The Math
The South Entrance is about 57 miles and an hour and 15 minutes from Jackson, and Old Faithful is another 45 minutes to an hour past that. With stops, you're looking at 12 to 14 hours door to door. You drive through Grand Teton to get there, and each park charges its own entrance fee.
Who It Works For
Kids around 8 and up who do fine on long car days. If you have toddlers or nappers, stay in Grand Teton this trip and save Yellowstone for a visit with a night inside the park.
Winter Is a Different Trip
You can't drive your own car into Yellowstone in winter. Guided snowcoach tours leave Jackson between 6 and 7:30 a.m., start at Flagg Ranch, and get back 10 to 12 hours later. Some operators don't recommend them for kids under 6. Wyoming requires car seats and not every tour company provides them, so ask when you book.
Altitude
Most of Yellowstone sits higher than Jackson. If anyone has had a headache since you arrived, this isn't the day.
What to Bring
Sunglasses for everyone, more water than you think you need, plenty of snacks, and bear spray. Bear Aware rents it at the airport and in town, and you can drop it off inside Yellowstone.
Staying closer to home? Our Grand Teton with kids guide is the easier day. Read the altitude note in the care and altitude guide before you go.
Yellowstone questions
How long is a Yellowstone day trip from Jackson?
Plan on 12 to 14 hours door to door with stops. The South Entrance is about 57 miles from Jackson, and Old Faithful is another 45 minutes to an hour past it.
How much are park fees for international visitors in 2026?
Since January 1, 2026, non-U.S. residents 16 and older pay $100 per person at Grand Teton and $100 per person at Yellowstone, plus the $35 vehicle pass at each. A $250 nonresident annual pass covers the passholder and up to three more adults.
Can kids do a winter snowcoach trip to Yellowstone?
Many tours run 10 to 12 hours from Flagg Ranch, and some operators do not recommend them for kids under 6. Wyoming requires car seats, so ask whether the company provides them.
Happy Travels!
This article is part of the Jackson Hole family travel guide. Start there for villas, planning, and every related guide in this destination.