Current Conditions

Alerts

 

Flood Recovery & Operations

   Latest Updates

Beginning June 12, 2022, unprecedented amounts of rainfall caused substantial flooding, rockslides, and mudslides within Yellowstone National Park. Historic water levels caused severe damage to roads, water and wastewater systems, power lines, and other critical park infrastructure. Check the flood recovery and operations page for up-to-date information and updates on flood recovery efforts and park operations.

 

COVID-19

   Current COVID-19 Guidelines

Current COVID-19 community level of Yellowstone National Park: LOW

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Mask requirements are based on this community level. Based on the current community level, the following applies:
HIGH: masks are required for everyone indoors, regardless of vaccination status. Indoor areas include, but are not limited to, park visitor centers, administrative offices, lodges, gift shops, and restaurants.
MODERATE and LOW: masks are optional indoors.

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Regardless of the current community level:

• Masks are strongly recommended for everyone on all forms of public and commercial (e.g., transportation operated by contractors, concessioners or other partners) transportation. 
• Practice physical distancing by maintaining at least 6 feet (2 m) of distance between you and others.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. If you feel sick, please do not visit the park.

Find out more information about Yellowstone National Park COVID-19 updates.

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In general, the National Park Service follows CDC guidance to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Check locally and in the park app for updates and changes in park operations. Thank you for helping to keep yourself and others safe and healthy.

 

Park Roads

   Road Status & Closures

The road between Mammoth Hot Springs and the northeast entrance is the only park road typically open to regular traffic year-round, weather permitting (closes in winter east of Cooke City, MT). All other park roads are closed to wheeled vehicles (cars, vans, motorcycles, etc.), and open to limited snowmobile and snowcoach travel from mid-December to mid-March. Before coming to the park, be sure to check the following:

• Park roads: the current road status and seasonal road opening/closing dates.
• Road improvement projects: active and planned construction projects that may cause delays and closures.
• Webcams: a live look at traffic approaching the north and west entrances to the park.

 

Weather

   Weather Conditions

The weather in Yellowstone can change quickly, especially during the winter. While planning your trip, be sure to check out the following:

• Current weather conditions: a live display of the current weather throughout the park.
• Forecasts and seasonal information: extended weather forecasts and typical conditions for every season.
• Webcams: a live look at various locations throughout the park.

   Snow Conditions

The Natural Resource Conservation Service offers an interactive map that displays current data on snow depth, snow water equivalent, and more from SNOTEL stations in and around Yellowstone. Avalanche forecasts and other winter safety information are available from the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center and the Bridger Teton Avalanche Center.

 

Activities

   Backcountry Camping & Hiking

Check the backcountry situation report or call the Backcountry Office at 307-344-2160 for trail and campsite conditions. Stream levels have risen in some areas with the recent rain and snow. Use caution when crossing streams.

   Eating & Sleeping

Check out the operating hours to see which services will be availble during your visit. Operating hours and service levels can change with little notice, so please check back often.

   Fishing

The fishing season runs from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend (usually the last weekend in May) and extends through October 31. You are strongly encouraged to purchase a required fishing permit online before arriving in the park.

   Swim & Soak

Boiling River: Closed until further notice
Firehole River Swim Area: Open

Park waters are swift and cold, so use caution around all rivers and streams. Read more about swimming and soaking in Yellowstone.

 

Wildlife

   Wildlife Safety

Never approach animals or block traffic to view them. The animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable, no matter how calm they appear to be. Always stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals, including bison and elk. Read more about safety in bear country and learn about bear spray, a highly effective, non-lethal bear deterrent.

 

Wildland Fire

   Current Fire Activity

Current wildland fire danger: MODERATE

See the current fire activity page for more information.

 

NPS Yellowstone App Free digital guide to the park