West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, Montana is Yellowstone National Park's busiest gateway community and a mecca for year-round outdoor recreation. It is also the closest entrance into the Park from Big Sky, approximately a 50 minute drive. It has a charming, western feel, and plenty of activities for kids and adults.
West Yellowstone, MT sits at the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. While this small community offers much needed rest to visitors after a day of exploring Yellowstone, it's also a fun town to explore on its own.
Summer in West Yellowstone, MT is bustling with visitors traveling to and from Yellowstone National Park. Many guests opt to stop in 'West' to explore their popular shops and grab a bite to eat, but there is more to discover in this charming town.
Check out these fun summer activities in West Yellowstone, MT.
- Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: Get an up close experience with the wildlife of Yellowstone and learn about the area's conservation efforts.
- Biking the Yellowstone Shortline Trail: Walk or bike the scenic Shortline Trail, a newly paved trail that follows the historic route of the Oregon Short Line Railroad.
- Museum of the Yellowstone: Learn about the beginnings of Yellowstone National Park and the town of West Yellowstone.
- Catch a show at the Playmill Theater: Experience live entertainment and local talent.
- Immerse yourself at the Yellowstone Giant Screen: Enjoy an incredible Imax experience.
While the winter season tends to be quieter in West Yellowstone, it is no less fun. West Yellowstone is a mecca for snowmobile tours, cross-country skiing and more.
Winter Exploration
The West Entrance into Yellowstone National Park closes for the winter season to personal vehicles. The main way to explore the park during this season is by guided tour. West Yellowstone offers many tour options including snow coach tours, snowmobile tours, and cross-country skiing and snowshoe tours.
Other activities enjoyed during this season include ice fishing on nearby Hebgen Lake, dog-sledding, and visiting the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center.
Yellowstone National Park is home to more geysers and hot springs than anywhere else in the world, is the first national park in the U.S. established in 1872 and is also one of the most popular.
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