Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, has multiple entrances that provide access to its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The park’s entrance availability varies throughout the year due to seasonal changes and weather conditions. This article provides comprehensive information on what entrances are open in Yellowstone National Park, their operating hours, and important details for visitors planning their trip.
Which Entrance is Open Year-Round in Yellowstone?
The North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, located near Gardiner, Montana, is the only entrance that remains open year-round. This entrance provides 24/7 access to the park, allowing visitors to explore the wonders of Yellowstone regardless of the season. The road from the North Entrance through Mammoth Hot Springs to the Northeast Entrance at Cooke City, Montana, is maintained throughout the year, weather permitting.
When Do the Other Entrances Open?
The opening dates for the other entrances of Yellowstone National Park vary depending on weather conditions and road maintenance schedules. Here’s a breakdown of the typical opening dates for each entrance:
- West Entrance: Opens on the third Friday in April (April 19, 2024, at 8:00 AM)
- East Entrance: Opens two weeks after the West Entrance (May 3, 2024, at 8:00 AM)
- South Entrance: Opens three weeks after the West Entrance (May 10, 2024, at 8:00 AM)
Once open, these entrances operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, unless temporary closures are necessary due to special conditions.
What Are the Key Opening Dates for Yellowstone’s 2024 Season?
The 2024 season in Yellowstone National Park features several important opening dates for various roads and facilities:
- April 19, 2024:
- Roads open:
- Mammoth Hot Springs to Norris
- Norris to Madison
- Madison to West Entrance
- Madison to Old Faithful
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Old Faithful Visitor Education Center opens
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May 3, 2024:
- East Entrance opens
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Road from Canyon to Lake Village (Sylvan Pass) opens
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May 10, 2024:
- South Entrance opens
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Roads open:
- Old Faithful to West Thumb
- Tower Junction to Tower Fall
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May 24, 2024:
- Road from Canyon to Tower (Dunraven Pass) opens
How Does Seasonal Access Affect Yellowstone’s Entrances?
Seasonal changes significantly impact access to Yellowstone National Park:
- Spring and Fall:
- Before vehicle access is permitted, visitors can hike, bike, or rollerblade on certain park roads.
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This includes roads from Mammoth to Norris, Norris to Madison, and Madison to the West Entrance.
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Winter:
- Most park roads close by early November.
- Exception: The road between the North and Northeast Entrances remains open.
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Winter access is limited to guided snowmobile tours or snowcoaches.
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Summer:
- All entrances are typically open, providing full access to the park.
- Peak visitation occurs during this season.
What Entrance Fees and Discounts Are Available?
| Pass Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Pass | 7 days | $35 |
| Annual Park Pass | 1 year | $70 |
| America the Beautiful Pass | 1 year | $80 |
- Discounts are available for seniors, military members, and fourth-grade students through the Every Kid Outdoors program.
- Free admission is offered on certain fee-free days throughout the year.
Are There Any Current Construction Projects Affecting Park Entrances?
Yes, visitors should be aware of ongoing road improvement projects:
- South Entrance: Construction near this entrance may cause delays of up to 20 minutes.
- Summer Chip Sealing: Various roads may experience delays of up to 30 minutes due to chip sealing projects.
It’s advisable to check the park’s official website or contact the visitor center for the most up-to-date information on road conditions and potential delays.
What Parking and Accessibility Options Are Available at Yellowstone’s Entrances?
- Parking:
- Available near each entrance and at major attractions within the park.
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Can be limited during peak season, so plan accordingly.
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Accessibility:
- Various facilities and services accommodate visitors with disabilities.
- Includes accessible restrooms, visitor centers, and some trails.
- Accessibility may vary depending on the season and road conditions.
By understanding what entrances are open in Yellowstone National Park and planning accordingly, visitors can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in this iconic natural wonderland.
References:
1. https://www.yellowstone.co/schedule/schedule.htm
2. https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/parkroads.htm
3. https://www.yellowstoneparknet.com/park_info/hours_seasons.php