Gardiner to Green River: Scenic Drive Guide

This route follows US-89 south from Gardiner, Montana, through Yellowstone National Park's north entrance, then continues on US-26/US-287 to Dubois and US-191 to Green River, Wyoming. The drive spans approximately 350 miles and typically takes 6.5 to 7 hours without stops. The first 50 miles are within Yellowstone's Mammoth Hot Springs area, where bison traffic jams are a common quirk.

The route passes through three distinct geological zones: the volcanic plateau of Yellowstone, the rugged Absaroka Range, and the red desert of the Great Divide Basin. Notable features include Mammoth Hot Springs travertine terraces, the Gallatin Petrified Forest near Tom Miner Basin, and the Wind River Canyon south of Dubois.

Yellowstone National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1978) and includes Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring. To avoid crowds, visit the less-visited Mud Volcano area or the Norris Geyser Basin. The park entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.

Local commerce is seasonal. Gardiner has year-round services; Dubois has a few diners and a grocery store. Green River is larger with chain restaurants and big-box stores. For a quick meal, try the bison burger at the Bear Pit Diner in Gardiner or the apple pie at the Dubois Drug Store.

Fuel stations are sparse along this route. Fill up in Gardiner (several stations), Mammoth Hot Springs has gas but is seasonal, and the next reliable fuel is in West Yellowstone or Dubois. As of 2024, regular gasoline costs about $3.50 per gallon in Montana and $3.30 in Wyoming. Budget for 2 to 3 fuel stops for a round trip.

Cell service is intermittent, especially through Yellowstone and south of Dubois. Download offline maps and consider a satellite communicator for emergency. The route includes two sections of unpaved road: the 20-mile gravel stretch of the Teton Pass Road (US-26/287) after Moran Junction, and a 30-mile dirt section of US-191 between Bondurant and Boulder. These are well-maintained but slow; add 30 minutes to total driving time.

• Road quality: US-89 in Yellowstone is excellent; US-191 in Wyoming is decent but has frost heaves in spring.
• Rest areas: Formal rest areas are rare; use gas stations or pullouts.
• Weather closures: The Teton Pass Road can close in winter due to rockfalls; check Wyoming road reports.

Wildlife encounters are a major hazard. Collisions with bison, elk, and deer are common, especially at dawn, dusk, and during migrations. Maintain a speed below 45 mph in wildlife zones and never approach animals.

For families, this route is suitable if children can handle long stretches. Pit stops at Yellowstone's Old Faithful Visitor Center (interactive exhibits) and the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Dubois are engaging. The road includes many sharp curves; use child restraints appropriately.

Pets are allowed in Yellowstone but must be leashed and cannot go on boardwalks or backcountry trails. Most hotels along the route allow pets, but check ahead. Carry water and waste bags, and never leave pets in a hot car.

To manage fatigue, plan to stop every 2 hours. Recommended rest stops include: the West Thumb Geyser Basin trailhead (restrooms), the Jackson Lake Lodge (picnic area and cafe), and the Lander rest area on US-191 south of Dubois. The road is well-lit through towns, but most stretches are dark at night; avoid driving after sunset if possible.

Hidden off-route spots: If you have extra time, take the 12-mile (one-way) gravel road to the Blacktail Plateau Drive in Yellowstone for bison sightings away from crowds. Near Dubois, the Whiskey Mountain Bighorn Sheep Viewing Area is a short detour. Locals recommend the historic Miner's Bar in Dubois, but its hours vary.

For more tips on planning stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.