Plan Your Visit

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Duration:
12 minutes, 7 seconds

Yellowstone is seasonal. Plan Your Visit by learning about current conditions, seasons, road conditions, services, activities, and more.

 

Millions of people visit Yellowstone annually to make lifelong memories of watching erupting geysers, roaming wildlife, and the artistry of thermophiles. There are some important considerations to make this a successful visit.

Top Things To Know

1. 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 the current weather conditions.

2. Check Road Statuses

Most Yellowstone's roads close to wheeled vehicles (cars, vans, motorcycles, etc.) in early November and stay closed until mid-April. Check the Park Roads page for more information.

3. 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, be sure to park with all four tires fully to the right of the white line.

4. Plan Ahead

Make sure you know about

5. Wildlife are Dangerous

People have been injured or killed by bears, bison, and elk. Always maintain a minimum of 25 yards (23 m) from all wildlife and 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves. Learn how to watch wildlife safety and travel safely in bear country.

 
Illustration of a person 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from all other wildlife

6. Stay on Boardwalks

People have been severely injured or killed by breaking through the thin ground in thermal basins or falling into hot springs.

7. Protect Yourself and Others

Consistent with CDC guidance, visitors to Yellowstone National Park, regardless of vaccination status or community transmission levels, are required to wear a mask indoors, on all forms of public transportation, and in crowded outdoor spaces.

8. Enhance Your Experience

Download the free National Park Service app (and offline content) before you arrive.

9. Connectivity is Limited

Don't be surprised if you can't receive calls or texts, even in the few areas you have cell reception.

 

Last updated: October 15, 2021

Contact the Park

Mailing Address:

PO Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168

Phone:

307-344-7381

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