Yellowstone_national_park_snowcoaches, cr reddit
Something special happens to Yellowstone in the winter. The snowy forests take on a mystical silence, clouds of steam billow up gently around deserted hot springs, and an air of solitude permeates the pristine, snow-covered wonderland. Yellowstone, with its geothermal features, lakes, waterfalls and wildlife, is stunningly beautiful and peaceful when blanketed with crisp, white snow. To truly experience the serenity of the season, spend some time exploring Yellowstone’s magnificent back country.
Getting there
The Yellowstone Regional Airport, two miles outside of Cody, is about 50 miles from the park’s East Entrance. It offers service from Salt Lake City and Denver. Jackson Hole Airport, on the edge of Grand Teton National Park, is about 50 miles south of the park and offers service from Salt Lake City, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago, Atlanta and Denver. The Gallatin Field Airport in Bozeman, Montana, is about 90 miles from the park’s north entrance, which is the only entrance open to car traffic in the winter. Car rentals and shuttle service to nearby towns and hotels are available at all of the airports
Traveling in the park
Cars are not allowed in the park after November 7, except on a limited stretch of road to Mammoth Hot Springs through the North Entrance. Roads begin to open again April 15, weather permitting. Until then, visitors can enter the park through other entrances via scheduled snowcoaches or on foot, snowshoes or skis. There are several authorized snowmobile and snowcoach guides near Yellowstone.
Activities
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: Both activities are great ways to experience Yellowstone’s back country in the winter. There are miles of trails winding through the vast wilderness, and all are open for exploration on foot. There are several outfitters nearby who rent gear, and several companies specialize in guided trips if you’d rather not venture out alone.
Snowmobiling: An extension of the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail, the trails of Yellowstone may be explored only with an authorized commercial guide. Several hundred snowmobilers are allowed each day, but since it’s such a popular spot, it’s advisable to make advance reservations.
Dogsledding: Dogsledding tours allow you to take in the scenery in comfort with an experienced guide at the reigns. You can even opt to drive the sled yourself. Half-day, full-day and overnight tours are available.
Lodging
Two lodges in Yellowstone are open during the winter season. The cozy Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins a> is open from December 18 to March 6. The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel offers the only winter accommodations that are accessible by car. It is open from December 21 to March 7. Both hotels offer equipment rentals, guides and tours. They also fill up fast, so make reservations as early as possible. There are plenty of places to stay in the towns surrounding the park too, from ranches and cabins to vacation rentals and B&Bs.
