1 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Traveler’s Lodge
Dude & Roundup Motels Rooms Look Directly Into Yellowstone Park
Perfect Location, Close to Everything 406-646-9561 www.yellowstonetravelerslodge.com
406-646-7301 www.yellowstonedudemotel.com Reserve at:
y l i Fam riendly F
www. WestYellowstoneMotels .com
For a 10% discount enter code: ELK1
Call Hotels Direct for 20% Discount for Wednesday & Thursday Reservations (Subject to Availability)
or call TOLL FREE 1-800-831-5741
Yellowstone Country Inn Fun Family-Friendly Retreat 406-646-7622 www.yellowstonecountryinn.net 2 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Va l u e Mind-e
White Buffalo Hotel Breakfast Buffet - Pool - Snack Bar Free Guest Movie Theater - Kids’ Playroom Lending Library
406-646-7681 www.whitebuffalohotel.com
d
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 3
L odging • A ctivities • t ours • P AckAges
800.221.1151
4 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
W est Y elloWstone , M ontana
PURE BIG SKY
BIG SKY • MOONLIGHT BASIN • SPANISH PEAKS • YELLOWSTONE CLUB
406.995.4009
|
www.BigSkyLuxuryRealEstate.com | Big Sky, Montana destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 5
CONTENT Yellowstone........................10
Welcome Letter from President
Our Town............................17
A warm welcome to West Yellowstone and Yellowstone Country!
Scenic Drives.....................23
Did you know that the existence of our small mountain community is tied directly to Yellowstone National Park?
and Wildlife Viewing...........24
Early guides lead their clients by following the Madison River through the area that would someday become Yellowstone Park. This area was called the “West End” or “Boundary” NS became the terminus for Yellowstone visitors arriving by rail. The Union Pacific Depot was built in 1908 and opened in 1909 to service arriving railroad guests. These guests would depart the train, and stop for meals and refreshment before departing with a stagecoach touring company into Yellowstone. The original depot building is still in use as the Yellowstone Historic Center Museum. Almost a century later, West Yellowstone is still the year-round gateway to Yellowstone, three surrounding national forests, blue-ribbon trout streams, and beautiful mountain lakes. No matter the season, you will find breathtaking scenery and an adventure around every corner. Long summer days offer unlimited access to scenic drives, hiking or horseback riding, whitewater rafting or fishing in crystal-clear rivers. Spend the night dining on local cuisine, watching a rodeo or play, listening to a free concert in the park, or strolling the streets and shopping our unique stores. (My personal favorite – try a huckleberry shake or ice cream cone!) Fall brings crisp, cool nights and warm, sunny afternoons that are especially memorable when combined with the sounds of bugling elk and honking geese. Wildlife is easy to find and photograph, trout fishing is at its finest, and mountain trails beg to be explored. In winter, Snow-covered landscapes, frosty trees and steamy geysers create a wondrous setting. Breathtaking tours by snowcoach and snowmobile offer indelible memories. Snowmobilers and cross-country skiers use groomed trails to explore the national forests surrounding West Yellowstone. In spring, the land awakens. Spring cyclers and wildlife photographers are rewarded with the sight of bouncing baby bison, elk calves, and coyote pups among green meadows and colorful waves of wildflowers. No matter what the season, we can help you plan that memorable moment or find that new adventure. Please feel free to stop and visit with our local “experts,” at the West Yellowstone Visitor Center, located at 30 Yellowstone Avenue, just one block west of the park entrance. We’d love to share our stories and ideas with you! Jan Stoddard, President West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce 6 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Nature Photography On the Water......................28 Fishing................................31 Crossroads of Culture........36 Skiing..................................42 Snowmobiling.....................46 Winter.................................49 Warm Season.....................51 Camping/RV/Glamping.......53 Hiking.................................54 Biking..................................56 Family Adventure................58 Local Essentials.................61 Includes information on lodging, activities, attractions, dining, shopping, services, utilities, travel, transportation and life in West Yellowstone.
OVERNIGHT KAYAK TOURS ON JACKSON LAKE
201 S. Canyon, West Yellowstone 406 646-7001 www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org
• Best way to see the Tetons and a great value! • Weekend departures, June-September • 1 or 2 nights catered camping (tents provided) on idyllic island camp • All kayaking gear included • Expert guides & delicious meals provided • Ideal for all ages 4+ • Limited to 12 people/trip!
Call us today!
800-346-6277
or visit OARS.com/wyoming
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 7
TRAVEL TIPS
Destination
Ground traffic enters West Yellowstone from three directions: from the north (Bozeman and Big Sky), take Hwy 191 South. From the south (Idaho Falls or Salt Lake City), follow Hwy 20 North. And if you are traveling through Yellowstone National Park, follow Hwy 20 from Madison Junction to the west entrance of the park. Note: The west gate is open to regular auto travel in the summer months only, from mid-April through late November.
West Yellowstone, Montana Travel Planner 2015/16
Located just one mile north of West Yellowstone, Montana and two miles north of Yellowstone, West Yellowstone’s airport is THE closest airport to Yellowstone Park. The airport (code: WYS) is the 8th largest of Montana’s 121 airports. WYS hosts private and commercial service, as well as one of the ten smokejump bases for USFS Interagency Fire Control. The West Yellowstone Airport operates seasonally June 1st through September 30th. Served by SkyWest Airlines (Delta Connection). AVIS & Budget Car Rentals on site and taxi service available. Other area airports serving West Yellowstone year-round include Bozeman (90 miles to the north) and Idaho Falls, ID (110 miles south). Mountain weather is always unpredictable. A 70-degree, sunny day can turn into a tumultuous storm,complete with wind, rain and snow, in a minute. It pays to always be prepared for cooler weather while enjoying the open blue sky and sunny days that have come to make West Yellowstone such a great place to visit. Even in the heart of summer, mornings can be chilly, averaging around 50 degrees. Layering clothes will help keep you comfortable all day. As the day wears on, temperatures rise into the 70s and 80s in July or August. In the winter, the same rules apply, only thicker, warmer layers are paramount. Temperatures can be among the coldest in the Lower 48, often reaching from the 20s and 30s during the day to below zero at night. You should also have a water-resistant, windproof outer layer. In fall and spring, crisp mornings are frequently followed by cool, brilliant days.
QUICK REFERENCE PHONE NUMBERS Gallatin National Forest, Hwy 191 North.............................(406) 823-6961 Yellowstone National Park...................................................(307) 344-7381 West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce..........................(406) 646-7701 Town of West Yellowstone...................................................(406) 646-7795 Emergencies..........................................................................................911 Ambulance......................................................................... (406) 646-9094 Fire Department ................................................................ (406) 646-9094 Police Department ............................................................. (406) 646-7600 Post Office ......................................................................... (406) 646-7704 Povah Community Center ..................................................(406) 646-7715 Public Library ..................................................................... (406) 646-9017 Silver Tip Pharmacy .......................................................... (406) 646-7056 Yellowstone Family Medical Clinic ..................................... (406) 646-9441 Church of Christ .................................................................(406) 646-5109 Community Protestant Church .......................................... (406) 646-7509 FirstBaptist Church .............................................................(406) 646-7570 Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church ..............................(406) 646-7755 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.................(406) 646-9357
8 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Yellowstone P ublisher Mike Rey
E ditor
Jessica Bayramian Byerly
Online Publications Director Chris Rey
C ontributors Nicole Hom Carolyn Fox Jan Stoddard Wendy Swenson
P hotography
Fox Den Images Mike Polkowske Ken Takata S. Stoddard Holly Scholl Photography
A d S ales
Mike Rey Tiffany Sandholm
P ublished B y
Rey Advertising 3220 Hillcrest Drive Bozeman, MT 59715 406-539-1010 reyadvertising@q.com reyadvertising.com
O n T he C over Fox Den Images
© West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce 2015. All rights reserved.
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West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 458 | 30 Yellowstone Ave. West Yellowstone, Montana 59758
DestinationYellowstone.com
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Yellowstone
10 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Fox Den Images
A Park for all Seasons
West Yellowstone, Montana - Gateway to THE WONDERS OF YELLOWSTONE By: Carolyn L. Fox
Elk calves walking in front of Mammoth Hot Springs, grizzly bear cubs playing in Lamar Valley, erupting geysers and bison calves crossing the Madison River are only a few of the wonderful things you may see in Yellowstone National Park. It’s one of the most amazing places in the world, and probably the only place where you can see these things while observing water and steam shooting 150 feet into the air.
mothers hide them to protect them from predators. When baby elk are born, they don’t have any scent, so the mothers hide them in the brush, tell them to stay and then move away from them to eat. They do this for about two or three weeks until the calves are old enough to join the rest of the herd. This helps to keep predators, such as bears and wolves, from knowing where the calves are located. Bison can be found in many areas of the park, and you’ll recognize the babies by their bright orange-red color. Bison usually act like they don’t care about their off-spring, but if you watch them closely, you’ll see that they do. When a calf is born, the herd surrounds it for about an hour until it can function on its own. After that, though, the bison calf has to stay up with the herd in order to survive.
Fox Den Images
If you are really lucky, you may see some bear cubs wandering through a meadow as their mother teaches them what to eat. The most likely place to see them is in Lamar Valley or Haden Valley, but since they are wild animals, you could find them anywhere. The best time to find any of the animals is early in the morning or in the evening. So, if you want to increase your chance of seeing them, roll out of bed, grab your camera, hop in the car and head out on your wildlife watching adventure. You’ll be glad you did, because there’s nothing like seeing wildlife interacting with each other in the wilds of Yellowstone.
The best place to stay when you visit Yellowstone is in West Yellowstone, Montana. This unique Western town is the closest entrance to Yellowstone’s major attractions, such as the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Old Faithful. You will have your choice of motels and restaurants, plus a variety of fun activities for the entire family. Staying in West Yellowstone will allow you to enjoy the best of the park without spending the entire day driving.
In late spring you’ll see some wild flowers start to bloom, but the best time to capture the splendor of Yellowstone’s wild flowers is in the Summer.
Let’s take a look at the different seasons, so you can decide which will work best for you.
SUMMER: A TIME OF COLORS AND ADVENTURE The best time to visit the geyser basins is in the Summer, when there isn’t as much steam, because you can see the beautiful colors of the hot pools better. If you want to take pictures of the hot pools and it’s windy, wait until the wind blows the steam away and then take your shot quickly before it returns. It takes a little planning, but if you’re careful, you can get the shot you want.
SPRING: A SEASON OF NEW BEGINNINGS The absolute best time to see wildlife is in the spring. In late May or early June, you will often find elk calves along the Madison River or at Mammoth Hot Springs. For a few months, they have white spots like deer, but you may have trouble finding them, because their
For many people a visit to Yellowstone begins with a stop at Old Faithful. When you first get to the Old Faithful Area, stop at the ranger station and find out when it’s supposed to erupt. They can usually predict it within about 20 minutes. They also have brochures that provide information about the other geysers in the area and a map that tells you the distance between them. If it’s going to be awhile, you’ll have time to walk destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 11
Be sure to visit some of the other geysers basins, such as Midway, where the colors and textures are absolutely amazing. In some areas, depending on the wind, sky, temperature and light, the water can be absolutely beautiful, and can sometimes even look like jewels of various colors. The colors of the textures at Midway vary from brown to orange to tan to yellow to blue, depending on the temperatures and the bacteria that are present at the time. There are other wonderful geyser basins, such as Norris - the most active geyser basin, Black Sand
Geyser Basin and Artists’ Paint Pots. Another place you don’t want to miss is Firehole Canyon Drive. It is a oneway road that goes through a beautiful canyon along the Firehole River. The best time to visit is in the early morning, when there’s steam rising from the river, creating a magical scene. At the small parking area you’ll see the Firehole Canyon waterfall. As you drive through the canyon, you’ll notice that there’s even a swimming area. If you’re hot, and have some time, take a dip in the Firehole to cool down. The water right there is clear and still. At the end of the drive, stop to take pictures of the smaller waterfall. This is a beautiful area, especially if there’s fog in the air and steam rising from the river. If you’re lucky, there may even be a bald eagle flying overhead. Although you may not see as much wildlife in the summer, the animals are around. There are some areas where you are more likely to see them. An elk herd, and often several bison, can usually be found in the area surrounding Mammoth Hot Springs. This isa very unique area of structures, terraces and textures. As
12 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
During the summer, the meadows of Yellowstone resemble a painter’s palette with its beautiful blue, white, yellow, purple, pink and red wild flowers. One drive you should definitely take in the summer is the drive over Dunraven Pass. Here you’ll find fields of wildflowers as far as you can see. Look in any direction and you will see a different arrangement that will please your eye and that will make a beautiful picture for your wall back home.
S. Stoddard
Holly Scholl Photography
around the area to see at least some of the other geysers. A fun place to watch Old Faithful erupt is from the porch of the Old Faithful Inn. Grab a sandwich or a drink from the café and watch the eruption from a different vantage point. If you don’t have time to walk the geyser basin before the eruption, be sure to take time to walk around afterwards. One of my favorite geysers in the area is Castle. It’s an easy walk from Old Faithful and one that you shouldn’t miss. Morning Glory Pool is about a mile walk, but the water in the pool is a beautiful blue-green and something that everyone should see at least once.
one part of this area seems to dry up and die, another seems to spring to life and sends water pouring over terrace after terrace. It’s a very interesting area with very interesting geological features, so if you can, plan to spend some time there. Lamar Valley is just a few miles from Mammoth Hot Springs, and is usually a good place to find animals. In fact, it’s known as The American Serengeti. There are usually several herds of bison, some pronghorn antelope, sometimes big horn sheep, coyotes, elk and, if you’re lucky, you might be able to find some wolves and bears. The best time to go, of course, is early in the morning or in the evening. Sometimes you even get lucky in the middle of the day.
Summer is the perfect time to take a hike in the woods, maybe back to Fairy Falls, Mystic Falls or Trout Lake. You can also ride a bike along the road or on one of the bike trails. You can have a picnic lunch at one of the many picnic areas as you watch an eagle or osprey fly overhead or fish in the miles
and miles of rivers. FALL: A TIME OF PREPARATION Fall in Yellowstone is wonderful. The Aspen and Cottonwoods are changing colors, and the elk are bugling. If there happens to be an early snow, you willget to see snow on the trees around the hot pools, turning the entire area into a magical scene of frozen wonder. The cooler temperatures bring the animals back out, and they are more active. You willprobably see young elk running in the fields in the early morning frost, and possibly witness two bull elk fighting over that special cow. Hiking, biking, photography and fishing are popular activities in the fall. It’s not as busy and the temperatures are cooler.
Since it’s not as busy in the fall, this would be a good time to visit the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The colors of the canyon walls are amazing and something you don’t want to miss. There are several vantage points and you should visit them all. WINTER: NATURE’S MAGICAL PLAYGROUND If you visit Yellowstone in the winter, you’ll experience a Winter Wonderland as the steam, cold temperatures and precipitation turn the trees into magical ice sculptures. The bison will be covered with snow, and may be found warming themselves
Fox Den Images
As hibernation time nears, bears will go wherever they can find food. Often this will be in the higher elevations, but you may find them anywhere, especially if there is a carcass laying around. Bears will spend about 20-22 hours a day eating during this time as they prepare for hibernation, so you are more likely to see them during the day if the weather is cool. As with most of the animals of Yellowstone, bears and wolves are still more likely to be seen in the early morning or in the evening.
near the hot pools. Although only the North gate is open for personal vehicles in the winter, you can still visit many of the park’s attractions by snowmobile or snow coach, both of which can be rented from several different vendors in West Yellowstone, Montana. If you’re adventurous, you can hop on a
snowmobile or skis, and head out on the groomed trails outside of the Park. If you’d like to be a little warmer, you can take a snow coach to Old Faithful and the other attractions to see the beauty of Yellowstone in the winter. Be sure to make reservations early. You will see sights you’ll never forget.
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Fox Den Images
One of the most wonderful things about Yellowstone is that you never know what you’re going to find. Where else can you drive for a few miles and find geysers erupting in front of a herd of bison, or see a hot pool with drops of water that look like jewels? Nowhere, but Yellowstone! Remember, the closest place to stay to visit all the major attractions of Yellowstone is in West Yellowstone, Montana - your friendly host city to the WONDERS OF YELLOWSTONE.
PARK ENTRANCES OPEN/CLOSE DATES 2015-16 Open and closure dates are established by the National Park Service and are subject to change. Call the park service at (307) 344-2107. Summer 2015 Open West..........................................................April 17 East............................................................. May 1 South........................................................... May 8 Fall 2015 Close............................ November 2 Winter 2015-16 Open................. December 15 North is open year-round to wheeled vehicles. Northeast is open year-round to wheeled vehicles. Please note: no travel beyond Cooke City during winter months - check with local chambers. Additional Information: • Access to park by bicycles only: April 1 to opening day, as conditions allow. • Winter access to park via the west, east and south entrances by snowshoes, skis, snowmobiles or snowcoach (no wheeled vehicles). 14 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
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JOIN US AT THE BRANCH RESTAURANT & BAR!
Daily lunch and dinner specials Daily breakfast buffet and à la carte Full bar featuring Montana beers in draft & bottle 315 Yellowstone Ave. West Yellowstone, MT ∙ (406) 646.7365
anch_Ad_4x2.25.indd 1
10/27/14 12:48 PM
“A must-see attraction.” -Fodor’s
Museum of the Rockies at Montana State University is a Smithsonian Affiliate. Recognized for its dinosaur collection and its permanent regional history exhibits, MOR also thrills visitors with changing exhibits from around the world, the Martin Children’s Discovery Center, the Living History Farm (open summers), and the Taylor Planetarium, featuring a state- of-the-art digital projection system. Visit us and experience MOR.
