How much does it cost to get into Yellowstone?
Yellowstone National Park, one of the most iconic natural reserves in the world, attracts millions of visitors each year, offering unparalleled views of geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife. Whether you're visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, understanding the cost of entry is important to plan your trip. The fees contribute directly to maintaining the park and its facilities, ensuring that Yellowstone remains pristine for future generations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the entrance fees for Yellowstone National Park.
1. Vehicle Pass
The most common method for visitors to enter Yellowstone is by vehicle. This pass allows entry for all occupants of a private, non-commercial vehicle for seven consecutive days. The vehicle pass is often chosen by families or groups who want the convenience of their car while exploring the vast park.
Cost: $35 per vehicle
Duration: 7 days
Details: Covers all passengers in a private vehicle, allowing access to both Yellowstone and the neighboring Grand Teton National Park (for an additional $20).
2. Motorcycle Pass
Motorcyclists enjoy the thrill of riding through Yellowstone's scenic roads, and there is a specific pass for them. This fee covers the driver and one passenger.
Cost: $30 per motorcycle
Duration: 7 days
Details: The pass allows the rider and one passenger to enter the park. Additional passengers on separate motorcycles will need their own pass.
3. Individual Entry (Non-motorized or Foot Traffic)
For those who prefer to experience Yellowstone on foot, by bicycle, or via snowmobile during the winter season, an individual pass is required. This fee applies to visitors entering without a vehicle or by non-motorized means.
Cost: $20 per person
Duration: 7 days
Details: Covers individuals entering by foot, bicycle, or horseback. The pass also applies to those entering via commercial buses or group tours.
4. Annual Pass
For frequent visitors or those planning multiple trips, the annual pass offers excellent value. It provides access to Yellowstone National Park for an entire year from the date of purchase.
Cost: $70 per vehicle
Duration: 1 year
Details: The pass covers entry for the holder and accompanying passengers in a single private, non-commercial vehicle. It also offers access to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
5. America the Beautiful Pass
If you're planning to visit multiple national parks, the "America the Beautiful" National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass is a great option. This pass provides access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all U.S. national parks, monuments, and forests.
Cost: $80 per year
Duration: 1 year
Details: This pass admits the pass holder and accompanying passengers in a single private, non-commercial vehicle. It's valid across all national parks and federal lands in the U.S.
6. Military Pass
Active U.S. military members and their dependents can obtain free access to Yellowstone and other national parks with the "Military Annual Pass."
Cost: Free
Duration: 1 year
Details: This pass is available to U.S. military personnel and their dependents. A valid military ID is required to obtain the pass.
7. Senior Pass
U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or older are eligible for discounted passes that offer lifetime or annual access to national parks, including Yellowstone.
Cost: $20 for an annual pass, or $80 for a lifetime pass
Duration: 1 year or lifetime
Details: The Senior Pass covers entry for the pass holder and accompanying passengers in a single, non-commercial vehicle. It also provides discounts on some amenities, such as campsites.
8. Access Pass
U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities can obtain an "Access Pass" that offers free entry to Yellowstone and other national parks.
Cost: Free
Duration: Lifetime
Details: This pass admits the pass holder and passengers in a single private, non-commercial vehicle. The pass also provides discounts on some amenities.
9. Commercial Fees
Commercial vehicles such as tour buses or taxis entering Yellowstone for guided tours are subject to a different fee structure based on vehicle capacity. These fees are designed to accommodate large groups and commercial operators.
Cost: Ranges from $200 to $1,250, depending on vehicle size and seating capacity.
Duration: Single entry
Details: Fees vary depending on whether the vehicle seats 1–6, 7–15, 16–25, or more than 26 passengers.
10. Free Entry Days
Several times a year, the National Park Service offers fee-free days, allowing visitors to enter Yellowstone without paying the entrance fee. These days are a great opportunity for those who want to experience the park at no cost.
Dates: Common fee-free days include:
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January)
- National Park Week (April)
- National Public Lands Day (September)
- Veterans Day (November)
Where to Purchase Passes
Entrance passes can be purchased at any of Yellowstone’s five entrance stations: North Entrance (Gardiner, MT), Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT), East Entrance (Cody, WY), South Entrance (Jackson, WY), and West Entrance (West Yellowstone, MT). Passes are also available online through the National Park Service website, allowing visitors to plan ahead and avoid potential lines at the entrance stations.
Why the Fees Matter
The entrance fees to Yellowstone are crucial for maintaining the park’s infrastructure, including roads, trails, visitor centers, and campgrounds. Funds also go toward protecting Yellowstone’s wildlife and natural resources, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the park's wonders. About 80% of the revenue from fees is retained within the park, supporting its conservation efforts and improving visitor experiences.
Conclusion
The cost of entry to Yellowstone National Park varies depending on how you arrive and your status as a senior, military member, or frequent visitor. While the standard vehicle pass costs $35 for a week, options like the "America the Beautiful" pass offer access to all U.S. national parks for a full year. Planning ahead with the right pass ensures you can fully enjoy the beauty of Yellowstone without worrying about entry fees during your adventure.
