Yellowstone’s North Entrance: What You Need To Know Before You Go

Yellowstone’s North Entrance, located near Gardiner, Montana, provides a gateway to the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife along the park’s Northern Range and is the only entrance open to visitors year-round.

Gardiner is a charming, historic town conveniently located at Yellowstone’s North Entrance and offers access to various outdoor activities, such as river rafting, fly fishing, and horseback riding.

Yellowstone’s North Entrance is a must-visit—especially for wildlife watchers, adventurers, and scenic driving—and this post will guide you through everything you need to know about Yellowstone’s Northern Range and the town of Gardiner, MT.

Roosevelt Arch at Yellowstone's North Entrance

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20 Fast Facts About Yellowstone's North Entrance

• The North Entrance is located near Gardiner, Montana. Gardiner is a charming small town with lodging, restaurants, and visitor amenities.

• It is the only entrance to Yellowstone that is open year-round. (The rest of Yellowstone’s entrances close seasonally.)

• The historic Roosevelt Arch marks the entrance and was built in 1903. According to Yellowstone Forever Institute, a time capsule inside the Arch reportedly contains a Bible, a picture of President Roosevelt, Masonic documents, local newspapers, and U.S. coins.

• The North Entrance is historically significant as the original entryway to Yellowstone—it was the first entrance built to provide official access to the park, and President Theodore Roosevelt laid a cornerstone for what became the Roosevelt Arch.

• The North Entrance offers quick access to Mammoth Hot Springs, which is about 5 miles and 15 minutes from the entrance gate.

• Although you don't need a reservation to enter Yellowstone’s North Entrance, you will need to pay an entrance fee—or have a park pass—which can be purchased at the gate. A standard entrance fee is $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. This covers entry into the entire Yellowstone Park, not just the North Entrance.

• In winter, the North Entrance is the only vehicle-accessible entrance into Yellowstone. This means that between November 1st and mid-April each year, you can drive your car into Yellowstone from the North Entrance only.

• Winter visitors love this entrance for self-driving access, wildlife viewing, wolf watching, photography, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. There are also tours that run from Gardiner or the nearby Mammoth Hot Springs into Yellowstone’s interior in the winter.

• The road from Yellowstone’s North Entrance to Lamar Valley remains open year-round and is one of the best places in all of Yellowstone National Park for wildlife viewing.

• The North Entrance is the second most popular summer entrance, behind the West Entrance near West Yellowstone, MT.

• Wildlife like elk, mule deer, bison, and pronghorn antelope can often be seen near the North Entrance and between the drive from Gardiner to Mammoth Hot Springs.

• The North Entrance is a great starting point for exploring Yellowstone’s Northern Range, which is best known for dramatic mountain landscapes and abundant wildlife viewing.

• In addition to convenient access to Lamar Valley, the North Entrance also offers a scenic drive to Tower Fall, one of the best locations for bear-watching in late spring and early summer.

• While driving to the North Entrance from Bozeman, visitors pass Yellowstone Hot Springs, a relaxing place to swim and soak outside the park.

• There are gas stations and general stores at the North Entrance (in Gardiner, MT) for last-minute supplies. Conoco Gas Station is located in the heart of Gardiner, offering standard fuel options and a small convenience store. Sinclair Gas Station is located just north of Gardiner, offering a larger gas station and convenience store—with surprisingly good hot chicken sandwiches! Gardiner Market is the only grocery store in Gardiner and is a great place to purchase groceries or quick meals.

• The Yellowstone River flows through Gardiner, offering fishing and rafting opportunities at the North Entrance of Yellowstone.

• Chico Hot Springs, a nearby hot springs resort, is about 30 minutes from Gardiner and is a popular day trip for visitors.

• The Gallatin National Forest surrounds the North Entrance, providing additional hiking and outdoor activities. This is especially great for those traveling with pets. Gardiner is actually surrounded on all sides by public lands, making it a great destination for outdoor recreation.

• Yellowstone Forever Institute runs educational programs and workshops starting from the North Entrance.

• Gardiner's elevation sits at 5,259′ and is lower than the west, south, and northeast areas of Yellowstone, making it a good base for visitors looking to avoid altitude sickness.

The North Entrance, marked by the historic Roosevelt Arch, is the only entrance open for self-driving between November 1st and mid-April, making it an excellent destination for year-round trips to Yellowstone.

North Entrance Hours, Opening Dates, and Fees

Yellowstone’s North Entrance is open year-round, making it the only entrance accessible throughout all seasons. It provides consistent access even during the off-season and winter when most other entrances are closed to self-driving. Winter visitors use the North Entrance to access popular activities like snowshoeing, skiing, wildlife viewing, scenic driving, and photography.

