Yellowstone Opening Dates 2025: What to Know Before You Go Planning your trip to Yellowstone this year? With its iconic geysers, abundant wildlife, and jaw-dropping views, it’s no wonder this national treasure is on countless bucket lists. But before you hit the road, there’s one big question to answer: When does Yellowstone open in 2025? We’ve got the latest on Yellowstone opening dates, what’s new in the park this season, and why the West Entrance—your gateway to adventure in West Yellowstone, Montana—is one of the best spots to start your journey. From insider tips to must-know safety info, this guide has everything you need to kick off your Yellowstone experience the right way. 2025 Yellowstone Opening Dates Every spring, Yellowstone National Park slowly reopens its roads and entrances based on weather and road conditions. In 2025, here’s when each area is expected to open (conditions permitting): April 18, 2025: West Entrance to Madison Junction (ideal for West Yellowstone visitors!) Mammoth Hot Springs to Old Faithful Norris to Canyon Village May 2, 2025: East Entrance to Lake Village (Sylvan Pass) Canyon Village to Lake Village May 9, 2025: South Entrance to West Thumb Lake Village to West Thumb Craig Pass (West Thumb to Old Faithful) Tower Junction to Tower Fall May 23, 2025: Tower Fall to Canyon Junction (Dunraven Pass) Beartooth Highway (US-212) – one of America’s most scenic drives Always check current conditions before you travel. Snowfall and weather delays are common in the early season. Visit nps.gov/yell or download the NPS App to stay updated. Why West Entrance Is the Ideal Starting Point The West Entrance, opening April 18, is the most popular and accessible way into Yellowstone—especially if you’re staying in West Yellowstone, Montana. Not only does it offer quick access to park highlights like Madison Junction, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Old Faithful, but the town itself is a hub for activities, dining, and lodging year-round. Here’s what makes West Yellowstone a visitor favorite: Outdoor Adventure Fish in blue-ribbon streams or cast off from Hebgen Lake Bike or hike the scenic Rendezvous Trail System Explore stunning terrain in the nearby Custer Gallatin National Forest Family Fun Ride horses, try the zipline, or join a Wild West rodeo Learn about Yellowstone’s top predators at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center Get hands-on with local history through the town’s Historic Walking Tour Picture-Perfect Moments Snap photos of vibrant sunsets over the lake Find hidden scenic gems with fewer crowds Catch live music, community events, or seasonal festivals What’s New in Yellowstone for 2025? Yellowstone continues to invest in new tools, experiences, and preservation efforts that elevate your visit. Enhanced NPS App Features The free National Park Service app now includes improved geyser predictions, trail updates, and offline functionality—perfect for navigating areas with limited service. Download it in advance and save Yellowstone info for offline use. New Exhibits at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center Right outside the West Entrance, this nonprofit sanctuary offers immersive new exhibits on predator-prey behavior, the Yellowstone ecosystem, and conservation efforts. A must-see for families and wildlife lovers alike. Trail Access Improvements After significant trail maintenance in 2024, the Tower-Roosevelt and Dunraven Pass areas now offer expanded hiking access and better signage. Once the upper mountain routes open in late May, these areas will be prime for nature walks and wildlife sightings. Weather & Packing Tips for a Spring Visit Spring in Yellowstone is beautiful—but it’s also unpredictable. You could experience sunshine, sleet, and snow all in the same day. That’s part of the adventure! Here’s how to pack smart: What to Wear: Base layers and waterproof outerwear Sturdy hiking boots with good grip Hat, gloves, and sunscreen Removable layers for changing temperatures Typical Spring Temps (Fahrenheit): April: High 47°F / Low 21°F May: High 58°F / Low 29°F Nights can dip below freezing, so bring a warm jacket—even in late May. Altitude Advice: West Yellowstone sits at 6,666 feet. You may feel lightheaded or extra tired the first day or two. Hydrate, go easy on alcohol, and pace yourself when hiking. Safety Tips: Before You Explore Road Travel & Gas Once you leave town and enter the park, services become limited. Gas stations are few and far between, and cell service is often nonexistent. Always fill up your tank before heading in and let someone know your route. Wildlife Safety Keep a safe distance—at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from bison, elk, and other wildlife. Bring binoculars or a zoom lens for close-ups. Be Overprepared Always pack more food, water, and warm clothing than you think you’ll need. Conditions can change quickly, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Pet Travel in Yellowstone Yes, you can bring your furry friend—but there are rules. Pets are allowed only: In developed areas (e.g., parking lots, campgrounds) Within 100 feet of roads On a leash no longer than 6 feet Pets aren’t allowed on trails or in the backcountry. If you’re staying in West Yellowstone, you’ll find pet-friendly lodging and nearby trails like the Boundary Trail that welcome dogs. Just be sure to plan ahead—there are no boarding services in town. Lodging in West Yellowstone: Book Early With the West Entrance opening first, accommodations in West Yellowstone book up fast—especially in April and May. Whether you’re looking for a rustic cabin, boutique inn, or family-friendly hotel, there’s something for every type of traveler. Many hotels offer convenient walkability to restaurants, gift shops, and outfitters. Plus, you’re just minutes from the entrance gate—perfect for those early-morning wildlife drives. Final Tips for Visiting Yellowstone in 2025 Download the NPS App and save Yellowstone content offline Reserve lodging and activities early, especially for spring Plan for variable weather—sunshine and snow are both likely Start at the West Entrance for easy access and great amenities Leave no trace and help preserve the park for generations to come Start Your 2025 Yellowstone Adventure Now Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on Yellowstone opening dates, West Entrance tips, and what’s new this season, it’s time to plan your adventure. Whether you’re coming for the geysers, wildlife, or outdoor recreation, spring is the perfect time to beat the summer crowds and witness Yellowstone’s magic as it reawakens. Let Destination Yellowstone help you book lodging, find dining, and map out the ultimate itinerary. Start planning today!