Keystone SD to Yellowstone - Route suggestions

We have decided to stop in the Keystone, SD area for a few days before heading on to Yellowstone. We will leave Keystone as early as needed on a Monday and need to check into Old Faithful Inn same day. Which will be the most scenic route to drive? and how long will it take?

Which will be the shortest route to drive?

I posted this in the Wyoming Forum too, so sorry for the duplication, was not sure which forum readers would have the most suggestions. :)

Keystone SD to Yellowstone - Route suggestions

Most scenic: I-90 to Ranchester, WY, 14 to 14A to Lovell, WY, to Cody, WY, 296 (Chief Joseph Highway) to 212. Then take a detour on the east on 212 which is the Beartooth Highway. Turn around at some point and head through Yellowstone coming in through the northeast gate. But this is a long route best done over two days.

If you%26#39;re looking to just get to West Yellowstone a good mix of scenery and speed can be had with this same route to Cody and then heading straight to West Yellowstone--skipping the Chief Joseph and Beartooth Highways. You could cut out a little more time (but not much) if you skip 14A and stay on 14 to Cody. It%26#39;s going to take you about 9 hours this way if you don%26#39;t stop much.

Obviously there are numerous ways to get there.

Keystone SD to Yellowstone - Route suggestions

It%26#39;s easy enough to get to Cody from Keystone but last part can be very slow into Yellowstone, traffic, roadworks, animals..... I would count on 10-11 hours and don%26#39;t blame those buffalo%26#39;s for your delays-lol-

Tet

Thanks for the details Accommodator. since we have so much planned for this trip, I think we will have to wait on the Beartooth route for the next trip and focus in on that portion as a main must do item. I know I am missing lots by not going that route, but it will be something to save and look forward to another time. I want to take my time if we do Beartooth.

Tet14, I will be sure not to blame the buffalo%26#39;s and will say hi to them for you as I wait for them to cross! lol