Driving Route 191 in September.

Question

How busy is Route 191 in September? I can't get any info on Google Maps because it is closed now.

I am wondering what the approx. drive time would be on Route 191 from the Jackson Hole Airport to the town of West Yellowstone in September.

I realize this takes me through both Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Trying to determine if this is worthwhile, or if I will need to drive all the way around which seems much longer. Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Answer

Route 191 is a scenic and popular drive that passes through both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, so it can be quite busy during peak months. In September, the crowds are typically thinner than the summer months, but it can still be relatively busy, especially as the fall foliage attracts visitors. It is also a time when some facilities in the parks begin to close for the season, which may affect traffic and services along the route.

The drive time from Jackson Hole Airport to West Yellowstone via Route 191 will depend on road conditions, traffic, and how long you stop to explore scenic spots along the way. Generally, the drive time is about 2.5 to 3 hours under normal conditions, but it could take longer during peak hours or if you make several stops. Since the route goes through both Grand Teton and Yellowstone, expect slowdowns due to wildlife sightings, road construction, or other park-related factors.

If you are concerned about the length of the drive and want to avoid going through the national parks, you could consider driving around the parks. However, this will add significant time to your journey, potentially increasing the drive to 4 hours or more depending on the route you choose. The detour around the parks can be longer, and you'll miss out on the scenic beauty of these iconic parks.

Option 1: Take Route 191 through the parks for a scenic drive. Expect a 2.5 to 3-hour drive with possible delays due to park traffic and wildlife sightings.
Option 2: Drive around the parks if you're looking to avoid potential delays, but be prepared for a longer, less scenic journey (around 4+ hours).
Option 3: Consider visiting the parks on a weekday or earlier in the morning to avoid the busiest times.

Overall, taking Route 191 through the parks is a beautiful option, but if you're concerned about the drive time and prefer a faster, more direct route, driving around the parks may be a better choice, though it sacrifices the scenic experience.

Driving Route 191 in September.

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