Best route into Yellowstone from the east
Planning our first big trip with our TT from Cleveland OH to Yellowstone in July. This would be our first time taking a RV into the mountains, looking for advice. Would you stay on 90 and go up to ...
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We did the trip in 2000 and 2012. First off, don't go through Chicago unless you have a reason for it. Stay on I80 to Iowa City, then cut north through Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, Mason City and pick up I90 at Albert Lea. It's just a few miles farther, but no tolls (adds up fast with a trailer!)and you avoid most of the insanity of Chicago. Good roads even if it's not all interstate.
In 2000 we came in over the Bear Tooth Pass towing a 22' trailer with a conversion van. Gorgeous road, but the turns may be a bit tight for a trailer over 30'. Exited through Jackson Hole and west to Idaho that time.
In 2012 with an Excursion and our 28' trailer we also came in the NE entrance, but went through the Big Horns to Cody for a day and then over the Chief Joseph highway. I thought the grades were a little steeper that way, but not a big deal. Came home via 287 down to I80 in Wyoming.
Easiest route of the 3 I took is 287, but I had no issues with any of them. Guess a few hills never scared me. ;) Haven't been on 89 from I90 to Gardiner, but have heard that is the easiest.
If you happen to come home via 287 after the Tetons, the Falls Campground is a wonderful NF campground along the way.
Have fun!
In 2000 we came in over the Bear Tooth Pass towing a 22' trailer with a conversion van. Gorgeous road, but the turns may be a bit tight for a trailer over 30'. Exited through Jackson Hole and west to Idaho that time.
In 2012 with an Excursion and our 28' trailer we also came in the NE entrance, but went through the Big Horns to Cody for a day and then over the Chief Joseph highway. I thought the grades were a little steeper that way, but not a big deal. Came home via 287 down to I80 in Wyoming.
Easiest route of the 3 I took is 287, but I had no issues with any of them. Guess a few hills never scared me. ;) Haven't been on 89 from I90 to Gardiner, but have heard that is the easiest.
If you happen to come home via 287 after the Tetons, the Falls Campground is a wonderful NF campground along the way.
Have fun!
