Entrance Fee
$35.00
/ Entrance - Private Vehicle
Park Hours (Today)
All Day
Albright Visitor Center: 8:00AM - 6:00PM
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About the Park
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What to See & Do
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Look out across the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone or take in the beauty of the Yellowstone River and its waterfalls.
Snow Pass Ski Trail
The Snow Pass Ski Trail is a 4.2 mile (6.76 km), skier-tracked, one-way, easiest to most-difficult, ski that takes skiers through a steep heavily forested area to a semi-flat wide open area with views of Swan Lake Flats.
Yellowstone River Picnic Area Trail
Follow the rim of the Yellowstone River valley, enjoying views of bighorn sheep, the Narrows of the Yellowstone, Overhanging Cliff, and the towers of Tower Falls.
Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail
Hike to a high mountain meadow for a commanding view of the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake and the distant Absaroka Mountains.
West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail
Stroll through a geyser basin of colorful hot springs and dormant lakeshore geysers situated on the scenic shores of Yellowstone Lake.
Trout Lake Trail
Enjoy a short hill climb through Douglas-fir forest to Trout Lake.
Self-Guided Tours
Fountain Paint Pot
Along this self-guided tour you will see various hydrothermal features that are expressions of Yellowstone's still active volcano. Within this geologic system, each type of thermal feature is represented. They can be grouped into two general categories—those with a great deal of water (hot springs and geysers) and those with limited water (mudpots and fumaroles). Despite their structural similarities, no two features are exactly alike.
Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin
Old Faithful Geyser is just one of many hydrothermal wonders to be experienced along this loop tour. Travel along a mixture of boardwalks and paved trails, though be aware there are some stairs or steep grades are along the way.
Northern Range Driving Tour
Embark on a journey through Yellowstone’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating geology with this self-guided driving tour. Discover stories of exploration, survival, and conservation, while learning about the park's iconic landmarks, unique wildlife, and the forces that shaped this extraordinary land. Perfect for visitors of all ages and interests, this tour connects you with Yellowstone’s past and present as you travel its scenic roads.
Visitor Centers
Albright Visitor Center
Here you can gather park information, orient yourself to the rest of the park (including road conditions, and campground and lodge availability), shop for souvenirs, explore exhibits to learn more about the wildlife and history of Yellowstone, join a ranger program, pick up a fishing permit (fees are payable by debit or credit card), or use the restrooms.
Canyon Visitor Education Center
Stop by the Canyon Visitor Education Center to learn more about the geologic story of the area, including the Yellowstone volcano, and view a room-size relief map of Yellowstone. You can also get orientation information, pick up a fishing permit (fees are payable by debit or credit card), shop for a souvenir, find out what ranger programs are available, watch a 20-minute film, or use the restrooms. Restrooms are available 24 hours a day.
Fishing Bridge Visitor Center and Trailside Museum
The distinctive stone-and-log architecture of this old building—known as "parkitecture"—was one of several prototypes for park buildings around the country. Today, the visitor center and museum highlight the ecology of Yellowstone Lake, focusing on birds. Also stop by to visit with a ranger and find out when ranger programs are scheduled, buy a fishing permit (payable by debit or credit card), pick up a souvenir, or take in some truly stunning views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Grant Visitor Center
Fire plays an important, natural role in the ecosystems found in Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding region. Learn more about this and the fires of 1988 in the exhibit hall, gather park information and trip ideas, shop for souvenirs at the park store, join a ranger program, buy a fishing, boating, or backcountry camping permit (fees are payable by debit or credit card), or use the restrooms.
Madison Information Station and Trailside Museum
Located about halfway between Old Faithful and West Yellowstone, you can stop here for park information as visitors have been doing since 1930. The structure is an example of "parkitecture" or designing a building in a way that reflects the surrounding ecosystem. You can also shop for souvenirs in the park store or use the restrooms.
Museum of the National Park Ranger
Once a US Army outpost built in 1908, this visitor center houses exhibits that celebrate the history of the park ranger profession. The current structure replaced previous structures dating back to 1884.
Norris Geyser Basin Museum and Information Station
Situated on the ridge overlooking the Norris Geyser Basin, this historic building is staffed during the summer with rangers who provide park information and facilitate ranger programs. Visitors have been seeking information here since 1930 when the museum was built as a "trailside museum" to serve people traveling in their own automobiles without a guide. Restrooms are located in the parking lot.
Old Faithful Visitor Education Center
Located near Old Faithful Geyser, this visitor center offers views of the geyser's eruption from the tall, windowed front of the visitor center. Additionally, you can gather park information, talk with a park ranger at the front desk, shop for souvenirs in the park store, delve into the natural wonders of Yellowstone in the exhibit hall, join a ranger program, or use the restrooms.
