Is Yellowstone National Park open in the winter? Yes it is, and if you’re wondering if it’s worth going to this famous national park during this time of year, read on. You’ll find lots of great reasons for visiting Yellowstone this winter.
Best Winter Activities in Yellowstone
First of all, winter is the least busy time for visiting Yellowstone. The silence and solitude can’t be matched in other seasons. When the world is covered in white, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few things to put on your “must-do” list for Yellowstone winter activities.
- Watch the geysers in the snow. It is an entirely different and wondrous experience.
- Work on your photography skills.
- Go cross-country skiing.
- Strap on some snowshoes and go exploring.
- Watch the animals. Winter is a great time to spot all the local wildlife, including bison and wolves.
- Go ice skating. Outdoor ice rinks and complimentary skates are available for Yellowstone hotel guests
- Try a fly-fishing expedition or horseback riding.
- Head north of Yellowstone for a chance to take a sleigh ride.
- Try dog sledding in the surrounding area as well.
- Stay for the holidays. You can even select and cut your own Christmas tree with a Yellowstone tree permit.
- Check the Yellowstone Forever educational program calendar for additional events, seminars, and family activities.
Essential Tips Yellowstone Visitors Should Know for the Winter Season
Not every part of Yellowstone National Park is open in the winter. The road from the North Entrance to the Northeast Entrance is open year-round. There may be closures, so always check before you go. A 4-wheel drive vehicle can prove useful in this area.
All other roads are closed to automobiles from the first week of November through the last week of April. This means most other areas are only accessible with snowmobiles or snowshoes and skis. Yellowstone also provides guided tours in snow coaches to carry visitors over snow-covered roads.
Did you know Yellowstone also runs a daily shuttle to and from the Bozeman Airport to help you avoid rental car costs? You can relax and let our professional drivers handle the winter roads. It’s the safest way to visit Yellowstone in winter.
Where to Stay In Yellowstone During the Winter
Mammoth Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge are open during the winter and accessible by snow coach. You’ll also find various tours and ski shuttles available daily from these hotels. No need to worry about where to eat either. Both hotels serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner to keep you fueled and ready for fun in the snow.
Mammoth Hotel and Cabins offers great opportunities to watch the winter wildlife, including elk, bison, and wolves.
Old Faithful Snow Lodge is the best place for geyser-watching.
Many hotels, cabins, rentals, and B&Bs for lodging near Yellowstone also exist. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even find tent camping.
Are There Any Regulations or Permits Required for Yellowstone in the Winter?
If you want to ride your own snowmobiles in and around Yellowstone, you will need a permit. These are available to anyone over 18 and are awarded by lottery in September.
You’ll also need a permit to hunt Christmas trees in Yellowstone.
Remember that visitors cannot swim or soak in any hot springs inside Yellowstone. There are safe areas outside of the park for these activities.
What to Pack for Yellowstone National Park in the Winter?
Let’s just say it: Yellowstone is cold in the winter. Don’t expect temperatures to exceed 20℉ during the day. They’ll go much lower overnight.
Dressing in layers is important when visiting Yellowstone in winter. Pack fleece and wool clothing (avoid cotton or jeans), long underwear, gloves, scarves, hats, thick socks, and boots. Consider bringing snow pants if you want to maximize your time outdoors. Disposable hand warmers are also a good idea. Make sure all your outerwear is waterproof!
And even though it’s winter, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, lotion, and lip balm.
Get Ready for Yellowstone Wintertime Fun
Contact us if you’d like more information on how Wild West Rafting can help you plan memorable Yellowstone winter activities, or book a tour with us at Yellowstone National Park today!