Yellowstone
On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park for all to enjoy the unique hydrothermal wonders. Today, millions of people come here each year to camp, hike, and enjoy the majesty of the park.
Official-source overview · detailed planning coverage is still being reviewed
At a glance
- State / territory
- Idaho, Montana, Wyoming
- Region
- Rocky Mountains
The official overview below is available now. Park-specific fees, distances, climate tables, and reviewed day plans are shown only when their supporting records have been reviewed. Check current access and arrangements with the park before travel.
Plan this visit
Build your park visit
Use this interactive tool with JavaScript enabled. Park guides and official information remain available below.
When to go
Yellowstone's weather can vary quite a bit, even in a single day. In the summer, daytime highs can exceed 70°F (21°C), only to drop 20 or more degrees when a thunderstorm rolls through. It can snow during any month of the year, and winter lows frequently drop below 0°F (-18°C), especially at night. Bring a range of clothing options, including a warm jacket and rain gear, even in the summer.
General official weather guidance; historical context, not a forecast.
Arrive and stay
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 directionsRisks and official checks
Conditions, access, reservations, and operating hours can change. This website is a planning resource and does not provide live conditions.
Official park informationSources and your trip kit
Where this information comes from
Park overview information is drawn from identified official sources. Published guide facts, assumptions, and editorial decisions retain their own review records.
Source retrieved: 2026-10-01. This is not a live-conditions check.
National Park Service: Yellowstone
Image credit: NPS / Curtis Akin. See the image credits.
Data release 0 · Independent planning resource. Not affiliated with the National Park Service.