Bison? Check. Geyser? Check. Snow? Check it off, too. Yellowstone is ready for winter. Are you? Photo: NPS

MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, Wyo. — Winter has arrived in Yellowstone National Park.

Park roads will open to the public for snow coaches and snowmobiles Sunday, December 15.

Visitors will be able to travel the park’s interior roads on commercially-guided snowmobiles and snowcoaches from the North, West, and South Entrances. Visitors who have proper permits can also take non-commercially guided snowmobile trips.

The East Entrance Road over Sylvan Pass will open for oversnow travel on Sunday, December 22.

The road from the park’s North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, through Mammoth Hot Springs to Cooke City, Montana, is plowed and open to wheeled vehicle travel all year.

Plan ahead for your winter adventure. In addition to unique winter travel opportunities, Yellowstone also offers a variety of activities such as ranger-led programscross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Weather is extremely unpredictable and road closures or delays can occur with little or no warning. Please come prepared. Carry personal emergency survival equipment and dress appropriately for outside activities in extremely cold weather.

Lodging and services are limited during winter. The following list highlights what winter visitor services are available and when they will open:

Old Faithful

  • December 15 – Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, Geyser Grill, and Bear Den Gift Shop and Ski Shop
  • December 16 – Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins and Obsidian Dining Room

Mammoth Hot Springs

  • December 15 – Mammoth Hotel, Mammoth Hotel Map Room Barista/Bar, Dining Room, Terrace Grill, Mammoth Gift Shop and Ski Shop
  • Open Year-round – Albright Visitor Center,  Mammoth General Store, medical clinic, campground, and post office

Service Stations

  • Open Year-round – 24-hour gasoline pumps are available at Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Junction, Canyon Village, Fishing Bridge, Grant Village, and Old Faithful