Just 50 miles from Big Sky, Montana, is the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Renowned for its extensive ecosystem and geothermal wonders, millions flock every year to visit America's first National Park.  Whether you plan on visiting for a day or have multiple days to explore, we've broken down some great insider tips and knowledge to help you plan your trip to Yellowstone. 

Grand Canyon Of Yellowstone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What To Know Before You Go:

  • Choose Your Adventure: Yellowstone thrives in the cooler months (think spring and fall) when crowds are smaller and wildlife viewing is prime. Summer explodes with vibrant wildflowers, but be prepared for bigger crowds. Winter offers a magical snowy wonderland, but most Park roads close, and visiting through the west entrance is by guided over-snow tours only.   

  • Pick A Gateway: There are 5 entrances to Yellowstone National Park. The closest and most convenient to Big Sky is the west entrance through West Yellowstone. 

  • Scope Out Your Route: Yellowstone National Park is massive and encompasses 3,471 square miles.  You will not be able to see the entirety of the Park in one day. However, you can still enjoy an amazing Yellowstone Experience within 24 hours. If you only have a day, we recommend exploring the Lower Loop.  Highlights on this loop include the lower geyser basin, the Grand Prismatic, Old Faithful, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. If you have more than one day, explore both the lower and upper loops of Yellowstone. Our Yellowstone National Park itinerary is a great source for trip inspiration. 

  • Accommodation Ace: Lodging inside the park books up fast, especially during peak season. Consider cozying up in Big Sky! Our charming town offers a relaxing home base after a day of Yellowstone exploration, with plenty of lodging options and easy access to the park's west entrance. 

  • Park Knowledge is Power: Cell phone and internet service are very limited inside the park. Download any pertinent information you need before arriving in Yellowstone.  We recommend downloading the National Park Service app before you go. It has maps, trail descriptions, and up-to-date information on road closures, geyser eruption times, and ranger programs.  All of which you can download and access offline.

  • Park Pass: Lessen your wait time at the Park entrance by purchasing your park pass online. 

 

Buffalo in Yellowstone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tips For Exploring Like A Pro:

  • Embrace the Unexpected: Yellowstone's weather can be unpredictable. Bring plenty of layers to adapt to changing conditions, including a warm long-sleeve shirt, rain jacket, and sturdy footwear. Be prepared to drive in changing road conditions during the Spring and Fall.  It's not uncommon to experience rain, snow or sleet. 

  • Hydration Hero: High altitude means staying hydrated. Bring plenty of water. We recommend bringing reusable water bottles that you can refill at water stations throughout the park.  These refill stations can be found in most general stores and visitor centers.  

  • Get Picky: Many first-time visitors underestimate Yellowstone's massive size. You can get quite overwhelmed with all there is to see and do. That's why we recommend picking 1 to 3 landmarks within the park that you really want to see and building your itinerary based on those. 

  • Don’t Go “Hangry”: Bring plenty of snacks for your road trip through the park, but more importantly, properly dispose of all food waste in appropriate garbage cans. This may mean carrying your trash with you until the next stop.  

  • Respect the Wildlife: Yellowstone's animals are wild. Maintain a safe distance, never feed them, and follow posted signage. 

  • Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in. Yellowstone's beauty relies on us all being responsible stewards. 

  • Leave It to the Pros: If you’re feeling nervous about making the trip to Yellowstone and unsure of where to go, plan a Yellowstone Excursion with one of our local guides. Not only will they have extensive knowledge about the Park, but they will also do all the driving and know exactly where to go.  

  • Practice Mountain Kindness: Leave the rat race at home and embrace the slower pace of the mountains. Be patient. Understand that popular areas can get very crowded. Be respectful to other visitors trying to enjoy their experience. Pull off into designated areas to view wildlife safely without stopping in the middle of the road. 

 

 

Bonus: Beyond the Park Gates 

Big Sky is more than just a launching pad for Yellowstone adventures. After your park explorations, unwind in Big Sky with world-class fly fishing, scenic hikes, and a charming town with delicious restaurants and shops. 

Yellowstone National Park awaits, and Big Sky is your perfect base camp. Start planning your epic vacation to Yellowstone today!