Yellowstone National Park Readies for Spring Reopening

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Yellowstone National Park officials have announced that they plan to reopen the West Entrance in West Yellowstone, Montana and the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana on April 17, weather permitting. This will allow visitors to access popular destinations like Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, the Lamar Valley, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and the Norris Geyser Basin.

Why it matters

Yellowstone's spring reopening marks the transition from the park's harsh winter conditions to the busy summer tourist season. While early spring visitors may face limited services and potential weather-related closures, it offers a chance to enjoy the park's natural beauty with fewer crowds before the summer rush.

The details

Crews will work to open the West Entrance and North Entrance on April 17, allowing access to several popular destinations within the park. The road between the North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana and the Northeast Entrance at Cooke City, Montana will also be accessible, as it remains open year-round. Other main entrances will reopen throughout the spring as weather and snow conditions allow. Park officials warn visitors to be prepared for harsh winter weather and the possibility of sudden road closures, and encourage flexible travel plans.

• Yellowstone National Park roads and entrances are closed each winter and reopen in the spring.
• Crews plan to open the West Entrance in West Yellowstone, Montana and the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana on April 17, 2026, weather permitting.
• The road between the North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana and the Northeast Entrance at Cooke City, Montana remains open all year.

What’s next

Park officials will continue to monitor weather and snow conditions and reopen additional entrances and roads throughout the spring as conditions allow.