EBS STAFF
Yellowstone National Park’s winter season begins today, Dec. 15. From now to mid-March, visitors can travel roads from the West, South, East and North entrances by approved vehicles: commercially guided snowmobiles and snowcoaches and non-commercially guided snowmobile access programs.
In a Dec. 13 news release, the park advised that “the type of transportation used on park roads by commercially guided snowmobile or snow coach tour companies will depend on road conditions.”
Roads will open to automobiles in mid-April, weather permitting.
The release included important information about winter travel in the park:
- Most park roads are closed to automobiles
The only roads open year-round are between the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana, and the Northeast Entrance in Cooke City/Silver Gate, Montana (via Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Junction and Lamar Valley). Anticipate possible road closures due to quickly changing weather and dangerous driving conditions. Check the road status map before you leave. Drive cautiously and watch out for snowplows. Do not stop, stand, or walk in the road. Use a pullout if you need to stop for any reason.
- Want to See Old Faithful?
Park partners, concessioners and authorized businesses offer a variety of guided tours throughout the park during the winter months.
- Services are limited
Most facilities are closed during winter. Check winter operating dates to see which visitor centers, stores, restaurants, lodges and warming huts are open.
- Camping and lodging
Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are open during winter. Make reservations as far in advance as possible. Lodging is also available in nearby communities. There are no campgrounds open for the 2023/2024 winter season.
- Prepare for winter conditions
Winter temperatures range from zero to 20°F (-20°C to -5°C) throughout the day. Sub-zero temperatures are common, especially at night and at higher elevations. Check current weather conditions, pack proper clothing and equipment and review winter safety tips.
- Do not approach or feed wildlife
Animals have the right of way. Expect to encounter bison and other wildlife on park roads. Slow down or pull over until they pass or move off the road. Stay 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves and 25 yards (23 m) from all other wildlife. The safest way to view wildlife is through a telephoto lens, a spotting scope or a pair of binoculars. Store food properly and be aware that in some areas, ravens have learned to unzip backpacks to obtain contents.
- Stay on boardwalks
People have been severely injured or killed by breaking through thin ground in thermal basins or falling into hot springs. Exercise caution and wear traction aids over footwear when navigating snowy or icy boardwalks.
- Enhance your experience
Download the free National Park Service App (and offline content) before you arrive.
- Connectivity is limited
You will likely not receive calls or texts, even in the few areas you have cell reception
