path is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the water.
Restaurant: Sandpiper Restaurant: Serving seafood and steaks with a view of the Snake River, Sandpiper Restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience by the water.
Hiking Highlight: Upper Mesa Falls: On the drive from Idaho Falls to Island Park, take a short detour off US-20 to see Upper Mesa Falls, a 114-foot waterfall on the Henrys Fork of the Snake River. The falls are easily accessible via a scenic trail and viewing platforms.
Stop 4: Island Park
State Park Highlight: Harriman State Park: On the way to Island Park, you’ll find Harriman State Park, spanning over 16,000 acres of beautiful landscapes and offering excellent fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking and biking trails.
World-Class Fishing: Henry’s Lake: Island Park is a prime fishing destination. Henry's Lake offers excellent trout fishing, especially in spring and fall, while Island Park Reservoir provides shore and boat fishing for families and novice anglers.
Entertainment: The Playmill Theatre: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and high-energy shows, the Playmill Theatre offers a mix of musicals and comedies fun for all ages.
Restaurant: Mack’s Inn Parlor Pizza & Ice Cream: A popular local eatery serving wood-fired pizzas and ice cream.
Final Stop: Yellowstone National Park
Highlight: Everything! Enter through the West Entrance, then drive south to Yellowstone’s geysers and thermal areas to witness an eruption of one of the park's most famous geysers—or drive north to Mammoth Hot Springs and the incredible wildlife-watching opportunities along Yellowstone’s Northern Range.
(Most Scenic) 3+ Day Salt Lake City to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary
This scenic route takes you from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone’s South Entrance and gives plenty of time for overnight stops, scenic views, and excursions. Consider overnight stops in Lava Hot Springs, Jackson, WY, or Grand Teton National Park.
Route Choice: A fork in the road
You can choose which route you’d prefer to follow to Yellowstone’s South Entrance. Near Brigham City—about 55 miles from Salt Lake City—you can either continue straight to stay on I-15 N or take the exit toward US-91/US-89.
Staying straight will bring you through destinations like Lava Hot Springs and Soda Springs, while exiting will bring you past Bear Lake State Park. Both routes reconnect near Alpine, WY, on your way to Jackson and Grand Teton National Park.
For this post, Option A signifies staying straight toward Lava Hot Springs, which is the shorter route in driving time by about 25 minutes. However, Option B, turning toward Bear Lake State Park, is actually about 10 miles shorter. So… the choice is yours! Pick the route with stops that interest you most.
Here's route "A," the main route highlighted in this post.
Route "B" is another option and takes you past the stunning Bear Lake State Park.
Stop 1: Option A: Tremonton, UT
Scenic Detour: Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge: This 74,000-acre wetland habitat serves as a sanctuary for more than 200 bird species. It’s especially popular during migration seasons in the spring and fall when flocks of waterfowl, shorebirds, and raptors can be seen. Explore the refuge via a self-guided 12-mile auto loop.
Historical Highlight: Golden Spike National Historical Park: This marks the site where the first transcontinental railroad was completed on May 10, 1869, uniting the East and West coasts of the United States. The park features replica steam locomotives brought to life with reenactments and demonstrations during the summer.
Restaurant: The Grille Restaurant: Get a bite to eat from a menu that includes everything from burgers and sandwiches to classic breakfast dishes.
Restaurant: J Brian's Smokehouse: Known for its authentic, slow-cooked BBQ, J Brian’s Smokehouse features a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, all prepared with their signature rubs and sauces.
Stop 1: Option B: Bear Lake
Bear Lake State Park is a stunning destination on the border of Utah and Idaho, renowned for its striking turquoise waters and scenic landscapes. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Swimming and Sunbathing: The warm, shallow waters of Bear Lake are perfect for swimming, and the sandy beaches provide a great spot for sunbathing.
Boating and Water Sports: Bear Lake is popular for boating, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. Boat rentals are available; there are several marinas and launch ramps where visitors can access the water.
Fishing: The lake is home to various fish species, including cutthroat trout and lake trout, making it a popular fishing destination. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shore or a boat, with plenty of spots to cast a line.
Hiking and Biking: The park offers numerous trails for hiking and biking, providing opportunities to explore the area's natural beauty.
Bear Lake Raspberry Days: If visiting in August, don’t miss the annual Raspberry Days festival, celebrating the local raspberry harvest with activities, food, and entertainment. If you’re not visiting in August, no worries. Stop by Hometown Drive-In or LaBeau’s Drive-In for a famous raspberry shake.