West Thumb Information Station
This facility is closed until further notice as of July 2026. A small facility at the start of the West Thumb Geyser Basin boardwalks, where you can visit with a park ranger and gather park information, shop for souvenirs in the park store, or join a ranger program. The structure was built in 1925 and is an example of historic ranger-station architecture in Yellowstone.
West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center (NPS Desk)
Located in the town of West Yellowstone, Montana, there is a desk and backcountry office staffed by National Park Service rangers (summer and winters only). The building is open year-round and a second desk is staffed by the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce. Stop by to obtain backcountry and fishing permits (fees are payable by debit or credit card), to get park information, or to use the restrooms. Call 307-344-2876 for additional information.
West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center (Chamber of Commerce Desk)
Located in the town of West Yellowstone, Montana, there is a desk staffed by National Park Service rangers (summer and winters only). The building is open year-round and a second desk is staffed by the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce. Stop by to obtain backcountry and fishing permits, get park information or to use the restrooms.
Where to Stay
Canyon Campground
Canyon Campground—elevation 7,900 feet (2408 m)—lies in a lodgepole pine forest at Canyon Village, south of the Washburn range and near the breath-taking Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Canyon Village offers stores, restaurants, and lodging. Nearby hikes include Cascade Lake, Mount Washburn, and the Canyon Rim trails. This campground is reservable through Recreation.gov and operated by Yellowstone National Park Lodges.
Bridge Bay Campground
Bridge Bay Campground—elevation 7,800 feet (2377 m)—is located near Yellowstone Lake, one of the largest, high-elevation, fresh-water lakes in North America. Campers at Bridge Bay will enjoy spectacular views of the lake and the Absaroka Range rising above the lake's eastern shore. This campground is reservable through Recreation.gov and operated by Yellowstone National Park Lodges.
Fishing Bridge RV Park
Fishing Bridge RV Park—elevation 7,800 feet (2377 m)—is located near the Yellowstone River where it exits Yellowstone Lake on its way toward the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Only campground in Yellowstone to offer water, sewer, and electrical hookups. Because grizzly bears frequent the area, no tents or tent campers are allowed. This campground is reservable through Recreation.gov and operated by Yellowstone National Park Lodges.
Grant Village Campground
Grant Campground—elevation 7,800 feet (2377 m)—is located in Grant Village, just off the Grand Loop Road at the south end of Yellowstone Lake. It is one of the larger campgrounds in the park. Group and wheel-chair accessible sites are available. Nearby there are stores, a restaurant, gas station, visitor center, and boat ramp. This campground is reservable through Recreation.gov and operated by Yellowstone National Park Lodges.
Madison Campground
Madison Campground—elevation 6,800 feet (2073 m)—sits about 14 miles east from the town of West Yellowstone and 16 miles north of Old Faithful. Nearby, the Gibbon and Firehole rivers join to form the Madison River. In early summer, meadows teem with wildflowers and bison. In September and October, you can often hear bugling elk. This campground is reservable through Recreation.gov and operated by Yellowstone National Park Lodges.
Indian Creek Campground
Located about eight miles south of Mammoth Hot Springs on the road to Norris, Indian Creek Campground—elevation 7,300 feet (2225 m)—sits near the base of the Gallatin Mountains and offers breathtaking views of Electric Peak. The area offers easy access to fishing and hiking. The campground is away from the main road and provides a quieter, more primitive, experience than many other locations. This is a reservable campground run by the National Park Service.
Mammoth Campground
The only campground in the park open year-round, Mammoth Campground—elevation 6,200 feet (1890 m)—is located five miles south of the park's North Entrance. Scattered juniper and Douglas fir trees provide shade during hot summer months. The campground is close to fishing, hiking, and the Mammoth Hot Springs. Great wildlife viewing opportunities abound with elk and bison occasionally passing through the campground. The campground is run by the NPS.
Norris Campground
Norris Campground will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
Pebble Creek Campground
Pebble Creek Campground was significantly impacted by the 2022 floods and will remain CLOSED until further notice for flood recovery work.
Tower Fall Campground
Tower Fall Campground—elevation 6,600 feet (2012 m)—is located on the north side of the steep, winding, road to Dunraven Pass. The campground is near the Tower General Store and Tower Fall. The Lamar Valley, with spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, is located nearby as are several hiking trails. Roosevelt Lodge, a short drive from the campground, offers dining and horseback riding. This is a reservable campground run by the National Park Service.
