The Perfect Chicago to Yellowstone Road Trip
Chicago is a city with endless things to do, but sometimes, you might crave adventures in the great outdoors. So, leave the city's busy streets behind and hit the road for a journey to Yellowstone on this scenic road trip that showcases the best of rugged mountain scenery, stunning national parks, and amazing landmarks to visit on the way,
You can do this 1,690-mile road trip from Chicago to Yellowstone in 26 hours. Highlights include Iowa City, Des Moines, Omaha, Lincoln, Denver Rocky Mountain National Park, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Jackson and Grand Teton National Park.
This epic drive from Chicago to Yellowstone will be filled with adventures and incredible memories every mile. Read on to learn about the best routes, the best places to stop, the best season to travel, and the best things to see and do along the way.
Where is Yellowstone and how far is a road trip from Chicago?
The Chicago to Yellowstone road trip is a feast for the eyes, and not only will it take you to one of the most popular national parks in the country, but it will also give you the chance to visit a few more on the way.
You have two remarkable routes to choose from: the historic Mount Rushmore Route or the majestic Denver Route. Each route is full of scenic places, cultural treasures, and natural wonders.
On the Mount Rushmore Route, you'll cover 1,500 miles of changing landscapes, from the urban sprawl of Chicago to the rugged views of Yellowstone.
You'll drive through cities such as Rockford, Madison, Sioux Falls, and Rapid City. You'll also get to stop at the Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
The entire trip spans approximately 22 hours and 30 minutes of driving. To get the most out of this route, you'll need over 5 to 6 days.
Alternatively, the Denver Route unfolds over 1,690 miles. You'll be on the road for around 26 hours, with a recommended length of 7 to 8 days, to enjoy this adventure fully.
Starting from Chicago, the route leads through Des Moines, Omaha, Lincoln, and North Platte before reaching Denver. It then ascends into the Rocky Mountain National Park and culminates in Jackson before the final stretch to Yellowstone.
How long is the road trip from Chicago to Yellowstone, and how many days will it take?
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Recommended Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Rushmore Route | 1,500 miles | 22 hours 30 minutes | 5-6 Days |
| Denver Route | 1,690 miles | 26 hours | 7-8 Days |
What is the best road trip route from Chicago to Yellowstone?
The best road trip route from Chicago to Yellowstone will depend on how much time you have and what you'd like to visit. That being said, this is how our two routes stack up against each other, looking at some factors that might influence your decision.
| Mount Rushmore Route | Denver Route | |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Driving | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Scenery | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Facilities | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Things to do | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Traffic Flow | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Driving from Chicago to Yellowstone via Mount Rushmore
On the Mount Rushmore Route, you'll carve through the heart of America, blending urban fun with the raw beauty of the American heartland. From Chicago, you'll stay on major highways such as Interstate 90 (I-90), offering a smooth and straightforward driving experience.
As you progress, the scenery transforms. From the skyline of Chicago to beautiful Wisconsin Dells, scenic Badlands National Park, the familiar faces carved on the cliffs of Mount Rushmore, the expansive plains of Montana, and finally, the natural splendor of Yellowstone National Park.
There are plenty of facilities along this route, especially in major cities and tourist hotspots like Wisconsin Dells and Bozeman. There are some stretches, however, where gas stations and stores become less frequent.
The congestion of Chicago gives way to lighter, more manageable traffic, though peak tourist season can lead to congestion, particularly as you near Yellowstone.
Driving from Chicago to Yellowstone via Denver
On the Denver Route, prepare for the ultimate road trip through the American wilderness. Beginning in Chicago, you'll drive through the towering peaks of Denver and the breathtaking expanses of Rocky Mountain National Park. The route is well-paved and marked, but always watch out for weather warnings.
The scenery you'll encounter is unparalleled from the architecture of Chicago to the vast plains leading up to the Rockies, and finally, the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Jackson and Yellowstone.
You'll have plenty of services and amenities along the way, though they may become sparse in more remote locations, especially on the stretch between Denver and Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.
The array of things to do along this route is as diverse as the scenery itself. Whether you're exploring the urban charm of Denver, hiking through Rocky Mountain National Park, or gazing at the Grand Teton and Yellowstone, there's no shortage of activities and attractions to enrich your journey.
