Online reservations through Recreation.gov are encouraged but not required. Reservation holders can print or download their permit at home within 5-days of the trip's start date after receiving a backcountry orientation from the backcountry office staff.
Walk-up permits are available at the South Entrance from mid-December to mid-March. For trip planning help, contact the Central Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160 or by email. Staff are available Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm, excluding holidays—please plan accordingly.
A recreation fee of $5 per person, per night—plus a $10 reservation fee—is charged year-round for backcountry permits, whether obtained through Recreation.gov or in person at a backcountry office.
Trip Planning
Winter brings solitude and stunning beauty to Yellowstone. Usable snowpack for skiing and snowshoeing typically begins in mid-December, with the best base forming by January. By late March, snow often disappears from lower elevations. Higher elevations may offer good conditions through April, but park road closures and spring plowing can limit access.
Winter backcountry travelers are not required to camp in designated sites. To reserve an undesignated site on Recreation.gov, select “Winter Backcountry Zone” as your starting area and include approximate camp locations in the comments. For ski trips along park roads, choose “Winter Road Corridor” as your starting area.The map below shows where winter backcountry camping is permitted (typically December 1–March 31):
Undesignated camping is allowed within the Winter Backcountry Zones (outlined in blue).
Designated sites (green icons) include picnic areas, campgrounds, trailheads, and backcountry campsites open to winter use.
Camping is not permitted outside of these zones or designated sites during the winter season.
Winter Regulations
Be sure to review the summer backcountry regulations, as many rules apply year-round—however, some requirements differ in winter.
Group size limit: 12 people.
Stay limit: 3 nights per location (some Winter Road Corridor sites limited to 1 night).
Camp out of sight of roads and trails, at least 100 feet from water and 1/4 mile from other groups
Prohibited areas: Critical winter wildlife range (e.g., Lamar Valley, Madison River Canyon).
Bathing in thermal features is not allowed.
Avoid camping near dead trees, which may fall unexpectedly.
Snow shelters must be dismantled after use.
Travel and camp on snow to protect frozen/emerging vegetation.
Fires are prohibited.
Store food 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the tree trunk, or use a bear-resistant container.
Human waste: Bury in snow 100 feet from campsites, trails, or water. Pack out or completely burn toilet paper.
Motorized equipment is prohibited, except by separate snowmobile permit on park roads.
Bicycles (including snow bikes) are not allowed on oversnow routes.
Pets (except service animals) are not allowed on trails, unplowed roads, or in the backcountry. Dog sledding and ski-joring are prohibited.
Winter fishing regulations apply from Nov 1 to the Friday before Memorial Day.
Travel Considerations
A winter trip into Yellowstone’s backcountry offers a chance to experience the park on its own terms—but it also comes with serious hazards: sub-zero temperatures, deep snow, blizzards, icy rivers, frozen lakes, and avalanche-prone terrain.
Always tell someone your plans, including where you're going and when you expect to return.
Do not rely on cell phones—coverage is extremely limited. Have an emergency plan.
Most of the park is above 7,000 feet—allow time to acclimate if coming from lower elevations.
Travel takes more time in winter—expect slower progress and longer setup and cooking times.
Test your gear (stoves, filters, fuel) in cold conditions before your trip.
Carry a method to melt snow or collect/purify water (avoid thermal sources). Add water before melting snow to avoid burning your pot.
Make sure your shelter is well ventilated to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Dress in appropriate layers, and learn to recognize and treat hypothermia and frostbite.
Plan your route carefully: study maps for mileage, elevation, stream crossings, and avalanche zones.
Stream crossings and snow bridges may appear safe but can be hazardous—loosen straps and remove your pack’s waist belt. When in doubt, ford rather than risk a fall.
Skiing on frozen lakes is not recommended due to unpredictable ice conditions.
Suggested Packing List
Minimum essentials for a winter backcountry trip in Yellowstone.
Skis or snowshoes
Poles
Backpack or tow sled
Tent, bivy sack, or materials for snow shelter
Map, compass, and/or GPS
Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
Sleeping pad
If traveling in avalanche terrain:
Avalanche beacon
Probe pole
Extra day’s worth of food
Cooking pot (for melting snow)
Camp stove, extra fuel, and stove repair kit
Bear-resistant food container or rope for hanging food
Winter backcountry camping in Yellowstone is a challenging but rewarding experience. This video covers some rules and tips to make your trip safer and more enjoyable.
