YELLOWSTONE, Wyo. — This summer, Yellowstone National Park (YNP) will continue to issue free day permits to individuals who ride or lead stock such as horses and mules on park trails.
Five years ago, YNP launched the free permit system to help park managers understand where, when and how many stock users visit the park. This information is critical to help protect park resources and the quality of the visitor experience in the backcountry.
Traveling in Yellowstone’s backcountry with stock is an alternative way to see the park. The free day ride permits provide an opportunity for park staff to assist riders in planning safe, enjoyable and low-impact trips.
To obtain a free permit, stock users can visit the park’s website or call the Central Backcountry Office at (307) 344-2160. Rangers may ask to see people’s permits during rides on trails.
Yellowstone’s stock packing regulations remain in effect:
- Overnight stock use is not allowed until July 1. Check the Backcountry Situation Report to see what trails are open for day use.
- Stock users who plan overnight trips must obtain a backcountry permit.
- Stock users must possess certification of a negative Coggins test performed within the last 12 months for all equine stock entering Yellowstone.
Yellowstone is not limiting the number of individual stock users on trails.
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