However, keep in mind that you might need to make a reservation to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, and any other national parks you might want to spend some time at, so check before you visit.
While Chicago and Denver can be congested, the roads through the national parks may also see heavy traffic in peak tourist seasons. The stretches between these key points are usually much smoother.
Driving Route from Chicago to Yellowstone
Below, you can find high-level details of where each route will take you. We recommend using GPS for detailed instructions as this is the best way to see the step-by-step directions for your road trip from Chicago to Yellowstone.
Driving the Mount Rushmore Route
Begin your adventure from Chicago, heading northwest towards Wisconsin Dells via I-90. As you continue on I-90, you'll experience the picturesque views of Wisconsin before arriving in Wisconsin Dells, famous for its waterparks and family entertainment.
Leaving the Dells, your journey stretches further westward, crossing the mighty Mississippi River into Minnesota and then South Dakota, where you can visit Sioux Falls.
The route then guides you through South Dakota's landscapes, from its prairies to the rugged Badlands National Park. As you approach the Black Hills region, you will be able to visit Rapid City and then the world-famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Leaving Mount Rushmore, head west into Wyoming on US-212 and then I-90 towards Bozeman, Montana. Bozeman serves as a gateway to the outdoor adventures of Montana.
Finally, the route concludes as you drive south from Bozeman, entering Yellowstone National Park through its north entrance.
Driving the Denver Route
Starting in Chicago, take I-88 westward through the plains of Illinois and Iowa. This initial leg of your trip takes you through the landscapes and towns of the Midwest. You will be able to make stops in Des Moines, Omaha and Lincoln on the first leg of your road trip.
Continuing on I-80, you'll venture into Nebraska, before crossing into Colorado. As you approach Denver, you'll see the skyline of the Mile High City, nestled against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains.
From Denver, head northwest on US-36 to Rocky Mountain National Park. This park offers breathtaking vistas, forests, alpine lakes, and sweeping panoramic views.
After exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, drive north into Wyoming via US-287. Soon, you'll reach Jackson, a gateway to the Tetons, with its iconic town square, antler arches, and upscale amenities.
The final stretch takes you north from Jackson through Grand Teton National Park, where jagged mountain peaks tower over pristine lakes. Continue on US-191, entering the beautiful Yellowstone National Park from the south.
However, if you are visiting in winter, you will find the Trail Ridge Road and South Entrance Road closed. So, make a detour on WY-22 past Jackson, heading north until you reach Ashton and hop on US-20. This road will take you to West Yellowstone, which you can use as a base during your visit.
Where to stop overnight on a road trip between Chicago and Yellowstone
There are so many unbelievable sights and experiences on this beautiful Chicago to Yellowstone road trip. To get the most out of them, we recommend staying in one of the destinations below.
The perfect gateway to the Black Hills in Rapid City
About 13 hours into your journey on the Mount Rushmore Route is Rapid City. Known as the "Gateway to the Black Hills," you'll enjoy its rustic charm and South Dakota landscape. Its historic downtown and proximity to natural and historic landmarks make it a captivating destination.
In Rapid City, two must-visit attractions stand out. First, the Reptile Gardens offers an up-close look at a diverse range of reptiles.
Then, there's the Journey Museum, which takes you through the history of the Black Hills region, providing insights into Native American heritage and the area's natural history.
For your stay in Rapid City, the Sweetgrass Inn Bed & Breakfast is the best lodging option in the area. This charming bed and breakfast distinguishes itself with its "homey" atmosphere, offering cozy rooms and a serene garden.
The terrace boasts beautiful mountain views, and select rooms feature balconies that allow you to soak in picturesque surroundings.
What makes the Sweetgrass Inn truly special are its amenities and proximity to local attractions. The inn features a wonderful restaurant and bar, featuring delicious meals and drinks.
A daily American breakfast, free parking, and evening entertainment add to the comfort of your stay. Nearby, besides the Reptile Gardens and Journey Museum, Dinosaur Park is just a 15-minute drive away.
An urban stay with a view in Denver
Denver features the perfect blend of urban excitement and stunning nature, about 15 hours into the Denver Route. Known as the Mile High City, Denver has plenty of cultural and recreational activities and beautiful mountain views.
