Yellowstone Road Trip from Salt Lake City – Best Stops Along the Way and More

Imagine waking up each morning to a new backdrop of towering mountains, gushing geysers, and roaming wildlife, all from the comfort of your home on wheels. This dream can be a reality if you take a Yellowstone road trip from Salt Lake City. Starting in Salt Lake City, you’re at the crossroads of urban charm and outdoor gateway. Driving towards Yellowstone, you transition from the city’s lively streets to the tranquil paths of nature’s untouched territories. 

Choosing an RV for this road trip enhances the experience, blending the comforts of home with the thrill of the open road. An RV allows for spontaneous stops to soak in the views, easy access to remote beauty spots, and the freedom to set your own pace. In your home on wheels, you’ll experience the comfort of a familiar space, no matter where you park for the night. 

Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or a first-time RV renter, this journey promises unforgettable experiences, from the thrill of spotting a bison herd in the vast plains to the wonder of witnessing Old Faithful’s timely eruptions. So pack your spirit of adventure (and maybe some marshmallows for the campfire), and let’s hit the road to Yellowstone, where every mile tells a story and every stop is a new chapter in your travel tale.

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Selecting a vehicle that suits your needs is crucial for comfort and convenience. Consider size, amenities, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. An RV is best suited for road trips, as it allows you to get the experience of being on the road but with the added benefits of having a home-on-wheels with you. 

A well-equipped RV with ample space, a reliable engine, and essential facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and comfortable sleeping areas enhances the travel experience.

Some options for the best RVs for road trips include:

Class A Motorhomes: The Luxurious Choice

Class A motorhomes are the epitome of road trip luxury, offering spacious interiors and top-notch amenities. These large RVs are perfect for families or groups that prioritize comfort and have a bit more budget. With features like full kitchens, bathrooms, and comfortable sleeping quarters, a Class A motorhome is like a home on wheels, ideal for the long journey to Yellowstone and back.

Class B Campervans: Compact and Versatile

Class B campervans are an excellent choice for those who prefer a more nimble and fuel-efficient option. These smaller vehicles are easier to navigate through winding mountain roads. They can access more remote camping spots that larger RVs can’t. While they offer limited space compared to Class A motorhomes, they are well-designed with essential features for a comfortable journey, making them ideal for couples or solo travelers.

 

Class C Motorhomes: The Middle Ground

Class C motorhomes strike a balance between Class A’s spaciousness and Class B’s maneuverability. They provide ample living space, including separate areas for sleeping, dining, and relaxation, without being too cumbersome to drive. This makes them a great option for families or groups looking for a comfortable trip with more flexibility in where they can travel.

Travel Trailers: Versatile and Detachable

Travel trailers offer the flexibility of detaching your living quarters from your vehicle, allowing you to set up camp and use the towing vehicle for local exploration. They come in various sizes, from compact models perfect for couples to larger options suitable for families. Travel trailers require a capable towing vehicle, so ensure your truck or SUV has the necessary power and towing capacity.

Fifth Wheel Trailers: Spacious and Stable

Fifth-wheel trailers provide extensive living space and are known for their stability on the road, thanks to the gooseneck connector. They often feature luxury amenities similar to Class A motorhomes, including full-sized kitchens and multiple sleeping areas. A fifth wheel is ideal for those who want the comfort of a large RV with the option to detach and explore their surroundings in the towing vehicle.

Route Planning

Mapping out your route is essential for a smooth journey. Salt Lake City to Yellowstone driving will cover approximately 320 miles and take around 6 to 7 hours, but the true essence of the journey lies in the exploration and stops along the way. Here’s a practical and straightforward breakdown of your road trip route from SLC to Yellowstone:

Start in Salt Lake City: Begin your journey in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Take I-15 North: Head north on Interstate 15 (I-15) toward Ogden, Utah. This stretch offers straightforward driving and is well-signposted.

Merge onto I-84 East: Near Ogden, merge onto Interstate 84 (I-84), heading east towards Morgan and Echo. This route takes you through the scenic Weber Canyon.

Connect to US-89 North: At Echo, exit I-84 and take US-89 North. This highway leads you through the towns of Woodruff and Garden City, skirting the beautiful Bear Lake.

Continue on US-89 to Montpelier: Stay on US-89 as it enters Idaho, passing through Montpelier. If desired, you can take a quick detour to visit the National Oregon/California Trail Center.

Head towards Wyoming on US-89: Proceed on US-89 North into Wyoming, traveling through the scenic Star Valley and passing through towns like Afton and Alpine.