For more information, visit museumoftherockies.org. 16 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Holly Scholl Photography
AROUND TOWN
The town of West Yellowstone, at the West Entrance toYellowstone National Park is a yearround destination. Located at an elevation of 6,666 feet in the southwestern portion of Montana, the town is just four miles from Wyoming and eight miles from Idaho. Nestled among majestic mountain peaks, and surrounded by natural scenic wonders, the town is rich in history and activities. To say West Yellowstone is small might be an understatement, less than 1,200 year-around residents reside on just over 360 acres of land, As the closest town to Yellowstone Park, and just minutes away from some of Yellowstone's favorite attractions including Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone,West Yellowstone is the perfect Yellowstone lodging location for your Montana vacation. Small in size, but large in accommodations, West Yellowstone offers thousands of different comfortable and affordable lodging options, including hotels, resorts, guest ranches, cabins, RV parks, campgrounds and much more. One can enjoy the fine array of cuisine at one of the many restaurants in town spanning casual, family fare to fine dining, and even a 50s style diner. For a different pace, try one of the cafes, pancake houses, coffee houses
or bistros. Enjoy our regional specialties like trout, elk and bison or traditional Western cuisine. Be sure to top it off with a Montana huckleberry treat! The rustic history of West Yellowstone can be seen throughout many of our dining facilities, including rustic lodges and even a historic train car! Looking for family activities in the town of West Yellowstone? Visit the Yellowstone Giant Screen Theater, presenting a six-story high screen with stereo surround sound. The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center offers an educational experience and viewing area for visitors to watch live grizzly bears, wolves, and raptors in their own natural habitat. The Center is open daily, year-round. Many nights during the summer season, visitors can enjoy live theater at the Playmill, free concerts in the park, and authentic rodeos, featuring the “Calf Scramble,� just for kids. One of the newest activities in West Yellowstone is the Yellowstone Aerial Adventures zipline and ropes course. Located on the west side of town, the course offers 4 levels to test your agility and sense of adventure. The Yellowstone Historic Center, located in the original Union Pacific Depot at West Yellowstone, features the
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 17
history of visitation and transportation to our nation's first national park. Open daily from the middle of May through the middle of October. You can also experience early West Yellowstone through the free, self-guided historic walking tour. The green Bear Paw Trail that's painted on the sidewalks will lead the way! Pick up your map at the Chamber of Commerce or at one of the 21 site locations!
Holly Scholl Photography
One weekend per month, December through March, the Kids’N’Snow program offers unique opportunities for children to experience new winter activities like dogsledding, snowshoeing, ice fishing and much more. The weekend's highlight is usually the s’mores, skating and sledding event at the Community park. After a day in Yellowstone, many people like to stroll the streets of West Yellowstone, perusing the shops which carry everything from souvenirs to jewelry, Montana -made pottery, home décor, and the latest in outdoor gear. You can visit with one of the fishing experts and learn to tie flies at one of the fly fishing shops, or find that oneof-a-kind piece made by one of our local artists. Many of the establishments are locally-owned and family-run. West Yellowstone is an outdoor adventure paradise. Fishing is a yearround activity here. Fly fisherman can be seen in the rivers at any time of the year. The NAIFC holds their annual ice fishing tournament on Hebgen Lake and West Yellowstone frequently hosts the International Federation of Fly Fishers Conclave and Fair. Anglers come from all over the world to test their skills in the blue-ribbon trout streams surrounding the area. Hebgen and Quake Lakes, nearby, also offer fabulous fishing opportunities for the entire family.
18 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Mike Polkowske
The town is a favorite destination for bicyclists, who come annually for events like the West to Old Faithful Cycle Tour. With access to miles of trails starting at the edge of town, including the Continental Divide Trail, mountain biking, hiking and running are also popular activities. Many people take advantage of the scenic driving tours and byways in the area including the Madison Earthquake Area Drive, the Centennial Valley, and north along Hwy 191 and the Gallatin River. During the springtime, birding is a popular activity. In the spring and fall, when the traffic is lighter, these routes boast opportunities to see wildlife including elk, deer, moose, and Big Horn sheep. West Yellowstone receives an average
of 153of snow in winter. There are hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails and over 35 kilometers of cross-country ski trails. Snowmobilers from across the country travel to West Yellowstone during the winter to experience the thrill of mountain powder. One can start their day in West Yellowstone and travel the groomed trails between Montana and Idaho. West Yellowstone hosts several nordic ski events throughout
the winter as well, including the Yellowstone Ski Festival, Spam Cup Races (the winner receives a unique decorated can of SpamŠ), Youth Ski Races, and the Rendezvous Ski Race. These are family-friendly events open to all ages and abilities. The trails are open daily, December 1 until the snow is gone, for recreational skiers and the views are breathtaking. Spring brings the unique experience of “crust cruising,� by skate skiers. This phenomenon only occures when the top crust of deep layers of snow are heated by warm sunshine, then refrozen overnight. The result is a crusty layer that's perfect for quickly cruising over large areas. No matter the season that brings you to West Yellowstone, there is something to offer for everyone! We look forward to seeing you and hope you enjoy your time in our unique town.
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TOWN OF WEST YELLOWSTONE
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121 Madison Avenue West Yellowstone, MT destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 21
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SCENIC DRIVES “Around the Block” West Yellowstone (64 miles rnd trip) This trip travels through two states, over two mountain passes and around three lakes. It also features gorgeous scenery and the best wildlife spotting opportunities. Go north out of West Yellowstone on Hwy 191, to Hwy 287 where you turn left and follow the highway along Hebgen and Quake Lakes to the junction with Idaho Highway 87. Turn left (south) and drive to Raynold’s Pass, straddling the Continental Divide, where you will enter Idaho. Continue another 9 miles along Henry’s Lake until the junction with Hwy 20. Turn north to West Yellowstone. West Yellowstone to Ennis (145 miles rnd trip) Follow the same directions for the “around the block” tour paralleling Hebgen and Quake Lakes. Once past the Earthquake Visitor Center, continue on Hwy 287. After leaving the canyon area, you will climb to some vast grazing lands, large Montana ranches, majestically ringed by snowcapped mountains. This is the winter location for three large herds of elk. At times, in the spring, you can see thousands at once. This is also one of the best locations for spotting antelope, deer, coyotes and on rare occasion, wolves. West Yellowstone to Big Sky (90-120 miles rnd trip) From West Yellowstone, head north on Hwy 191. This stretch of road runs through twenty miles of the extreme northwestern section of Yellowstone Park. This scenic corridor parallels Grayling Creek and the Gallatin River. Mountains rise on each side in elevations from 6,300 to 10,000 feet. Black Butte, with its steep jutting peak, is just one of the interesting geological features along the road. Sparkling creeks amid colorful willows, lowland sages and grasses, dense lodgepole pine forests, and high elevation meadows. West Yellowstone to Big Springs, Island Park, Idaho (50 miles rnd trip. Not fully accessbile until late May-early June depending on weather conditions.) Leave West Yellowstone on Hwy 20 south to Island Park, Idaho. After 12 miles, you leave Montana for Island Park, Idaho which has the longest “main street” of any town in the U.S., over 30 miles! Seven miles later, in the Mack’s Inn Area, you will turn left (east) on Big Springs Road (Forest Rd. 59). Drive east for another five miles and you will be at Big Springs. West Yellowstone to Red Rocks Wildlife Refuge (90-120 miles round trip. Summer months only.) Take Hwy 20 south from West Yellowstone Montana
to Island Park, Idaho. Turn right (west) at the Hwy 87 Junction (13.1 miles) and drive another 5.1 miles to Henry’s Lake Drive, taking a left and driving towards Henry’s Lake. These roads are gravel and not paved. After another 5 miles, Henry’s Lake Drive becomes Red Rock Pass Road and you will enter back into Montana (11.6 miles). Red Rock Pass Road becomes MT-509 after another 9.4 miles. You will drive through Lakeview, Montana and then another two miles to Lower Lake Road which drives into the Refuge. Scenic Drives within Yellowstone National Park: Yellowstone’s interior roads form a rough figure “8”. Roads from Yellowstone’s East gate (Cody, WY), South gate (Jackson, WY) and West gate (West Yellowstone, MT) all drop into the lower half of the “8.” The upper “8” includes roads from the North gate (Mammoth and Gardiner, MT) and Northeast gate (Silver Gate and Cooke City, MT). One option is to split Yellowstone into multiple parts, investigating each loop individually. While both loops offer wildlife, incredible scenery, and steamy thermal features, the Lower Loop is more thermal-intense, while the Upper Loop offers a better chance to see predators like bears and wolves. The lower loop includes Old Faithful, Firehole Falls, Fountain Paint Pots, Yellowstone Lake, Hayden Valley, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Artist Point. The Upper Loop includes Dunraven Pass, Tower Falls, Mount Washburn, Lamar Valley, Petrified Tree, Upper Terrace Drive and Norris Geyser Basin. For more detailed descriptions of these scenic drives pick up your free maps at the Visitor Center or visit DestinationYellowstone.com destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 23
WILDLIFE VIEWING & PHOTOGRAPHY Over 311 species of birds have been documented in Yellowstone since it was first established in 1872. Arm yourself with binoculars, a Yellowstone Bird Field Checklist, a camera with a good zoom, and a good illustrated guide, and you are ready to go birding.
Mike Polkowske
Perhaps the most famous bird nest in the Park is located six miles east of the West Entrance on the south side of the road in a large dead fir. Look for the large snag supporting a big stick nest near the top approximately 100 yards from the road. Locals claimed that there have been eagles nesting here for well over 50 years. Yellowstone is home to the largest population of trumpeter swans in the Lower 48 states. There are basically two trumpeter swan flocks in Yellowstone, a resident year-round population and a migratory winter population. The resident population can vary from 28-55 swans, whereas the winter population varies from 75-119 swans. Seven miles in from the West Entrance is an area called ‘Seven Mile Bridge.’ Nesting trumpeter swans, soras, herons, and common snipe can all be seen from the turnouts there. Hayden Valley is another location for heron sightings. Migratory birds can be seen including savannah sparrows, ruby-crowned kinglets, yellow-rumped warblers, and mountain bluebirds. Ravens are also fun to watch just for their mischievous antics. Near Fishing Bridge, look for White Pelican and both Barrow's and Common Goldeneye, as well as Bald Eagles and Osprey. Watch for Sandhill Cranes in the Fountain Flats area. Some of the park’s best birding can be found by driving from West Thumb, on Yellowstone Lake, east and north to Tower and west to Mammoth Hot Springs. As you skirt Yellowstone Lake to Fishing Bridge, stop where you can to scan for Common Loon, American White Pelican,
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Double-crested Cormorant, Trumpeter Swan, Barrow’s Goldeneye, California Gull, and other water birds, as well as Osprey and Bald Eagle. Along the Yellowstone River, watch for the Whitethroated Swift flying through canyons or the American Dipper among the rocks in the rapids areas. This area is also home to the rare Harlequin Duck. At Mammoth, watch for the Black-billed Magpie, Mountain Bluebird and Townsend's Solitaire. American Dippers should be active along the rushing stream, and with luck you may see a Lazuli Bunting above on the rugged cliffs of McMinn Bench. If you are lucky enough to make it to Beartooth Pass (on the Beartooth Scenic Highway), watch for Peregrine Falcons and Golden Eagles, as well as migrant summer visitors, American Pipits and Black Rosy-finches. The area west of Yellowstone also has great birding and wildlife viewings, especially in the spring and fall. Look at the West of Yellowstone map on pages 25-26 for ideas.
Wildflowers Yellowstone is home to over 1,700 species of native plants and over 170 species of exotic (nonnative) plants. Some unique native wildflowers include: the Wyoming Paintbrush, Sulfur Paintbrush, Dalmatian Toadflax, Butter and Eggs, Yellow Monkey-flower, Lewis' Monkey-flower, Dwarf Purple Monkey-flower, Elephant's Head, Blue the Smallflowered Penstemon. And don’t forget, Yellowstone’s own, the sand verbena. Late June brings an abundance of wildflowers to Yellowstone Park and by July, you can hike to some of the most wildflower displays in a palate of colors that is almost overwhelming. Make sure to bring along a laminated flower guide. Entering from the West Entrance, you can find white mule'sears and phlox, yellow arrowleaf balsamroot, blue penstemon
Holly Scholl
Birding
and lupine, and Indian paintbrush’s glorious reds and oranges. Magenta shooting stars, purple sugarbowls, delicate white woodland stars and leopard lilies are along the road between Madison and Norris. White marsh marigolds are flowering near Canyon. Search boggy areas for white bog orchids and magenta elephantheads found in wet marshes. And, check moist forest areas for cream-colored American globeflowers, lupines and arnicas. Twelve species of orchids are found in the greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Several places in Yellowstone and Grand Teton Parks are home to the Calypso Orchid, also known as Fairyslipper. The calypso orchid is resembles a lady’ slipper and appears in abundance in shady areas in coniferous forests and near lakes. Two of the many places to find them include Emma Matilda Lake and Specimen Creek. The Specimen Creek area is also known for delicate pink Calypso Orchid often found in large patches. Emma Matilda Lake is in the Jackson Lake area of Grand Teton National Park.
Wildlife In springtime, Yellowstone’s ‘babes’ are out in force, offering incredible photo opportunities. Small groups of bison (buffalo) are on the move along roadways and rivers. This is the time of year when the herds start to move from their annual nursery grounds to locations throughout Yellowstone. Check the large areas along the Lower Geyser Basin area. Along Fountain Flat Drive, you can see hundreds of bison cows and calves. Early evening is a great time to sit and watch as the calves shake off their late afternoon naps and almost frantically begin to run and jump. They resemble large, playful, bright red dogs as they run, butt heads, and play in meadows.
Fox Den Images
Elk can still be found along the rivers and in wet meadows. Pregnant cows should be dropping calves soon, if not already. Watch along the edges of the pines in early evening for any new calves. This is the best time of year to spot bears feeding in the lower altitudes in Yellowstone before they head back to upper elevations and cooler forested areas for the summer months. During the spring, grizzlies will scavenge for winter-killed elk and bison carcasses, road kills, and carcasses more recently killed by wolves and cougars. Some of the best grizzly sightings have been along the Lamar Valley road and across the Yellowstone River throughout the Hayden Valley. While the bison rut can begin as early as mid-July, the real show is in August in. In Hayden Valley thousands of bison gather for the annual mating. Bulls communicate and dominate by a series of sounds
General Rules-of-Thumb for Bird-watching Habitats: • Aspen groves are an excellent habitat for a variety of birds. Aspen generally grow in large stands and provide excellent foraging for insect-gleaning songbirds such as the Warbling Vireo and the Western Tanager. • Woodpeckers take advantage of older aspens whose trunks are often weakened by heart rot. Look for secondary cavity nesters in old woodpecker holes. Recently burned forests support woodpeckers (northern threetoed and black-backed). • Pure stands of lodgepole pine have a low diversity of bird species. Instead, look for a mix (Lodgepole, Douglas fir & Engelmann spruce) to find Clark's Nutcracker, Gray Jay, Red-breasted Nuthatch. Plus, seed-eating specialties such as Pine Grosbeak, Cassin's Finch and Pine Siskin • Streams, rivers, ponds and lakes attract a great variety. • Willows and Cottonwoods trees next to these aquatic areas offer nest sites for songbirds. • Where roads cross meadows, stop to check surrounding trees for a Great Gray Owl, Sandhill Cranes or Mountain Bluebird. • In sagebrush areas, look for Sage Thrasher and Brewer’s Sparrow.
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that range from snorts and grunts to all-out bellows.
Tips for Winter Wildlife Photography:
For most of the year, bison slowly trod and graze throughout the park unless being chased by a predator. However, during August, you can frequently see bison running in groups for short distances. Until you see it, it is hard to believe that America’s largest land mammal is capable of such agility as speeds up to 30-35 mph.
• Dress for success! Layers is a general rule in Montana. Snowmobile suits will keep you warm up to 60 degrees below zero. Protect extremities with boots, gloves and a hat designed for extreme cold.
Fox Den Images
Visiting Yellowstone Park in the fall has been one of the best kept travel secrets for seasoned park travelers. This is the time of year when the sounds of the rivers and thump of the thermals replaces the summer sound of summer’s stream of passing cars. Now, is the time to see the unusual – a favorite bird sitting on a still pond, a young moose meandering along a stream, or a group of playful of otters jumping on and off a log on the banks of the Yellowstone River.
• Protect your equipment. Always carry spare batteries or use a power pack designed for rechargeable NiCad batteries.
Every turn brings a photo waiting to be taken. Snow-capped peaks expose their true heights, while snowdrifts outline crags and crannies harder to spot in other seasons. A coating of frost lines riverbanks, while blocks of ice formerly white foam bob down the rivers. Thermals are more noticeable as the colder fall temperatures create billowing clouds and highlight soft steamy tendrils from hidden corners. This is a time to walk the boardwalks, sometimes with just a grazing elk cow and calf for company. One of Yellowstone’s most famous events is the annual elk rut or mating season. As the older cows enter estrus (early September), they begin to herd together along with calves and one year old bulls. Older bulls begin to hang around the edges of the cow herd and are constantly acting out to drive off other bulls and retain dominance. Watch for the large bulls in the Canyon, Gibbon Meadow, and Mammoth Hot Springs areas.