For a dose of family fun, Elitch Gardens is a must-visit, featuring a wide range of amusement park rides, water attractions, and live entertainment, all within the heart of the city.
For your stay in Denver, The Ramble Hotel is one of the top choices. Nestled in the heart of the RiNo Art District, this hotel features stunning rooms and lounges, complemented by an impressive rooftop terrace, offer a luxurious retreat after a day of exploration.
Death & Company and The Garden restaurants serve delicious American dishes if you have worked up an appetite, while Suite 6a offers an intimate bar experience with its signature cocktails, to treat yourself to your favorite drink after the long drive.
Beyond its walls, The Ramble Hotel positions you within a short walk to Denver's attractions like Coors Field Baseball Stadium, the innovative Denver Selfie Museum for a fun, interactive experience, and the Denver Zoo.
Our favorite place to stay near Yellowstone
Upon reaching the outskirts of Yellowstone National Park, the Yellowstone Gateway Inn in Gardiner offers an idyllic base for your exploration of America's first national park.
This welcoming hotel is a short drive from the north entrance of Yellowstone and its incredible wonders. The Inn provides direct access to plenty of outdoor activities, including rafting, horseback riding, and fishing.
If you're seeking a more leisurely stay, some suites at the Yellowstone Gateway Inn have stunning mountain views, fully-equipped kitchens, and cozy seating areas, allowing you to unwind in comfort while immersed in nature.
Conveniently located, the Inn is just 5 miles from Yellowstone National Park headquarters. Furthermore, the famous Roosevelt Arch is less than 5 minutes by car from the inn and provides amazing photo ops!
Best time to travel from Chicago to Yellowstone on a road trip
Your experience of the drive from Chicago to Yellowstone will vary depending on the season. Below is what you can expect throughout the year.
Traveling to Yellowstone from Chicago in summer
Summer on the Mount Rushmore Route offers the best weather, with warm temperatures and extended daylight hours.
However, keep in mind that afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially around Yellowstone and Mount Rushmore. Be prepared for higher traffic volumes and significant crowding at major tourist attractions like Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore, and Wisconsin Dells.
Notable events include the Orton Park Festival in Madison during August and the Yellowstone International Arts Festival, also in August, which will keep you busy if you choose to travel during these warmer months.
Expect large crowds and potentially limited parking in Rocky Mountain National Park, but in summer, Trail Ridge Road offers a spectacular driving experience and scenery. This is also a good time to spot some fascinating wildlife at Yellowstone.
Traveling to Yellowstone from Chicago in winter
Winter brings severe weather conditions, affecting much of this route, especially from Bozeman to Yellowstone, with heavy snowfall, icy roads, and cold temperatures.
Most roads in Yellowstone are closed to regular vehicles, including the Trail Ridge Road, accessible only by snowmobiles, snowcoaches, or not at all. The road between the North and Northeast entrances of Yellowstone is the only road open year-round to regular vehicles.
Winter also has plenty of fun events to experience. The Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo from January to February is a highlight as well as the Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanical Gardens from November to January.
This season is best for winter sports in areas like Denver and Jackson, near Grand Teton. Rocky Mountain National Park offers snowshoeing and incredible cross-country skiing.
Traveling to Yellowstone from Chicago in shoulder seasons
Spring and fall on both routes can be unpredictable, with potential snow in the mountains well into May or starting in early September.
Fewer tourists make it easier to find accommodations and enjoy attractions with less crowding, although temporary road closures due to weather conditions can occur.
There are plenty of fun festivals and events during the shoulder seasons. The Denver Arts Festival in May is a great event to plan your road trip around.
Rocky Mountain National Park may have lingering snow in spring, while fall offers stunning foliage but unpredictable weather. Yellowstone experiences melting snow in spring, with some roads still closed, fewer tourists, and beautiful fall colors, but with potential early snowfall.
The best things to see and do on a road trip from Chicago to Yellowstone
To help you plan for the ultimate drive through the American wilderness, we've included our top destinations below.
On the Mount Rushmore Route
Mirror Lake State Park: Nestled near Wisconsin Dells, this state park features stunning landscapes, with Mirror Lake at its heart, offering canoeing, hiking, and scenic picnic spots.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin: Known as the waterpark capital of the world, Wisconsin Dells offers thrilling water-based attractions, as well as natural beauty and family-friendly activities.