Join US-26 East: In Alpine, join US-26 East and follow it to Jackson, Wyoming. This part of the journey offers stunning views of the Snake River and the surrounding mountains.

Drive through Grand Teton National Park: From Jackson, drive north through Grand Teton National Park on US-26/US-89/US-191. This route provides spectacular views of the Teton Range.

Enter Yellowstone National Park: Continue on the same highway, which becomes US-191 North, to enter Yellowstone National Park through its South Entrance.

Preparing for the Road

Vehicle Readiness

Ensure your RV is in top condition with a thorough check-up focusing on engine performance, tire integrity, brake function, and fluid levels. Regular maintenance and addressing mechanical issues beforehand prevent roadside troubles and ensure a safer trip.

Packing Essentials

Packing wisely is vital for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are some packing tips and tricks for your drive from SLC to Yellowstone:

• Pack for Varied Weather: The journey will take you through different climates, from Salt Lake City’s mild weather to Yellowstone’s unpredictable weather. Pack layers, including warm clothing and rain gear.
• Space-Saving Essentials: Utilize space-saving items like collapsible kitchenware, vacuum-sealed bags for clothes, and multi-functional furniture.
• Food and Cooking Supplies: Plan your meals and pack accordingly. Bring non-perishable food items and stock up on fresh produce when possible. Don’t forget cooking utensils, portable grills, or camp stoves.
• Emergency Kit and Tools: Include a first-aid kit, essential repair tools, extra batteries, flashlights, and emergency road assistance tools. Ensure your RV has a spare tire and the necessary equipment to change it.
• Entertainment and Leisure Items: Bring books, games, fishing gear, hiking equipment, or bikes to enjoy the diverse landscapes and activities along the way.
• Navigation Aids: Carry updated maps, a GPS device, and guidebooks for national parks and campgrounds. Mobile apps can also help you find RV-friendly routes and amenities.
• Essential Documents: Carry all necessary documents, including driver’s license, RV insurance, vehicle registration, and reservation confirmations.
• Water and Fuel: Have a sufficient water supply and monitor your fuel levels, knowing that gas stations may be sparse in remote areas.
• Respect Wildlife and Nature: Pack binoculars for wildlife viewing and ensure you have bear-proof containers for food storage in Yellowstone.
• Stay Connected: Consider a portable Wi-Fi hotspot or ensure your phone plan covers the areas you will be traveling through, especially in remote locations where signals can be weak.

Best Time for RV Road Trip from SLC to Yellowstone

The ideal time for this journey is late spring to early fall, with May through September being the prime months. The weather is pleasant during these times, and Yellowstone’s facilities are fully operational. Late spring offers the benefits of fewer crowds and active wildlife, while early fall provides stunning autumnal colors with a tranquil atmosphere.

Top Stops on Your Yellowstone Road Trip from Salt Lake City

Ogden, Utah

What makes it special: Ogden is a city with a rich history, once a major railway hub. Today, it’s known for its historic 25th Street, where you can find quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants in beautifully restored buildings. The George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park is a must-visit, featuring life-sized dinosaur sculptures set in a natural environment, offering a prehistoric journey back in time.

Antelope Island State Park

What makes it special: As the largest island in the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island is famous for its stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, and recreational activities. It’s home to a large bison herd, pronghorn antelope, and many bird species, especially during migration seasons. Hiking, biking, and photography are popular activities here, with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Lagoon Amusement Park, Farmington

What makes it special: Lagoon Amusement Park is a family-friendly destination with over 50 rides, including thrilling roller coasters, a water park, and a pioneer village that gives a glimpse into Utah’s history. It’s a place where fun meets nostalgia, offering entertainment for all ages.

Hill Aerospace Museum, Ogden

What makes it special: Located near Ogden, this museum is part of the United States Air Force Heritage Program and showcases a collection of aircraft, artifacts, and memorabilia that illustrate the history of aviation, particularly the role of the U.S. Air Force. With free admission, it’s an educational stop that appeals to history buffs and technology enthusiasts.

Golden Spike National Historical Park, Corinne

What makes it special: This site commemorates the completion of the first transcontinental railroad, a pivotal event in American history. Visitors can see replicas of the steam locomotives that met here in 1869 and participate in reenactments of the driving of the final spike.

Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Brigham City

What makes it special: The refuge provides critical habitat for migratory birds across the Pacific and Central Flyways. With a unique array of wetland and upland habitats, visitors can observe a diverse array of bird species, especially during migration periods. The visitor center offers educational displays and a scenic driving tour.

