Yellowstone Airport

Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is not just an ordinary transport hub, but an air gateway with a unique atmosphere, opened right at the doorstep of one of the planet's greatest nature reserves. Located in the picturesque town of West Yellowstone, this terminal immerses travellers in the spirit of the Wild West from the very first minute, thanks to its unique architecture and absence of city bustle. Upon landing here, you find yourself just a five-minute drive from the famous geysers and forests, making it an indispensable choice for those who value time and comfort.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of WYS is its exceptional location. It is the closest airport to Yellowstone National Park, located just a few kilometres from its West Entrance. By choosing this airport, tourists save hours, and sometimes days of travel, which are usually spent transferring from larger but more distant aviation hubs, such as Bozeman or Salt Lake City.

The atmosphere of the terminal deserves special attention. The building is constructed in the style of a traditional mountain lodge using massive wooden beams and natural stone, creating a sense of cosiness uncharacteristic of modern "glass" airports. There are no endless corridors or travelators here: the compactness of the building allows you to go from the plane to the street exit in a matter of minutes, and security and baggage claim procedures are quick and stress-free.

Another "highlight" is the arrival process itself. The approach to landing at Yellowstone Airport is often called a sightseeing flight: the window view offers breathtaking scenes of the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains, dense coniferous forests, and mountain rivers. Since the airport operates seasonally (mainly in summer and early autumn), the weather at this time of year usually favours picturesque views.

Below you will find contact information for Yellowstone Airport (WYS), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential questions.

• Official Website: You will always find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations on the official website: www.yellowstoneairport.mdt.mt.gov.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +1 (406) 646-7631.
• Airport Address: The airport is located at: 721 Airport Rd, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, USA.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website for communication.
• Social Media: Yellowstone Airport does not have active official pages on major social networks. It is recommended to check all information on the website.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your question concerns lost or damaged checked baggage, you should contact the airline directly. For personal items left in the airport terminal, please contact the administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the inquiry service by phone.

Getting to Yellowstone Airport (WYS) from the town of West Yellowstone is very simple, as it is located just a few kilometres north of the town. However, it is important to remember that the airport is seasonal and operates primarily during the summer months, which directly affects transport availability. The main ways to get to the terminal are by taxi, rental car, and private shuttles.

Taxis and Private Transfers are the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from anywhere in West Yellowstone will take no more than 5-10 minutes. The cost of the trip usually ranges between 20–30 USD. Given the high demand during peak season (June to September), it is recommended to book a car in advance. Some hotels also offer their own transfer services for guests — it is worth checking this information when booking.

Car Rental is the most popular choice for travellers arriving in the USA to visit Yellowstone National Park. This option gives maximum freedom of movement across the vast territory of the reserve, although it is more expensive compared to a taxi. Rental prices depend heavily on the season, car class, and booking lead time. Offices of major rental companies are present at the airport or in the town itself, where you can pick up or drop off a car before departure. It is strongly recommended to book a car several weeks or even months before the trip to ensure the best choice and price.

It is worth noting that West Yellowstone has no regular public transport connection to the airport, such as city buses or trains. The region's transport system is entirely oriented towards tourists, so the main options remain commercial shuttles, taxis, and rental cars.

If you are getting to the airport in your own or a rented car, convenient parking is available to you, located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available here. Thanks to the compact size of the airport, the walk from the parking lot to the check-in counter will take just a few minutes.

Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is distinguished by its compactness and simplicity, making it very convenient for travellers. There is one passenger terminal operating here, which serves all domestic flights. Thanks to its small size and thoughtful layout, navigating it is intuitively easy, and the risk of getting lost is practically non-existent.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where the check-in counters of several airlines are located. Immediately behind them is the single security checkpoint. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between different buildings or levels. The departure and arrival zones are in the same building but are functionally separated. After passing through security, passengers enter a small waiting hall with boarding gates.

The main feature of the terminal is its cosy atmosphere in the style of a mountain chalet with wooden beams and stone finishing, which immediately sets the mood for adventures in Yellowstone National Park. Check-in and security procedures usually proceed quickly and simply. On average, this takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, during peak morning hours or at the height of the tourist season (July-August), it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before departure to avoid rushing.

For navigation, it is sufficient to follow the few and clear signs. The arrival zone consists of a small baggage claim hall located next to the main exit. The path from the aircraft steps to the airport exit takes mere minutes. Thus, the structure of WYS airport is maximally oriented towards the comfort and speed of service for passengers arriving in this unique region.

Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is not just a runway, but a true air gateway to one of the most famous national parks in the world. Its history began in 1965, when it was officially opened. The main goal of its creation was to make Yellowstone National Park more accessible to tourists from all corners of the USA and other countries. Located just a few kilometres from the town of West Yellowstone, the airport immediately became a key transport hub for travellers wishing to see the famous geysers and unique wildlife.