• Modify exposure settings. Camera meters are designed to reproduce whatever they read as a mid tone. Remember, snow reflects about 90% of the available light no matter if it's sunny or cloudy. You need to compensate for this brilliance. Properly exposing scenes on an overcast day where snow is the dominant subject is the easiest situation. The trick is to meter only the snow. Find a patch of white snow that will fill the entire viewfinder. Just meter only the snow and then compensate for the reflectance of the snow by adding two stops of light. If the primary focus is an animal and not a snowy scene, increase to 2 1/3 stops. This will ensure that you can capture the detail in the darker animal. Sunny wintry days also require adjustment. If the sun is direct with a slight glare backlighting), meter the sunlit snow but add a full +2 stops of light. When the sun is coming from behind or from the side, meter only the sunlit snow and add 1 2/3 stops of light. When photographing dark animals on a sunny day, add 2 stops of light.
Bulls also attract females and signal dominance with “bugling” …long sustained bugles that end with that low, guttural thumping. During the fall, Yellowstone valleys will echo with the eerie sound of bulls challenging each other by bugling.
• Change your view. Don't just look over the landscape - but look down an up once in awhile. Bright sun or bright overcast are the best lighting conditions for birds and mammals. If the sun is shining, photograph them against the blue sky. If conditions are bright overcast, avoid the gray sky by composing so your visitors are against the out-of-focus trees in the background. But, our favorite conditions are bright overcast on a very snowy day. Bright sunny days often produce “sun dawgs” where the sun streams through snowy tree’s produces its own special halo effect. Make sure to shoot from the shaded side underneath the tree and shoot directly at the sun.
After the rut, the bulls once again wander off and form their own bachelor groups. Focus turns from mating to grazing as the bulls work on regaining up to one hundred pounds that they have lost during the rut. Winter is just around the corner.
• Use a tripod. The sharpest nature photographs come from using a sturdy tripod. This allows you to use a wider range of shutter speeds and apertures.
The big Madison River bull elk really work their 'harems' along the Madison River meadows. The big bulls push out other spike bulls and constantly herd their cows, even during the afternoons. They will demonstrate their dominance by tearing up the ground and small bushes, even staging mock battles.
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ON THE WATER Among the most perfect ways to start a West Yellowstone vacation day may be kayaking or canoeing out in the early morning light with the mist still rising from the waters of Hebgen or Quake Lake. An afternoon of exploring brings an awesome awareness of the dynamic forces that formed the Madison River Canyon. On a hot day, can anything bring more family fun and challenge than a kayak flotilla water fight? And yet there’s more. What about kayaking the lakes within Yellowstone? Full and multiple-day adventures are available, including those tailored for families with children. Whether inclination runs to solitude or multitude, a kayak adventure underscores magical memories of a Yellowstone vacation. Cool off on a warm summer day with a float tube trip. Floating the warm water of the Madison River under the blue skies of Montana is a fantastic way to relax and relieve stress. This is a great way to unwind and spend time with family and friends. Paddle boarding is also becoming a favorite activity on the waters surrounding West Yellowstone. The quiet bays of Hebgen Lake, north of town, provide the perfect place to practice your technique. And the views of the surrounding mountains can’t be beat.
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For the more adventuresome, try a raft trip on the rivers just outside of West Yellowstone. Local companies are ready to take you on a scenic float through the canyon, or a fast-paced trip through the whitewater. It will be a journey your family won’t soon forget! Hebgen Lake is Montana’s premiere still water fishing lake with rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout averaging 15-20". Ice moves off in April, and by July the water warms for swimming. July-September is the best time for water sports. Hebgen accommodates both large and small boats, personal watercraft, kayaks, canoes, paddleboats and sailboats. Watch the shores for wildlife sightings including otters, beavers, foxes, wolves, deer, moose, elk, bear, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Ospreys, bald and golden eagles, hawks, herons, pelicans, swans and many varieties of waterfowl make this a great birding location. At six miles long, 180+ feet deep, with submerged trees, Quake Lake offers great fishing for brown and goodsized rainbow trout. A boat ramp offer access for small motorboats, canoes or kayaks. Kayak rentals, tours and lessons are available. Marinas sell gas and supplies; motorboat, canoe, and kayak rentals. For a list of what to wear, frequently asked questions and local companies, visit DestinationYellowstone.com
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FISHING West Yellowstone earned the title of America’s “Top Ten Fishing Towns” (Forbes Magazine) for unparalleled year-round fishing. Top blue-ribbon trout streams surround West Yellowstone: the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone and the Henrys Fork of the Snake. The upper Madison, the Firehole, and the Gibbon Rivers are just minutes away in Yellowstone. Unbeatable float and deepwater fishing abound on Hebgen Lake and Earthquake Lake, Henrys Lake and Island Park Reservoir. In winter, Hebgen Lake features ice fishing including NAIFC (North American Ice Fishing Circuit) and regional ice fishing tournaments and events. Some of the best float and deep-water trout fishing is available on Hebgen Lake and Earthquake Lake as well as Henrys Lake and Island Park Reservoir, all a short drive from West Yellowstone. Hebgen Lake, located just nine miles northwest of town, is approximately fifteen miles long and four miles wide. Hebgen Lake is known as one of Montana’s premier stillwater and dry fly fishing fisheries. Several marinas offer docks, as well as convenient boating (including
rentals) and fishing supplies. Fishing Hebgen Lake turns into an addiction in August as big rising browns and rainbows (“Gulpers”) in the 2-4lb range consistently hit the surface of the lake chasing the Callibaetis hatch. Many of the fishing stores in West Yellowstone offer a package for beginners, complete with equipment and instruction including ‘walk trips’ combined with instruction and rental equipment. Beginning and novice fly fishers can quickly learn the fundamentals of fly casting, knot tying, fly selection, line control, reading water and safe wading. Take a day and enjoy the waters of Montana with an experienced guide and make it a trip to remember. Be careful as you may become hooked for life. Float trips are a fun and exciting way to experience the water near West Yellowstone. Float trips allow fisherman to fish more miles of water in a day, than you would be able to do on foot. The spectacular views of the surrounding area and wildlife, are truly a memorable experience for novice or advanced anglers alike. Most local shops offer a wide variety destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 31
of fishing experiences including full day trips to half day trips and even some evening guided trips. Most waters in Yellowstone Park are open for fishing through the first Sunday in November, between the hours of 5am and 10pm. A valid Yellowstone National Park fishing license is required for all anglers over 12 years of age. Licenses are available at local fly shops or Yellowstone Park Visitor Centers or ranger stations. Make sure to obtain a regulations book as it contains specific information about restrictions, as well as maps and locations. Regulations are often complex concerning fishing seasons, temporary and/or permanent area closures, tackle restrictions, and species specific number and size limits. On the Firehole River, where geysers and hot springs spew boiling water into the river, the trout become lethargic during the heat of summer. In early to mid-September, cooler conditions prevail. Much of the insect activity is focused during the middle of the day. Small mayflies and some caddis can hatch on the Firehole, Madison, and smaller streams. Caddis hatches provide good dry fly fishing in the evenings, but the biggest event is the Baetis hatches. Small Baetis nymphs make up a great deal of the trout’s diet and larger stonefly nymphs once again become attractive. The trout come into Yellowstone as the summer crowds are departing. The first to begin their annual spawning runs is the brown trout. Starting about September 10th, the brown trout in Hebgen Lake migrate up the Madison River and the Firehole Rivers, spawn, and then return to the lake.
The Firehole, Gibbon and the South Fork of the Madison also have fall runs of brown trout. Brown trout also congregate in the Lewis River, between Lewis and Shoshone lakes. Lake-run browns and rainbows enter the river in increasing numbers as the month goes on and their numbers peak in October. These fish average 16-18 inches and 2-3 pounds in weight. Great fishing for these fish will continue right up to the close of the Yellowstone National Park season on the first Sunday in November, and on the Yellowstone outside the Park boundary for perhaps another two weeks. In late September and early October, there is also a run of rainbow trout (two to three pounds and larger). Rainbow trout follow similar routes to the browns, but many stay in the rivers through the winter, spawn in the spring, and then return home. The Madison, both inside and outside Yellowstone Park, is at its prime, along with the Gibbon and Firehole inside the park. You can often find some solitary fishing and match the hatch fishing. Depending on weather conditions you may see Pale Morning Duns, Blue-Winged Olives, or two species of caddis. In winter, Hebgen Lake features ice fishing including a North American Ice Fishing Circuit (NAIFC) qualifier and regional ice fishing tournaments and events. The annual NAIFC tournament is held the first weekend in February is winter's equivalent of summer's big time bass and walleye tournaments, is filled with seminars, a kid's free ice fishing clinic (with free rod & reel for every child), and the fishing competition itself.
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Crossroads of Culture By: Nicole Hom
Deep in the pines, not far from the iconic fishing eddies of the Madison River, lays the western boarder of Yellowstone National Park and the gateway town of West Yellowstone. Beginning as a trail and growing into the most visited entrance of the park, West Yellowstone was born out of necessity and has been transformed into a destination for worldwide travelers. The area of West Yellowstone has always served, as it does today, as a crossroads of cultures. For Native Americans, fur trappers and miners the Madison River functioned as the first natural highway to the Yellowstone area. Crisscrossed with trails West Yellowstone grew at the junction of Native American paths, known today as the Bannock Indian Trail. These early access trails not only formed the base of West Yellowstone, but also portions of Yellowstone National Park’s highway system. With the arrival of European settlers and the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872, former trails were turned into roads to accommodate horses, wagons and stagecoaches. The formation of the Monida/Yellowstone Stage Line in 1897 created a natural link between a curious American public and the park’s natural wonders. The oneday stagecoach ride originated 72 miles away from the park at the end of the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) on the Montana and Idaho border. At this last train stop visitors began the road trip that would be the first trickle of tourism to the Yellowstone area. On their passage to Yellowstone, those original road tourists spent the night at Dwelles’ Greyling Inn located on the south fork of the Madison River, just shy of the present day 36 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
location of West Yellowstone. Hosting up to 125 guests per night, Dwelles’ was the first establishment for tourism in area. While the Greyling Inn no longer exists, the stage road used by travelers following their evening layover aligns with West Yellowstone’s present-day Yellowstone Avenue. When E.H. Harriman, president of the UPRR, visited Yellowstone in 1905, he immediately saw the potential of the Yellowstone tourism industry. Harriman insisted that train tracks be laid from the Idaho rail stop directly to the park boundary, and rail visitors began arriving in June of 1908. Along with tourism, the establishment of a new rail stop brought with it a town. Initially known as Boundary, West Yellowstone originally consisted of a single wooden depot, with a permanent stone depot built a year later. Boundary was open for business. The railroad kept the small stop, also known over time as Riverside and Yellowstone, bustling with activity from mid-June to mid-September. The rest of the year heavy snows encased the village, making passage into the park impossible. Yet spring brought the now steady stream of tourists to town. Hotels, cabins, services stations, restaurants and gift shops popped up almost overnight. The Eagle’s Store led the charge, first opening in 1908 and remains a pervasive home of tourist-based commerce today with the original soda fountain still serving up delicious treats to weary wanderers. By 1913 roughly 50 buildings dotted the streets—many of which can still be explored today at the Yellowstone Nature Collection. But there were a few more surprises around the bend for the burgeoning back roads of the small rail stop town.
The world’s spotlight fell on Yellowstone National Park in 1915 during the Panama Pacific Exposition. Held in San Francisco, this world exposition featured an exhibit heralding Yellowstone as an “easily accessible” natural wonder for American travelers. Along with the exposition, automobiles were allowed to tour Yellowstone parks’ roadways in 1916. Until then, arriving visitors traversed the park by stagecoach, but the advent of the automobile ushered in more people and the necessity for more services. Booming and boasting a school, a large railroad dining lodge and a police department—buildings that still remain today—the former town of Yellowstone was christened West Yellowstone in 1920. Railroad tourism reached its peak during this time with 300 – 400 visitors arriving daily. A new series of crossroads came to the community in the mid1930s with the completion of the airfield, as well as paved highways north and south of town that were plowed during the winter. With all modes of transportation in place, West Yellowstone moved from a summer only visiting post to a year-round accessible town. But in its development West Yellowstone has not escaped its share of setbacks or tragedy. Being closely situated to the geological and natural marvel that is Yellowstone National Park can come with a price. Around midnight on August 17th, 1959 an earthquake—a mere 25 miles northwest of town—triggered a deadly landslide. In just under a minute the landside moved more than 80 million tons of rock. The rubble filled a narrow canyon blocking the Madison River and instantly formed Earthquake Lake. Measuring 7.5 on the Richter scale the Hebgen Lake Earthquake was then the second largest earthquake to occur in the lower 48 states. In 1967, the U.S. Forest Service opened the Earthquake Lake Visitor Center to provide interpretive exhibits on the area and commemorate the lives of the 28 people who perished in the quake. Today, visitors to the area can drive along
the earthquake’s path on Highway 287 which includes informational signs, trails to demolished buildings, as well as the Visitor Center which is open from Memorial to Labor Day and is free to the public. Beyond its role as a national park gateway, West Yellowstone has also become home to several unique establishments and cultural events. The Rendezvous Ski Trails are a Nordic skiing mecca that hosts a variety of ski races in the winter and provides unparalleled hiking access in the summer. The great works of classic and contemporary theater are performed throughout the summer months on the Playmill Theater stage. Locals and visitors alike also gather to unwind and relax during the free Music in the Park summer concert series, featuring regionally and nationally known music acts, held outdoors at Pioneer Park. And at its heart, stands the original 1909 stone depot, the oldest building in town. A testament to the aesthetics of the time, the depot houses the Yellowstone Historic Center and Museum, which provides distinctive exhibitions on the West Yellowstone area, including a new exhibit opening in 2015 on the Panama Pacific Expo that first introduced West Yellowstone to the world. The Yellowstone Historic Center also provides year round visitors with brochures and public signage for a comprehensive historic walking tour of town, with guided tours being offered during the summer months. While the history of West Yellowstone began on trails through the pines and developed with the influx of tourism, it is today’s tight-knit community that keeps the area thriving outside of the ebb and flow of tourism. Formed by the access to natural wonders, West Yellowstone has developed from stagecoach stop to a cultural hub. It is a place where the organic beauty of the Yellowstone area merges with its peoples’ passions and the unbreakable spirit of the West. destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 37
38 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
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5-Star rated in the treatment of heart attack, heart failure, COPD, pneumonia, bowel obstruction, GI bleed, sepsis and total knee replacement in 2015. bozemandeaconess.org/awards :: 406.414.5000 :: 915 Highland Blvd :: Bozeman, Montana destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 39
calendar of events For more information on the events listed, or to find more events, visit DestinationYellowstone.com/calendar All events are subject to change.
APRIL Cycle Days In Yellowstone
JUNE
JANUARY
SEPTEMBER Yellowstone Rendezvous Foot Race
Free Ski Day SPAM Cup #2
Old Faithful Fall Cycle Tour
Biathlon #2
Annual West Yellowstone Foundation Golf Tournament
Annual Knothead Jamboree: Square Dancing
Yellowstone Half Marathon
West Yellowstone Foundation "Happening"
Wild West Yelowstone Rodeo Mountain Bike Biathlon
JULY July 4th Celebration Yellowstone Historic Center's Heritage Celebration Wild West Yelowstone Rodeo Free Fly Casting Clinics Music in the Park
AUGUST
A Night at the Museum
OCTOBER October Fest Annual Stew & Brew
NOVEMBER WYSEF Ski Swap Yellowstone Ski Festival Thanksgiving Biathlon
DECEMBER
Annual Smoking Waters Mountain Man Rendezvous
Annual Christmas Stroll
Annual Yellowstone Rod Run
West Yellowstone Sled Dog Races "Rodeo Run"
Wild West Yelowstone Rodeo Free Fly Casting Clinics Crazy Dayz Music in the Park Trout Cook-Off
West Yellowstone Sled Dog Races "Fun Run" NAIFC Ice Fishing Tournament, Fishing Fair & Kids' Ice Fishing Camp Kids'N'Snow Weekend
FEBRUARY Internationa Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race SPAM Cup #3 Taste of the Trails Biathlon #3 Kids'N'Snow Weekend
MARCH Annual Yellowstone Rendezvous Ski Race
Kids'N'Snow Weekend
West Yellowstone Youth Ski Festival
SPAM Cup #1
Kids'N'Snow Weekend
Biathlon Cup #1
World Snowmobile EXPO & Wild Bill Outdoor Concerts
Christmas Bird Count Christmas for the Critters at GWDC
Yellowstone Special Stage Sled Dog Race
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 40
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301 N MAIN ST LIVINGSTON MT, 590472016 406-222-1211 HARDEST WORKING, MOST DURABLE 3-PERSON UTV. • The world’s first and only true 3-person off-road capable SxS • Built Real World Tough TM with Yamaha’s legendary reliability • Our most powerful 4x4 liquid-cooled, fuel injected engine ever • Large-capacity air intake system improves overall engine performance • Ultramatic® transmission with dual-range (Hi/Lo) drive, reverse and all-wheel downhill engine braking is world’s most advanced • Industry-exclusive On-Command® 4WD system lets you dial between 2WD, limited-slip 4WD and fully locked diff 4WD • Real steel rear cargo bed with 600 lb. capacity • Yamaha’s proven electric power steering technology further reduces driver fatigue
ALPINE YAMAHA
301 N MAIN ST LIVINGSTON MT, 590472016 406-222-1211 *Shown with optional accessories. Always protect the environment and wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Read the owner’s manual and the product warning labels before operation. ©2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaViking.com
*Shown with optional accessories. Always protect the environment and wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Read the owner’s manual and the product warning labels before operation. ©2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaViking.com
301 N Main St • Livingston, MT 59047 ___________ passion 406-222-1211 chase ________ adrenaline ______________ _______________ exhilaration tales ________ tough ________
THE NEW 2014 GRIZZLY 700 FI EPS.
