Yes, Yellowstone National Park is open to the public. Despite the historic floods experienced in June, the park has reopened, and visitors can access various areas and facilities. However, some trails and backcountry campsites in the northern range of the park remain closed due to flood damage. Additionally, the Northeast Entrance Road between Lamar Valley and the barrier near Warm Creek is closed for major construction repairs until October 15.
Operating Dates and Hours
Yellowstone National Park is open to the public year-round, with varying operating hours and facility availability depending on the season.
Park Entrances
- The park entrances are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, when seasonally open.
Facilities
- Most facilities in Yellowstone open on a staggered schedule, with some opening in late April and closing in September.
- Two winter lodges open in December and close in early March.
Roads
- The road between Mammoth Hot Springs and the northeast entrance is open year-round, weather permitting.
- Other park roads are closed to wheeled vehicles from mid-December to mid-March and open to limited snowmobile and snowcoach travel.
Restrictions and Closures
While Yellowstone National Park is generally open to the public, there are some restrictions and closures in place due to the recent floods and ongoing construction projects.
Backcountry Closures
- Some trails and campsites in the northern range of the park are closed due to flood damage.
Northeast Entrance Road
- The Northeast Entrance Road between Lamar Valley and the barrier near Warm Creek is closed for major construction repairs until October 15.
Slough Creek Campground
- Slough Creek Campground is closed for the season.
Old Gardiner Road
- The Old Gardiner Road is closed until October 15 for construction repairs.
Visitor Services and Activities
Yellowstone National Park offers a wide range of visitor services and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Visitor Centers
- Visitor center operating hours and service levels can change with little notice, so visitors should check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm the current status.
Fishing
- The fishing season runs from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend to October 31.
- A required fishing permit must be purchased online before arriving in the park.
Boating
- Visitors should check the current boating regulations and permit and inspection facility operating hours before bringing a boat to the park.
Bicycling
- Bicyclists can use established public roads when open to motor vehicles during the summer season and certain times during the spring and fall seasons.
Flood Recovery and Operations
The park is currently working to recover from the historic floods that occurred in June 2022, with ongoing repairs to roads, water and wastewater systems, power lines, and other critical infrastructure.
Important Contacts and Resources
- Backcountry Office: 307-344-2160 for up-to-date trail conditions and closures.
- Park Roads: Check the park website for up-to-date road conditions and receive road alerts on your mobile phone by texting “82190” to 888-777.
References
- https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/stay/plan/opening-and-closing-dates/
- https://yellowstoneinsider.com/2013-yellowstone-opening-and-closing-dates/
- https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
- https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/operating-dates.htm
- https://bozemanchamber.com/yellowstone-updates.