The North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, located in Gardiner, Montana, is a unique and accessible gateway to the park, offering a wealth of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures. As a National Park Touring Enthusiast, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the main attractions, transportation options, and essential information to make the most of your visit to the Gardiner Entrance.
Main Attractions Near the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana
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Roosevelt Arch: A ceremonial entrance to Yellowstone, constructed in 1903. Visitors can drive through the arch, take pictures, and walk inside the arch columns.
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Arch Park: Located next to Roosevelt Arch, offering parking spots and opportunities for photos.
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North Entrance Park Ranger Booth: The actual entrance to the park, where visitors pay their entrance fee or show their park pass. It is located 1/2 mile south of Roosevelt Arch within the park boundaries.
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Gardiner Town: Known for its historic charm and natural beauty, with elk and bison often roaming the streets. The town offers various outdoor activities, dining options, and local shops.
Getting to the North Entrance from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
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Distance: The North Entrance is approximately 90 miles from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, which takes around 1.5 hours to drive.
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Transportation Options:
- Rent a Car: Several car rental companies are available at the airport, such as Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise.
- Shuttle Services: Companies like Yellowstone Airport Shuttle and Greater Yellowstone Airport Shuttle offer transportation to Gardiner and the North Entrance.
- Public Transportation: Limited public transportation options are available, but visitors can use services like the Yellowstone Park Shuttle or the Gardiner Shuttle.
Additional Information
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Year-Round Access: The North Entrance is the only entrance open year-round, making it accessible during winter when other entrances are closed.
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Road Conditions: The road from Gardiner to Mammoth Hot Springs is plowed and maintained for winter vehicle travel, allowing visitors to access the park during winter.
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Flood Recovery: The North Entrance road was affected by the historic floods of 2022, but a new road was constructed using the original stagecoach route. The park is working on a permanent solution.
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Accommodations and Dining: Gardiner offers various hotels, campgrounds, and dining options, including historic lodges and local eateries.
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Accessibility: The North Entrance Station has accessible vault toilets, and the park strives to make facilities and services accessible to all.
As a National Park Touring Enthusiast, the Gardiner Entrance of Yellowstone National Park offers a unique and accessible gateway to explore the park’s natural wonders, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or braving the winter, the North Entrance provides a memorable and rewarding experience for all.