In the real world, conquering the most remote terrain means bagging the biggest prize. That’s why you need the new Yamaha Grizzly 700 FI Auto. 4X4 EPS. It not only provides a rock-solid, smooth, comfortable ride. It’s fully loaded: three-position On-Command® 4WD, exclusive Ultramatic® transmission with all-wheel engine breaking, improved ___________ EPS for even lighter steering and more – making it #1 in off-road capability. Yamaha Grizzly ATVs. Real World Tough. To get you there and back, hunt after hunt, year after year.
passion
chase ________ adrenaline ______________ ALPINE YAMAHA _______________ exhilaration 301 N MAIN ST tales ________ LIVINGSTON MT, 590472016 406-222-1211 tough ________
THE NEW 2014 GRIZZLY 700 FI EPS.
In the real world, conquering the most remote terrain means bagging the biggest prize. That’s why you need the new Yamaha Grizzly 700 FI Auto. 4X4 EPS. It not only provides a rock-solid, smooth, comfortable ride. It’s fully loaded: three-position On-Command® 4WD, exclusive Ultramatic® transmission with all-wheel engine breaking, improved EPS for even lighter steering and more – making it #1 in off-road capability. Yamaha Grizzly ATVs. Real World Tough. To get you there and back, hunt after hunt, year after year.
ALPINE YAMAHA
Cowboy Cuisine Horseback Riding Riverside BBQ Wagon Rides Pig Roasts Nightly Bonfire Learn to Fly Fish Winter Sleigh Rides
™
301 N MAIN ST Shown with optional accessories. ATVs shown are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety andLIVINGSTON training information, see your dealer or call the MT, ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never 590472016 ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and406-222-1211 be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Specifications subject to change without notice. ©2013 Yamaha Motor Corporation. U.S.A. All rights reserved. • yamaha-motor.com
Memories are made at the 320 Guest Ranch
www.320ranch.com 406-995-4283 destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 41
MUSCLE POWERED ADVENTURE
NORDIC SKI By: Jan Stoddard
What could be better than escaping the confines of office or home to spend a day colored by wintery landscapes and brilliant blue skies? The western corridor of Yellowstone Park and adjoining national forests offer some of the best cross country skiing in Yellowstone Country. The Rendezvous Ski Trails in West Yellowstone, the Riverside Trail leaving from West Yellowstone, and 40 miles of ski trails in the Old Faithful area offer great trails and scenery for skiers of all abilities. The Boundary Trail, which follows the western edge of Yellowstone, is a new addition for this winter and one of the few that is ‘dog-friendly.’ Located at the southwest corner of West Yellowstone (Geyser and Obsidian Streets), the Rendezvous Ski trail system covers more than 35 kilometers of varied terrain from gently rolling hills to more challenging climbs, descents, and turns. The view is always scenic whether winding through tall stands of lodgepole pine or open meadows embraced by nearby Lionhead Mountain. During the winter season, trails are groomed on an as needed basis, generally before and after weekends, plus after snowstorms. The initial flat terrain and gently rolling hill are great for beginners. Subsequent loops and optional cut-offs mean the course is never boring or predictable. You create your own route by linking together different loops from 0.9 to 7.3 kilometer each. A children’s play hill and
42 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
local tele-hill are also incorporated into the system. Trail passes are required when using the Rendezvous Ski Trails between November 1 and March 31. From December 1 through March 31, season passes per person are $25 (just $50 for a family), while a one-Day pass is $5. Passes can be purchased at the trailhead, the USFS, the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce and from several local merchants. Yellowstone Park’s The Riverside Trail is accessible right from West Yellowstone from a spur road located along the fence break on Boundary Street (the east end of Madison Avenue at the park boundary). From there the trail follows a power line to the old service road and merges with it shortly before Riverside. A park or trail pass is not required to ski this trail. The “Upriver” and “Downriver” loops combine for nearly ten kilometers of groomed track up and down the banks of the Madison River along with great views of Mt. Holmes and the Gallatin Mountain Range. Wildlife is abundant along the river and you could encounter bison, elk, deer, moose, coyotes and foxes. Watch for bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and an occasional river otter in the river. After one mile, you will experience the remnants of the 1988 Yellowstone fires and a realization of just how close the fires came to West Yellowstone. There are also
stopping places along the way, great for a picnic break on a beautifully blue winter’s day. Riverside Trail is perfect for new skiers or families with young children as it crosses easy terrain and has no substantial change in elevation. You can also take a snowcoach shuttle in and ski back out. Xanterra (www.travelyellowstone.com) and Yellowstone Alpen Guides offer shuttle service. (www.yellowstoneguides. com). There are 40 miles of cross-country trails in the Old Faithful area many of which are interconnected. You can access up-to-date information on ski trails throughout Yellowstone at http:// www.travelyellowstone.com/daily-trailstatus-1688.html. Snowcoach drop-offs are available from the Snow Lodge to either the Divide or Fairy Falls trailheads. Cost is $13, one way with daily departures on the hour between 8 and 11a.m. (No pickups, you must return by ski or snowshoe.) There are also daily snowcoach tours leaving from West Yellowstone that offer cross-country skier drop-offs and pick-ups as part of the tour. These tours offer the best of both worlds combining an interpretive tour with skiing in the heart of Yellowstone, all in one day! For more information, go to www. destinationyellowstone.com. For a bit more solitude, skiers head to the trails along U.S. Highway 191. Big Horn Pass Trail (Mile post 20) cuts east across sagebrush meadows into the woods, paralleling the Gallatin River. This is a great area for wildlife including moose
and elk. Fawn Creek Pass and Trail (Mile post 22) begins in Montana, enters Wyoming and traverses the Gallatin River several times along its 22-mile course. Watch for narrow snow or log bridges for crossing and for the occasional moose in the rushes. Starting in gradual terrain along Fan Creek, the trail moves into deeper snows with beautiful snowcapped mountain views. After eight miles, it connects to the trail to Big Horn Pass. An easier and more protected trail, Specimen Creek Trail (Mile post 27) winds for four to six miles along Specimen Creek and into lodgepole pine forested areas. Elk and moose are seen along the creek and watch the slopes of Meldrum Mountain for bighorn sheep. You can also glimpse petrified trees on the tops of some of the surrounding ridges. Tipi Creek, Fan Creek, Upper Gallatin and Bacon Rind Creek are perfect trails for new skiers. Check out mountain streams winding through open meadows surrounded by incredible mountain views. The terrain is gentle and rolling. Daly Creek to Black Butte Trailhead is a 6.5 mile trail that starts just one mile inside the northwestern corner of the Park. It slowly climbs 1600 feet and follows Daly Creek through open areas and along hillsides. This trail is as a great spot for elk, elk carcasses and consequently, wolves. After two miles, the trail travels over a ridge to the Black Butte Trail cutoff, followed later by the cutoff for Teepee Creek which travels into the Gallatin National Forest. Check ahead for snow conditions as this area receives less snow than other trails in this area. The Nordic ski season around West Yellowstone can last into the late spring, depending on snow conditions. Many locals like to go North of town to ski on Hebgen Lake, nestled among the mountains, providing some of the most breath-taking views in the valley. Other trails in the area include Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky with over 80km of groomed trails, Grand Targhee with more than 15 km of trails and Bohart Ranch in Bozeman offering 30km of trails.
AREA DOWNHILL SKI RESORTS West Yellowstone is located near some of the best downhill skiing in the world. BIG SKY RESORT is home to the Biggest Skiing in America® with over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, over 300 lifts and a 4,150 vertical drop. Big Sky is a 45 minute drive north of West Yellowstone. Bridger Bowl is located on the east slope of the Bridger Range, just outside of Bozeman, and extends approximately 2 miles between its north and south boundaries from the ridgeline down to the base area at 6,100’. The ski area has 2,700 vertical rise with over 2,000 skiable acres, accessed by 8 lifts. GRAND TARGHEE is situated on the western slope of the Tetons in Alta, Wyoming, accessible only through Teton Valley, Idaho. Located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, the resort has 2,602 acres of skiable terrain with a 2,270 vertical drop, accessed by 5 lifts.
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 43
Y
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YELLOWSTONE ADVENTURES SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS 131 Dunraven St. West Yellowstone, MT 59758
www.Yellowstone Adventures.com
406-646-7735 800-231-5991 36 electric st. west yellowstone, MT
877.641.6043
www.allyellowstone.com
Tour Yellowstone is a Licensed Concessionaire for Yellowstone National Park
®TM Trademark of Bombaardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.
WEST YELLOWSTONE, MONTANA
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36 Electric St West Yellowstone, MT • 877.641.6043 • allyellowstone.com
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Trail. Tour. Backcountry. Make one call for it all. E
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44 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
SE
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36 Electric St. West Yellowstone, MT Concessionaire • 877.641.6043 allyellowstone.com Travelers Snowmobile Rentals is a Licensed for Yellowstone•National Park D GU I
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Island Park, Idaho
We do winter
• Idaho’s largest snowmobile trail grooming program • Miles of back country mountain riding • Festivals, rallies, parties November - March
Learn more at
www.islandparkchamber.org
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 45
Mike Polkowske
LIVE THE ADVENTURE
Snowmobile Heaven By: Jan Stoddard
For the past twelve years, SnoWest Magazine has awarded West Yellowstone with a top position in the Top 15 Trails in the West. Snowmobiler.com lists West Yellowstone as one of the top 10 Snowmobile Destinations, and The Chicago Tribune has also rated West Yellowstone as the #1 Snowmobile Heaven location in the U.S. And, for good reason! Situated high in the mountains, at an elevation of 6,667 feet, West Yellowstone has earned the reputation as one of the best of the best snowmobiling locations in North America. Although just a few hours north of eastern Idaho, the snowmobile season starts early and ends late, averaging 143” of dry, powdery snow each year. So, whether you prefer steady, mellow cruising with few elevation changes, or you’re craving the powdery steeps, West Yellowstone is a snowmobiler’s heaven. West Yellowstone is at the center of a 400-mile snowmobile trail system that spans three National Forests and three states. In fact, Two Top Trail was the first National Recreational Snowmobile Trail in the country! Nightly trail grooming, sponsored by the local Chamber and businesses, has been in place for more than 30 years. Beginning December 1st, each night as riders return to town, the groomers head out to smooth the trails for the next day's riders.
46 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Have you always wanted to try snowmobiling? West Yellowstone is the perfect place to start. There are many snowmobile rental services that will equip you with everything you need. These businesses will match you with the right snowmobile and show you how to operate it. You can also rent complete clothing from head to toe (helmet, snowmobile suit, gloves, and boots) designed to keep you warm and dry. You can snowmobile right from your lodging or snowmobile rental on most West Yellowstone roads to groomed snowmobile trails. The trails are also clearly marked with information and directional signs that also match an easy-toread trail map. Expert guides can also be booked for a day to assist with riding and the trail system. Many riders bring their own personal snowmobiles and equipment. (There is ample parking at most lodging properties.) On any given day, you might meet fellow riders from as far away as California or New York, or as close as your neighborhood back home. It’s fun to sit back after an exciting ride up Two Top Mountain and chat with fellow riders. There are a variety of trails to choose ranging from easier rides to more challenging ones.
The South Plateau Trail runs along the boundary of Yellowstone. You can ride this trail out and back, or link it up with one of the other trails to make a great loop ride. It provides great views of the area's mountains, following creeks and rivers away from the crowds. The most famous trail is Two Top Trail, a popular choice for its variety of terrain and 2,000-foot elevation gain. The trail is groomed, and powder fields abound. This trail has everything and makes it one of the most visited trails in the system. On clear days, the surrounding mountain ranges come into view, including the Teton's, Centennial Mountains, Lionhead, and Yellowstone National Park. Constant driven winds create ghostly ice patterns plastered on the trees at the top of this mountain creating the famous "snow ghosts."
More experienced riders can access extra off-trail riding from the Two Top or Lionhead Trail. Lionhead follows the Continental Divide, the trail climbs through switchbacks to over 10,000 feet There are numerous bowls with drop offs and overhanging cliffs. The Big Sky Trail provides some of the best backcountry snowmobiling in Montana. This challenging 110-mile trail begins just north of West Yellowstone. While the first portion is groomed, the trail quickly turns into an un-groomed powder experience. This area has open bowls, deep fields of snow, and outstanding hill climbing opportunities. West Yellowstone tour companies also offer daily trips over the snow into Yellowstone via snowmobile or snowcoach. Snowmobile tours also include all the equipment and clothing you will need for a day in the park. Over the snow tours of Yellowstone begin on December 15th and run through March 15th each winter.
John Layshock
The Madison Arm Loop is located north and west of West Yellowstone and is 20 miles in length. This could easily be considered the most relaxing ride of the trails in the Yellowstone area. The trail is well maintained and usually provides great wildlife viewing opportunities. Another good trail for beginners, the 20mile Horse Butte Loop, travels the shores of Hebgen Lake and some of the best ice fishing in Montana.
BACKCOUNTRY RIDING Local businesses provide snowmobile and clothing rentals on a daily or multi-day basis. Snowmobile rentals range from two-up easy riding and trail models to highpowered sleds adapted for mountain and back country riding. Additional equipment, including avalanche beacons and shovels for back country riding can also be rented. Back country riders should always check the most current avalanche forecast provided by the Gallatin Forest National Avalanche Center (GFNAC) at www.mtavalanche.com. You can also test avalanche gear before heading out at the Transceiver park, located at the old airport at the west edge of West Yellowstone (off Iris Street). Look for the orange fenced-off area along the trees south of the groomed trail. You can search for preplaced beacons switched on/ off by a control panel. Trail maps are available at the West Yellowstone Visitor Center (30 Yellowstone Avenue) and local businesses. The maps are easy to read and correspond to signage on the actual trails including junction markets.
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 47
www.yellowstonehorses.com
EAGLE RIDGE RANCH
O H R E S ES D IR FAMILY STYLE RIDES IN THE MOUNTAINS OF IDAHO JUST 23 MILES FROM WEST YELLOWSTONE
FREE BOATING AND FISHING INCLUDED WITH THE RIDE
(800) 709-1358 YELLOWSTONE HORSES OUTFITTERS
48 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
DOG SLEDDING There’s something about experiencing West Yellowstone’s winter landscapes from the perspective of a dog sled that snowmobiling or skiing cannot match. Spending time riding along with our local sled dogs is something you won’t soon forget. They have a commanding presence with their shrill voices and thick winter coats that allow them to endure winter’s wrath. Enjoying this fascinating experience of man and dog working together in nature does necessitate a small tolerance for chilly temperatures, but winter fanatics are not the only ones that can take pleasure in dog sledding. The energy level and endurance of sled dogs is unmatched, and it seems the command ‘Go’ is completely unnecessary as they are constantly in ‘Go’ mode! Sled dogs howl and jump at the mere sight of the musher, and you better hold on to your dog sled or else these instinctive pullers will speed off without you! Experience the thrill of a sled dog ride by contacting Klondike Dreams Sled Dog Tours in West Yellowstone today.
SNOWSHOEING Snow shoeing is rapidly gaining popularity as a low-cost, low-impact winter sport. One can access trails into the Park like the Riverside Trail or take off from town into the Forest Service and hike for hours among the snow-covered trees. Families can enjoy a snowshoe hike on the Boundary Trail, accessed on the North end of town off of Boundary Street. This is also a dog-friendly trail. Be aware that this trail is also used by skiers. Please follow trail etiquette. Gallatin National Forest offers free snowshoe tours (along with some interesting history) during the winter months. These snowshoe tours will cover 2.5 miles and last approximately 2.5 hours. Tours are for beginners to intermediate showshoers and can be strenuous depending on snow conditions and weather. For more information call (406) 823-6965.
KIDS'N'SNOW The Kids'N'Snow offers an opportunity for all kids, both from our community and winter visitors, the chance to try new things in a safe and fun handson learning environment. And, hopefully, to develop lifelong healthy habits along the way. With help from our community, local businesses, educational partners and volunteers, kids get to participate in activities like sled dog rides, ice fishing, M120 kids snowmobile rides, snowshoeing, skiing, skating, sledding and s'mores, movies and more, all for FREE. Visit kidsnsnow.org for more information.
Several businesses in town rent snowshoes if you don't have your own.
ICE FISHING For those winter fans who like a challenge, and another activity to share with the family, ice fishing is it. Bundle up the kids and dogs and head out to Hebgen lake for some fun. It may not be fast-paced like snowmobiling, but the thrill of pulling a four pound trout though a ten inch hole in the ice provides plenty of excitement. Many times, while out on the ice you will get to see bald eagles flying overhead looking for a chance to snatch up your catch. There are elk and deer tracks where small herds cross. Sometimes on the drive out, you can spot bison that have migrated out of the park. Hegben Lake hosts the Annual NAIFC Ice Fishing Tournament in January, when nearly 100 teams from across the country come to put their skills to the test. While many of the teams are local or regional sportsmen and women, some teams are professionals, even part of the USA team that travels internationally.
