Can I drive inside Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, you can drive inside Yellowstone National Park, and it is one of the best ways to explore the park's vast and varied landscapes. Yellowstone covers over 2.2 million acres and offers a network of scenic roads that allow visitors to access its geothermal features, wildlife viewing areas, and iconic landscapes, including mountains, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Here's a detailed guide to driving in Yellowstone National Park:
1. Main Roads: The Grand Loop Road
Yellowstone's road system is primarily designed around the Grand Loop Road, which forms a figure-eight and connects most of the park's major attractions. The full length of this loop is about 142 miles, and driving the entire loop without stopping takes approximately 4-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The Grand Loop is divided into two major sections:
Upper Loop: This section covers landmarks such as Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, Tower-Roosevelt, and the Lamar Valley.
Lower Loop: This section includes popular sites like Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, Hayden Valley, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
2. Driving Tips and Road Conditions
Driving through Yellowstone offers breathtaking views and access to famous attractions, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and safe journey:
Speed Limits: Speed limits in the park are typically 45 mph on main roads and lower in areas with heavy wildlife presence or pedestrian activity. It’s important to follow these speed limits as animals often cross the road unexpectedly.
Wildlife: Yellowstone is home to a wide array of wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. Bison, in particular, are known to cause "bison jams" where they block traffic for extended periods. Be prepared for delays and always keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Weather: Yellowstone's weather can be unpredictable, especially in higher elevations. Snow is common in spring and fall, and roads can be temporarily closed due to hazardous conditions. Even in summer, sudden rainstorms can make roads slick, so drive cautiously and check the park's road conditions page before setting out each day.
Parking: Popular attractions like Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone have parking lots, but these can fill up quickly during peak season (June through September). Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid parking congestion.
3. Accessing Major Attractions by Car
Many of Yellowstone’s most famous landmarks are easily accessible by car. Here are some of the key attractions and their proximity to main roads:
Old Faithful: One of the park’s most famous features, Old Faithful is located along the Lower Loop. A large parking lot is available, and the geyser can be viewed from boardwalks and trails.
Grand Prismatic Spring: Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, this vibrant geothermal feature is a short drive from Old Faithful along the Grand Loop. The parking area for the spring fills up quickly, especially during midday, so plan accordingly.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: This stunning canyon, with its towering cliffs and waterfalls, is located along the Upper Loop near Canyon Village. Multiple parking areas and viewpoints, including Artist Point, provide spectacular views of the canyon and Lower Falls.
Mammoth Hot Springs: This unique area, known for its terraced formations, is located in the northern part of the park, just south of the North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana. A scenic drive loops around the terraces, with parking areas and boardwalks allowing closer exploration.
Lamar Valley: Often referred to as the "Serengeti of North America," Lamar Valley is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. Located in the northeastern part of the park, it’s accessible from Tower-Roosevelt and the Northeast Entrance.
4. Driving Seasons and Road Closures
While driving is possible year-round in parts of Yellowstone, certain roads are seasonal due to snowfall and weather conditions. Here’s an overview of what to expect based on the time of year:
Summer (Late May through September): Most of the park’s roads are open during this period, making it the best time for driving and sightseeing. However, summer is also the busiest season, so be prepared for traffic congestion, especially near major attractions.
Fall (October): As temperatures drop, some roads begin to close for the season, typically by mid-October. Fall is a quieter time to visit, and the changing colors of the park’s foliage offer stunning scenery. Check for road closures before planning your trip.
Winter (November through March): Many roads close to regular vehicles during the winter, but you can still explore parts of the park via snowcoach, snowmobile, or cross-country skis. The road from the North Entrance (Gardiner) to the Northeast Entrance (Cooke City) remains open year-round for cars, weather permitting, but other areas require specialized winter transportation.
Spring (April through Early May): Roads gradually reopen in the spring, typically beginning in mid-April, though conditions can still be snowy and icy, especially in higher elevations.
5. Entrances and Access Points
Yellowstone National Park has five main entrances, each offering access to different parts of the park. Depending on your starting point, one entrance may be more convenient than another:
i. North Entrance (Gardiner, Montana): Open year-round, this entrance leads to Mammoth Hot Springs and the northern sections of the park. It’s the only entrance accessible during winter.
ii. West Entrance (West Yellowstone, Montana): One of the most popular entrances, it provides quick access to the geysers of the Lower Loop, including Old Faithful. It opens in mid-April.
iii. South Entrance (Jackson, Wyoming): This entrance is ideal if you’re combining a trip to Yellowstone with Grand Teton National Park. It opens in mid-May.
iv. East Entrance (Cody, Wyoming): This scenic route takes you through Sylvan Pass to Yellowstone Lake and is typically open from mid-May to early October.
v. Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, Montana): Open year-round (with a seasonal closure beyond Cooke City), this entrance gives access to the Lamar Valley, one of the best areas for spotting wildlife.
6. Other Considerations
Fuel: Gas stations are available at various locations within the park, including Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Canyon Village. However, fuel prices inside the park tend to be higher than outside, so it's a good idea to fill up before entering.
Cell Service: Cellular reception is limited throughout much of Yellowstone. Expect weak or no signal in many areas, especially in remote sections like Lamar Valley. It’s advisable to download maps and travel guides before entering the park.
Roadside Assistance: The park operates its own roadside assistance services, but wait times can be long due to the park's size and remoteness. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before entering the park, and carry essentials such as water, food, and a spare tire.
Conclusion
Driving inside Yellowstone National Park is an unforgettable experience, offering access to some of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Whether you’re touring geyser basins, watching bison roam the valleys, or gazing at waterfalls, the park's road network allows visitors to immerse themselves in its diverse landscapes. With proper preparation, attention to road conditions, and respect for wildlife, driving through Yellowstone is both enjoyable and safe.
