where to stay when visiting yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, a breathtaking wonderland of geysers, hot springs, and wildlife, is a dream destination for many. But planning a trip requires more than just booking flights – securing the right lodging is crucial for a comfortable and memorable experience. This guide breaks down your options for where to stay in Yellowstone, covering everything from inside-the-park accommodations to gateway towns, budget-friendly choices to luxury retreats.

Understanding Yellowstone Geography and Its Impact on Lodging

Before diving into specific lodging options, understand Yellowstone’s vast size. The park is huge, spanning across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. This means driving times between locations can be significant. Choosing a base camp strategically is key to minimizing travel and maximizing your time exploring. Consider these regions:

• Old Faithful Area: Central location, iconic geyser basin, often crowded.
• Canyon Village Area: Close to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.
• Lake Yellowstone Area: Scenic lake views, boat tours, fishing opportunities.
• Mammoth Hot Springs Area: Northern entrance, unique travertine terraces, historic buildings.
• West Yellowstone, Montana: Just outside the West Entrance, most developed gateway town with extensive amenities.
• Gardiner, Montana: Just outside the North Entrance, charming town with a historic district.
• Cody, Wyoming: East of the East Entrance, a Western-themed town with museums and rodeos.

Lodging Inside Yellowstone National Park

Staying inside the park cuts down on driving time and provides unparalleled access to Yellowstone’s wonders. Book well in advance – these options fill up a year or more ahead, especially during peak season (June-August).

1. Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Xanterra Parks & Resorts)

Xanterra Parks & Resorts manages all the in-park lodging. They operate a wide range of properties, from historic hotels to rustic cabins.

• Old Faithful Inn: Old Faithful Inn

  • Vibe: Iconic, historic, stunning architecture, undeniably a must-see.
  • Price Range: $$$$ (Expect to pay $350+ per night)
  • Considerations: Book a room with a geyser view for an unforgettable experience. Can be very busy.

• Lake Yellowstone Hotel: Lake Yellowstone Hotel

  • Vibe: Elegant, lakeside views, refined dining.
  • Price Range: $$$ (Around $250+ per night)
  • Considerations: Perfect for those seeking a more luxurious experience and scenic lake access.

• Grant Village: Grant Village

  • Vibe: Modern, convenient, near Yellowstone Lake.
  • Price Range: $$ (Approximately $180+ per night)
  • Considerations: A more practical choice for families or those on a slightly tighter budget within the park.

• Canyon Lodge & Cabins: Canyon Lodge & Cabins

  • Vibe: Rustic cabins, close to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
  • Price Range: $$-$$$ (Varies depending on cabin type, $150 – $300+)
  • Considerations: Offers a blend of comfort and rustic charm.

• Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins:Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins

  • Vibe: Historic hotel, close to Mammoth Hot Springs terraces.
  • Price Range: $$-$$$ (Around $170+ per night)
  • Considerations: Great location to explore the northern park.

• Roosevelt Lodge Cabins: Roosevelt Lodge Cabins

  • Vibe: Rustic, historic, "old west" feel.
  • Price Range: $$-$$ (Varied, typically $120 – $200+)
  • Considerations: Known for its Old West dinner cookout.

2. Camping

Yellowstone offers numerous campgrounds, from developed sites with amenities to primitive backcountry options. Reservations are essential, especially during peak season. Check Recreation.gov for availability.

• Developed Campgrounds: Canyon, Grant Village, Madison, and others.
• Backcountry Camping: Permits required; offers solitude and access to remote areas.

Lodging Outside Yellowstone National Park (Gateway Towns)

If in-park lodging is unavailable or you prefer more flexibility, gateway towns offer a wider range of options.

1. West Yellowstone, Montana

This is the most popular gateway town due to its proximity to the West Entrance. You’ll find hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds.

• Kelly Inn – West Yellowstone: A reliable chain with standard amenities.
• Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone: Offers cozy cabin rentals.
• Stage Coach Inn: A popular option with good reviews.

2. Gardiner, Montana

Located near the North Entrance, Gardiner offers a more authentic, smaller-town experience.

• Yellowstone Gateway Inn: Comfortable and well-located.
• The Roosevelt Hotel: Historic hotel with a unique charm.
• Absaroka Lodge: Great views and good amenities.

3. Cody, Wyoming

East of the East Entrance, Cody is a Western-themed town with a vibrant culture.

• The Cody Hotel: Upscale option with a pool and fitness center.
• Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites: Comfortable and convenient.
• Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel: Historic hotel with a saloon.

Comparison Table: Yellowstone Lodging Options

Tips for Securing Your Yellowstone Lodging

• Book Early: Seriously. Start planning and booking a year in advance, especially for in-park lodges.
• Be Flexible with Dates: Mid-week stays and the shoulder seasons (spring/fall) often have slightly better availability.
• Check for Cancellations: Xanterra often has cancellations, so keep checking their website.
• Consider Splitting Your Stay: Divide your trip and stay in different areas of the park or in multiple gateway towns for varied experiences.
• Join Email Lists: Sign up for Yellowstone alerts to be notified of booking releases.
• Have a backup Plan: If your preferred accommodation is unavailable, consider a nearby gateway town.

Planning your Yellowstone adventure requires careful consideration of where to stay. By understanding the geography, exploring your options, and booking well in advance, you can ensure a comfortable and unforgettable trip to this incredible national park.

Sources:

• Yellowstone National Park Lodges: https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/
• Recreation.gov (for campground reservations): https://www.recreation.gov/
• National Park Service – Yellowstone: https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm
• Travel Yellowstone: https://www.travelyellowstone.com/