Dream of chasing stunning parks, relaxing hot springs, and vibrant towns? Rent a car and enjoy an epic road trip from Denver to Yellowstone!
America is a road trip paradise, with national parks galore to explore by car. For example, you can go on an unforgettable drive around Utah’s national parks, or switch gears to a thrilling Denver road trip to Yellowstone.
Yes, the second option is especially attractive – you’ll drive roughly 888 miles, packed with breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems. Imagine soaking in natural hot springs, spotting wildlife in rugged terrains, and exploring charming towns with unique stories. How about hiking through majestic mountains or fishing in pristine lakes?
This journey is perfect for creating lifelong memories. While you could rush it in 14 hours, we recommend taking at least 10 days to truly savor every moment.
Denver
Welcome to the Mile-High City! Denver is your starting point, full of fun and vibrant energy. Begin your adventure at Union Station, a historic landmark with great shops and eateries.
Love museums? Check out the Denver Art Museum or the interactive exhibits at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. For a slice of nature, visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, a 24-acre oasis with diverse gardens and stunning sculptures. Plus your kids will enjoy the Denver Zoo revealing a rich wildlife selection from all parts of our planet.
Parking is easy – try the Tabor Center Garage (1200 17th St) with slots for around $20 a day.
👉 Important: Peak traffic hits between 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM, so plan accordingly. Also, be cautious of pedestrians and cyclists, as Denver is a walkable and bike-friendly city.
Rocky Mountain National Park
When driving from Denver to Yellowstone, head northwest to Rocky Mountain National Park, a true gem of Colorado! Just a 1.5-hour drive from Denver, this park is an outdoor paradise – you may hike the Bear Lake Trail for stunning views, or drive the Trail Ridge Road for a scenic tour.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you will love spotting elk and bighorn sheep. The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle for a one-day pass and $35 for 2-7 days.
Use lower gears when descending steep inclines and maintain a safe speed to navigate the winding mountain roads.
You can park your car at the Estes Park Visitor Center (500 Big Thompson Ave) and use the shuttle service to the main attractions. Keep your camera handy – every view is picture-perfect!
👉 Important: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in summer. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes, and wildlife on the roads.
Hot Springs State Park
Time to relax at Hot Springs State Park! Located in Thermopolis, this park is famous for its mineral hot springs. You may soak in the therapeutic mineral hot springs at the State Bath House, maintained at a comfortable 104°F – it’s free but accepts donations. Also, don’t miss the colorful terraces formed by mineral deposits, and take a stroll on the Swinging Bridge for beautiful Bighorn River views.
You can freely park your vehicle near the Bath House (538 Park St). Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
👉 Important: Be cautious of wildlife on the roads, especially bison. Also, drive responsibly on the park’s winding roads to avoid incidents.
Casper
Next, make a stop in Casper, Wyoming, known for its outdoor recreation and Western heritage. First, you should look into the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center for a glimpse into pioneer life. If you love the outdoors, hike up Casper Mountain or fish in the North Platte River.
Also, you may explore the Tate Geological Museum to see fossils and dinosaur skeletons. If you get hungry, downtown Casper offers great dining options – try the local favorite, Racca’s Pizzeria Napoletana to delight your taste buds.
Be aware of road construction during summer.
For parking, drive to the David Street Station lot (200 S David St), which is free and centrally located.
👉 Important: You may face challenges such as impaired driving, navigating steep mountain passes, and dealing with snow and ice on the roads, especially during the winter months.
Wyoming
Cross into Wyoming and head to Grand Teton National Park, known for its jagged, snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes. It will become a real gem during your Denver, Colorado to Yellowstone road trip.
You can hike the Jenny Lake Trail for breathtaking scenery or take a boat ride on the lake. Wildlife spotting is a must as well – watch for moose, bears, and bald eagles.
If you like thrilling adventures, take a scenic float trip down the Snake River. The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle for 1-7 days, which also covers Yellowstone. You can park your car at Jenny Lake Lot – it fills up quickly, so arrive early. Alternatively, drive to the Taggart Lake Trailhead to leave your vehicle.
👉 Important: Be alert for wildlife on the roads, especially during dawn and dusk. Also, obey speed limits, use pullouts to view wildlife, and avoid driving at night.
Yellowstone National Park
Finally, you arrive at Yellowstone National Park – this iconic park is a wonderland of geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. You may start your ride at Old Faithful, then explore the Grand Prismatic Spring and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Visit Lamar Valley to spot bison, elk, and grizzly bears. The entrance fee starts from $35 per vehicle – you can use a single pass for Grand Teton and Yellowstone.
In order to park your car, set off to Old Faithful, but it can be crowded during peak hours. Instead, try the nearby Grand Prismatic Spring lot.
👉 Important: Roads in Yellowstone are scenic but can be winding and busy. Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds. Also, be prepared for slow traffic, wildlife on the roads, and limited cell coverage.
What car to choose to drive from Denver to Yellowstone?
Experienced travelers often prefer a Ford Explorer or a similar SUV! Its spacious interior is perfect for families, and it easily handles mountain roads. Prefer something with all-wheel drive? A Subaru Outback tackles any terrain, ensuring a smooth ride through rugged paths. If you want luxury and space, the Chevy Tahoe offers comfort and top-notch features for long drives. Each model guarantees reliability and comfort, making your journey unforgettable.
Ready to explore the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone? Book your ideal car at Rental24h.com and start your adventure!