West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone's Grizzly Sign
© Vertical Media
Located 1.5 miles from Wyoming and 8 miles from Idaho, West Yellowstone,
Montana sits at 6,666 feet and is the only western entrance to Yellowstone
National Park. Visitors can literally walk or snowmobile from the front door of
their tent or hotel right into the park. The proximity of this quaint town to
Yellowstone is what first lures many travelers. But upon arrival it is
immediately obvious that there is also so much to do right outside of the park.
Business and tourism first began in west Yellowstone when the railroad was built
from Oregon in 1907. The town changed names three times from Riverside to
Yellowstone to finally West Yellowstone in 1920. The founders decided to add
West when they realized its name confused park visitors. West Yellowstone only
has a population of about 900, and about 1500 in the summer. Back in the day
most West Yellowstonians would leave for the winter as the railroad also closed
for several months. Those who stayed got around on skis and dog sleds.
The tradition of dog sledding and skiing lives on in West Yellowstone. Although
neither of these sports distract any that come to West Yellowstone to snowmobile
in the winter. There are a few places to rent snowmobiles, as well as
cross-country and downhill skis and snowshoes, in town.
West Yellowston's IMAX Theatre
© Vertical Media
But don't let this snow talk distract you. There is a reason why most visit the
area in the spring, summer, and fall. Fishing, hiking, horseback riding, biking,
rafting, and hunting are just a few of the many activities you can indulge in.
The exciting rapids of the Gallatin and Yellowstone Rivers offer fantastic
rafting opportunities. Hebgen Lake is just a short distance away and welcomes
water skiers and sailors, while mountain bikers typically head to the extensive
Rendezvous Trail System. Don't miss the 35 km of year round trails just south of
the West Yellowstone starting at Trailhead Arch. Skiers enjoy these snow covered
trails in the winter while shade from Lodgepole pines is attractive for hiking
and biking. Hiking trails around West Yellowstone are endless as hikers can
explore Yellowstone National Park, Gallatin and Targhee National Forests, and
Harriman State Park. Anglers are guaranteed a catch on Fish Slough Creek which
runs along the edge of the Beartooths and is full of cutthroat and rainbow
trout. Others seek the remoteness and solitude of Henry's Fork of the Snake.
Madison River is also a popular spot for mountain whitefish, rainbow and brown
trout.
The town of West Yellowstone can provide visitors with information on
Yellowstone National Park and other areas of interest. A few companies offer
guided tours of Yellowstone and surrounding areas. Those staying in West
Yellowstone will appreciate the small town amenities like book stores, art
galleries, coffee houses, souvenir shops, and your occasional rodeo. Don't miss
the unique and fascinating grizzly bear and wolf preserves near West
Yellowstone, Montana.
From Cody, Wyoming, the route to West Yellowstone, Montana is straight across
the state of Wyoming on US 14. Once in Yellowstone National Park, take the Grand
Loop Road north west to the Canyon Junction. Then drive west on Norris Canyon
Road. At Norris Junction head south on US 89 to Madison Junction where US 20
will lead you to your destination of West Yellowstone.
West Yellowstone, MT Weather
Currently Outside 34FChilly. |
