Yellowstone National Park offers a unique and intimate winter experience with fewer visitors and breathtaking snowy landscapes. For a first-time visitor to Yellowstone in winter, the recommended accommodations are Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins and Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins.
Recommended Accommodations for Yellowstone National Park in Winter
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins
Located on the northwestern boundary of the park, this hotel is accessible by car and offers standard hotel rooms, suites, and hot tub cabins. It is open from December 15 to March 4 and features a ski shop, gift shop, and dining options on-site.
Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins
Situated in the Upper Geyser Basin, this lodge is accessible only by snowcoach and offers lodge rooms and cabins with varying amenities. It is open from December 16 to March 3 and provides snowcoach transportation, a dining room, and a gift shop.
Getting Around Yellowstone National Park in Winter
During winter, most roads in Yellowstone are closed to automobile traffic. To get around the park, visitors can use:
-
Snowcoaches: These are available from the north, west, and south entrances and offer frequent trips to various locations, including Old Faithful Snow Lodge. Reservations can be made in advance to ensure transportation.
-
Snowmobiles: These are another option but must be accompanied by a guide. Snowmobiles can be used to travel through the park, but they require special permits and guided tours.
Winter Activities and Packages in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone offers a range of winter activities, including:
-
Skiing and Snowshoeing: Both Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge offer ski and snowshoe rentals and guided tours.
-
Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a variety of winter wildlife, including wolves, bison, and elk.
-
Winter Photography: The park’s winter landscapes and geothermal features make it an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts.
-
Winter Packages: Various packages are available, such as the Frosty Fun Special, Old Faithful Winter Expedition Package, and Winter Wolf Discovery Package, which offer a range of activities and experiences tailored to different interests.
Additional Information for Yellowstone National Park Winter Lodging
-
Winter Camping: Mammoth Campground is open year-round and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It does not take reservations.
-
Winter Weather: Severe winter weather can cause temporary road closures, and guests are responsible for any additional costs incurred due to such delays.
-
Lodging Outside the Park: There are various lodging options available near all four park entrances, including West Yellowstone, Montana, and Cody, Wyoming.
Reference:
- https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/winter/
- https://www.yellowstonepark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-cabins/inside-yellowstone-park/hotels-camping-winter/
- https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/stay/winter-lodges/
- https://www.usparklodging.com/yellowstonewinter/
- https://travelwyoming.com/article/yellowstone-winter-cabins-holiday-lodges/