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National Park

Yellowstone National Park

CautionAug 26, 2026

Stay Away From Bull Elk

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Brilliant blues and greens of a hot spring ringed by oranges, yellows, reds, and browns.

The bright colors found in Grand Prismatic Spring come from thermophiles—microorganisms that thrive in hot temperatures

Photo: NPS/Jim Peaco

About

On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park for all to enjoy the unique hydrothermal wonders. Today, millions of people come here each year to camp, hike, and enjoy the majesty of the park.

Activities

Arts and CultureAuto and ATVScenic DrivingAstronomyBikingMountain BikingRoad BikingBoatingBoat TourCampingBackcountry CampingCanoe or Kayak CampingCar or Front Country CampingHorse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
Group Camping
RV Camping
Fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Fly Fishing
Food
Dining
Picnicking
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Bus/Shuttle Guided Tour
Boat Tour
Hands-On
Arts and Crafts
Volunteer Vacation
Hiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horseback Riding
Paddling
Canoeing
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Kayaking
Junior Ranger Program
Skiing
Cross-Country Skiing
Snow Play
Snowmobiling
Snowshoeing
Swimming
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Park Film
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store
Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Directions

Yellowstone National Park covers nearly 3,500 square miles in the northwest corner of Wyoming (3% of the park is in Montana and 1% is in Idaho). Yellowstone has five entrance stations, and several are closed to regular vehicles during winter. It takes many hours to drive between these entrances, so be sure to check the status of roads at the entrance you intend to use while planning your trip and before you arrive.

Get directions →

Weather

Yellowstone's weather can vary quite a bit, even in a single day. In the summer, daytime highs can exceed 70°F (21°C), only to drop 20 or more degrees when a thunderstorm rolls through. It can snow during any month of the year, and winter lows frequently drop below 0°F (-18°C), especially at night. Bring a range of clothing options, including a warm jacket and rain gear, even in the summer.

News

Most Yellowstone National Park Roads and Entrances Close Nov. 1, 2026, for Winter Season
Oct 21, 2026

Most Yellowstone National Park Roads and Entrances Close Nov. 1, 2026, for Winter Season

As fall settles over Yellowstone National Park, most park roads and three entrances will close to regular vehicle traffic on Nov. 1 in preparation for winter. Each year, the park closes its West, South and East entrances, along with nearly all roads, to prepare for winter operations and the start of snowmobile and snowcoach travel season on Dec. 15.

National Park Service, Yellowstone Forever, and Blackstone Infrastructure’s Tallgrass Announce $105 Million Fund for Yellowstone National Park
Oct 19, 2026

National Park Service, Yellowstone Forever, and Blackstone Infrastructure’s Tallgrass Announce $105 Million Fund for Yellowstone National Park

The National Park Service, together with its official nonprofit and philanthropic partner, Yellowstone Forever, and Blackstone Infrastructure portfolio company Tallgrass, announces the establishment of a $105 million Conservation and Stewardship Fund, creating a permanent source of support for the long-term stewardship of the world’s first national park.

Yellowstone National Park reports September 2026 visitation statistics
Oct 6, 2026

Yellowstone National Park reports September 2026 visitation statistics

Yellowstone National Park hosted 868,450 recreation visits in September 2026, up 3% from September 2025 (839,579 recreation visits).  

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Private Vehicle$35.00
Entrance - Non-commercial Groups$20.00
Entrance - Motorcycle$30.00
Entrance - Snowmobile$30.00