Plan Ahead

The sooner you plan and book the better. The old days of coming to this area on a whim are gone. Yellowstone National Park and surrounding areas saw close to 5 million people in 2021. With YNP celebrating its 150 years this year, its sure to be a busy summer.

The biggest misconceptions when you look on the map is that Yellowstone National Park is doable in one day but the distances, traffic, possible wildlife sightings, construction, and stops for photo’s it takes about eight hours just to do the lower loop and still not be able to see it all.

If this is your first time to the area we recommend at least a one day tour into Yellowstone National Park. Typically, the lower loop will help with loads of information and logistics for the rest of your stay.

If you’re staying for multiple days it’s best to break up your stay. majority of your stay is better spent in towns surrounding the parks for you’ll have more choices of restaurants, lodging and activities for the kids.

Bookings for summer start by March or you can try last minute and if I’m booked I might be able to find someone else who is not.

Getting around

Airports

There are regional airports in Bozeman MT, West Yellowstone MT, Jackson WY, Idaho Falls, ID, the closest major airport is Salt Lake City UT ( 4.5 hrs away). If you can fly into one airport and fly out of another and if you’re here for multiple days that will help you make the best of your time and less miles to cover on a daily basis.

Transportation

Most areas in and around Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park typically do not have taxis, shuttles, Uber, Lyft or public transportation for local or long distance.

Car rental service are available through out the area.

The Essentials

Cellular Service

Cell service is Very Limited to non existent in all these areas. Verizon is the main carrier in West Yellowstone, MT and Yellowstone National Park, WY. Don't forget to pack your charging cords and back up batteries.

Gas and Groceries

There are small markets for groceries and gas in the town of West Yellowstone, MT however if you’re looking for a big chain store they are only found in the big towns like Bozeman MT, Jackson WY, Idaho Falls Id, Rexburg Id, Salt Lake City, UT

Restaurants

Restaurants during peak (mid June to mid September) can have wait times 1-2 hours starting around 5pm so be prepared.

Weather

Weather can be all over at anytime of the year it could snow. You are close to 7,000 feet here in West Yellowstone, so pack clothes you can layer.

Hiking in Bear Country

A must if you are doing a day hike or backpacking overnight. Bear Spray Rentals can be found at https://trailquipt.com/ .

Medical Emergency ????

Always call 911 for emergencies.

Other wise we have Community Health Partners in West Yellowstone with nurse practitioners to help with any primary and preventative medical care.

chphealthmt.org for hours and phone number.