Yellowstone Roads Partially Reopen on April 17

Expect travel delays and single-lane traffic through October

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:10pm

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A sweeping, textured oil painting landscape depicting the natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park, with vibrant colors and brushstrokes capturing the wonder of the park's geothermal features and wildlife.The annual spring reopening of Yellowstone's roads allows visitors to access the park's most iconic natural wonders, though they should plan for potential delays due to ongoing maintenance.Gardiner Today

Yellowstone National Park will reopen several major roads on April 17, including the route from Gardiner to West Yellowstone, as well as access to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Old Faithful. However, travelers should expect delays of up to 15 minutes and single-lane traffic through the fall season.

Why it matters

The annual spring reopening of Yellowstone's roads is a critical event for the local economy, as it allows visitors to access the park's most popular attractions. However, the ongoing construction and maintenance work means visitors will need to plan for potential delays.

The details

The roads between Gardiner and West Yellowstone, as well as the routes to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Old Faithful, will reopen at 8 a.m. on April 17. Travelers should expect up to 15 minutes of delay and single-lane traffic through October as the National Park Service continues maintenance and improvement projects.

  • The Yellowstone roads will reopen on April 17, 2026 at 8 a.m.

The players

Yellowstone National Park

A 3,472-square-mile wilderness recreation area atop a volcanic hot spot, known for its geothermal activity, diverse wildlife, and popular tourist attractions.

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What’s next

Visitors should check the Yellowstone National Park website for the latest road conditions and construction updates before planning their trips.

The takeaway

The annual spring reopening of Yellowstone's roads is an important milestone, but travelers should be prepared for potential delays due to ongoing maintenance and improvement projects within the park.