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 49
PREMIER INDOOR GUN RANGE
At Yellowstone Big Gun Fun we shoot REAL MACHINE GUNS, HAND GUNS, RIFLES, and more. Come join us for the “Experience of a Lifetime”
YELLOWSTONE ADVENTURES The Canam Outlander Max 500 is available for you to rent in the West Yellowstone area. Ride the back roads and trails of the Gallatin National Forest. View the Tetons in Wyoming from Two Top Mountain. Come and explore our backyard.
131 Dunraven St. West Yellowstone, MT 59758
www.Yellowstone Adventures.com
406-646-7735
800-231-5991
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9AM - 10PM Located at
15 Madison Avenue West Yellowstone, Montana
BIGGUNFUN.COM (406) 646-7113 We look forward to seeing you!
50 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
HORSEBACK RIDING
With rides available year round and from one hour to overnight pack trips, there are options for beginners who have never ridden before up to experienced riders. Explore a scenic mountain trail in the national forests, or ride into Yellowstone Park for the day or an overnight adventure. Families can also choose a short ride on a local ranch or corral rides for kids.
Mike Polkowske
There is no better way to see the beautiful country around West Yellowstone, than by horseback. Summon your inner cowboy or cowgirl for a true western experience, on the back of your trusty steed.
RODEO
ANNUAL YELLOWSTONE ROD RUN & CAR SHOW
Born in the past to ease the cowboys' boredom, today's rodeos are pure excitement!
Street rod heaven!
Local ranches and outfitters offer guided horseback rides for any budget from May until early October (weather dependent).
Hold on to your hat as some of the area's top cowboys and cowgirls take on some of the area's toughest stock. Bareback Riding, Team Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Breakaway Roping, Barrel Racing, Bull Riding and a special 'calf scramble' for kids are just some of the scheduled events. Performances begin at 8:00pm ThursdaySaturday, and will be held at the rodeo arena just six miles west of West Yellowstone.
WESTERN COOKOUTS Experience the true “flavor� of the old west. Sizzlin' steaks, juicy chicken, all the sides of a western meal in the peaceful beauty of a Montana night!
Thousands of car fans decend on West Yellowstone for this exciting weekend every August. Some come to see the cars, some come to show their cars. The event includes a cruise through Yellowstone Park, a parade down Yellowstone Avenue, showin' and shinin' in the park with food and music, and much more! Dennis Gage with "My Classic Car" will be in town for the 2015 event! Visit yellowstonerodrun.com for more information.
Arrive on horseback, hay wagon, or horse drawn carriage. Enjoy cowboy poetry, stories of the West and live music while you dine.
Mike Polkowske
Add a chuckwagon dinner to your must-do list while visiting Yellowstone Park.
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2015
SWEET PEA FESTIVAL
Festival week, aug 4-9 bozeman, mt
Chalk on the Walk
Sweet Pea Parade
Bite of Bozeman
Arts & Crafts
Musical Performances
Dance Performances
Don’t Miss Any Festival Events Happening All Week Aug 4-9! for details and to buy tickets visit: sweetpeafestival.org 52 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
"ROUGHING IT" Camping and RVing Visitors to West Yellowstone and Yellowstone Park that want to camp have a wide choice of options from basic backcountry sites to developed national forest campsites to full amenities at private campgrounds. Public campgrounds outside of West Yellowstone are open from May 15 to September 15 with the exception of Beaver Creek Campground, which is open from June 10 to September 10. RV campgrounds can be as small as a few dozen sites to booming resorts with hundreds of sites, catering to RVs of every type and size. Some RVers prefer the simple solitude of campgrounds that provide merely the basics of electricity and fresh water at the site. Others prefer full-service options with electricity, water and sewer hookups for each RV. Electronically dependent travelers appreciate the Wi-Fi service provided at many campgrounds. No matter whether you’re a family looking for an action-packed trip, a couple seeking relaxation and pampering or somewhere in between, there’s an RV site waiting for you.
Go Glamping Glamping, or luxury camping, is a trend that offers outdoor enthusiasts an upgrade on rest and recreation. You get to enjoy the sights and sounds of the great outdoors while relaxing in a comfortable bed. When you’re glamping, there’s no tent to pitch, no sleeping bag to unroll, no fire to build. Whether in a tent, tipi, or airstream, glamping is a way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing luxury.
CAMPING IN BEAR COUNTRY • Camp away from trails and areas where you see grizzly signs. • Keep a clean camp at all times. Keep tents and sleeping bags free of odors. • Avoid cooking smelly foods. • Hang all food, trash and other odorous items well away from camp and at least 10' above ground and 4' from any vertical support, or store in a bear-proof container. • Don't sleep in the same clothes you wore while cooking or eating.
Glamping often involves a rustic setting, but with all the comforts of a hotel or resort including meals and activities. For a list of campgrounds and RV parks in or near West Yellowstone, visit DestinationYellowstone. com, or check out the directory on page 66.
Holly Scholl Photography destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 53
HIKING The Gallatin National Forest and Madison Range around West Yellowstone is a hiker’s dream, offering an abundance of hiking and backpacking options on millions of acres of public land. Miles of trails wind past aspen and pine, tranquil meadows and impressive peaks. A highly popular cross country ski trail system in the winter, the Rendezvous Trail System is open to hikers and bikers in the summer. Another trail, used year-round is the Boundary Trail, which is accessed on the north-east end of town and follows along the Park Line. These trails are also dogfriendly during the summer months. A local hiking favorite is the Coffin Lakes trail ending at a pair of high mountain lakes. Nearby Lee Metcalf Wilderness includes the Monument Mountain Unit which borders Yellowstone and is home to spectacular scenery and wildlife. Yellowstone has over 1,100 miles of hiking trails fitting every type, difficulty and length of trail imaginable. The Riverside Trail leaves right from West Yellowstone and follows a mellow trail along the river right into Yellowstone.
Top Hikes in Yellowstone:
One of the best places for a day hike or backpacking adventure, according to the staff at Outdoorplace.com is Canyon Country – less traveled, good trails, where you can see four key Yellowstone features in four miles including the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, thermal mud pots, vents, and lakes, old growth forest, and open meadow. The hike starts at Uncle Tom’s Trailhead and takes you past the rim of canyon, Artist’s Point, and several lakes. Jeff Brown of the Yellowstone Association, also recommends these hikes for families with children: • Old Faithful/Firehole Valley (4.6 miles round-trip • Artist Paint Pots Trails 54 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Norris area (1 mile round-trip, along boardwalks) Cascade Lake Grand Canyon area, (4.5 miles round-trip - flat hike) Beaver Ponds Mammoth area (4.5 mile loop) Trout Lake (Lamar area, 1 mile round-trip) Yellowstone Lake area (4 miles round-trip) Tower area (4 miles - waterfall, petrified tree) Pelican Creek Nature Trail (0.5 miles, one way) Natural Bridge (1.15 miles, one way) Elephant Back Mountain Trail (3-mile loop) Storm Point Trail (1.6 miles, loop) Mystic Falls (2mi)
For the more adventurous: • • • • • • •
Hellroaring Creek (10 miles) Pebble Creek (12 miles one way) Pelican Valley (16 miles) Union Falls (15 miles) Lava Creek (8.5 miles) Knowles Falls (12 miles) Solfatara Creek (12 miles)
These hikes are only a sampling of what West Yellowstone and the Yellowstone Park area have to offer. For more options and information about these and other hikes, visit destinationyellowstone.com This is bear and wolf country and hikers should be informed and prepared. More information and detailed maps of the area available from the Hebgen Lake District office or the Yellowstone Park desk at the Visitor Center. A free all-seasons area trail map is available from the Visitor Center or online at DestinationYellowstone.com.
Hold your next event at Yellowstone Alliance Adventures! Retreats & Conferences Family Camps & Reunions Board Meetings Training Seminars Holiday Parties Zipline & Paintball Parties
There are few places in the Gallatin Valley that will provide an exceptional retreat experience like
((
Yellowstone Alliance Adventures June & July Kid’s Summer Camps Located just 10 miles south of Bozeman
Visit yaacamp.org or call 406-763-4727 for more information
Experience YELLOWSTONE – filmed in IMAX Over 3,000,000 visitors and counting! Now showing Hollywood movies at night.
406.646.4100 Local 888.854.5862 Toll Free YellowstoneGiantScreen.com
Find your Yellowstone souvenier in the area’s largest gift shop!
Next to the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 55
CYCLING Cycling into Yellowstone Park
Shortly after Yellowstone Park closes to oversnow traffic to the third week in April, some of the roads open for “CycleOnly Days." Only bikes (no public vehicles) are allowed on roads and there is no admission fee when riding from the West Yellowstone entrance to Mammoth. The route between West Yellowstone and Madison Junction, a 28 mile round trip, is the most popular ride. Bison, elk, coyote and eagle sightings are very common along this section of the road. Springtime in the Rockies can mean rapidly changing weather any day, any time. Be prepared and wear or carry warm clothing. There is usually a head wind on the return trip from Madison Junction to the West Entrance. There are no services available and riders must pack in/pack out all supplies. Please ride single file, carry bear spray, and give a wide berth or turn around when encountering wildlife. Even after Yellowstone’s roads open to motorized traffic, the cycling in the Park is good. Most of the roads in Yellowstone have a wide enough shoulder to provide safe riding, although, it is also true that some sections of road have no shoulder. The "West Yellowstone Old Faithful Cycle Tour" is a terrific way to wind down a summer of riding and a unique way to experience Yellowstone National Park. Fall is a gorgeous time to be in Yellowstone, the elk are bugling, the aspens have turned to gold, and the thermal areas are relatively free of crowds. The supported ride is sixty miles round trip, with options available for one way travel. The tour is limited by the National Park Service to the first 350 riders.
Mountain Cycling Around West Yellowstone
The Rendezvous Ski Trails, located at the south end of Geyser Street, provide West Yellowstone’s most popular and easy to access mountain biking. From here you can access a variety of rolling single track that winds through the middle of the ski trails. The Rendezvous Trails are great for visitors that haven’t had time to get used to the thin air at 6,600 feet. There are cutoffs throughout the trails system allowing riders to 56 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
choose short, medium or long distance rides. The Riverside Trail is accessible from the eastern edge of town at the corner of Boundary Street and Madison Avenue. The trail is a little more than a mile each way and is relatively flat. It is a great spot to take younger kids or head to the picnic tables next to the Madison River for lunch. There are a limited number of bike trails in Yellowstone National Park. Most are reclaimed roads and more information can be found on the park's website. For the more ambitious, there are plenty of long and challenging rides waiting for you outside of town. Tepee Creek to Red Canyon, Coffin Lake, Lion’s Head and Mile Creek are all rides that are located on US Forest Service land. West Yellowstone is also very close to stretches of the Continental Divide Trail. Although located in Idaho, you will find the Targhee Creek Trail and the Sawtelle Trail easily accessible from West Yellowstone. The TransAmerica Trail goes right through West Yellowstone and is consistently used throughout the summer months. The start of our mountain biking season depends largely on how heavy our winter snow pack is come springtime. At lower elevations, it is often June before roads and trails dry out enough to make cycling possible. At higher elevations, we sometimes have to wait until July before we can access the trails.
Road Cycling Around West Yellowstone
Outside the Park, a 64-mile loop called “the block” is a popular ride. The TransAmerica Trail goes right through West Yellowstone. For those looking for a shorter ride, Highway 287 is a good bet. It’s probably the most scenic and safest section of “the block”. You can park your car at the intersection of Highway 191 and 287 and head out from there. The shoulder is wide enough and there are several scenic pullouts as you travel along the north shore of Hebgen Lake. The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is nearby and was repaved recently. It is a beautiful road ride from Harriman State Park to Ashton, ID. For maps and more information stop by the Visitor Center at 30 Yellowstone Avenue or visit DestinationYellowstone.com.
Santa Fe Reds
AMAZING MEXICAN CUISINE LET’S TACO ‘BOUT IT!
DAILY SPECIALS g r eat f o o d HAPPY HOUR D E L I C IO U S M A R G A RI TA S S P E C I A L T Y D RI N K S f e s t i v e AT M O S P H ER E . . . A N D A Ro c k i n ’ PAT IO !
Little Bear Interiors REPRESENTING LOCAL AND REGIONAL ARTISANS
Unique home furnishings
ART • FURNITURE • LIGHTING • RUGS 81630 GALLATIN ROAD | BOZEMAN, MONTANA | 406.585.2927 1/4 mile south of the light at Four Corners (on Highway 191) destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 57
FAMILY Adventure for Every Season By: Jan Stoddard
West Yellowstone is open year-round offering a full array of lodging, restaurant, retail, and activities that vary by the season. It’s also home to the accredited Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center with daily naturalist talks and movies, and the chance to see grizzlies, wolves, and raptors in their natural habitat. Open 365 days a year, a trip to the GWDC guarantees a grizzly or wolf sighting. Check www.destinationyellowstone.com for a calendar of current activities, events and attractions, as well as the most current road and weather reports. Stop at the West Yellowstone Visitor Center (at the corner of Canyon and Yellowstone Streets) for area information, park passes and back country permits, and the latest wildlife sightings. West Yellowstone also has a number of professional Yellowstone tour companies that offer a choice of tours given by local, interpretive guides, specialists at knowing the best wildlife and photography spots in the park.
May brings bison calves and bison jams on the roadways. Bison begin calving in mid-April and by May you can start to see hundreds of bright reddish-brown calves among the bison herds. The bison gather in traditional “nursery” areas such as Fountain Flats just north of Old Faithful or in areas along rivers such as Lamar and Hayden Valleys. It the best time for bear sightings as grizzly and black bears make their way down from higher elevations to the meadows and rivers. Where else but Yellowstone can you have a ringside seat to witness the sheer strength of a bear tearing apart a rotten tree stump or carcass? And, then just a few miles later, watch as a sow gently nosing her wayward cubs across a busy road with everyone stopped for the first “bear jam” of the season? Summer’s Endless Adventures When it comes to summertime activities the West Yellowstone area is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The long summer days provide visitors unlimited access to explore and play in the splendor of the high country. You can fish blue ribbon streams, hike in pristine wilderness, experience real western horseback riding, go whitewater rafting or mountain bike on hundreds of miles of single track and forest service roads.
Holly Scholl Photography
In addition to the regal Yellowstone National Park right next door with its famous geysers, wildlife and waterfalls, there’s adventure to be found just to the West Hebgen Lake, with its miles and miles of shoreline offers camping, boating, canoeing and some of the best fishing around. Or, take an afternoon and learn to kayak on this clear mountain lake surrounded by beautiful mountains. Just beyond is Earthquake Lake, formed the night in 1959 that a 7.5 quake rocked the Madison Valley and a mountain fell. With summer comes a choice of activities, from the weekly Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo, to the Playmill Theatre productions, a free “Music in the Park” concert series, the Yellowstone Historic Museum Center, daily Yellowstone Ranger talks, and other programs just for kids like the Junior Smokejumper’s Program.
Spring’s Babes, Bears, and Bikes Spring is a time of change and renewal in West Yellowstone. From mid-March to mid-April, the west entrance to Yellowstone opens to people-powered vehicles only. These “cycle-only” days also bikers to see the first splashes of color as green sedges and bright yellow monkey-flowers emerge amidst dwindling snow banks. Bison trudge along the roads and elk feed along the rivers. 58 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
Don’t miss a genuine small town July 4th where anyone can be in the parade, barbecues at the City Park, and an incredible fireworks display set against a backdrop of mountains. Amazing Autumn Fall brings spectacular scenery and the annual elk mating season where huge bull elk battle for their harems with eerie echoing bugles across wide valleys. Cooler fall temperatures create spectacular photo opportunities at Old Faithful and
Joanne Girvin, Gallatin National Forest
Yellowstone Nature Connection
other geysers in Yellowstone Park. It’s the best time of the year for mountain biking, road cycling, hiking, and photography in Yellowstone and the surrounding National Forests. Spawning runs of big brown and battling rainbow trout from Hebgen Lake up the Madison, Gallatin, and Firehole Rivers make West Yellowstone the prime fishing destination each fall earning the title as one of the “Top 10 Trout Towns in America” by Forbes Magazine. Even a rainy fall day is fun with a visit to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Meet the two wolf packs or different resident grizzly bears, observe the raptors, talk to a Naturalist, and check out the “Keeper Kids Program.” Next door is the movie, “Yellowstone,” playing daily at the Yellowstone Theater with a six story movie screen. The end of September features the annual West Yellowstone Old Faithful Cycle Tour. This roundtrip cycle ride circles through Yellowstone National Park from West Yellowstone to Old Faithful and back. With feed stations along the way and a snag wagon to grab a lift if you get tired, it is the perfect family cycling event. Or, join the Pineneedle Stampede – a halfmarathon that takes place entirely on groomed forest service trails. Wintry Wonderland With an average of 143” of snow every year and 184 days of snow, West Yellowstone has earned its place on the list of “11 Coolest Winter Places
in America” (Budget Travel) and one of the “Top Ten Winter Towns” by National Geographic Traveler. The extensive groomed trail and off-trail winter is another reason West Yellowstone was the 2013/14 Best Snowmobile Destination in the West (SnoWest). The Rendezvous Ski Trail system starts right in West Yellowstone and offers a groomed 35KM trail, usually groomed daily and available from November through April. The new Boundary Ski Trail (pet-friendly) and Yellowstone Park’s Riverside Trail also start from West Yellowstone. If you’re fortunate enough to experience Yellowstone in the winter, you’re in for a rare treat. The snow covered landscape, frozen waterfalls and frosted trees when, contrasted with geysers and other geothermal features, create a surreal winterscape. If you’re lucky enough to venture into the backcountry, you will encounter a quiet calm that for some is a transcendental experience. West Yellowstone tour companies offer over the snow day-long tours into Yellowstone via snowmobile or snowcoach. Tours begin on December 15th and end on March 15th each winter, weather dependent. Snowmobile tours include all the equipment and clothing that you will need for a day in the park. Outside the park there are millions of acres of public lands for snowmobilers
and cross-country skiers to explore. Explore over 400 hundred miles of groomed snowmobile trails by West Yellowstone and the State of Idaho in the surrounding National Forests. The third weekend in January features a national Ice Fishing Tournament on Hebgen Lake, just north of town. This is winter's equivalent of summer's big time bass and walleye tournaments, filled with seminars, a kid's workshop and the fishing competition itself. The West Yellowstone/Hebgen Lake Tournament, like all NAIFC qualifiers, is a three-day event consisting of two-thirds education and one-third competition, with a maximum entry of 150 two-person teams. Winter events in West Yellowstone range from dog sled races to ski races, the annual Yellowstone Ski Festival each Thanksgiving and Rendezvous Race the first weekend of March. The popular, award winning Kids’N’Snow program takes place one weekend each winter month. It offers very affordable activities for kids and winter (both outdoors and indoors). Snowshoe with a ranger, learn to cross country ski, free ice skating (and skates) and make your own S’mores on Saturday evenings, or take a “Snowcoach Sampler” into Yellowstone Park. A full list of activities is posted each month at www.kidsnsnow.org. End the season with the annual Snowmobile EXPO and races in mid-March.
