News Release

Yellowstone announces lottery for 2025-2026 Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program

Two people driving snowmobiles on a snowy road near a river
Snowmobilers near the Gibbon River

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

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News Release Date: July 24, 2025

Contact: Public Affairs Office, (307) 344-2015

MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WY – Beginning Friday, Aug. 1, people may apply to the 2025-2026 winter lottery for permits to snowmobile in Yellowstone National Park without a commercial guide. Authorized in 2013, the Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program allows permit holders to enter the park for up to three days with a group of up to five snowmobilers.

This year’s lottery will be open Aug. 1-31 on recreation.gov. 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. There is no waiting list. Cancellations may occur throughout the winter season, so check the website often for openings. Trips can be for a maximum of three days in length, and permits cost $40 per day with a $6 application fee.

Permit holders are considered non-commercial guides and must be at least 18 years old on the first day of their trip. All snowmobile operators must possess a state-issued driver’s license and successfully complete the free online Yellowstone Snowmobile Education Certification program. Anyone can take the course to learn about park rules that help visitors safely enjoy the unique experience of winter in Yellowstone while also protecting park resources. All snowmobiles must meet the park’s New Best Available Technology standard.

To learn more about planning a winter trip to Yellowstone, visit Explore in Winter.  



More Information

  • Snowmobiles ride by a small group of bison
    Snowmobiling

    Apply for a permit through the Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program to snowmobile in the park.

  • Visitors on a snowmobile talk with a park ranger
    Snowmobile Access Program Logistics

    Review the logistics and regulations for the Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program.

  • A snow-covered evergreen tree sits in the foreground of visitors on a wooden boardwalk amongst steam
    Explore in Winter

    Ready to brave the cold? Check out this information for planning a winter visit.

Last updated: July 24, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168

Phone:

307-344-7381

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