Yellowstone National Park is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, and for those traveling by RV, there’s no better way to enjoy the sights than by hitting the open road. Staying at Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park gives you a perfect base to explore a variety of scenic routes that are not only beautiful but also RV-friendly. Here’s a guide to the top scenic drives near Yellowstone that are ideal for RV travelers, complete with tips for making the most of your road trip experience.
1. Gallatin Canyon Scenic Drive – West Yellowstone to Bozeman
This beautiful drive follows U.S. Highway 191 north from West Yellowstone to Bozeman, Montana, winding through the stunning Gallatin Canyon alongside the Gallatin River. The route is RV-friendly with gentle curves and wide lanes, making it a comfortable and scenic option for those looking to experience some of Montana’s best landscapes.
- Highlights: Towering canyon walls, riverside pullouts, picnic spots, and views of the Gallatin Range.
- Driving Distance: Approximately 90 miles (about 2 hours one-way).
- RV-Friendly Tips: There are several pullouts along the route for photo opportunities, picnics, or a break to stretch your legs. This route is ideal for RVs due to its wide shoulders and easy access to Bozeman for dining and shopping.
2. Hebgen Lake and Earthquake Lake Scenic Loop
For a shorter but equally beautiful trip, head west from West Yellowstone to explore Hebgen Lake and Earthquake Lake along U.S. Highway 287. This route offers a mix of stunning lake views, fascinating geological history, and convenient pull-offs for RV travelers.
- Highlights: Sparkling lake views, historic Earthquake Lake Visitor Center, and ample pullouts for fishing, picnicking, and photos.
- Driving Distance: Approximately 50 miles round-trip.
- RV-Friendly Tips: The Earthquake Lake Visitor Center has RV parking and provides insight into the 1959 earthquake that reshaped the area. This loop is especially easy to navigate in an RV, with low traffic and well-maintained roads.
3. Teton Pass Scenic Drive – West Yellowstone to Jackson, WY
The drive from West Yellowstone to Jackson, Wyoming, via Teton Pass offers travelers a mix of wide-open valleys, mountain views, and wildlife sightings. Take U.S. Highway 20 south from West Yellowstone to Highway 26, leading to the quaint town of Jackson and views of the magnificent Tetons.
- Highlights: Views of the Teton Range, wide open valleys, and wildlife sightings along the way.
- Driving Distance: Approximately 80 miles one-way.
- RV-Friendly Tips: Teton Pass has some steep grades, so take it slow on the descent and be prepared for high winds. Once in Jackson, there are RV-friendly parking areas and options to explore the town’s shops, galleries, and eateries.
4. Yellowstone Scenic Loop – North Entrance to West Entrance
If you’re interested in exploring Yellowstone National Park itself, this scenic loop is a perfect choice. Start from Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park and head into the park’s West Entrance, traveling to the North Entrance at Gardiner. The loop allows you to explore highlights such as Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, and more.
- Highlights: Mammoth Hot Springs, riverside views, geyser basins, and abundant wildlife viewing areas.
- Driving Distance: Approximately 120 miles round-trip.
- RV-Friendly Tips: RVs are allowed on this route, but be sure to check road conditions and seasonal closures, as some areas may be more crowded. There are RV-friendly pullouts for safe wildlife viewing and ample parking near major attractions.
5. Beartooth Highway – Red Lodge to Cooke City, MT
Though it requires some planning, the Beartooth Highway is an iconic route for adventurous RV drivers. This scenic drive is known for its breathtaking mountain views, alpine lakes, and meadows filled with wildflowers. While the road includes high-altitude sections and switchbacks, it’s one of the most rewarding drives for RVers with a love for mountain landscapes.
- Highlights: High alpine lakes, panoramic mountain vistas, and vibrant wildflower fields.
- Driving Distance: Approximately 68 miles one-way from Red Lodge to Cooke City.
- RV-Friendly Tips: This route is recommended for experienced RV drivers due to the steep grades and sharp curves. Make sure to check weather conditions, as snow and ice can linger well into summer. Consider stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way to fully enjoy the views and let your brakes cool on the descent.
6. Madison River Valley Drive – West Yellowstone to Ennis, MT
This peaceful drive along Highway 287 from West Yellowstone to Ennis, Montana, is a hidden gem for those seeking a more relaxed road trip. Following the Madison River, the route offers tranquil river views, historic sites, and frequent wildlife sightings.
- Highlights: Scenic river views, wildlife, historic fishing spots, and the charming town of Ennis.
- Driving Distance: Approximately 70 miles one-way.
- RV-Friendly Tips: This route is relatively flat and easy for RV drivers, with plenty of pull-offs for fishing or photo opportunities. Ennis is a great place to grab a meal and explore local shops before heading back to West Yellowstone.
7. Firehole Lake Drive – A Geyser-Filled Mini Route
For an easy and short scenic route, take Firehole Lake Drive within Yellowstone National Park. This one-way drive is only a few miles long, but it’s packed with geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and colorful mineral pools. Perfect for an afternoon outing, this route offers a unique way to experience Yellowstone’s thermal wonders without venturing too far.
- Highlights: Hot springs, geysers, and mineral pools.
- Driving Distance: Approximately 3 miles (one-way).
- RV-Friendly Tips: This drive is best for small to medium RVs due to limited parking in some areas. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid crowds and experience the unique landscape in different lighting.
Tips for RV Drivers Exploring Scenic Routes Near Yellowstone
- Check Road Conditions: Some routes are seasonal and can have closures due to weather or maintenance, especially higher-elevation roads like Beartooth Highway.
- Keep an Eye on Wildlife: Wildlife is abundant near Yellowstone, and animals often wander onto the roads. Drive cautiously, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Utilize Pullouts: Scenic pullouts provide safe places to enjoy the views, take photos, or let faster vehicles pass. They’re also a great way to experience Yellowstone’s landscapes without holding up traffic.
Start Your Adventure from Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park
Exploring these scenic routes from Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park allows you to experience some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes, all from the comfort of your RV. Whether you’re seeking serene river views, expansive mountain vistas, or unique geothermal features, each route offers something special. These RV-friendly routes let you immerse yourself in the beauty surrounding Yellowstone without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.
So pack your travel essentials, hit the road, and enjoy the best of Montana and Wyoming with these unforgettable scenic drives. The beauty of Yellowstone and its neighboring regions await, and every mile promises a new adventure just beyond your RV window.
