Embark on an unforgettable journey from Minneapolis to Yellowstone, showcasing the finest attractions along the quickest route, cutting through North Dakota and Montana. This adventure also offers an optional detour to the Grand Teton National Park.
Prefer the South Dakota route? Check out our alternative road trip!
Whether you have a couple of days or a week, the duration of this road trip is flexible, giving you the freedom to spend as little or as much time as you like at each stop. Some places are perfect for a quick visit, while others are ideal for extended stays.
Join us as we share top tips and itineraries for a Minneapolis to Yellowstone National Park road trip via North Dakota. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll find:
– Best Time for the Road Trip
– Distance from Minneapolis to Yellowstone
– Suggested Itineraries
– 5-Day and Two-Week Itineraries
– Custom Itinerary Building
– Next Destinations
– Tips & FAQs
– Related Posts
Best Time for This Road Trip
Plan your trip during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, to enjoy the best weather and attractions. Winter trips may find many national park sites closed.
Distance from Minneapolis to Yellowstone
The journey spans approximately 1,009 miles via North Dakota, taking about 15.5 hours of driving. The South Dakota route is slightly longer, at 1,016 miles, requiring around 16-16.5 hours of drive time.
Suggested Itineraries
5-Day Itinerary
This itinerary is for those with limited time and focuses on the highlights.
Day 1: Minneapolis, MN
Start your morning with a stroll along the river in Minneapolis. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a Somali restaurant or explore the Mall of America. You might also visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art or the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. In the evening, drive to Fargo (3.5 hours), where you can dine at Brew Bird or the Toasted Frog.
Day 2: Fargo & Jamestown, ND
Begin your day with breakfast at Babb’s Coffee House or Nichole’s Fine Pastry & Café. Wander Fargo’s colorful streets and visit the Plains Art Museum. After lunch, discover Hjemkomst Center’s Viking ship story. Later, head to Bismarck (90 minutes) or Dickinson (3 hours).
Day 3: Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit
Spend the day exploring the south unit, taking the scenic drive loop and enjoying short hikes such as Painted Canyon and Wind Canyon trails. Drive to Billings, MT (4 hours) in the evening.
Day 4: Yellowstone
Enter Yellowstone via the North Entrance at Gardiner, MT. Spend the day exploring Mammoth Hot Springs and nearby geyser basins like Norris.
Day 5: Yellowstone
Visit the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone early to beat the crowds. Spend the midday by the Yellowstone Lake, then head to Hayden Valley for prime wildlife viewing at sunset.
Two-Week Itinerary
For those with more time, this extended itinerary allows for a deeper exploration of the highlights.
Days 1-2: Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN
Explore the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Mill City Museum, the regional lakes, and enjoy the culinary scene. Head to St. Paul for local cafes, the Minnesota Capitol, and the Science Museum of Minnesota.
Days 3-4: Fargo, ND & Jamestown / Bismarck, ND
In Fargo, visit the Plains Art Museum, Fargo Air Museum, and Hjemkomst Center. Stop by Jamestown for a quick detour to Fort Mandan and Knife River Indian Villages.
Days 5-7: Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Dedicate full days to both the South and North Units of the park, with possible detours to Fort Union Trading Post and enjoying the stargazing opportunities in Medora.
Days 8-9: Billings, MT
Stop by Pompey’s Pillar and Little Bighorn National Monument. Enjoy the local dining scene in Billings and perhaps a quick trip to Bozeman known for its museums and natural hot springs.
Days 10-14: Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
From Yellowstone’s famous geyser basins, Mammoth Hot Springs, and wildlife-rich valleys, to Grand Teton’s scenic drives and picturesque views at Jenny Lake and Snake River Overlook, immerse yourself in the best of these national parks.
Build Your Own Itinerary
Customize your trip using the details of our highlighted spots. You can mix and match destinations to create your perfect journey.
Key Tips:
– Gas up when you see a station; distances can be long.
– Carry a cooler for snacks and drinks.
– Bear spray is essential in Yellowstone; the best place to buy it is Costco.
– Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
– Start early to beat crowds and spot wildlife.
– Consider investing in a National Park Annual Pass.
For more adventures, including trips to Glacier or Salt Lake City, and insider tips, check out our additional guides!
