Visitors to Yellowstone National Park will need to change their travel plans this week, as officials have closed all roads south of Mammoth Hot Springs due to dangerous winter weather. The announcement came on Sunday, following a string of weather-related traffic incidents across the park.
Road Closures After Weather Disruptions
The park closed road access to most areas at 5 p.m. on Sunday, and those closures remain in place until further notice. According to officials, more than 30 vehicle incidents — including accidents, stranded cars, and vehicles sliding off the road — occurred due to snow and ice.
Yellowstone staff acted quickly to close the roads to allow crews time to clear and treat the roadways, improving safety for everyone.
More Snow and Cold Ahead
The winter storm that began on Sunday is expected to continue through the week, bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and freezing temperatures. Forecasters say overnight lows may stay just above 0°F, with dangerous driving conditions likely to continue.
If you’re planning a trip, it’s best to postpone travel or check conditions frequently before heading out.
Which Roads Are Still Open?
While most of the park is closed to public vehicle access, the road between Gardiner and Cooke City remains open at this time. However, travelers are still urged to use extreme caution, as conditions may change quickly.
How to Stay Updated
To get the latest information on road conditions and closures:
- Visit: go.nps.gov/YellRoads
- Call: (307) 344-2117 for recorded updates
- Text: 82190 to 888-777 to receive Yellowstone road alerts directly to your phone
With winter hitting early and hard, Yellowstone National Park is taking no chances when it comes to visitor safety. The closure of roads south of Mammoth is a clear reminder of how quickly nature can change the plans of even the most prepared travelers. If you’re planning a visit, stay informed, drive carefully, and always respect park advisories. Your safety — and that of park staff — depends on it.
FAQ
Q1. Why did Yellowstone close the roads south of Mammoth Hot Springs?
Due to heavy snow and icy conditions, Yellowstone officials closed the roads after more than 30 traffic incidents, including crashes and stranded vehicles.
Q2. When did the road closures begin?
The roads were closed to public access starting at 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Q3. Are any roads still open in the park?
Yes, the road between Gardiner and Cooke City remains open for now, but conditions can change quickly.
Q4. How long will the closures last?
No specific end date has been announced. The roads will reopen once safety crews have cleared them and conditions improve.
Q5. How can I get the latest updates on Yellowstone road conditions?
You can visit go.nps.gov/YellRoads, call (307) 344-2117, or text 82190 to 888-777 for real-time road alerts.
