Current Conditions

Alerts

 

Park Roads

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, seasonal road opening/closing dates, and road construction information.
  • Webcams: a live look at traffic approaching the north and west entrances to the park.
 

Weather

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

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.

Conditions can vary drastically depending on the season that you're visiting Yellowstone National Park. Plan accordingly by checking out typical monthly conditions.

 

Visitor Services

Check out the current opening and closing dates for all campgrounds, lodges, and dining areas in Yellowstone National Park. Operating hours and service levels can change with little notice, so please check back often.

Yellowstone National Park has ten visitor centers and information stations found throughout the park. Check out the current opening and closing dates. Operating hours and service levels can change with little notice, so please check back often.

 

Activities

Check the backcountry situation report for up-to-date trail conditions and closures, or call the Backcountry Office at 307-344-2160.

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.

Before bringing your boat to the park, check the current boating regulations and permit and inspection facility operating hours.

Bicyclists may use established public roads when open to motor vehicles during the summer season and during certain times during the spring and fall seasons. Check out the current biking regulations and seasonal dates.

Boiling River: No swimming at Boiling River. Currently, swimming is not possible at Boiling River because of the impacts to the river from the 2022 floods.
Firehole River Swim Area: Closed for the season


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

 

Wildland Fire Danger

Current wildland fire danger: LOW


See the current fire activity page for more information.

 

Flood Recovery & Operations

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.

 

Wildlife

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.

Graphic showing distance to maintain from wildlife: 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from bison, elk, and all other wildlife
 
Photo of a park ranger at an entrance station
Basic Information

Get all the essential information here, from directions to entrance fees to hours of operation.

Lightning strikes Electric Peak as a dark storm rolls over the mountain.
Backcountry Situation Report

Current conditions for trails and campsites.

A rainbow stands out as a geyser erupts.
Current Geyser Activity

Get the latest geyser eruption predictions.

Last updated: March 13, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168

Phone:

307-344-7381

Contact Us