Yellowstone National Park Winter Vacations & Activities

Yellowstone National Park
> Winter Recreation

You'll be amazed by how many activities, like snowmobiling, snow coach rides, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, are enjoyed in Yellowstone during the chilly but unbeatably scenic winter months.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is only allowed within the park if you are on a guided tour. It's a great way to see the park's unique scenery covered in a blanket of snow. If you are looking for a little more adventure and speed, check out the many trails and meadows outside of the park in West Yellowstone.

Cross-country Skiing

Ski rentals are available at Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful and in gateway towns of Gardiner and West Yellowstone. Groomed ski trails offer a peaceful way to explore the park in the winter.

Snowshoeing

Rent a pair of snowshoes and head out on a few designated snowshoe trails or any of the cross country ski trails. Ranger led snowshoe walks are also available daily in the winter.

Snowcoach Tours

Hop on a snowcoach and leave the over-snow driving to somebody else. Snowcoaches have been operating in Yellowstone National Park since 1955 providing a warm passage into Yellowstone's winter wonderland.

Ranger-led programs

Ranger-led programs are offered at Old Faithful and Mammoth Hot Springs during the winter months. Join the popular Snowshoe Hike with a Ranger.

Skiing

A handful of nearby ski resorts welcome winter visitors every year. Try Big Sky Resort just north of West Yellowstone or Bridger Bowl in Bozeman. Or head south to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Grand Targhee.

Wildlife Viewing

The best in winter wildlife viewing might include moose, elk, bald and golden eagles, bighorn sheep, bison, wolves, coyotes, trumpeter swans, and mule deer. The pristine winter wonderland provides a unique backdrop to all of these animals.

Dogsledding

While dog sledding isn't available within the park, there are a number of nearby operators that offer tours.

Questions & Answers

Other Winter Activities Resources

West Yellowstone Snowmobile Rentals, Tours

West Yellowstone, Montana is home to many Yellowstone snowmobile rental and tours operators.

The Women's Wilderness Institute

Experience ice climbing oriented programs through Women's Wilderness Institute.