When does Yellowstone open in 2026 : An Entrance opening guide with Old Faithful and Friends Shuttle
- oldfaithfulandfrie
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 28
When does Yellowstone 2026?
Understanding the entrance opening dates is essential for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit. Yellowstone’s roads and entrances open and close seasonally due to the region's harsh winter weather. Heavy snowfall and icy conditions often make parts of the park inaccessible until late spring. Knowing when each entrance opens will help you time your trip right and get the most out of your Yellowstone adventure. When does Yellowstone open 2026?
Yellowstone National Park Entrance Opening Dates for 2026:
1. North Entrance (Gardiner, Montana)
Opening Date:Â Open Year-Round
What This Means:
The North Entrance is the only park entrance open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It provides reliable access into the park even during winter. However, while this entrance remains open, many interior park roads may still be closed due to snow and ice—so it's important to check current road conditions and closures before your visit.
2. West Entrance (West Yellowstone, Montana)
Opening Date:Â April 17, 2026Â (expected)
What This Means:Typically opening in mid-April, the West Entrance offers early access to major attractions like Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin. This is a great time to see geysers in action with fewer crowds and melting snow revealing the vibrant geothermal landscape.
3. East Entrance (Cody, Wyoming)
Opening Date:Â May 1, 2026Â (expected)
What This Means:Opening in early May, the East Entrance is your gateway to Yellowstone Lake and the Fishing Bridge area. This time of year is ideal for those interested in fishing, photography, or enjoying scenic drives along the lake as spring begins to unfold.
4. South Entrance (Jackson, Wyoming)
Opening Date:Â May 8, 2026Â (expected)
What This Means:Connecting Grand Teton National Park with Yellowstone, the South Entrance opens in early May. It's perfect for visitors planning a multi-park trip or those looking to explore Yellowstone’s southern highlights, including West Thumb Geyser Basin and Yellowstone Lake.
5. Beartooth Highway (via Northeast Entrance – Cooke City, MT to Red Lodge, MT)
Opening Date:Â To Be Determined (Typically Late May to Early June)
What This Means:
The Beartooth Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., offering stunning alpine views, switchbacks, and high-elevation overlooks. Its opening date varies each year depending on snowpack and weather conditions, usually falling between late May and early June. Since this road reaches elevations over 10,000 feet, heavy snow can delay opening. Always check the current status before including it in your travel plans.
Make the most of your Yellowstone adventure in 2026 by taking advantage of the Old Faithful and Friends Shuttle Service. Designed to simplify your travel throughout the park, this reliable and comfortable shuttle makes it easy to get from one iconic destination to the next—without the stress of driving or finding parking. Whether you're entering from one of the park’s five main entrances or heading to popular attractions like Old Faithful, the shuttle helps you experience more and worry less.
Why Choose the Shuttle?
Convenience:
Our shuttles operate on a consistent, easy-to-follow schedule with multiple stops throughout the park. Enjoy comfortable, climate-controlled seating as you travel between geysers, lakes, canyons, and more—all without needing to navigate park roads on your own.
Expert Guides:
Each shuttle is staffed by experienced drivers who know Yellowstone inside and out. Along the way, they share insights into the park’s rich history, dramatic geology, and diverse wildlife, turning each ride into an educational and enjoyable experience.
Public Shuttle Option – New for 2026
In addition to our private group tours, the Old Faithful and Friends Public Shuttle offers a more budget-friendly, hop-on/hop-off option for independent travelers. Perfect for solo visitors, couples, or small groups, this public service runs between major destinations like Old Faithful, Canyon Village, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Yellowstone Lake. It’s an ideal way to explore the park at your own pace—no car needed.
Contact Us Today to Reserve Your Ride!
If you're planning your Yellowstone adventure and need more information or want to book your shuttle, feel free to reach out to us:
Email:Â info@oldfaithfulandfriends.com
Phone:Â 406-600-8408
Whether you're exploring the geysers or catching a glimpse of wildlife, let Old Faithful and Friends Shuttle take you there in comfort and style. We look forward to helping you make the most of your visit to Yellowstone!