We're flying into one of these two cities and plan to drive to Jackson, Yellowstone and Butte. Any thoughts on which is better (Salt Lake city or Idaho Falls)? Idaho Falls is obviously closer, but involves a stopover, and it seems like there might be more to do in Salt Lake City and tickets are cheaper. Any thoughts? Thanks!

Hi
We will be flying to Salt lake city in August from Oakland,CA.We considered this as tickets are cheaper to SLC.
sharu

We always fly into SLC when going to Yellowstone. Idaho Falls is only a 3 hour drive from SLC. Once you get out of Salt Lake City, speed limit is 75 because it is very open. Car rentals times are limited at Idaho Falls. Close earlier and open later than SLC.

SLC sounds best. Thanks for the info!

Good decision We used to live in Idaho Falls and would drive over to Yellowstone. IF is closer...but it is a sleepy little town and for a tourist there really isn't much there. Enjoy Yellowstone...it is gorgeous!

Thank you!

The majority seems to go with Salt Lake, and although I am an Idaho Falls resident and could stick up for my town, I agree on Salt Lake. While in Salt Lake (even for an afternoon) I would recommend the Gateway. It's a shopping center that was built for the Olympics, and the environment is very relaxed. If you enjoy arcitecture, Temple Square is a nice place to walk around or eat lunch in, even if you aren't mormon. Plus, these spots are about 15 minutes or less from the airport. In Jackson, there is a great rec center with a nice pool and rock climbing I would also advise. Good luck!