Several roads in Yellowstone National Park are closed or have restrictions due to construction, weather, or other conditions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the current road closures and restrictions in Yellowstone, providing valuable information for national park touring enthusiasts.
Lewis River Bridge Road Closure
The road leading to the Lewis River Bridge is currently closed for construction. A new bridge is being built, and the project is expected to be completed by fall 2024. During this time, visitors can expect up to 20-minute delays while the South Entrance Road is open to wheeled vehicles. Additionally, nearby pullouts and the trail to Lewis River Falls will be closed during the construction period.
Yellowstone River Bridge Road Closure in 2024
While there is no specific information available on the Yellowstone River Bridge road closure in 2024, it is part of the ongoing road improvement projects that may cause traffic delays throughout the park.
Road Improvement Projects Causing Closures in 2024
The National Park Service is conducting various road improvement projects, including chip sealing, which may cause delays of up to 30 minutes. Visitors are advised to drive slowly and maintain the recommended speed limit on chip seal pavement to reduce the risk of loose gravel damaging their vehicles or windshields.
Traffic Delays in 2024
Expect up to 20-minute delays on the South Entrance Road due to the Lewis River Bridge construction. Additionally, the chip sealing projects may cause delays of up to 30 minutes in various areas of the park.
Current Road Status
The only road open year-round is the North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, through the North Entrance. This road will take you to park Headquarters at Mammoth Hot Springs and from Mammoth Hot Springs to Silver Gate and Cooke City, Montana. All other entrances (East, Northeast, South, and West) will open in spring (April and May 2024) to regular vehicle entrance and travel.
Temporary Closures
Temporary closures are always possible due to weather or other conditions. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website or call (307) 344-2117 for recorded information on road status before planning their trip.
Road Conditions Outside the Northeast Entrance
After the initial opening, weather conditions may cause occasional closures on roads outside the Northeast Entrance. Visitors should check locally or at WY DOT and MT DOT before traveling to ensure they have the most up-to-date information.
Park Roads
Yellowstone National Park has 251 miles of roads, with limited space for pulling off and limited passing zones. There are a few roads with shoulders for bike riders, but visitors should be cautious of steep grades and winding narrow roads, especially at Sylvan Pass, Craig Pass, and the road from Mammoth Hot Springs to Gardiner.
Speed Limits
The park’s top speed limit is 45 miles per hour, with many areas having lower speeds. The speed limit is strictly enforced to ensure safety and prevent animal deaths.
Weather Conditions
Weather in Yellowstone can change quickly, especially during winter. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website for weather updates and plan their trip accordingly.
By understanding the current road closures and restrictions in Yellowstone National Park, national park touring enthusiasts can better plan their visit and navigate the park’s roads with ease. Remember to always check the park’s website or call the recorded information line for the most up-to-date information before your trip.
References:
– https://yellowstone.net/maps/current-roads-status/
– https://www.yellowstone.co/roads.htm
– https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/parkroads.htm
– https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
– https://yellowstoneinsider.com/2013-yellowstone-opening-and-closing-dates/