| Document and Entity Information Document | Nov. 10, 2021 | Nov. 01, 2021 |
| Entity Information [Line Items] | ||
| Document Type | 8-K | |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 10, 2021 | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000048039 | |
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Entity Registrant Name | HOLLYFRONTIER CORP | |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE | |
| Entity File Number | 001-03876 | |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-1056913 | |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2828 N. Harwood, Suite 1300 | |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Dallas | |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX | |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 75201 | |
| City Area Code | 214 | |
| Local Phone Number | 871-3555 | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock $0.01 par value | |
| Trading Symbol | HFC | |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE | |
| Written Communications | false | |
| Soliciting Material | false | |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false | |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false | |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