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 59
Only 90 minutes from W e s t Ye l l o w s t o n e on your way to Glacier Park!
DONNIE SEXTON PHOTO
An authentic gold rush town born in 1863, now frozen in time. Original buildings remain, once housed dry goods stores, gold assays, crooked lawmen and Vigilante law, now are host to restaurants, gift shops, museums, live theaters and more.
Great Great places places to shopto...eat ... Great places to stay ... Fun things to do. 00.829.2969 60 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | 8 destinationyellowstone.com
w w w. v i rg i n i a c i t y. c o m
L ocal Essentials
DIRECTORY 2015-2016 SLEEP Hotels, Motels, Resorts, Ranches, Cabins, Vacation Rentals................... 66-69 Campgrounds & RV Parks...................... 70
PLAY Activities & Attractions....................... 71-74 Shopping................................................. 72
EAT Catering, Restaurants, Lounges........ 74-75 Services......................................... 75-76 Utilities............................................... 76 Travel.................................................. 77 Life in West........................................ 78 Please note: The West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce is not a regulatory agency and, therefore, has no authority to inspect businesses or require that they meet certain standards for inclusion in this directory. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these listings, but changes sometimes occur after publication.
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 61
Inte rne t/W iFi Ind oor Poo l Out doo r Po ol Hot Tub ADA Frie ndly Res taur ant Con tine ntal Bre Gue akfa st L st aun dr y
Room rates are based on double occupancy for the summer season of 2015 and are subject to change. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. If suites are indicated this means there are two or more rooms plus bath.
Kitc hen ette s Suit es
HMR = Hotel/Motel R = Resort BB = Bed & Breakfast CB = Cabin CO = Condo VR = Vacation Rental RA = Ranch L = Lodge
of U nits ins/ Con dos Pet s
$$$$ = $251 and up.
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Al’s Westward Ho Motel 16 Boundary St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(888) 646-7331 • (406) 646-7331 alswestwardhomotel.net
HM
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Alpine Motel 120 Madison Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7544 alpinemotelwestyellowstone.com
HM
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15
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Angler’s Rest 234 Parkway D #4 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(301) 461-0902 burkinc.net/anglersrest/
VR
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Avalanche Retreat 633 Parkway A #8 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(612) 599-4785 vrbo.com/118221
VR
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2
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Bar N Ranch Buttermilk Creek Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-0300 bar-n-ranch.com
L/CB
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7
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Best Western Desert Inn 133 Canyon St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 574-7054 • (406) 646-7376 wyellowstone.com/desertinn
HM
Y
$$$
76
2
Blue Cloud Cabins 621 Firehole Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7778 vrbo.com/118423
VR
Y
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Brandin’ Iron Inn 201 Canyon St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 217-4613 • (406) 646-9411 yellowstonevacations.com
HM
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(406) 646-4254 brooktroutinn.com
VR
(406) 579-0403 | (406) 579-0406 cabinswestyellowstone.com
Campfire Lodge Resort, LLC 155 Campfire Lane • West Yellowstone MT 59758
Brook Trout Inn 1730 Targhee Pass Hwy 20 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
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(406) 646-7258 campfirelodgewestyellowstone.com
CB
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13
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Crosswinds Motor Inn 201 Firehole Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 446-9557 • (406) 646-9557 crosswindsinn.com
HM
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70
City Center Motel 214 Madison Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 742-0665 • (406) 646-7337 yellowstonevacations.com
HM
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25
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Clubhouse Inn 105 S Electric St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 565-6803 • (406) 646-4892 yellowstoneclubhouseinn.com
HM
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77
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Days Inn 301 Madison Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 548-9551 • (406) 646-7656 allyellowstone.com
HM
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116
Dude & Roundup Motels 3 Madison Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7301 westyellowstonemotels.com
HM
Y
$$
52
Evergreen Motel 229 Firehole Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7655 theevergreenmotel. com
HM
Y
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17
Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone 201 Grizzly Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7075 explorercabinsatyellowstone.com
HM CB
Y
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50
Faithful Street Inn 120 N Faithful St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(866) 646-4329 • (406) 646-1010 faithfulstreetinn.com
HM
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9
(406) 646-7294 fireholeranch.com
RA
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10
Gray Wolf Inn & Suites 250 S Canyon St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 313-2719 • (406) 646-0000 visityellowstonepark.com/gray-wolf-inn.aspx
HM
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Hi Country Tavern, Grill & Cabins 155 Einos Loop • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9344 hicountrytavern.com
HMR CB
(800) 646-7365 • (406) 646-7365 visityellowstonepark.com/ holiday-innwest-yellowstone,aspx
HM
Cabins West Lodging PO Box 1471 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Firehole Ranch, LLC 1130 Firehole Ranch Loop • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Holiday Inn 315 Yellowstone Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
62 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
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HMR = Hotel/Motel R = Resort BB = Bed & Breakfast CB = Cabin CO = Condo VR = Vacation Rental RA = Ranch L = Lodge Room rates are based on double occupancy for the summer season of 2015 and are subject to change. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. If suites are indicated this means there are two or more rooms plus bath.
Kelly Inn 104 S Canyon St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 259-4672 • (406) 646-4544 yellowstonekellyinn.com
HM
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78
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Kirkwood Resort & Marina 11505 Hebgen Lake Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 302-7200 • (406) 646-7200 kirkwoodresorl.com
HM/R
Y
$$
11
4
(406) 646-7586 lazygmotel.com
HM
Y
$
15
LL Western Adventures 35 Mooseberry Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 777-8800 llwesternadventures.com
CB
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1
Madison Arm Resort 5475 Madison Arm Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9328 madisonarmresort.com
HM/R
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5
Madison Hotel & Motel 139 Yellowstone Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7745 madisonhotelmotel.com
HM
Y
$
31
Moose Creek Cabins 220 Firehole Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9546 moosecreekcabin.com
CB
Y
$$
8
Moose Creek Inn 119 Electric St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7952 moosecreekinn.com
HM
Y
$$
28
One Horse Motel 216 Dunraven St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 488-2750 (406) 646-7677 onehorsemotel.com
HM
Y
$$
19
Parade Rest Guest Ranch 1279 Grayling Creek Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 753-5934 • (406) 646-7217 paraderestranch.com
HM/R CB/RA
Y
$$$
Pine Shadows Motel 229 N Hayden St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 624-5291 • (406) 646-7541 pineshadowsmotel.com
HMR
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8
Pioneer Motel 515 Madison Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9705 pioneermotelmontana.com
HMR
Y
$$
20
(800) 217-4613 • (406) 646-9411 yellowstonevacations,com
HMR
Y
$
16
Rustic Wagon Cabins 637 U.S. Hwy 20 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7387 rusticwagonrv.com
CB
Y
$
Stage Coach Inn 209 Madison Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 842-2882 • (406) 646-7381 yellowstoneinn.com
HM
Y
$$$
83
Super 8 Motel 1545 Targhee Pass Hwy 20 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 800-8000 • (406) 646-9584 super8.com
HM
Y
$$$
44
(406) 646-6838 taosyellowstone.com
HM
Y
$
8
The Hibernation Station 212 Gray Wolf Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 580-3557 • (406) 646-4200 hibernationstation,com
HM CB
Y
$$$$
Three Bear Lodge 217 Yellowstone Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 646-7353 • (406) 646-7353 threebearlodge.com
HM
Y
$$$
70
Travelers Lodge 225 Yellowstone Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9561 Westyellowstonemotels.com
HM
Y
$$
44
Two Feathers Cabin Lodging 211 Gibbon Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 597588
(406) 646-9764 twofeatherscabinlodging.com
CB
Y
$$$$
1
4
Wagon Wheel Cabins 408 Gibbon Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7872 Wagonwheelrv.com
HM CB
Y
$$
9
4
(406) 646-7754 westyellowstonebandb.com
BB
Y
$$$
Lazy G Motel 123 Hayden St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Pony Express Motel 4 Firehole Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Tao's Inn 102 Electric Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
West Yellowstone Bed & Breakfast 20 Crane Ln • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
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3
Inte rne t/W iFi Ind oor Poo l Out doo r Po ol Hot Tub ADA Frie ndly Res taur ant Con tine ntal Bre Gue akfa st L st aun dr y
$$$ = $176-$250
Kitc hen ette s Suit es
$$ = $101-$175
of L odg i
Does not include taxes.
Typ e
$ = $100 or less
ng (see Wa key r m/ ) Win ter Sea Rat son es No. of U nits Cab ins/ Con dos Pet s
SLEEP
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4 4
4
4 4
4
4 4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 63
West Yellowstone Vacation Rentals 433 Hwy 20 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-5145 westyellowstonerentals.com
VR
Westwood Motel 238 Madison Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 646-7713 • (406) 646-7713 wyellowstone.com/westwood
HM
White Buffalo Hotel 236 Dunraven St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7681 whitebuffalohotel.com
White Heron Vacation Rental 321 N. Canyon St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758 WorldMark by Wyndham 110 Gray Wolf Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Y c
$$$$
22
$$
16
HM
Y Y
$$
95
(406) 646-7575 | (800) 738-5816 yellowstonerealty.com
VR
Y
$$$$
(406) 646-7561 worldmarkbywyndham.com/resorts/wym
HM/R
Y
$$$$
(866) 646-9350 • (406) 646-9350 yellowstonecabinsandrv.com
R
Y c
$
Yellowstone Country Inn 234 Firehole Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7622 westyeIlowstonemoteIs.com
HM
Y
$$$
Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park 210 S. Electric St • West Yellowstone, MT 5975
(406) 646-4466 grizzlyrv.com
CB
Y
$$
9
Yellowstone Holiday 16990 Hebgen Lake Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 5975
(406) 646-4242 | (877) 646-4242 yellowstoneholiday.com
R
Y
$$
24
Yellowstone Inn 601 Hwy 20 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 858-9224 • (406) 646-7633 yellowstoneinn.net
HM
$$
10
Yellowstone Lodge 251 S Electric St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 239-9298 • (406) 646-0020 yellowstonelodge.com
HM
Y Y c
$$$
77
Yellowstone Park Hotel 201 Grizzly Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(866) 920-0255 • (406) 646-0255 visityelIowstonepark.com/ yellowstone-park-hotel.asax
HM
Y
$$$$
66
(406) 646-7675 yellowstonepropertymanagement.com
VR
Y c
$$$$
1
(406) 686-6806 Vrbo.com/515080
VR
Y c
$$$$
(406) 646-4113 vistacabin.com
VR
$$$$
(888) 264-2466 • (406) 646-4212 yellowstonewestgatehotel.com
HM
Y Y
(406) 646-7675 yellowstonewildlifecabins.com
VR/CB
320 Guest Ranch 205 Buffalo Horn Creek • Big Sky, MT 59730
(800) 243-0320 • (406) 995-4283 320ranch.com
CB
Big Sky Resort 1 Lone Mountain Trail • Big Sky, MT 59716
(800) 548-4486 • (406) 995-5000 bigskyresort.com
HM/R
Corral Bar, Steakhouse & Motel 42895 Gallatin Rd • Big Sky, MT 59730
(888) 995-4249 • (406) 995-4249 corralbar.com
HM
Covered Wagon Ranch 34035 Gallatin Rd • Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730
(406) 995-4237 | (800) 995-4237 coveredwagonranch.com
RA/CB
(406) 276-3282 elklakeresortmontana.com
CB
(406) 586-1503 | (888) 871-7856 montanavacation.com
VR
Yellowstone Cabins & RV Park 504 Hwy 20 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Yellowstone Property Management PO Box 96 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Yellowstone Vacation Rentals 263 Bear Road • West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Yellowstone Vista Cabin PO Box 710 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Yellowstone West Gate Hotel 638 Madison Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Yellowstone Wildlife Cabins 225 Geyser St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
c c c
c
c
Y
$$$
Inte rne t/W iFi Ind oor Poo l Out doo r Po ol Hot Tub ADA Frie ndly Res taur ant Con tine ntal Bre Gue akfa st L st aun dr y
Room rates are based on double occupancy for the summer season of 2015 and are subject to change. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. If suites are indicated this means there are two or more rooms plus bath.
Kitc hen ette s Suit es
HMR = Hotel/Motel R = Resort BB = Bed & Breakfast CB = Cabin CO = Condo VR = Vacation Rental RA = Ranch L = Lodge
of U nits ins/ Con dos Pet s
$$$$ = $251 and up.
Cab
$$$ = $176-$250
No.
$$ = $101-$175
of L odg i
Does not include taxes.
Typ e
$ = $100 or less
ng (see Wa r m/ key Win ) ter S e aso Rat n es
sLEEP
4
4 2
4
4
4
4
4
112
4 14
4
4 4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4 4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
1
4
78
4
59
4
4
1
$$$
4
4
4
Y
4
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
4
$$$
4
4
45
c
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4 4
OTHER AREA LODGING - MONTANA
Elk Lake Resort 5200 Elk Lake Rd • Lima, MT 59739 Intermountain Property Management, Inc. 1807 W. Dickerson, Suite A • Bozeman, MT 59715
64 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
c
Y
$$$
450
c
$
8
Y Y
$$$$
10
c
$$$$
8
Y
$$$$
20
c
Y
c
240
4 4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4 4
4 4
4 4
4
Lone Mountain Ranch 750 Lone Mountain Rd • Big Sky, MT 59716
(406) 995-4644 | (800) 514-4644 lonemountainranch.com
RA/ CB
Mountain Home Montana Vacation Rentals 104 East Main, Suite 209 • Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 586-4589 | (800) 550-4589 mountain-home.com
VR
River Rock Lodge 3080 Pine Dr • Big Sky, MT 59716
(866) 995-4455 • (406) 995-4455 riverrocklodging.com
HM
The Flying Pig Adventure Company 511 Scott St • Gardiner, MT 59030
(406) 848-7510 | (866) 877-0744 flyingpigrafting.com
CB/ VR
Whitewater Inn at Big Sky Resort 47214 Gallatin Rd • Big Sky, MT 59716
(800) 548-4486 • (406) 995-8052 bigskyresort.com/lodging/LodgingLocations/Whitewater-Inn.asp
HM
Wilderness Edge 592 Cliff Lake Rd • Cameron, MT 59720
(406) 682-4611 | (866) 226-7668 thewildernessedge.com
CB
(208) 652-7234 cartersidahocabins.com
CB
(208) 528-8444 destinationsinn.com
HM
(208) 558-0192 | (888) 455-9384 pinesislandpark.com
HM
Y c
Y c
Y
20
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
$$$$ $$$$
82
c
$$
Y
$$$$
Y
Inte rne t/W iFi Ind oor Poo l Out doo r Po ol Hot Tub ADA Frie ndly Res taur ant Con tine ntal Bre Gue akfa st L st aun dr y
Room rates are based on double occupancy for the summer season of 2015 and are subject to change. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. If suites are indicated this means there are two or more rooms plus bath.
Kitc hen ette s Suit es
HMR = Hotel/Motel R = Resort BB = Bed & Breakfast CB = Cabin CO = Condo VR = Vacation Rental RA = Ranch L = Lodge
of U nits ins/ Con dos Pet s
$$$$ = $251 and up.
Cab
$$$ = $176-$250
No.
$$ = $101-$175
of L odg i
Does not include taxes.
