Plan Your Visit

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

• entrance fees,
• boat inspections and permits,
• current conditions,
• operating hours,
• places to go, and
• things to do.

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.

 

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.

10. Visiting in Winter

Winter in Yellowstone offers unique rewards and challenges. Check out the top things to know for a safe and successful winter visit.

 

Preparing For Your Trip

Taking time to plan your visit will make your experience more safe, fun, and rewarding. Select a link for the most accurate and up-to-date information about:

• Safety
• Maps
• Fees and Passes
• Operating Hours, Seasons, and Services
• Park Roads
• Goods and Services
• Visitor Centers and Museums
• Ranger Programs and how to become a Junior Ranger
• Guided Tours
• Things to Do
  • Watch Wildlife
  • Take Photographs
  • Enjoy a Picnic
  • Hike a Trail
  • Bike in the Park
  • Ride a Horse
  • Catch a Fish
  • Boat on a Lake
  • Swim and Soak
  • Explore in Winter
• Accessibility
• Pets
• Laws and Policies
• Permits and Reservations

Download the official, free NPS app and Yellowstone National Park content to help plan and enrich your trip before you arrive, during your visit, and even after your Yellowstone experience.