Lewis Lake Campground
Lewis Lake Campground—elevation 7,800 ft (2377 m)—is about eight miles from the South Entrance and a short walk from the southeast shore of Lewis Lake. A boat ramp is located near the campground information and registration area. Canoes, kayaks, and motor boats are allowed on Lewis Lake. Boat permits and an aquatic invasive species inspection performed by park staff are required. This is a reservable campground run by the National Park Service.
Slough Creek Campground
Near some of the best wildlife watching opportunities in the park. Located at the end of a two-mile dirt road, this campground is best suited for tents and small RVs. There are plenty of hiking and fishing opportunities in the area, including the Slough Creek Trail which begins nearby. Nighttime offers a quiet, unimpeded view of the stars and the possibility of hearing wolves howl. Elevation: 6,250 ft (1905 m). This is a reservable campground run by the National Park Service.
Parking & Access
Getting Here
Yellowstone National Park covers nearly 3,500 square miles in the northwest corner of Wyoming (3% of the park is in Montana and 1% is in Idaho). Yellowstone has five entrance stations, and several are closed to regular vehicles during winter. It takes many hours to drive between these entrances, so be sure to check the status of roads at the entrance you intend to use while planning your trip and before you arrive.
Official NPS directionsParking Lots
Canyon Village
This parking lot is located in front of the Canyon Visitor Education Center.
Open in MapsFairy Falls Parking Lot
This parking lot is located approximately six miles (9.6 km) north of Old Faithful near the Firehole River.
Open in MapsGrand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Artist Point Parking Lot
This parking lot is located on the South Rim Drive south of Canyon Village.
Open in MapsGrand Canyon of the Yellowstone: North Rim Parking Lot
This parking lot is located south of Canyon Village on the North Rim Road near Brink of the Lower Falls Trailhead.
Open in MapsGrand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Upper Falls Parking Lot
This parking lot is located south of Canyon Village off of the Grand Loop Road near the Brink of the Upper Falls.
Open in MapsGrand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Upper Falls Viewpoints Parking Lot
This parking lot is located south of Canyon Village off of the South Rim Drive.
Open in MapsGrand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Wapati Lake Parking Lot
This parking lot is located south of Canyon Village on the South Rim Drive.
Open in MapsMidway Geyser Basin Parking Lot
This parking lot is across the Firehole River near Grand Prismatic & Excelsior geysers.
Open in MapsOld Faithful Central Parking Lot
This parking lot is located south of the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center.
Open in MapsOld Faithful East Parking Lot
This parking lot is sandwiched between the Old Faithful Inn and the Old Faithful Lodge.
Open in MapsOld Faithful Inn Parking Lot
This parking lot is located north of the the Old Faithful Inn.
Open in MapsGetting Here & Transit
How to Get Here
Yellowstone National Park covers nearly 3,500 square miles in the northwest corner of Wyoming (3% of the park is in Montana and 1% is in Idaho). Yellowstone has five entrance stations, and several are closed to regular vehicles during winter. It takes many hours to drive between these entrances, so be sure to check the status of roads at the entrance you intend to use while planning your trip and before you arrive.
Park Amenities
Permits & Reservations
Permits may be required
Some activities in Yellowstone National Park — including backcountry camping, certain trails, and climbing routes — require advance permits. Check the official NPS website for current requirements before your visit.
Entrance Fees & Passes
Standard Fees
Entrance - Private Vehicle
$35.00Unlimited entry for one vehicle and all passengers for seven consecutive days, beginning on the day of purchase. Vehicles must be private, non-commercial, and with a seating capacity of 15 or less.
Entrance - Non-commercial Groups
$20.00Non-commercial group (e.g. church groups, scouts) traveling in a vehicle with a capacity of 16 or more people. Cost is per person. Unlimited entry for one vehicle and all passengers for seven consecutive days, beginning on the day of purchase.
Entrance - Motorcycle
$30.00Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
Entrance - Snowmobile
$30.00Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 snowmobiles with up to 4 total passengers.
Entrance - Per Person
$20.00Entry for visitors on foot, bicycle, ski, etc., when 16 years of age or older.
Commercial Entrance - Sedan
$20.00A commercial tour is defined as consisting of one or more persons traveling on an itinerary that has been packaged, priced, or sold for leisure or recreational purposes by an organization that realizes financial gain through the provision of the service. The cost is $25 + $20 per person. Pass is good for seven days as long as it's the same passenger group.
Commercial Entrance - Van
$125.00Based upon the total capacity of a vehicle that can carry 7-15 passengers, regardless of the actual number of passengers. A commercial tour is defined as consisting of one or more persons traveling on an itinerary that has been packaged, priced, or sold for leisure or recreational purposes by an organization that realizes financial gain through the provision of the service. Pass is good for seven days as long as it's the same passenger group.
Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus
$200.00Based upon the total capacity of a vehicle that can carry 16-25 passengers, regardless of the actual number of passengers. A commercial tour is defined as consisting of one or more persons traveling on an itinerary that has been packaged, priced, or sold for leisure or recreational purposes by an organization that realizes financial gain through the provision of the service. Pass is good for seven days as long as it's the same passenger group.
Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach
$300.00Based upon the total capacity of a vehicle that can carry 26 or more passengers, regardless of the actual number of passengers. A commercial tour is defined as consisting of one or more persons traveling on an itinerary that has been packaged, priced, or sold for leisure or recreational purposes by an organization that realizes financial gain through the provision of the service. Pass is good for seven days as long as it's the same passenger group.
Nonresident
$100.00Each non-US resident aged 16 and older visiting Yellowstone National Park must pay a $100 nonresident fee (in addition to the standard entrance fee), unless admitted with an Annual or America the Beautiful Pass. This includes nonresidents entering as part of a commercial tour group, commercial use authorization (CUA) group, or concessioner tour group.
Annual & Lifetime Passes
Annual Entrance - Park
$70.00Provides unlimited entry for one year (valid through the month of purchase) to the pass holder and passengers in the same vehicle, or pass holder and up to three persons where per person fees are charged. Purchase at any entrance station.
Operating Hours
All Park Hours
Yellowstone is open daily, year-round, although activities and services are limited at night and certain times of year. The park has five entrance stations, but not all entrance stations are open year-round. Make sure to carefully read about access at each station at different times of year. And remember, all dates are weather-dependent. Please note that camping is possible only in designated campgrounds.
- MondayAll Day
- TuesdayAll Day
- WednesdayAll Day
- ThursdayAll Day
- FridayAll Day
- SaturdayAll Day
- SundayAll Day
Live Webcams
Click any camera to open the live feed on the NPS website.
Mount Washburn - Northeastern View
At 10,219 feet, Mount Washburn towers above Dunraven Pass between Tower Junction and Canyon Village. A fire lookout stationed at the summit provides a popular destination for day hikers, as well as housing for an employee who watches for and tracks fires throughout the summer. This webcam is located inside the living quarters on the top floor and looks out to the northeast.
North Entrance - Electric Peak
Morning views from this webcam are spectacular, especially during the winter when the morning sun touches Electric Peak. Look for wildlife—elk, bison, and pronghorn can be seen grazing here. Occasionally you may see the top of oversize vehicles—RVs, tour buses, and delivery trucks—as they stop at the entrance station.
North Entrance - Out of the Park
This webcam is on the park's North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana. It shows current conditions at the entrance with Roosevelt Arch in the background. The arch became known as Roosevelt Arch after President Theodore Roosevelt, who was vacationing in the park, spoke at the ceremony to lay the cornerstone in 1903. The arch is inscribed with a phrase from the legislation establishing Yellowstone National Park: "For the benefit and enjoyment of the people."
West Entrance - Out of the Park
This webcam is on the West Entrance to the park at West Yellowstone, Montana. It shows current conditions at the entrance gate.
West Entrance - Into the Park
This webcam is at the West Entrance to the park at West Yellowstone, Montana. It shows current conditions leading into the park.
Mammoth Hot Springs - Travertine Terraces
Yellowstone is a place of change, and this view highlights a place where change is constant and evident—the travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs. Terraces form when water rises through limestone, which then allows the water to carry high amounts of dissolved calcium carbonate. At the surface, carbon dioxide is released and the calcium carbonate is deposited, forming travertine, the chalky white rock of the terraces. In the foreground are the parade grounds for historic Fort Yellowstone—the focal point of daily life at the fort.
Mount Washburn - Southern View
This webcam atop Mount Washburn captures a south-facing view of the north-central part of the park. During summer, the webcam is often re-positioned by the fire lookout, and smoke from wildfires burning in the park may be visible.
East Entrance - Out of Park
This webcam is at the East Entrance to the park. It shows current conditions leading out of the park.
Photos
A geyser erupts steam in front of the bright sun.
Bison graze in sage brush
A dark wolf stands in the snow and looks towards the viewer.
Brilliant blues and greens of a hot spring ringed by oranges, yellows, reds, and browns.
When to Go
Crowd CalendarPlan your trip around peak seasons to avoid crowds or embrace the energy of the busy months. Our crowd predictions are based on historical NPS Visitor Use Statistics.
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Best Time
May-September
Trip Length
2-4 days
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Planning Yellowstone
These common questions go deeper into logistics and planning. For real-time updates on road closures and current conditions, always check the Alerts section above.