One of the best indicators of the end of summer visitors in Yellowstone National Park is the closure of most park roads and entrances. The landscape is transitioning to winter, and so are park operations. Starting today, November 1, the West, South and East entrances, along with many roads inside the park, are officially closed.
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Park Rangers and others are now preparing for the winter season and the arrival of snowmobiles and snowcoaches. A snowcoach is a wintertime tour bus. These chartered rides are a great way to experience the park when it is snow-covered. The park opens to these vehicles on December 15.
Anyone visiting the park in the winter months must enter through the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana or the Northeast Entrance in Cookie City/Silver Gate, Montana.
Yellowstone officials say visitors need to be prepared when visiting in the winter:
- Prepare for changing weather conditions.
- Have flexible travel plans.
- Expect limited services.
- Anticipate possible road closures due to inclement weather and dangerous driving conditions.
- Temporary travel restrictions or closures can occur at any time without notice.
- Stay informed about up-to-date road conditions in Yellowstone.
Have you ever visited Yellowstone in the wintertime?
