With Memorial Day close approaching, the summer season across the National Park Service is just about to start. As one of the most iconic national parks in the world, Yellowstone National Park typically sees more than 4 million visitors per year with a majority of those visits coming between May and October.
In anticipation of what could be a very busy summer, Yellowstone National Park released their top 10 list of things to know before a 2025 summer visit.
1. Reservations Not Required to Enter Yellowstone
Unlike many parks across the United States, Yellowstone does not require reservations to enter, though they do require a park entrance pass. Keep in mind that the summer can see some heavy crowds and lines in popular areas. Be patient and enjoy your visit.
2. Check Status of Park Roads
A majority of roads open to regular vehicles in mid-April and close in early November. That said, temporary closures due to weather or other conditions are possible and guests should check the park roads webpage for more information ahead of their visit.
3. Plan Ahead
While the park itself doesn’t require a reservation, all campgrounds and lodging require a reservation and usually fill up well ahead of time. Check operating dates, current conditions, eating and sleeping, places to go, things to do, fishing permits, and boat inspections and permits before your visit.
4. Give Wildlife Room
As with any park visit, giving wild animals space is incredibly important. Bears, bison, elk, and other animals have both hurt and killed people in the park and it’s your responsibility to keep a safe distance and follow safety regulations. Keep at least 25 yards from all wildlife and 100 yards from bears, wolves and cougars. Read up on how to watch wildlife safely and travel safely in bear country before your visit.
5. Drive and Park Responsibly
Follow posted speed limits, use pullouts to watch wildlife and take pictures, and do not stop your vehicle in the road. If you’re going to pull over, make sure you park with all four tires fully off to the right of the white line.
6. Stay on Boardwalks
Thermal basins and hot springs are dangerous, and people have been severely injured or killed by breaking through the thing ground or falling into the waters. Stay on boardwalks both for your own safety and to protect the natural landscape.
7. Enhance Your Experience
The free National Park Service app (and offline content) provides interactive maps, tours of park locations, on-the-ground accessibility information, and more. Make sure you download it before you arrive.
8. Expect Limited Connectivity
Cell reception is limited throughout the park. Even in areas where you might have some, texts and calls may not go through.
9. Prepare for Weather Changes
Yellowstone National Park is known for its unpredictable weather. Prepare for big temperature swings, rain, or even snow, no matter the month of year. Bring a warm jacket, rain gear, and plenty of layers, and make sure you check current weather conditions before you arrive.
10. Make the Most of Your Trip
There are so many things to check out in Yellowstone, so make sure you don’t miss the highlights. Attend a ranger program or Indigenous cultural event, explore the Yellowstone Tribal Heritage Center, or participate in the free Junior Ranger program.