From the very beginning, the airport functioned as a seasonal facility, serving flights only during the warm months, usually from early June to late September, which coincides with the peak of tourist activity in the park. The first scheduled flights here were started by Western Airlines in 1966, laying the foundation for air connections with this amazing region. In the first decades of its existence, it was a small airfield, but its popularity grew steadily along with the fame of the park itself.

A key stage in the development of the airport was a large-scale modernization in the early 1990s. In 1994, a new, more modern and spacious passenger terminal was opened. This allowed for a significant increase in the level of comfort for passengers, improved logistics, and compliance with growing requirements for safety and service quality. Thanks to this reconstruction, the airport was able to receive more flights and passengers at the height of the season.

Today, Yellowstone Airport continues to play its historic role, remaining the closest and most convenient airport to the West Entrance of Yellowstone Park. Despite still operating seasonally, its importance to the regional tourism industry is hard to overestimate. It is a vivid example of how transport infrastructure can be created to harmoniously serve unique natural territories, providing travellers with quick and comfortable access to the wonders of wildlife.

Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is a compact and modern seasonal airport offering passengers a basic but sufficient set of services for a comfortable wait before travelling through the USA.

In the terminal building, you will find a cosy cafe where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or buy light refreshments and drinks. There is also a souvenir shop selling gifts and memorabilia related to Yellowstone National Park. This is an excellent place to buy a last-minute keepsake.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi access is provided throughout the airport. The waiting lounge features power outlets and USB ports for charging mobile phones, tablets, and other gadgets, allowing you to stay connected before departure.

Due to its small size and predominantly domestic traffic, the airport does not have currency exchange points, VIP lounges, business centres, or conference halls. However, an ATM is installed for withdrawing cash in US dollars. Travellers from other countries are advised to exchange currency in advance in larger cities.

The airport fully complies with accessibility standards and is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Ramps, accessible restrooms, and staff assistance for boarding are provided (it is recommended to book the service in advance through your airline). For travellers with small children, there are changing tables in the restrooms. Basic first aid can be provided by airport staff, and emergency services are called for serious incidents.

There are no hotels directly within the terminal building. The nearest hotels, motels, and lodges are located just a few minutes' drive away, in the town of West Yellowstone, which serves as the gateway to the famous national park.

Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is a small and seasonal airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited but quite sufficient to comfortably wait for your flight. All options for snacks and full meals are concentrated in the main and only terminal.

The main place to eat is The Propeller Restaurant, also known as the Smokejumper Cafe. This establishment combines the functions of a cafe, a restaurant, and a bar. It is located in the main terminal area, accessible to passengers after passing security control. Here you can have a quick coffee with pastries or a full lunch.

The restaurant menu offers classic American dishes: omelettes and sandwiches are served for breakfast, and burgers, soups, and fresh salads for lunch. Given the location in the heart of the mountain region, it is worth paying attention to the signature offers. If you are lucky, the menu may feature a bison meat burger — a great opportunity to try a local delicacy. The bar often features varieties of craft beer from Montana and Wyoming breweries.

For passengers with specific dietary preferences, vegetarian options are generally available, such as salads or meat-free sandwiches, which serve as a suitable alternative for many travellers. However, the selection of gluten-free or vegan dishes may be very limited. It is recommended to check availability with the staff. The price range corresponds to standard airport rates — moderately high. The restaurant's operating hours are directly tied to the flight schedule: it opens well before the first departure and closes after the last plane of the day departs.

Travelling through Yellowstone Airport (WYS), the gateway to the famous national park, has its own unique features. To ensure your trip to West Yellowstone, USA, goes smoothly, make use of our tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in. WYS is a small seasonal airport, so huge queues are rare here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 90 minutes before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is enough to drop off luggage and pass security control without rushing. To save time, check in for your flight online and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. The screening procedure is standard for the USA, but usually proceeds faster than in major hubs. Remember the liquid transport rule (up to 100 ml in a transparent bag). Important point for tourists: bear spray is categorically prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. It must be purchased or rented locally upon arrival.

Seat Selection and Transfers. When flying to Yellowstone, try to book a window seat. The views of the Rocky Mountains and surrounding landscapes are simply breathtaking and will be an excellent start to your adventure. Since most flights to WYS arrive from major hubs such as Salt Lake City or Denver, you will likely have a transfer. Ensure there is enough time between flights, especially on the return journey.

Customs Control. Yellowstone Airport serves predominantly domestic flights, so most travellers do not pass customs control here. If you are arriving on an international flight to another city in the USA and then flying to WYS, you will pass customs at the first airport of arrival.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, book flight tickets and car rentals in advance, especially during the high season (summer). The airport has a limited selection of establishments, so take an empty water bottle with you (it can be filled after security) and light snacks. Weather in the mountains is unpredictable and can cause flight delays. Download your airline's app for real-time notifications, carry a portable charger, and have a book or downloaded movies ready in case of a wait.