Yellowstone National Park car hire
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Cheap car hire in Yellowstone National Park
| Mini |
| Economy |
| Compact |
| Intermediate |
| Standard |
| Full-size |
| Luxury |
| People carrier |
| Passenger van |
| SUV |
| Commercial |
| Pick-up truck |
Top tips for hiring a car in Yellowstone National Park
- If you arrive in Yellowstone National Park via an international flight, you will likely land at the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). The airport offers several car rental options from well-known companies, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, and National. These rental car agencies have their counters conveniently located inside the terminal building—adjacent to the baggage claim on the far west side of the terminal. This makes it easy to pick up and drop off your rental vehicle.
- The main loop road in Yellowstone National Park, known as the Grand Loop Road, can get particularly busy, and traffic may slow down or come to a standstill at certain points, especially if there are wildlife sightings or road construction. The rush hours are usually from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. as visitors move to and from exploring the park. In the winter months, certain roads in Yellowstone may be closed or accessible only to vehicles with snow tires or chains. Therefore, winter driving in the park requires additional precautions due to snow and icy conditions.
- Yellowstone National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, wolves, and more. Visitors are expected to practice wildlife etiquette when encountering wildlife on or near the roads. This means maintaining a safe distance from the animals. Additionally, some sections of the streets may have reduced speed limits due to wildlife crossings or hazardous conditions. Drivers should exercise caution, especially at dawn and dusk when wildlife is more active.
- Seat belt use is always mandatory for all occupants of a vehicle in motion. This applies to both the driver and all passengers, regardless of their seating position. Infants and toddlers (usually up to around two years old) must be secured in rear-facing child safety seats. Young children who have outgrown their rear-facing seats should use forward-facing child safety seats. Once children outgrow their forward-facing seats, they should transition to booster seats until they are old enough and large enough to use seat belts safely.
- Book your car hire in Yellowstone National Park at least 4 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Intermediate car hire in Yellowstone National Park are around 52% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about hiring a car in Yellowstone National Park
What is the best car hire company in Yellowstone National Park?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car hire companies in Yellowstone National Park are Turo (8,8, 51 reviews), Silvercar (8,7, 52 reviews), and Apex (8,5, 123 reviews).
How can I find car hires near me in Yellowstone National Park?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
Should I rent a car in Yellowstone National Park?
Having your own rental car allows you to explore the park at your own pace and on your schedule. You can visit the attractions you're most interested in, spend as much time as you like at each spot, and take detours to lesser-known areas without being tied to public transportation schedules. Most importantly, Yellowstone is a vast park, and many of its natural wonders and scenic spots are located off the main roads. With a rental car, you can access more remote areas and trailheads that may not be easily reachable by public transport, such as Old Faithful Geyser and Artist Paint Pots.
What is driving like in Yellowstone National Park?
Certain parts of the roads in Yellowstone National Park can be more challenging to drive on due to various factors, such as elevation, weather, and road conditions. For instance, the Beartooth Highway (US 212) has steep grades, tight curves, and the potential for unpredictable weather conditions. There may be occasional instances of aggressive driving, especially during peak tourist seasons when traffic congestion can lead to frustration. As such, familiarize yourself with the park's map, attractions, and potential traffic hotspots. Plan your routes and destinations in advance to minimize driving-related stress.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Yellowstone National Park?
The minimum age to rent a car in Yellowstone National Park, like in most places in the United States, is typically 21 years old. However, some companies only allow drivers above 25 to rent SUVs and luxury vehicles. Additionally, car hire agencies may impose young driver surcharges on drivers under 25. Moreover, you must have a valid driver's license and a major credit card in your name to rent a car in the United States.
Car hire locations in Yellowstone National Park
Good to know
Most popular car type | Intermediate |
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