Why should I visit West Yellowstone?

West Yellowstone is a quintessential tourist town and the access to the park can't get more convenient. Downtown is lined with souvenir shops, restaurants, and a couple dozen places to stay. There are a few unique attractions just outside of the park, including the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, the IMAX, and the Yellowstone Historic Center.

Where is West Yellowstone?

Located right outside the West Entrance to Yellowstone Park, West Yellowstone is located 50 miles south of Big Sky, 90 miles south of Bozeman, and 100 miles northeast of Idaho Falls. There is a seasonal airport in West Yellowstone, but the closest major airport is located in Bozeman.

What sort of services and amenities are available in West Yellowstone?

West Yellowstone offers everything touristy. Take your pick from a wide variety of lodging options, including hotels, motels, lodges, and cabins. While cuisine types don't provide many options, there are a number of restaurants and a few delicious ice cream parlors. Gear shops and souvenir shops can keep you busy for hours. There is one main grocery store as well.

What can I see and do in West Yellowstone?

• Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center: Learn everything about bears and wolves at this animal sanctuary. You can also schedule your visit for feeding time. Open year-round.
• IMAX Theater: Enjoy a movie on an enormous screen. You can always watch the Yellowstone movie or take your pick from a few other seasonal features.
• Yellowstone Historic Center: Located in the old train depot, the Yellowstone Historic Center features an extensive display of local history. Make sure to pick up a Historic Walking Tour Pamphlet as well.
• Hebgen Lake: Just north of West Yellowstone, Hebgen Lake lures boaters, anglers, and families looking for a place to picnic or camp.
• Quake Lake: A little further up the road from Hebgen Lake, Quake Lake as formed by a massive earthquake. Stop by the visitor center or camp along its shores.
• Madison River: From the Madison Junction in Yellowstone all the way to Three Forks, Montana, the Madison River offers great trout fishing waters.
• Riverside Trails: Take advantage of hiking trails that are accessible right from town, also accessible via cross country skis in the winter.
• Winter in Yellowstone: During the winter months, you can't drive into the park from the West Entrance. But this is the hub for winter activity. Join a guided snowmobiling tour or snowcoach ride all the way to Old Faithful.