News Release

Top 10 things to know about visiting Yellowstone National Park during the 2026 summer season

Norris Geyser Basin Trail: views of Sunday Geyser from the boardwalks

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

News Release Date: May 14, 2026

Contact: Public Affairs Office

MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WY – This summer, visitors to Yellowstone National Park are being urged to plan ahead – both to stay safe and to help protect one of America’s most iconic wild landscapes. Across 2.2 million acres, Yellowstone offers unparalleled opportunities to observe wildlife in an intact ecosystem, explore geothermal wonders that include half the world’s active geysers, and view geologic landmarks like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. By following these top 10 things to know before you go, you can make the most of your visit while helping ensure that Yellowstone remains healthy, wild, and awe-inspiring for generations to come.

1. Reservations are not required to enter Yellowstone
   Reservations are not required to enter the park – just a park entrance pass. Keep in mind that summer is busy, so pack your patience and be prepared for crowds at popular areas and lines at entrance stations, construction areas, and roadside wildlife sightings.

2. Check the status of park roads
   Most park roads open to personal vehicles in mid-April and close in early November. Weather may cause temporary closures at any time, so check the status of park roads for more information, including potential traffic delays due to road improvement projects.

3. Plan ahead
   All campgrounds and lodging require reservations and are often booked well in advance. Operating hours and service levels may change with little notice. Check the latest information before coming to the park:
   Operating Dates of Facilities and Services
   Current Conditions
   Eating and Sleeping
   Places to Go
   Things to Do
   Fishing Permits
   Boat Inspections and Permits

4. Give wildlife room
   Wild animals are dangerous if you get too close! It’s your responsibility to respect safety regulations and view wildlife from a safe distance. Always maintain a minimum of 100 yards (91 m) from bears, wolves, and cougars and 25 yards (23 m) from all other animals, including bison and elk. All of Yellowstone is bear country, so be sure to carry bear spray and know how to use it. Learn how to watch wildlife safely and travel safely in bear country.

5. Drive and park responsibly
   Observe posted speed limits and use pullouts to watch wildlife, take pictures, and let other cars pass. Do not stop your vehicle in the road. When pulling over, park with all four tires fully to the right of the white line.

6. Stay on boardwalks
   People have been severely injured or even killed after stepping off boardwalks in thermal areas, where the thin, fragile ground can suddenly give way, causing them to break through or fall directly into scalding hot springs.

7. Enhance your experience
   Download the free National Park Service app (and offline content) before you arrive in the park for interactive maps, tours of park places, on-the-ground accessibility information, and more.

8. Expect limited connectivity
   Don't be surprised if you can't receive calls or texts, even in the few areas where you might have cell reception.

9. Prepare for weather changes
   Unpredictability characterizes Yellowstone's weather. Expect big temperature swings, rain, or snow during every month of the year. No matter when you visit, bring a warm jacket, rain gear, and lots of layers. Check current weather conditions before you arrive.

10. Make the most of your trip
    Make it the trip of a lifetime by attending a ranger program, exploring the Yellowstone Tribal Heritage Center, or participating in the free Junior Ranger program.

Additionally, if you really want to share your love for Yellowstone, take the Yellowstone Pledge. Encourage your family and friends to do the same and share your photos with us online using #YellowstonePledge.

nps.gov/yell

About the National Park Service. The National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of this and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

More Information

• 

  Plan Your Visit

  Yellowstone changes with the seasons—make the most of your visit! Plan ahead to keep your trip safe, fun, and unforgettable.

• 

  Safety

  Stay on boardwalks, keep a safe distance from wildlife, store food properly—Yellowstone safety tips to protect you and the park.

• 

  Yellowstone Pledge

  Help us protect the park by taking the Yellowstone Pledge and learn how to put the pledge into action!