EBS STAFF
Each winter when most roads in Yellowstone National Park close to automobiles, and open to oversnow vehicles, winter recreation and wildlife enthusiasts eagerly adapt their methods of exploring America’s first National Park in its quiet and cold season. Yellowstone announced the details for their lottery system for snowmobile access without a commercial guide.
Beginning Friday, Aug. 1 and through Aug. 31, people may apply to the 2025-26 winter lottery for permits to snowmobile without a commercial guide, based on a permit system that launched in 2013 allowing permit holders to enter the park for up to three days with a group of up to five snowmobilers. Trips can be for a maximum of three days in length, and permits cost $40 per day with a $6 application fee. Those within a guided trip need not apply.
Applications must be at least 18 years old on the first day of their trip, possess a state-issued driver’s license and successfully complete the free online Yellowstone Snowmobile Education Certification program. Additionally, all snowmobiles must meet the park’s New Best Available Technology standard.
Successful applicants will be notified in early September. Unclaimed or canceled permits will be made available via recreation.gov on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Oct.1.
