Area Info

Learn all about West Yellowstone, Montana before arriving at the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, so you can take advantage of all the unique opportunities awaiting you here.

Community

The western gateway to Yellowstone National Park is West Yellowstone, Montana – a wonderful western community with a population of around 1,511. Primarily a tourist destination, West Yellowstone caters to those who love outdoor recreation and wildlife, and of course, touring the most famous of America’s national parks.

At an elevation of 6,667 feet, this small town lies in a high mountain valley surrounded by wilderness areas of unique qualities. Both summer and winter hold a multitude of choices in activities for the whole family.

Events in all seasons attract thousands from all over the country, including April’s Cycle Days and June’s Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo, Train Days and Janet Clarkson Memorial Triathlon. Christmas brings the Christmas Stroll, fun Dog Sled Races and plenty of snowy activities within Yellowstone National Park.

Weather/Climate

The long and mild summer days offer plenty of pleasure to those visiting in those warm months. Temperatures range in the 70s for highs (80s in July) and the 40s for lows. Storms can come in fast, though, so you should always be prepared.

During the spring and fall you’ll find crisp mornings with beautiful cool days. The days are perfect to enjoy the blooming wildflowers or the vibrant autumn colors.

Winters are cold, with the average low at 1 degree F. and the average high at 24 degrees. It is the perfect time and place for a winter vacation, since the powder snow is ideal for skiing, snowmobiling and sledding.

History

Early visitors to Yellowstone National Park used to follow their guides who would access the park via the Madison River, in the area that later would become West Yellowstone. In 1877, wagons filled with pioneers arrived. After unloading their burdens, they crossed the Yellowstone River here on their way westward. Then in 1881, the first stagecoach tours came to the town, with folks determined to see Yellowstone National Park, no matter the effort involved.

In the early 1900s, the railroad finally reached West Yellowstone, and thus the town was originally founded. Besides coming to see the national park so famous the world over, tourists discovered all the other recreational opportunities available to them surrounding this gateway to Yellowstone.



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