Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park with strict

guidelines designed for their safety and the enjoyment of all visitors. Horses entering Wyoming must have a health certificate within the last 30 days. Both the state and the park require a negative Coggins test within the past year.

In the summer, visitors may select from eight locations within park boundaries with hotels and/or cabins including Yellowstone's Canyon Lodge & Cabins, Grant Village, Lake Lodge Cabins, Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins, Old Faithful Inn, Old Faithful Lodge Cabins, and Roosevelt Lodge & Cabins. Amenities and dining options vary at each location. All park lodging is nonsmoking and rooms do not have televisions, radios, air conditioning or internet. Numerous sites are also available for tent and RV camping.

Click here for a listing of all campsites in northwest Wyoming.

Backcountry resources:
The National Park Service provides resources, including videos and a trip planner, for both winter and summer backcountry excursions.

What to wear:
Weather in Wyoming is unpredictable. During both the summer and winter seasons, be sure to bring plenty of layers so you can add and remove clothing as your own comfort dictates. Even at the height of summer, temperatures can drop to below freezing at night. Be sure to bring a warm, waterproof jacket and a hat. Plenty of socks to keep your feet warm and dry are also a good idea.

Be safe:
Although the wildlife in Yellowstone National Park may seem tame, important safety rules should be followed at all times while in the park and will not diminish your enjoyment of the animals. Obey rangers and law enforcement officials immediately if they make a request.

Remember to stay hydrated and to pace yourself while enjoying your high altitude nature experience.

Winter access:

Most roads into the park are closed in November and open again in late March or April, as conditions allow. Visitors can travel through the park in snow coaches or on snowmobiles with an authorized guide.

Click here for authorized snowmobile guides and snow coaches.

Visitors may cross country ski or snowshoe in the park on miles of groomed trails, on any unplowed roads and in the backcountry. A backcountry use permit is required for all overnight trips. Contact a park ranger at a visitor center or ranger station before beginning a trip. Warming huts are available throughout the park.

In the winter, guests can stay inside the park at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins or Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. In the spirit of the nature experience, neither hotel has television, internet, or radios. All lodging is nonsmoking. Both locations have casual dining facilities. Visitor centers at these locations are open in the winter; all others are closed.

Cross country ski and snowshoe equipment can be rented or repaired at “the Bear Den” at both lodges. Group or private lessons can also be arranged.