Yellowstone Montana Montana, USA Travel Guide
Yellowstone National Park spans three states, with a considerable portion located in Montana. The park's North Entrance sits at Gardiner, Montana, offers year-round access to Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley. To the west, the town of West Yellowstone, Montana, serves as a principal gateway to the park's famous geyser basins during warmer months and a hub for winter sports. The isolated Northeast Entrance, near Cooke City, Montana, grants another entry point, leading directly into the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley and connecting seasonally to the scenic Beartooth Highway.
Yellowstone is a deep and history. Native American tribes, including the Crow, Shoshone, Blackfeet, and Nez Perce, used this area for thousands of years. They hunted, gathered plants, and utilized the thermal features for ceremonies and warmth. Evidence of their presence, like ancient campsites and trails, lies throughout the park. This long human history connects the land to generations of people who respected and lived inside its bounds.
European and American explorers began documenting the region in the early 19th century. Early expeditions described the geothermal wonders, resulting in the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872. This indicated a monumental moment in conservation, as Yellowstone became the world's first national park. Its creation preserved this unique landscape for public enjoyment and scientific study, setting a precedent for protected areas globally. The park's early administration saw the U.S. Army managing the area from 1886 to 1918, with their headquarters established at Fort Yellowstone in Mammoth Hot Springs, Montana. These historic buildings remain a testament to the park's formative years and the effort to protect such a wild place.
Discover Mammoth Hot Springs, with its evolving travertine terraces. While many geysers appear on the Wyoming side, the West Yellowstone entrance grants good access to Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring.
Lamar Valley, often called "America's Serengeti," has unmatched opportunities to observe bison, elk, coyotes, and wolves in their natural setting.
Enjoy hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting in the rivers and woods encircling the park in Montana. Winter brings snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snow coach tours.
Gardiner and West Yellowstone include all necessary services, accommodations, and a range of dining options. Cooke City grants a more remote, authentic mountain community feel.
The Beartooth Highway, a seasonal road near Cooke City, includes some of the most breathtaking mountain views in the country. Paradise Valley, north of Gardiner, has a gentler but equally beautiful drive.
This guide contains the necessary information for a satisfying visit to Yellowstone, focusing on its Montana connections. You will learn about planning your trip, packing correctly, navigating the park, and finding places to stay and eat. Every section details practical advice to assist in experiencing this special part of the world.
The West Yellowstone entrance provides convenient access to the park's main geothermal features.
North Entrance (Gardiner) and Northeast Entrance (Cooke City) are Montana entry points.
The Gallatin and Absaroka-Beartooth mountain ranges frame the park's northern and eastern edges. Rivers like the Yellowstone and Gallatin flow through these valleys, making world-class fishing and rafting possible.
Yellowstone offers unique experiences throughout its Montana sections, blending natural wonders with adventurous activities. Below are some highlights to anticipate during your visit.
From the iconic geysers to abundant wildlife and scenic mountain recreation, the park's Montana side has varied opportunities for discovery and enjoyment.
Explore Mammoth Hot Springs' travertine terraces and access the geyser basins from West Yellowstone.
Lamar Valley delivers prime opportunities for spotting bison, elk, wolves, and more.
Find hiking, fishing, rafting, snowmobiling, and skiing opportunities around the park.
Gardiner and West Yellowstone serve as full-service hubs for visitors, offering diverse amenities. Cooke City has a more rustic and secluded mountain town atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a quieter experience near the park's wilder sections.
Yellowstone recorded approximately 4.5 million recreation visits in 2023, reflecting consistent popularity.
July consistently sees the highest visitation, with over 1 million visits in peak years, highlighting summer's popularity.
Winter visits are significantly lower, offering a serene experience for those seeking seclusion and snow activities.
Tourism sustains local economies in gateway towns through lodging, dining, and activity spending.
High visitor numbers can strain park infrastructure, including roads, parking, and visitor services.
Increased human presence has challenges for wildlife management and resource protection.