Typ e
$ = $100 or less
ng (see Wa r m/ key Win ) ter S eas Rat on es
SLEEP
4
29 5
c
$$
Y
$$$$
12
$$$
2
62
4
4 4
4
4 4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4 4
OTHER AREA LODGING - IDAHO Carter’s Idaho Log Cabins 4560 E. 1400 N. • Ashton, ID 83420 Destinations Inn 295 W Broadway • Idaho Falls, ID 83402 The Pines at Island Park 3907 Phillips Loop Rd • Island Park, ID 83429
Y c
Y c
Y c
$$$
4
14
$$$$
4
4
4 26
4
4 4
4
4
4
4 4
4
4
4
OTHER AREA LODGING - WYOMING - YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Yellowstone National Park Lodges Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
(866) 439-7375 • (307) 344-7311 yellowstonenationalparklodges.com
L/CB
Y c
$$$$
1050
1200
4
4
4
4
LOCAL LODGING - NON-MEMBERS 4 Seasons Yellowstone Townhouse Rental
(406) 646-6002
9 Bar W Cabins
(406) 640-0649
AC Inn
(406) 640-2785
All Seasons Yellowstone Townhouse Rentals
(218) 729-7988
Altitude Townhouse
(208) 351-4924
Arrowhead Lodge
(406) 580-2363
Best Western Weston Inn
(406) 646-7373
Golden West Motel
(406) 646-7778
Hadley's Motel
(406) 646-9534
Ho Hum Motel
(406) 646-7746
Sleepy Hollow Lodge
(406) 646-7707
Whispering Pines
(406) 646-1172
Whiskey Springs
(406) 646-1026
White Buffalo Lodging
(406) 646-4543
Yellowstone Classic Cabins
(406) 359-0003
Yellowstone Studio & Cabins
(406) 646-1118
Yellowstone Townhouses
(406) 646-9331
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 65
$$$ = $176-$250
$$$$ = $251 and up.
Room rates are based on double occupancy for the summer season of 2015 and are subject to change. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. If suites are indicated this means there are two or more rooms plus bath.
RV Site s Ten t Si tes Ca bin s Lau ndr y Flu sh Toi lets Ele ctri c/S ew Ma er xR VL eng Sho th we rs Du mp Sta tion Poo l/H ot T ub/ Inte Be r ne ach t Ca ble TV
$ = $100 or less $$ = $101-$175 Does not include taxes.
Wa rm/ Win ter Ra Sea tes son
RV Parks & Campgrounds
Buffalo Crossing RV 101 S Canyon St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-4300 buffalocrossingrvpark.com
Y
$$
17
Campfire Lodge Resort, LLC 155 Campfire Ln • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7258 campfirelodgewestyellowstone.com
Y
$$$
25
7
(406) 646-9049 hideawayrv.com
Y
$$
15
1
Kirkwood Resort & Marina 11505 Hebgen Lake Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 302-7200 • (406) 646-7200 kirkwoodresort.com
Y
$$
15
20
11
Madison Arm Resort 5475 Madison Arm Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9328 madisonarmresort.com
Y Y
$$
70
20
5
c
$$
16
Hide-Away RV Park 320 Electric St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Pony Express Motel & RV 4 Firehole Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
800) 217-4613 • (406) 646-9411 yellowstonevacations.com
13
4
4
4
40'
4
4
4
4
40'
4
4
4
40'
4
4
4
4
80'
4
4
4
4
4
36'
4
4
4
4
4
35'
4
4
4
4 4
4
4 B
4
Rustic Wagon RV Campground & Cabins 637 US Hwy 20 W & Gibbon West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7387 rusticwagonrv.com
Y
$$$
36
9
2
4
4
4
70+
4
4
4
Wagon Wheel RV Campground & Cabins 408 Gibbon Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7872 wagonvvheelrv.com
Y
$$$
32
6
9
4
4
4
70+
4
4
4
(866) 646-9350 • (406) 646-9350 yellowstonecabinsandrv.com
Y
$
8
4
40'
4
(406) 646-4466 grizzlyrv.com
Y
$$$$
216
Yellowstone Holiday 16990 Hebgen Lake Rd • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 646-4242 • (406) 646-4242 yellowstoneholiday.com
Y
$$$
36
Yellowstone KOA Mountainside 1545 Targhee Pass Hwy • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 562-5640 • (406) 646-7662 yellowstonekoamountainside.com
Y
$$$$
100
36
Yellowstone Cabins & RV Park 504 Hwy 20 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park 210 S Electric St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
14 14
CAMP
4
4
4
4
80'
4
4
4
4
75'
4
12
4
4
4
100'
4
17
4
4
4
34'
4
4
4
4
4
50'
4
4
9
CAMP
24
CAMP
4
4 B
4 4
OTHER AREA CAMPGROUNDS - WYOMING & YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Snake River Park Kampground 9705 S Hwy 89 • Jackson, WY 83001
(800) 562-1878 • (307) 733-7078 snakeriverwhitewater.net
Y
$$$$
70
25
(866) 439-7375 • (307) 344-7311 yellowstonenationalparklodges.com
Y
$$
346
1405
No advanced reservations (877) 444-6777
Y
$
73
73
E
75'
Lonesomehurst Campground 8 miles west on Hwy 20 to Denny Creek Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 444-6777 Reservations: recreation.gov
Y
$
27
27
E
40'
Rainbow Point Campground 5 miles north on Hwy 191 to Rainbow Point Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(877) 444-6777 Reservations: recreation.gov
Y
$
85
85
E
45'
(406) 646-7729
Y
Yellowstone National Park Campgrounds Yellowstone National Park
CAMP
4
LOCAL CAMPGROUNDS - U.S. FOREST SERVICE Bakers Hole Campground 3 miles north on Hwy 191 West Yellowstone, MT 59758
LOCAL CAMPGROUNDS - NON-MEMBER LOCAL CAMPGROUNDS - NON-MEMBER
Fort Jax RV Park
66 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
4
4
PLAY ACTIVITIES ACTIVTIES Atv Rentals Yellowstone Adventures 131 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7735 | (800) 231 -5991 yellowstoneadvertures.com
Biking
Biking
Big Sky Resort 1 Lone Mountain Trail Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-5000 | (800) 548-4486 bigskyresort.com Free Heel & Wheel 40 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7744 freeheelandwheel.com
Boating
Boating
Kirkwood Resort & Marina 11505 Hebgen Lake Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7200 | (877) 302-7200 kirkwoodresort.com Madison Arm Resort Campground & Marina 5475 Madison Arm Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9328 madisonarmresort.com Yellowstone Holiday 16990 Hebgen Lake Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4242 | (877) 646-4242 yellowstoneholiday.com
Dog Sledding Dog Sledding Klondike Dreams Sled Dog Tours PO Box 1374 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4988 klondikedreams.com Spirit of the North Sled Dog Adventures Big Sky, MT 59716 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 995-3424 | (406) 682-7994 huskypower.com
Fishing
Fishing
Bud Lilly’s Trout Shop 39 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7801 | (800) 854-9559 budlillys.com Blue Ribbon Fliies 305 Canyon Street, West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7642 | (406) 646-9365 blue-ribbon-flies.com
Jacklin’s Fly Shop 105 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7336 jacklinsflyshop.com Montana Whitewater Inc. 603 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (406) 763-4465 | (800) 799-4465 montanawhitewater.com The Flying Pig Adventure Company 511 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (888) 792-9193 | (406) 848-7510 flyingpigrafting.com The Lone Mountain Ranch 750 Lone Mountain Rd Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-4644 | (800) 514-4644 Imranch.com or Families For FFamilies & Kids& Kids
Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center 201 S Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7001 | (800) 257-2570 grizzlydiscoveryctr.org Mountain View Mini Golf 155 Einos Loop West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9344 Hicountrytavern.com Playmill Theatre 29 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7758 playmill.com Yellowstone Nature Connection 2 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7557 smokejumpercenter.org
Hiking
Hiking
Lava Creek Adventures 433 Hwy 20 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-5145 Lavacreekadventures.com The Flying Pig Adventure Company 511 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (888) 792-9193 | (406) 848-7510 flyingpigrafting. com Yellowstone Alpen Guides 555 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9591 | (800) 858-3502 yellowstoneguides.com
History & Museums History & Museums Yellowstone Historic Center Museum 104 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-1101 yellowstonehistoriccenter.org
Horseback Horseback Riding Riding 320 Guest Ranch 205 Buffalo Horn Creek Big Sky, MT 59730 (406) 995-4283 | (800) 243-0320 320ranch.com Creekside Trail Rides 175 Oldroyd Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 560-6913 creeksidetrailrides,com Dry Ridge Outfitters Harriman State Park 3489 Green Canyon Rd Island Park, ID 83429 (208) 558-7433 or (208) 356-0113 dryridge.com
Yellowstone Bear World 6010 S 4300 W Rexburg, ID 83440 (208) 359-9688 yellowstonebearworld.com
Eagle Ridge Ranch 3438 Old Shotgun Rd Island Park, Idaho 83429 (208) 558-0900 eagleridgeranch.com
Yellowstone Historic Center Museum 104 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-1100 | (406) 646-7461 yellowstonehistoriccenter.org
Geyser Whitewater Expeditions 46651 Gallatin Road Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 (406) 995-4989 | (800) 914-9031 raftmontana.com
Gini olf ini Golf Golf / M G/M olf Big Sky Resort 1 Lone Mountain Trail Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-5000 | (800) 548-4486 bigskyresort.com Mountain View Mini Golf 155 Einos Loop West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9344 hicountrytavern corn
Jake’s Horses 4 Beaver Creek Rd Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 (406) 995-4630 jakeshorses.com Montana Whitewater 603 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (406) 763-4465 | (800) 799-4465 montanawhitewater.com
Parade Rest Guest Ranch 1279 Grayling Creek West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7217 | (800) 753-5934 paraderestranch.com The Diamond P Ranch 2865 Targhee Pass Hwy 20 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-0606 thediamondpranch.com The Flying Pig Adventure Company 511 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (888) 792-9193 | (406) 848-7510 flyingpigrafting.com Yellowstone Horses 3438 Old Shotgun Rd Island Park, ID 83429 (800) 709-1358 yellowstonehorses.com
Kayaking Kayaking Geyser Kayak Tours PO Box 8352 Jackson Hole, WY 83002 (307) 413-6177 | (800) 529-2501 geyserkayak.com Lava Creek Adventures 433 Hwy 20 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-5145 lavacreekadventures.com O.A.R.S. 3960 S Antelope Ln Jackson, WY 83001 (800) 346-6277 | (209) 736-4677 oars.com/wyoming Yellowstone Alpen Guides 555 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9591 | (800) 858-3502 yellowstoneguides.com
MM otorcoach & V&anVT ours otorcoach an Tours Backcountry Adventures 224 Electric St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9317 | (800) 924-7669 backcountry-adventures.com Brandin’ Iron Inn 201 Canyon Street West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9411 | (800) 217-4613 yellowstonevacations.com Buffalo Bus Touring Co. 415 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9564 (800) 426-7669 yellowstonevacations.com Gaper Guide Inc. PO Box 1203 Jackson Hole, WY 83001 (307) 344-4626 gaperguide.com
destinationyellowstone.com | West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 67
PLAY • SHOP Lava Creek Adventures 433 Hwy 20 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-5145 lavacreekadventures.com
Madison Crossing 121 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7621 cabindecor.com Home Room: 646-4338 Cabin Kitchens: 646-4338 Treetop Toys: 646-7621 Moving Comfort Activewear Outlet: 646-7621 Yellowstone Interiors: 646-7621
Mountain Mikes Tours 73 Elm St Victor, ID 83455 (307) 525-5136 mountainmikestours.com See Yellowstone Tours, Inc. 211 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9310 (800) 221 -1151 seeyellowstone.com
RadioShack Dealer 131 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-5121 Roundup Trading Post 127 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7751 foodroundup@aol.com
Tour Yellowstone 36 Electric St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9332 x354 | (877) 641-6043 allyellowstone.com
Send It Home 30 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7300 send-it-home.com
Yellowstone Alpen Guides 555 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9591 | (800) 858-3502 yellowstoneguides.com
Smith & Chandler 121 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7841 smithandchandler.com
Yellowstone Tour & Travel 211 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9320 | (800) 221-1151 yellowstone-travel.com
& Theaters MoviesM&ovies Theaters Bear’s Den Cinema 15 N Electric St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7777 Playmill Theatre 29 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7758 playmill.com Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre 101 S Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4100 yellowstonegiantscreen.com
Montana Whitewater 603 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (406) 763-4465 | (800) 799-4465 montanawhitewater.com Snake River Float Trips, Inc 9705 S Hwy 89 Jackson, WY 83001 (307) 733-7078 | (800) 562-1878 snakeriverwhitewater. net
Rodeo
Rodeo
Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo 175 Oldroyd Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 560-6913 yellowstonerodeo.com
Shopping Buffalo Spirit Trading Post 14 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-5128 Buffalosprittradingpost.com
Photography Photographery Tours Tours
The Flying Pig Adventure Company 511 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (888) 792-9193 | (406) 848-7510 flyingpigrafting.com
Fox Den Images Blue Springs, MO United States 816-229-1209 carolynfoxphotos.com
Wild West Rafting 906 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (406) 848-2252 | (800)862-0557 wildwestrafting.com
Bunkhouse Barn Interiors & The Book Peddler 106 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9358 bunkhousebarninteriors.com
Yellowstone Raft Company 406 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (406) 848-7777 | (800) 858-7781 yellowstoneraft.com
Eagle’s Store 3 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9300 eagles-store.com
Rafting Barker-Ewing River Trips 945 W Broadway Jackson, WY 83001 (307) 733-1000 | (800) 448-4202 barker-ewing.com Geyser Whitewater Expeditions 46651 Gallatin Rd Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 (406) 995-4989 | (800) 914-9031 raftmontana.com
ockhounds Prospecting RRockhounding && Prospecting
Sapphire Gallery 115 E Broadway Phillipsburg, MT 59858 (406) 859-3236 | (800) 525-0169 sapphire-gallery.com
68 West Yellowstone Montana Travel Planner 2015/16 | destinationyellowstone.com
The Sweet Palace 115 E Broadway Phillipsburg, MT 59858 (406) 859-3236 | (800) 525-0169 sweetpalace.com Westmart Building Center 100 S Faithful St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9578 | (800) 598-9378 westmartbuildingcenter.com Yellowstone General Stores 8358 Huffine Ln, Suite #2 Bozeman, MT 59718 (406) 586-7593 (866) 702-7269 yellowstonegift.com Yellowstone Outlet #1 25 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9047 yellowstoneoutlet.cam Yellowstone Outlet #2 22 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9047 yellowstoneoutlet.com Yellowstone Park Village 10 N Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9242 Yellowstone T-Shirt Co 20 Canyon Street West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7722 yellowstonetshirt.com
PLAY • SHOP Skiing
Skiing
Big Sky Resort 1 Lone Mountain Trail Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-5000 | (800) 548-4486 bigskyresort.com Bud Lilly’s Trout Shop 39 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7801 | (800) 854-9559 budlillys.com Buffalo Bus Touring Company 415 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9564 | (800) 426-7669 yellowstonevacations.com
Snowshoeing Snowshoeing
Free Heel & Wheel 40 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7744 freeheelandwheel.com
Yellowstone Expeditions PO Box 865 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9333 | (800) 728-9333 yellowstonexpeditions.com
The Lone Mountain Ranch 750 Lone Mountain Rd Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-4644 | (800) 514-4644 Imranch.com
Sleigh Rides Sleigh Rides
Free Heel & Wheel 40 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7744 freeheelandwheel.com
320 Guest Ranch 205 Buffalo Horn Creek Big Sky, MT 59730 (406) 995-4283 | (800) 243-0320 320ranch.com
Yellowstone Alpen Guides 555 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9591 | (800) 858-3502 yellowstoneguides.com
The Lone Mountain Ranch 750 Lone Mountain Rd Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-4644 | (800) 514-4644 Imranch.com
Yellowstone Expeditions PO Box 865 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9333 | (800) 728-9333 yellowstoneexpedtions.com
Yellowstone Alpen Guides 555 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9591 | (800) 858-3502 yellowstoneguides.com
Snowmobile and Snowcoach services Back Country Adventures 224 Electric Street • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Guided Guided Snowcoach Snowmobile Tours Inside of Tours Inside of Yellowstone Park Yellowstone Park
(406) 646-9317 | (800) 426-7669 www.backcountry-adventures.com
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Brandin' Iron Inn 201 Canyon St • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9411 | (800) 217-4613 yellowstonevacations.com
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Buffalo Bus Touring Company 415 Yellowstone Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9444 | (800) 426-7669 yellowstonevacations.com
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Hi Country Snowmobile Rentals 450 Highway 20 • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7541 | (800) 624-5291 hicountrysnowmobile.com
High Mark Snowmobile Rentals 450 Madison Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7855 | (406) 640-1055 highmarkrentals.com
Holiday Inn 315 Yellowstone Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(800) 646-7365 • (406) 646-7365 visityellowstonepark.com/ holiday-inn-westyellowstone,aspx
Rendezvous Snowmobile Rentals, Inc. 400 Yellowstone Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Snow Fun, Inc. West Yellowstone, MT 59758
Guided Snowmobile Tours in Targhee & Gallatin National Forests
Non-Guided Snowmobile Services in Targhee & Gallatin National Forests
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(406) 646-9564 | (800) 426-7669 yellowstonevacations.com
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(406) 640-1104 snowfunsnowmbiles.com
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See Yellowstone Tours, Inc. 211 Yellowstone Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9310 | (800) 221-1151 yellowstonesnowcoaches.com
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Three Bear Lodge 217 Yellowstone Ave • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7353 | (800) 646-7353 threebearlodge.com
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Traveler's Snowmobile Rentals 303 Madison Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9332 x354 | (800) 641-6043 travelerssnowmbilerentals.com
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Two Top Winter Adventures 645 Gibbon Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7802 | (800) 522-7802 twotopsnowmobile.com
Yellowstone Arctic/Yamaha 303 North Electric Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
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(406) 646-9636 yellowstonearcticyamaha.com
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Yellowstone Adventures 131 Dunraven Street • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-7735 | (800) 231-5991 yellowstoneadventures.com
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Yellowstone Alpen Guides 555 Yellowstone Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9591 | (800) 858-3502 yellowstoneguides.com
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Yellowstone Expeditions 235 Yellowstone Avenue • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
(406) 646-9333 | (800) 728-9333 yellowstonexpeditions.biz
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PLAY • EAT UniqueUAnique dventures Adventures Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center 201 South Canyon West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7001 | (800) 257-2570 grizzlydiscoveryctr.org Eagle Ridge Ranch 3438 Old Shotgun Road Island Park, ID 83429 (208) 558-0900 eagleridgeranch.com Madison River Tubing Shuttle 603 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (406) 763-4465 | (800) 799-4465 mantanawhitewater.com Sapphire Gallery 115 E Broadway Phillipsburg, MT 59858 (406) 859-3236 | (800) 525-0169 sapphire-gallery.com