Stop 2: Option A: Lava Hot Springs
World-Famous R&R: Lava Hot Springs Foundation World-Famous Hot Springs: The main attraction in Lava Hot Springs is the hot pools, naturally heated mineral pools ranging in temperature from 102°F to 112°F. These pools are open year-round and offer a relaxing experience with beautiful surroundings.
Summer Fun: Portneuf River: Tubing along the Portneuf River is a popular summer activity, as the river’s gentle to moderate rapids make it an ideal spot for tubing. You can rent tubes from several outfitters in town.
Roadside (& Riverside) Dining: Riverwalk Thai Food: Near the Portneuf River, Riverwalk Thai Food is a cozy restaurant offering authentic Thai cuisine, including popular dishes like Pad Thai, curries, and fresh spring rolls.
Brewery: Eruption Brewing and Bistro: Located near the hot springs pools, Eruption Brewing and Bistro is a laid-back spot known for its craft beers. With a relaxed, cozy interior and a spacious outdoor patio, it’s a great place to unwind after a day at the hot springs while enjoying local brews and hearty food.
Hiking Highlight: Idaho Centennial Trail from Lava Hot Springs: Accessible from town, this approximately 2-mile out-and-back trail leads to beautiful views of Lava Hot Springs.
Roadside Attraction: Lava Hot Springs Olympic Swimming Complex: The Olympic Swimming Complex is a fun, family-friendly attraction with multiple pools, water slides, and diving platforms. The complex also includes an indoor pool, making it a popular spot no matter the weather.
Stop 3: Option A: Soda Springs, ID
Watch a Geyser Erupt: Soda Springs Geyser: The Soda Springs Geyser is the world’s only captive geyser. It was accidentally discovered in 1937 when drilling for a hot water source, and now, it shoots water up to 70 feet high, erupting every hour on the hour. The geyser is in a small park, where visitors can watch the eruption and learn about how the Secretary of the Interior once asked to turn off the Soda Springs Geyser for it was “throwing the world-famous ‘Old Faithful Geyser’ off schedule.”
Sample Sparkling Water: Hooper Springs: Hooper Springs is a natural carbonated spring where visitors can sample naturally fizzy water straight from the source. Enjoy the unique taste of natural soda water that made the town famous.
Birdwatching: Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge: Located just outside Soda Springs, Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The refuge spans over 22,000 acres of wetlands and grasslands, attracting various bird species, including sandhill cranes, trumpeter swans, and other migratory birds.
Hotel & Cafe: Enders Hotel: Located within the historic Enders Hotel, this cafe serves classic American comfort food in a setting that brings you back in time.
Roadside Restaurant: Arctic Circle: This local fast-food favorite is known for its burgers, fries, and famous "Above the Rim" milkshakes. Conveniently located for travelers, Arctic Circle offers quick, tasty meals ideal for grabbing on the go.
Stop 4: Alpine, WY, and Bridger-Teton National Forest
Here’s where the routes reconnect, whether you choose the hot springs or Bear Lake route.
Outdoor Adventure: Palisades Reservoir: Located on the Idaho-Wyoming border, the reservoir spans over 16,000 acres and is surrounded by the scenic mountains of the Caribou-Targhee and Bridger-Teton National Forests. It’s a popular boating, paddleboarding, fishing, and water sports destination. You’ll also find hiking access to Bear Creek Hot Springs Trail, Big Elk Creek Trailhead, and Palisades Creek Trailhead. Fishing enthusiasts might love staying overnight in the nearby Lodge at Palisades Creek.
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: 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. Consider rafting trips with Teton Whitewater, about 30 minutes from Alpine toward Jackson.
Stop 5: 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.
Grab ‘N Go: Persephone Bakery: A cozy spot in Jackson Hole known for its freshly baked pastries, artisanal bread, and gourmet coffee. Ideal for breakfast or a quick snack.
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 6: Grand Teton National Park
Quick View: 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’re just driving through and want a quick but beautiful Teton view, stop in Colter Bay Village. This is on your way to Yellowstone’s South Entrance and offers a gorgeous marina and mountain view.
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.
Highlight Photography: Schwabacher Landing & Mormon Row: Schwabacher Landing is a peaceful spot along the Snake River known for its stunning reflections of the Teton Range, especially at sunrise. It's an ideal place for photography and wildlife viewing, often with sightings of moose, beavers, and various bird species. Mormon Row, on the other hand, is a historic area 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.
Snake River Overlook in Grand Teton National Park
Final Stop: Yellowstone National Park
Highlight: Everything! Enter through the 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.
Keep Planning Your Trip to Yellowstone
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.
Created 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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