Crystal Hot Springs, Honeyville

What makes it special: Known for having the highest mineral content of any hot spring in the world, Crystal Hot Springs offers a therapeutic and relaxing experience. With both hot and cold pools, it provides a unique opportunity to soak in naturally heated mineral water while enjoying the surrounding scenic views.

Lava Hot Springs, Idaho

What makes it special: This small town is famous for its natural hot springs, where visitors can enjoy soaking in thermal pools with varying temperatures. Lava Hot Springs is also known for its outdoor activities, including tubing and swimming in the Portneuf River.

Idaho Potato Museum, Blackfoot

What makes it special: This museum highlights the importance of the potato to Idaho’s economy and culture. Through exhibits and artifacts, visitors learn about the history of potato farming, the science behind potato cultivation, and the role of potatoes in global cuisine.

West Yellowstone, Montana

What makes it special: This gateway town to Yellowstone National Park offers access to some of the park’s most famous attractions, like the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, where visitors can learn about and observe these iconic animals in a naturalistic setting. West Yellowstone also serves as a base for exploring the park’s vast landscapes and geothermal features.

How Much Time Should I Spend in Yellowstone?

Spend at least three to five days in Yellowstone to thoroughly explore its vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems. This duration allows you to visit the major geothermal attractions, such as Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, and still have time for wildlife viewing, hiking, and possibly some leisurely exploration of the lesser-known areas.

Exploring Yellowstone National Park

Must-Visit Attractions in Yellowstone

• Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin: Witness the iconic Old Faithful geyser, which erupts every 35 to 120 minutes. The surrounding Upper Geyser Basin is home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world and offers an extensive network of boardwalks and trails to explore.
• Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Marvel at this stunning canyon with its mighty waterfalls, including the Lower and Upper Falls. The views from Artist Point and Lookout Point are not to be missed, offering panoramic vistas of the canyon’s vibrant colors.
• Mammoth Hot Springs: Discover terraced hot springs formed by limestone deposits, creating a surreal landscape. The nearby Mammoth Village offers historical buildings and more accessible RV parking options.
• Yellowstone Lake: Relax by one of North America’s largest high-altitude lakes and explore the West Thumb Geyser Basin along its shores. The basin features unique thermal features against the backdrop of the lake.
• Hayden and Lamar Valleys: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, these valleys offer the best opportunities to view bison, elk, bears, and wolves in their natural habitat, with roads accessible for RVs.
• Norris Geyser Basin: Experience the park’s hottest and most dynamic thermal area, with features like Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser.

Discover Lesser-Known Gems in Yellowstone

• Lone Star Geyser: A secluded geyser that erupts approximately every 3 hours, offering a peaceful alternative to the more crowded Old Faithful. The hike to Lone Star Geyser is an easy trek along the Firehole River.
• Fairy Falls: One of Yellowstone’s tallest waterfalls, Fairy Falls offers a rewarding hike from above, with a unique vantage point of the Grand Prismatic Spring.
• Black Sand Basin: Close to the Upper Geyser Basin, this area features a collection of hot springs and geysers set against a backdrop of dark volcanic sand, with fewer visitors compared to nearby attractions.
• Slough Creek: A serene spot for fishing and wildlife viewing, known for its abundant cutthroat trout and sightings of the Lamar Valley wolf packs.
• Specimen Ridge: Home to an extensive collection of petrified wood, offering hikers a challenging but rewarding journey through Yellowstone’s ancient volcanic landscape.
• Trout Lake: A picturesque mountain lake, known for its clear waters and wildlife, especially during the cutthroat trout spawning season in June.
• Pelican Creek Nature Trail: An easy trail that winds through forest and beach, offering beautiful views of Yellowstone Lake and birdwatching opportunities.

Staying in Yellowstone

Choosing the right campground or RV park in Yellowstone enhances the experience. Options range from developed campgrounds with full amenities to more rustic, back-to-nature settings. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel seasons! 

Check out our detailed guide to RV parking in Yellowstone National Park for 2024 for a deep dive into everything you need to know to prepare for your visit!

Start Planning Your Salt Lake City to Yellowstone RV Trip Today

Planning, preparation, and flexibility are key to a successful RV road trip. Staying informed about road conditions, weather forecasts, and local regulations while also being open to spontaneous discoveries ensures a memorable and enjoyable journey.

Stay updated with the latest in-park road conditions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.

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