Dahl Auto Museum, La Crosse: This museum in La Crosse, Wisconsin, celebrates the automotive industry's evolution with a collection of classic cars and memorabilia.
Spam Museum: Located in Austin, Minnesota, the Spam Museum is an ode to the iconic canned meat, featuring interactive exhibits, history, and fun facts about this unique American product.
Falls Park, Sioux Falls: This stunning urban park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, centers around the city's beautiful waterfalls, offering scenic views, walking paths, and a glimpse into the area's history.
Dakota Discovery Museum, Mitchell: This museum in Mitchell, South Dakota, focuses on the region's history from the mid-19th to the early 20th century.
Akta Lakota Museum and Cultural Center: Situated in Chamberlain, South Dakota, this museum and cultural center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Lakota (Sioux) culture through its extensive collection of art, artifacts, and educational programs.
Skeleton Man Walking Skeleton Dinosaur, South Dakota: An unusual roadside attraction in South Dakota that features a unique sculpture of a man walking a skeleton dinosaur.
Wounded Knee Museum, Wall: This museum in Wall, South Dakota, provides a somber and educational experience about the Wounded Knee Massacre, honoring the memory of the Lakota people who suffered in the tragic event.
Badlands National Park: This national park is a striking landscape of rugged beauty, characterized by layered rock formations, steep canyons, and towering spires. Its vast prairies also serve as home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.
Rapid City: Known as the gateway to Mount Rushmore, Rapid City, South Dakota, offers a blend of cultural attractions, including Art Alley, the Journey Museum, and downtown sculptures.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial: An iconic monument featuring the carved faces of four U.S. presidents.
Black Hills Mining Museum: Located in Lead, South Dakota, this museum educates visitors about the Black Hills Gold Rush era through exhibits, guided tours, and demonstrations of mining techniques.
Museum of the Rockies, Bozeman: A renowned museum in Bozeman, Montana, featuring extensive dinosaur fossils, including the famous Tyrannosaurus rex named Sue.
On the Denver Route
Rochelle Railroad Park: A unique spot in Rochelle, Illinois, where train enthusiasts can watch and learn about the bustling activity of one of the busiest railroad crossings in the US.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park: This outdoor sculpture park in Des Moines, Iowa, showcases over 20 works of art by renowned artists, set within a scenic urban park environment.
Union Pacific Railroad Museum: Located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the Union Pacific Railroad, featuring artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
Lauritzen Gardens Omaha's Botanical Center, Omaha: An oasis in Omaha, Nebraska, featuring a variety of themed gardens, from English to Japanese.
The National Museum of Roller Skating: Situated in Lincoln, Nebraska, this unique museum chronicles the history and culture of roller skating with a collection of skates, costumes, and memorabilia.
Pawnee State Recreation Area: A recreational haven west of Lincoln, Nebraska, offering outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping amidst beautiful natural landscapes.
Pony Express Station Museum, Gothenburg: This museum in Gothenburg, Nebraska, preserves one of the original Pony Express stations, providing insight into the historic mail service and life in the 1860s.
Barr Lake State Park, Colorado: Located near Denver, Colorado, this state park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with a variety of species frequenting the area, alongside hiking trails and fishing.
Denver Zoo: An 80-acre facility located in Denver, Colorado, offering visitors the chance to see animals from around the world in habitats closely resembling their natural environments.
Museum of Boulder: This museum in Boulder, Colorado, explores the city's history, culture, and scientific innovations through interactive exhibits and programs.
Rocky Mountain National Park: One of America's most visited national parks, located in Colorado, offering breathtaking mountain landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
The Gardens on Spring Creek: Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, these botanical gardens feature diverse plant collections, butterfly houses, and themed gardens.
Museum of the Mountain Man: In Pinedale, Wyoming, this museum offers a glimpse into the life of fur trappers and Native Americans of the Rocky Mountain region during the 19th century.
Jackson Hole Winery: A boutique winery in Jackson, Wyoming, known for producing high-quality wines.
Grand Teton National Park: Adjacent to Yellowstone, this national park in Wyoming boasts stunning mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and a wide range of wildlife.
