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Yellowstone offers lots of different ways to enjoy winter. Learn more and start planning your next winter adventure right here! Winter in Yellowstone means fewer crowds, frigid temperatures, and steaming geyser basins. Skis, snowshoes, snowcoaches, and snowmobiles become the primary modes of transportation as roads close, rivers and lakes freeze, and winter storms blanket the park with fluffy, white snow. Restricted vehicle access and limited services make winter visits far different than the summer experience. Every year in early November, most park roads close to regular traffic to prepare for the winter season. The only exception is the road between Mammoth Hot Springs and the northeast entrance, which is open to regular traffic all year (the road is closed east of Cooke City, Montana). Around mid-December, roads open to limited snowmobile and snowcoach travel. This means the only way to visit Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and other popular destinations during winter is by guided snowmobile or snowcoach, or through the non-commercially guided snowmobile access program. Winter travel ends in mid-March, when plowing crews begin clearing a winter’s worth of snow. Roads start re-opening to automobiles in mid-April. Most stores, restaurants, campgrounds, and lodges are closed during winter. Warming huts at Fishing Bridge, West Thumb, Old Faithful Yurts, Madison, and Indian Creek will be open but not staffed. Park partners and concessioners may offer a variety of guided trips throughout the park during the winter months. Authorized and permitted businesses also offer guided tours for a variety of activities. 2020–2021 Winter Facilities and ServicesAll opening and closing dates are subject to change based on future conditions and public health guidance. Capacities will be limited per CDC guidance. We will continue to evaluate and adapt to changing COVID-19 guidance and adjust operations as needed.These are still tentative, and may change as the season approaches. Anything not included in this list is closed during the winter. Warming HutsShelter for skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers.
* - Dates are tentative and subject to change Canyon
Mammoth Hot Springs to the Northeast EntranceThis is the only part of the park open to wheeled vehicles. The road is open up to Cooke City, Montana, after which the road is closed (no through-traffic to Red Lodge, Montana or Cody, Wyoming). Services are very limited between Mammoth Hot Springs and Cooke City, Montana.
1 - Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day Old Faithful
West Yellowstone
![]() Winter SafetyPrepare for cold air, deep snow, and slippery boardwalks. ![]() Winter Clothing and EquipmentReview tips for staying comfortable in the cold. ![]() Ski & SnowshoeMake tracks in a winter wonderland. ![]() Ride a Snowmobile or SnowcoachTake a guided tour of wintry Yellowstone. ![]() Snowmobile Access ProgramLearn about our non-commercially guided snowmobile program. ![]() Join a Guided TourProfessional guides can help you make the most of your visit. ![]() Operating HoursSee what and when services will be available for the 2020 summer season. ![]() SeasonsExplore Yellowstone's seasons. ![]() Explore in SummerPlanning is crucial to a good summer visit, as this is the time when most people come to the park. |
Last updated: March 10, 2021