Van Road Trip from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park: A Nature Lover's Guide

For nature lovers, a road trip from Chicago to Yellowstone is a dream — geysers, canyons, and wildlife at the end of a scenic drive west. A rented van carries the whole group and gear. Here’s what to know.

Planning the drive

It’s a long haul west, so map your route and overnight stops, pack for changing weather, and give yourself time to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Yellowstone’s must-sees

Once there, don’t miss Old Faithful and the park’s famous geysers and hot springs, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and the wildlife — bison, elk, and more — around every bend.

Nature stops and hiking

Build in time for the park’s hiking trails and quieter corners, where the crowds thin and the views are unforgettable.

Why a van for nature lovers

One van keeps the group together with room for camping and hiking gear, and our Sprinters add a smooth ride and Crosswind Assist for the open highway.

Go the distance

Because we’re Illinois-based, you can drive our vans all the way to Yellowstone and back — no special license needed for personal use, and two additional drivers free (three drivers in total).

Which van should you pick?

For comfort, the 15-passenger Mercedes-Benz Sprinter; for value, the 15-passenger Ford Transit. Browse the full fleet.