EAT Catering High Altitude Catering 215-B N Canyon (Exxon Station) West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 570-7134 highaltitudecatering.com Holiday Inn 315 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7365 (800) 646-7365 visityellowstonepark.com/holiday-innwest-yellowstone.aspx Uncle Laurie’s Catering Co. PO Box 512 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 539-2395
Chuckwagon Dinners Dinners Chuckwagon
Yellowstone Bear World 6010 S 4300 West Rexburg, ID 83440 (208) 359-9688 yellowstonebearworld.com
Parade Rest Guest Ranch 1279 Grayling Creek West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7217 (800) 753-5934 paraderestranch.com
Yellowstone Nature Connection 10 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7557 smokejumperctr@gmail.com yellowstonenatureconnection.org
Coffeehouses & Bakeries Coffeehouses & Bakeries
WildlifeW Viewing ildlife Viewing Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center 201 S Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7001 | (800) 257-2570 grizzlydiscoveryctr.org Yellowstone Bear World 6010 S 4300 W Rexburg, ID 83440 (208) 359-9688 yellowstonebearvvorld.com
Ziplines Big Sky Resort 1 Lone Mountain Trail Big Sky, MT 59716 (800) 548-4486 | (406) 995-5000 bigskyresort.com Yellowstone Aerial Adventures 105 South Faithful St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-5171 yellowstoneparkzipline.com Yellowstone Zipline & Canopy Tours 63960 Gallatin Rd Big Sky, MT 59730 (406) 763-4465 | (888) 564-4465 yellowstonezip.com Yellowstone Zipline & Canopy Tours 603 Scott St Gardiner, MT 59030 (406) 763-4465 (888) 564-4465 yellowstonezip.com
Bunkhouse Barn Interiors & The Book Peddler 106 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9358 bunkhousebarninteriors.com Mocha Mamma’s Free Heel & Wheel 40 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7744 freeheelandwheel.com
Restaurants 320 Guest Ranch 205 Buffalo Horn Creek Big Sky, MT 59730 (406) 995-4283 | (800) 243-0320 320ranch com Arby’s 138 Firehole Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7101 Arrowleaf Ice Cream Parlor & Grill 27 N Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9776 Bar N Ranch Buttermilk Creek Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-0300 bar-n-ranch.com Big Sky Resort 1 Lone Mountain Trail Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-5000 | (800) 548-4486 bigskyresort.com
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Buffalo Bar & Casino 335 Old Hwy 20 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-1167 thebuffalobar.com
Lodgepole Grill 3907 Phillips Loop Rd Island Park, ID 83429 (208) 558-0192 | (888) 455-9384 pinesislandpark.com
Bullwinkle’s 115 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7974 yellovvstonebullwinkles.com
Madison Crossing Lounge 121 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7621 madisoncrossinglounge.com
Cafe Madriz 311 N Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 600-1947
Pete’s Rocky Mountain Pizza & Pasta 104 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7820 petespizzapasta.com
Campfire Lodge Resort, LLC 155 Campfire Ln West Yellowstone MT 59758 (406) 646-7258 campflrelodgevvestyellowstone.com Canyon Street Grill 22 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7548 canyonstreetgrill.com Dairy Queen 40 N Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4106 Ernie’s Bakery & Deli 406 Hwy 20 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9467 erniesbakery.com Hi Country Tavern & Grill 155 Linos Loop West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9344 hicountrytavern.com Kentucky Fried Chicken 120 Firehole Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9011
Running Bear Pancake House 538 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7703 runningbearph.com Serenity Bistro 38 N Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7660 serenitybistro.com Tea Tao's 132 Madison Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-6838 The Branch Restaurant & Bar 315 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7365 | (800) 646-7365 visityellowstonepark com/holiday-innwest-yellowstone.aspx The Corral Bar, Steakhouse & Motel 42895 Gallatin Rd Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 (406) 995-4249 | (888) 995-4249 corralbar.com
EAT • SERVICES Auto & Gas Auto & Gas
Financial
Corner Cenex 136 N Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7632
First Security Bank 106 S Electric St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7646 ourbank.com
Jake’s Auto 221 Canyon Street West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9500 NAPA Auto Parts 310 Firehole Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7473 Riverside Station 215 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-1024
The Gusher Pizza and Sandwich Shoppe 40 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9050 gusherpizza.com
The Branch Bar & Casino 315 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7365 (800) 646-7365 visityeIlowstonepark.com/holiday-innwest-yellowstone.aspx
Three Bear Restaurant 205 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone MT 59758 (406) 646-7811 threebearlodge corn
The Pines at Island Park 3907 Phillips Loop Rd Island Park, ID 83429 (208) 558-0192 (888) 455-9384 pinesislandpark.com
Trapper’s Restaurant 301 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9375 Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon 14 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4400 wildwestpizza.com
LoungesL&ounges Bars & Bars Bullwinkle’s 115 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7974 yellowstonebullwinkles.com Grizzly Lounge 205 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7828 Hi Country Tavern & Grill 155 1 Loop West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9344 hicountrytavern.com Madison Crossing Lounge 121 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7621 madisoncrossinglounge.com
Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon 14 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4400 wildwestpizza.com
SERVICES ATMs & Banks First Security Bank 106 S Electric St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7646 ourbank.com Food Roundup 107 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7501 foodroundup@aol.com Market Place Montana State Liquor Store 22 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9600 The Gusher Pizza & Sandwich Shoppe 40 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9050 gusherpizza.com
Super Save Conoco 138 Firehole Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9465 Travelers Service Center 36 Electric St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9332 | (800) 548-9551 allyellowstone.com Westgate Auto Body & Towing 103 S Electric Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7181 | (406) 539-5869 yellowstonetowing.com
Cleaning & Restoration Cleaning & Restoration Old Faithful Carpet Cleaning PO Box 612 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7276
Contractors Contractors Matzinger Electric 907 Bridger Or Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 587-7290 McLaughlin Construction, Inc. 610 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7760
Engineering & Planning Engineering & Planning Forsgren Associates, Inc. PO Box 1032 121 Madison Ave, Suite G West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9340 forsgren.com Town of West Yellowstone Building Inspector 440 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7795 townotwestyellowstone.com
Financial
Rudd & Company, PLLC 515 Hwy 20 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9355 ruddco.com
Food & B& everage StoresStores Food Beverage Bullwinkle’s 115 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7974 yellovvstonebullwinkles.com Food Roundup 107 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7501 foodroundup@aol.com Market Place Montana State Liquor Store 22 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9600
Health H & ealth Fitness& Fitness Community Health Partners West Yellowstone 11 S Electric St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9441 chphealthmt.org Madison Crossing Fitness 121 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7621 Silver Tip Pharmacy PO Box 30 120 N Canyon St, Suite F West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7056 fax: (406) 646-7058 silvertippharmacy@live.com West Yellowstone Back and Neck Clinic 425 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4444 wybackandneckclinic.com
InternetInternet Services Services Fire Website Hosting & Design 1028 Chestnut Ave Woodbury Heights, NJ 08097 (406) 646-6176 | (866) 845-4327 firewebsitehosting.com Fremont Communications 110E Main St St Anthony, ID 83445 Residential: (208) 624-7300 Business: (208) 624-7000 fremontsolutions.com
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Services • Utilities Mike Polkowske Photography PO Box 88 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 671-9796 Prismatic Photography West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7980 Silver Cloud Photography Pam Talasco See our Facebook Page: facebook.com/pages/SilverCloud hoto Processing Photo PProcessing
Madison Crossing Digital Photo 121 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4800 cabindecor.com
Printers
Printers
Quickprint of West Yellowstone 435 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-0555 quickiprintwy.com
Laundromats Laundromats
O Supplies & Equipment Office ffice Supplies & Equipment
eal Estate Development RReal Estate & D& evelopment
Swan Cleaners & Laundromat 510 Madison Ave West Yellowstone MT 59758 (406) 646-7892
Terrell’s Office Machines, Inc. 215 Hagerty Ln Bozeman, MT 59771-1870 (406) 587-4455 terrellsoffice.com
Montana Territorial Land Company 121 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7145 | (866) 646-7145 montanaterritorial.com
Packing & Shipping Packing & Shipping
Wild West Real Estate PO Box 183 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 640-2731 wildwestrealestatemt.com
Manufacturers Manufacturers Yellowstone Track Systems 615 Obsidian St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7603 yellowstonetrack.com
Media
Media
AllWestYellowstone.com By AlTrips PO Box 6412 Jackson, WY 83002 (307) 733-5681 | (866) 733-5681 westyellovvstonenet,com Big Sky Weekly - Outlaw Partners 75 Center Ln, Suite B Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-2055 explorebigsky.com KWYS — AM 27 Geyser St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7361 fax: (406) 646-7362 kwys920.com Outside Bozeman 313 W. Mendenhall #8 Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 582-8068 West Yellowstone News 309 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9719 westyellowstonenews.com
Quick Print of West Yellowstone 435 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-0555 Quickprintwy.com Send It Home 30 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7300 send-it-home.com
Pets
Pets
White & White Veterinary Hospital & Supply 35 Gibbon Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 682-7151
Photographers Photographers Fox Den Images Blue Springs, MO United States 816-229-1209 carolynfoxphotos.com Ken Takata Photography PO Box 866 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9722 kentakataphotography.com
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Yellowstone Realty, LLC 303 Canyon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7575 | (800) 738-5816 yellowstonerealty.net
RV Repair RV Repair Mobile RV Tech (541) 517-9413 mobilervtech.biz RV Fix it Pro (801) 831-8111
Suppliers Suppliers Bozeman Job Service Workforce Center 121 N Willson Ave Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 582-9239 wsd.dli.mt.gov/local/bozeman Cardinal Distributing 269 Jack Rabbit Ln Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 586-0241 cardinaldistributing.com
CIEE - Council on Educational Exchange 106 Beartooth Ct Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 (406) 995-3094 ciee.org Costco Wholesale 2505 Catron St Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 585-0383 costco com D&R Coffee Service #10 Shawnee Way Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 586-9696 | (800) 522-9696 drcoffeeservice&mt.net Harrington Bottling Co. 32550 Frontage Rd Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 586-1591 House of Clean, Inc. 404 Bryant St Bozeman, MT 59771-1203 (406) 586-1577 | (800) 223-5082 house-of-clean.com Lehrkinds, Inc. Coca-Cola Bottling Company 1715 N Rouse Ave Bozeman, MT 59719-0580 (406) 586-2029
UtilitiesUTILITIES Charter Spectrum Cable TV (855) 604-4154 CenturyLink (800) 244-1111 Energy West—West Yellowstone 145 N Geyser St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-4437 ewst.com Fall River Propane 436 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (800) 632-5726 fallriverpropane.com Fall River Rural Electric West Yellowstone Branch Office 436 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (800) 632-5726 fallriverelectric.com Republic Services 8600 Huffine Ln Bozeman, MT 59719 (406) 582-6651 Two Seasons Recycling 105 Hayden St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 640-1052 West Yellowstone Transfer Station 263 Ecology Ln West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9383
Travel Airlines
Airlines
SkyWest Airlines West Yellowstone Airport West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7351 | (800) 221-1212 skywest.com
Airports
Airports
Yellowstone Airport (WYS) 721 Yellowstone Airport Rd Located 2 miles north of West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Open Seasonally June 1 through September 30 (406) 646-7631 | (406) 444-2506 yellowstoneairport.org Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport 850 Gallatin Field Rd, Suite 6 Belgrade, MT 59714 (406) 388-6632 bozemanairport.com
Car RentalCar Rental Big Sky Car Rental 415 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9564 | (800) 426-7669 yellowstonevacations.com Budget Rental Car of West Yellowstone 131 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7882 | (800) 231-5991 budget-yellowstone.com
Taxi
Taxi
Yellowstone Road Runner West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 640-0631 yellowstoneroadrunner,com
Transportation Transportation Buffalo Bus Touring Co. 415 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9564 | (800) 426-7669 yellowstonevacations.com Karst Stage, Inc. 511 N Wallace Ave Bozeman, MT 59771-1 1 27 (406) 556-3500 | (800) 845-2778 Salt Lake Express PO Box 566 Rexburg, ID 83440 (208) 656-8824 | (800) 356-9796 West Yellowstone Foundation Bus 412 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 640-0244 westyellowstonefoundation.org/bus.htm
Vacation Vacation PlanningP&lanning Travel&Agencies Travel Agencies See Yellowstone Tours, Inc. 211 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9310 | (800) 221-1151 seeyellowstone.com Two Top Winter Tours 645 Gibbon St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7802 | (800) 522-7802
Traveler’s Snowmobile Rentals 302 Madison Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9332 | (877) 641-6043 allyellowstone.com
Yellowstone Tour & Travel 211 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9310 | (800) 221-1151 yellowstone-travel.com
Yellowstone Adventures 131 Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7735 | (800) 231-5991 yellowstoneadventures.com
Yellowstone Vacations 415 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-9564 | (800) 426-7669 yellowstonevacations.com
Average Temperatures and Precipitation
Temperatures are in degrees Fahrenheit; precipitation in inches.
MONTH
HIGH
February
30
January March April May
June July
August
September October
November December Annual
24 38 47 58 69 78 77 65 52 33 24
49.6
LOW 1 4
12 21 29 36 41 38 30 22 11 1
20.5
PRECIP
SNOW
1.77
28.6
1.97 1.81 1.5 2.2 2.2
1.85 1.38 1.46 1.3
2.01 2.28 21.7
29.6 22.9 12.6 3.1 0.2 0 0
0.3 8.1 28
36.1
160.4
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Life in West Churches Churches
Xanterra Parks & Resorts (307) 344-5627
Church of Christ (#7) 400 N Electric St (406) 646-5109
Yellowstone General Stores (406) 586-7593
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (#8) 375 Gibbon Ave (406) 646-9357
Yellowstone National Park (307) 344-5324
Community Protestant Church (#9) 505 N Electric St (406) 646-7509 cpcvvestyellowstone org
Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center 201 S Canyon St PO Box 996 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7001 | (800) 257-2570 grizzlydis cove ryctrorg
First Baptist Church (#10) 431 Yellowstone Ave (406) 646-9506 | (406) 646-7570 Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church (#11) 437 Madison Ave Corner of Madison Ave & Geyser St (406) 646-7755
Emergency Emergency ServicesServices Ambulance (#4) 400 Yellowstone Ave 911 or (406) 646-9094 Emergency: 911 Fire Department (#4) 400 Yellowstone Ave 911 or (406) 646-9094 Police Department (#3) 124 Yellowstone Ave 911 or (406) 646-7600
Organizations Organizations
Yellowstone Nature Connection 2 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7557 smokejumpercenter.org Rendezvous Ski Race PO Box 65 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 rendezvousrace.com West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce 30 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7701 destinationyellowstone.com West Yellowstone Economic Development Council, Inc. PO Box 190 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7119 wyed.org
EmploymentEmployment
West Yellowstone Foundation PO Box 255 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-1152 westyellovvstonefouridation org
West Yellowstone Job & Social Services 200 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7311
West Yellowstone Foundation Bus 412 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 640-0244 westyellowstonefoundation,org/bus.html
Air Idaho Rescue Airport Road 720.354.6197 | airmethods.com
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West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation PO Box 956 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-3354 rendezvousskitrails.com West Yellowstone Tourism & Business Improvement District PO Box 1633 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 640-0069 yellowstonedestinafion.ccm
Yellowstone National Park Wyoming 82190 (307) 344-2107 visitor services (307) 344-2160 backcountry office nps.gov/yell
School
School
West Yellowstone School District #69 (#12) 411 N Geyser St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7617 westyellmstoneAl 2,mt.us
Yellowstone Historic Center & Museum (#2) 104 Yellowstone Ave PO Box 1299 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-1100 (museum) (406) 646-7461 (office) yellowstonehistoriccenter.org
own Government Town GTovernment
OtherOGther overnment Government
Building Inspector 440 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7609
Clerk & Recorder (406) 582-3050 Gallatin County Courthouse 311 W Main Bozeman, MT 59715 gallatin.mt.gov Gallatin National Forest Hebgen Lake Ranger District (#6) 330 Gallatin Rd West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 823-6961 ts.fed.us/rl/gallatin Motor Vehicle (406) 582-3080 Targhee National Forest 3726 Hwy 20 Island Park, ID 83429 (208) 558-7301 West Yellowstone Post Office (#1) 209 Grizzly Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7704
Town Offices (#4) PO Box 1570 440 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7795 townofwestyellowstone.com
Job & Social Services 440 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7311 Povah Community & Senior Center 10 S Geyser St West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7715 Public Works 440 Yellowstone Ave (406) 646-9074 Recreation Coordinator 10 S Geyser St (406) 646-7715 Town Court 440 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 (406) 646-7845 West Yellowstone Public Library (#5) 23 N Dunraven St West Yellowstone, MT 59758
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DESTINATION YELLOWSTONE West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce PO Box 458 West Yellowstone, Montana 59758 DestinationYellowstone.com (406) 646-7701
1-800-426-7669
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