Yellowstone’s Winter Season Starts December 15

Date: December 13, 2016
Contact: Morgan Warthin, [phone]

MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WY – At 8 a.m. Thursday, December 15, Yellowstone National Park roads will open to the public for motorized oversnow travel. Winter is here! 

Visitors will be able to travel the park’s interior roads on commercially-guided snowmobiles and snowcoaches from the North, West, and South Entrances. Visitors who have proper permits can also participate in the Non-commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program. Travel through the park’s East Entrance over Sylvan Pass is scheduled to begin December 22. 

The road from the park’s North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, through Mammoth Hot Springs to Cooke City, Montana, is open to wheeled vehicle travel all year. 

Are you planning a winter trip to the park? Weather is extremely unpredictable and road closures or delays can occur with little or no warning. Please come prepared. Carry personal emergency survival equipment and dress appropriately for outside activities in extremely cold weather. 

Most stores, restaurants, campgrounds, and lodges are closed during winter. The following list highlights when winter visitor services will open: 

Old Faithful

• December 15 - Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, Geyser Grill, and Bear Den Gift Shop (includes the ski shop)
• December 16 - Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins and Obsidian Dining Room 

Mammoth Hot Springs

• December 16 - Terrace Grill, Ski Shop
• Open Year-Round - Albright Visitor Center, Yellowstone General Store, 24-hour gasoline pumps, medical clinic, campground, and post office 

Tower Junction

• Open Year-Round - 24-hour gasoline pumps 

Additionally, a series of warming huts throughout the park provide shelter. Some huts are staffed during business hours and food, restrooms, and water is available. 

In addition to unique winter travel opportunities, Yellowstone also offers a variety of activities such as ranger-led programs, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing.