When you plan a trip to Yellowstone National Park, the world's first national park, known for geysers, wildlife, and vast backcountry. Also known as Yellowstone Park, it spans over 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho—but you won’t stay inside it. You’ll stay in one of the Yellowstone gateway towns, small communities just outside the park gates that provide lodging, food, gas, and park info. These towns aren’t just stops—they’re your launchpad.
There are five main Yellowstone gateway towns, each with its own vibe, access point, and seasonal strengths. Gardiner, Montana, the north entrance town, is open year-round and lets you walk straight into the park’s thermal areas like Mammoth Hot Springs. West Yellowstone, Montana, sits at the west gate and is packed with tour operators, gear shops, and the busiest visitor center. Then there’s Cody, Wyoming, a historic cowboy town with western charm and easy access to the east entrance. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is more upscale, with luxury stays and a direct route to the south entrance near Grand Teton. And Moab, Utah, is far but worth it if you’re combining Yellowstone with Arches or Canyonlands. Each town changes dramatically with the seasons—some shut down in winter, others thrive.
Choosing the right gateway town affects everything: how early you get into the park, where you eat after a long day, and even how much you spend on lodging. If you want to see Old Faithful without fighting crowds, staying in West Yellowstone gives you a head start. If you’re visiting in November and want to see bison near Mammoth, Gardiner is your only real option. Some towns offer free shuttles to park entrances, others have grocery stores that actually stay stocked in July. You’ll find guides on lodging costs, shuttle schedules, and even where to grab the best coffee before sunrise—all covered in the posts below. Whether you’re planning a three-day trip or a week-long adventure, knowing these towns means you’ll spend less time driving and more time watching bears, geysers, and sunsets over the Yellowstone River.
Find out which cities are closest to Yellowstone National Park and choose the best gateway town for your visit. Learn where to stay, when to book, and how to avoid crowds.
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