Directions to Yellowstone’s North Entrance

Yellowstone’s North Entrance is located in Gardiner, Montana, at the park's northern edge. From Bozeman, the drive is about 1.5 hours south via US-89 and travels through Livingston, MT, before following the Yellowstone River through Paradise Valley to Gardiner.

Visitors from the south can travel through the park via Grand Loop Road until reaching Mammoth Hot Springs, about 5 miles from the North Entrance.

Note: The option to drive through the park to the North Entrance is available only during Yellowstone’s prime season, which is late spring, summer, and early fall. During the off-season and winter months—between November 1st and mid-April—Gardiner and Yellowstone’s North Entrance can only be accessed from the north through Livingston, MT.

When is Yellowstone’s North Entrance open?

Yellowstone’s North Entrance is open year-round, making it accessible to visitors at any time. Unlike the other entrances, which are closed to vehicle traffic during the off-season and winter months, the North Entrance allows visitors to drive into Yellowstone throughout the year.

Other Yellowstone entrances—West, South, East, and Northeast—typically open in mid-April to mid-May, depending on weather conditions, and close on November 1st.

What hours is the North Entrance open?

Yellowstone’s North Entrance is open 24 hours a day, year-round, but services inside the park follow seasonal hours.

The road from the entrance to Mammoth Hot Springs is also open and maintained throughout the year; however, road conditions can change quickly during winter, and temporary closures may happen due to snow or weather. The Mammoth Hot Springs Visitor Center operates with seasonal hours, so check ahead before visiting.

Is there a fee to enter Yellowstone’s North Entrance?

Yes, there is a fee to enter Yellowstone National Park through any entrance. (Reservations are not needed.) A standard entrance fee is $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. This covers entry into the entire Yellowstone Park, not just the North Entrance. Visitors can also purchase the America the Beautiful pass, which covers entrance fees to all national parks for $80 annually.

Yellowstone North Entrance Map

Here’s a map highlighting various attractions and points of interest near Yellowstone’s North Entrance.

11 Reasons to Visit Yellowstone’s Northern Range

Here are 10 reasons to enter Yellowstone from the north.

1. Proximity to Mammoth Hot Springs: Yellowstone’s North Entrance provides quick access to Mammoth Hot Springs, just 5 miles and less than 15 minutes from the north entrance gates. Visitors can explore Mammoth’s iconic travertine terraces, stroll boardwalk trails, and visit the Albright Visitor Center, which offers historical exhibits on Yellowstone’s natural and cultural history.

2. Convenient Access to Lamar Valley: The Northern Range provides convenient access to Lamar Valley, one of the best places in the park for wildlife viewing. Head here at dawn and dusk to look for wolves, grizzly bears, bison, coyotes, foxes, bald eagles, and more.

3. Year-Round Roadside Wildlife Viewing: Between Gardiner and Cooke City, visitors can spot wildlife just by driving through the park. This stretch of the Northern Range is open year-round, and species like elk, mule deer, bison, coyotes, and pronghorn antelope are commonly seen along the roadside. During the winter months, this is the only section of Yellowstone open to vehicle traffic, offering a magical opportunity to see wildlife against a snowy backdrop.

4. Abundance of Bison: The Northern Range is home to large herds of bison, especially throughout Lamar Valley during the bison rut in July and August. These bison are often seen grazing near the road, allowing for closer viewing and photography opportunities.

5. Wolf Watching in Lamar Valley: Lamar Valley is one of the best places in the world to spot wild wolves. The Northern Range is home to several wolf packs, and wildlife enthusiasts often gather with scopes to watch the packs hunt and interact in their natural habitat.

6. Bear Viewing Near Tower-Roosevelt: In the spring and early summer, black bears and grizzly bears are frequently seen along the Northern Range, particularly near Tower-Roosevelt and the Blacktail Plateau. Bears emerge from hibernation in these areas, offering excellent viewing opportunities from the roadside.

7. Scenic Driving: The Northern Range offers some of Yellowstone’s most scenic drives. From the rolling meadows of Lamar Valley to the rugged views of Mount Everts while crossing Gardner Canyon, the Northern Range is perfect for a day of scenic driving with plenty of pullouts to take in the views.

8. Access to the Northeast Entrance: The Northern Range provides access to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance, which leads to Cooke City and Silver Gate, MT. This is a less-traveled route for visitors looking to explore more remote and peaceful parts of the park, and it’s also the gateway to the Beartooth Highway, a spectacular scenic byway.

9. Winter Recreation: The North Entrance is best known for being the only entrance open year-round, which makes it an excellent choice for visiting Yellowstone in winter. If you’re visiting between November 1st and mid-April, the North Entrance is the only vehicle-accessible entrance to Yellowstone. This means you can drive into the park and explore the Northern Range, including Lamar Valley, even in winter. This time of year is ideal for those interested in winter activities like wildlife watching, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and photography, with fewer crowds and a beautiful snow-covered landscape. The Northern Range offers the best opportunities for spotting wolves, bison, elk, and other wildlife against the backdrop of Yellowstone’s winter wonderland.

10. Seeing the Roosevelt Arch: The iconic Roosevelt Arch, located at the North Entrance in Gardiner, is a historic landmark built in 1903. It bears the famous inscription "For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People" and serves as a welcoming symbol for visitors entering Yellowstone National Park.

11. Recreational Activities: Gardiner is known for its scenic views of the Yellowstone River and surrounding mountains and for being a gateway for thrilling outdoor adventures. There’s river rafting, scenic floats, and fly fishing on the Yellowstone River, which flows through Gardiner. In addition, horseback riding opportunities are available in Gardiner and from the nearby Roosevelt Lodge, allowing visitors to explore the rugged terrain and scenic landscapes from a unique perspective.

Yellowstone’s Northern Range a must-visit for nature lovers, wildlife watchers, recreational adventurers, and those looking to experience some of Yellowstone’s most dramatic landscapes.

10 Can’t-Miss Things to Do Near Yellowstone’s North Entrance

There’s no shortage of activities around Yellowstone’s North Entrance. One of the top things to do is to visit Mammoth Hot Springs, a unique geothermal feature known for its stunning terraces of travertine.

Wildlife watching is also a must, especially in Lamar Valley and along the Northern Range—from Gardiner, MT, to Cooke City, MT—where bears, elk, bison, pronghorn, coyotes, foxes, and wolves can be seen.

For those seeking adventure, the Yellowstone River offers incredible whitewater rafting trips and fly fishing access in the summer, and nearby trails offer horseback riding and hiking trails. In the winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing become popular activities from Yellowstone’s North Entrance.

Here are 10 of the best things to do near Yellowstone’s North Entrance.

1. Explore Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces

2. Visit the Albright Visitor Center at Mammoth

3. Wildlife Viewing from Gardiner, MT, to Cooke City, MT (including the famous Lamar Valley)

4. Hike the Bunsen Peak Trail near Mammoth

5. River Rafting on the Yellowstone River

6. Fly Fishing in the Yellowstone River in Gardiner and along Paradise Valley

7. Horseback Riding in Gardiner or from Roosevelt Lodge

8. Visit the Historic Roosevelt Arch

9. Scenic Driving Through Gardiner Canyon

10. Take a Day Trip to Yellowstone Hot Springs or Chico Hot Springs (north of Gardiner outside the park)

View of Gardiner and the Yellowstone River, which provides many great recreational opportunities such as river rafting, fishing, kayaking, and more. © [KatieDobies] via Canva.com

Best Hikes Near Yellowstone’s North Entrance

The Northern Range of Yellowstone offers a variety of scenic hikes that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Beaver Ponds Loop, near Mammoth Hot Springs, is a peaceful 4-mile round-trip trail that winds through forests and meadows, offering chances to spot elk, beavers, and other wildlife.

For those seeking more of a challenge, the Bunsen Peak trail ascends 1,300 feet over 4.6 miles, providing stunning panoramic views of the Gallatin Range and Gardner Canyon.

Further east, the Tower Fall trail leads to a beautiful overlook of the 132-foot Tower Fall and the Yellowstone River below. Lamar Valley Trail takes hikers through the heart of the park’s best wildlife viewing area, with opportunities to see wolves, bison, and grizzly bears in an expansive valley. For a shorter, scenic walk, the Trout Lake Loop offers a serene 1.2-mile hike around a high alpine lake, often frequented by river otters and waterfowl.

The Yellowstone River Picnic Area Loop Trail is a 3.7-mile route that follows the Yellowstone River, offering breathtaking canyon views and prime chances to see bighorn sheep. These trails highlight the Northern Range's dramatic landscapes and rich wildlife, making them some of the best hikes in the park.

Best Activities Near Yellowstone’s North Entrance

Gardiner is known for its wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities.

In the summer, whitewater rafting on the Yellowstone River is a popular activity, with trips ranging from family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids. Horseback riding is another excellent way to explore the rugged landscape, with several local outfitters offering guided tours. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of spots along the Yellowstone River for fly fishing, with cutthroat trout and rainbow trout being common catches.

During the winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing become popular activities, particularly in the Mammoth Hot Springs area.

For those looking for a unique adventure, wildlife safaris are available year-round, offering guided tours to some of the park’s best wildlife-watching spots.

Driving Times from Yellowstone’s North Entrance to Popular Park Attractions

Here are approximate driving times from Yellowstone’s North Entrance to popular attractions inside the park.

Note: This is driving time only and does not account for traffic, scenic overlooks, or wildlife viewing. Use this as a guide, but allow for more time between attractions so you can take advantage of the incredible scenery and wildlife at Yellowstone’s North Entrance.

North Entrance to Mammoth Hot Springs

It’s only about 15 minutes and 5 miles from the North Entrance to Mammoth Hot Springs. This is the first major stop inside the park from the North Entrance, although there’s a good chance for spotting elk, pronghorn antelope, and even bison before reaching Mammoth.

North Entrance to Lamar Valley

The drive into Lamar Valley from the North Entrance takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes (37 miles) and is a scenic route through Yellowstone’s Northern Range, ideal for wildlife watching. Although it takes over an hour to reach the heart of Lamar Valley, the wildlife sightings generally begin much sooner!

North Entrance to Grand Prismatic Spring

This is an approximately 1 hour and 30-minute drive that’s around 50 miles and takes you through the park’s scenic geothermal areas. Drive from the North Entrance to Mammoth and then from Mammoth to Norris Geyser Basin and the Grand Prismatic Spring.

North Entrance to Old Faithful

It takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Old Faithful from Yellowstone’s North Entrance. Follow Grand Loop Road on the park's west side, from Mammoth to Norris to Old Faithful.

North Entrance to Canyon Village

Driving to Canyon Village from the North Entrance takes 1-1.5 hours (35-40 miles), depending on the route. Driving the west side of Yellowstone’s Upper Loop is generally faster, from Mammoth to Norris to Canyon Village.

North Entrance to West Thumb Geyser Basin

It’s at least a 2-hour drive from Yellowstone’s North Entrance to West Thumb Geyser Basin, one of the park's southernmost points.

North Entrance to Grand Teton National Park

Reaching Colter Bay Village in Grand Teton National Park takes around 3 hours (115 miles). You’ll drive through Yellowstone on your way. Driving time is similar whether you drive along the west or east side of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop. However, you’ll want to drive the west side of the Upper Loop, from Mammoth to Norris Geyser Basin, for the quickest route.

What You Need to Know About the Town of Gardiner, Montana

Gardiner, MT, is a historic gateway town located at the northern edge of Yellowstone National Park, right at the park’s North Entrance. Established in the late 1800s as a hub for early park visitors, Gardiner is best known for the iconic Roosevelt Arch, built in 1903, which serves as the official entrance to Yellowstone. The town sits at an elevation of 5,259 feet, lower than most areas inside the park, which helps visitors acclimate more easily, especially compared to higher-elevation regions like Yellowstone Lake or the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Gardiner is situated along the Yellowstone River and offers a variety of amenities, including lodging, restaurants, and outdoor adventure services like river rafting and guided wildlife tours. It’s only about 80 miles from Bozeman, Montana, which is home to the closest major airport and most popular gateway for Yellowstone visitors. Gardiner's location at the park’s only year-round entrance makes it a key base for exploring Yellowstone, especially in winter when it's the only vehicle-accessible route into the park. The surrounding Gallatin National Forest provides additional recreational opportunities, making Gardiner a well-rounded destination for nature lovers.

Aerial view of Gardiner, MT, and the Yellowstone River. You can see Roosevelt Arch toward the middle of the right-hand side of this photo. 

Best Restaurants in Gardiner

Gardiner is a small town, but it offers a variety of great dining options for visitors. For breakfast, Yellowstone Perk, Tumbleweed Cafe, and Yellowstone Grill are popular spots to start the day, and Bear’s Brew is ideal for grabbing coffee and breakfast before heading into the park.

Gardiner Market is the town’s go-to spot for groceries or quick meals to-go. Two Bit City offers excellent food truck options, including quick, flavorful meals.

For a classic, hearty meal, The Corral is famous for its delicious burgers and fries. The Wonderland Cafe provides a relaxing dining atmosphere with a diverse menu of local favorites, while the Sage Fireside Room in nearby Paradise Valley offers an upscale dining experience with stunning views. Outlaw Pizza serves up great carryout for pizza lovers, and "The Outlaw" pizza is a local favorite.

Don’t miss the Huckleberry Ice Cream at Yellowstone Perk or Gardiner Gifts—either is perfect for a sweet treat. If you’re looking for live music or a fun atmosphere, Pine Creek Lodge Restaurant and Blue Goose Saloon are top choices.

Inside the park, check out the Old West Cookout at Roosevelt Lodge for a fun dining experience.

Lodging Near Yellowstone’s North Entrance

Yellowstone’s North Entrance offers a range of lodging options for visitors seeking convenience, comfort, and unique experiences.

Located just inside the park, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins is a historic property that places you close to the geothermal terraces and wildlife of Mammoth Hot Springs. This lodging option is open during both the summer and winter seasons and offers cozy cabins and a main hotel with a rustic, elegant feel. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to stay inside the park and enjoy easy access to Yellowstone’s northern areas.

For those who prefer staying just outside the park, Gardiner, MT, offers several excellent choices. Gardiner is home to a variety of pet-friendly cabins, hotels, and short-term rentals that provide quick access to Yellowstone’s North Entrance, from motels like the Super 8 or Travelodge by Wyndham to cozy lodges and larger Airbnbs.

Further inside the park, Roosevelt Lodge & Cabins is another noteworthy option along Yellowstone’s Northern Range. Located in the Tower-Roosevelt area, closest to Lamar Valley, Roosevelt Lodge offers rustic cabins and a nostalgic, Old West ambiance, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Yellowstone’s history and natural beauty.

For campers, Mammoth Campground is the only campground near the North Entrance that remains open year-round.

We’d love to host you in Gardiner, MT! Click the link above to browse our guest cabins.

FAQs about Yellowstone’s North Entrance

How do I get to Yellowstone’s North Entrance?

If you’re flying into the area, the nearest major airport is Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, located about 90 minutes from Gardiner. Gardiner itself is easily accessible via U.S. Route 89, making it a convenient base for exploring the park. To get to Yellowstone’s North Entrance, most visitors will start their journey from Bozeman, taking U.S. Route 191 south to connect with U.S. Route 89 northbound, which leads directly into Gardiner. Alternatively, for those already inside the park, the route from Mammoth Hot Springs to Gardiner is scenic and straightforward, following the main park road along the Yellowstone River and offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, including opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

What is the best time to visit Yellowstone’s North Entrance?

The North Entrance is open year-round. Summer is popular for first-time visitors, while winter offers a unique experience with fewer crowds and snow-covered landscapes. Spring and fall are great for wildlife watching along the Northern Range. Daily, it’s best to enter Yellowstone as early as possible... entering around sunrise is generally our recommendation—or at least before 9AM.

Can I access Lamar Valley from the North Entrance in the winter?

Yes, you can access Lamar Valley from the North Entrance in winter. The road to Lamar Valley is kept open for the winter season, and winter visitors often see wolves, bison, coyotes, red foxes, bald eagles, and more in the valley during this time.

Is the North Entrance good for wildlife watching?

The North Entrance is arguably the best entrance in Yellowstone for wildlife watching, providing convenient access to Yellowstone’s Northern Range and Lamar Valley. Visitors can often spot bison, elk, wolves, grizzly bears, black bears, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, red foxes, bald eagles, and more wildlife between this entrance and Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance.

Are there guided tours available in Gardiner?

Several local outfitters offer guided tours, including wildlife safaris, rafting, and horseback riding. Upon arrival in Gardiner, be sure to stop by the Gardiner Chamber of Commerce to browse local outfitters and tour options, keeping in mind that popular tours often book in advance during the busiest months. VisitGardinerMT.com is a great place to start browsing tours online.

Where can I fish near Yellowstone’s North Entrance?

The Yellowstone River, with access points in Gardiner and throughout Paradise Valley, is well-known for fly fishing. Along Yellowstone’s Northern Range, Lamar River, Slough Creek, and Soda Butte Creek are popular fishing locations. You can rent gear or book guided fishing trips at Parks’ Fly Shop in Gardiner.

Plan Your Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Plan the ultimate Yellowstone vacation with our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide! With insider tips, detailed maps, and tailored itineraries for each season, ensure you don’t miss out on the best things to do and see in Yellowstone year-round.

Created from personal experience over 9 years, our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide is packed with expert advice for experiencing the best—and less-traveled—parts of Yellowstone National Park. Take the overwhelm out of planning a vacation to one of America’s largest national parks and make the most of your visit with our comprehensive, easy-to-use travel guide.

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