After much resistance, the first automobiles were allowed in Yellowstone in 1915, bringing the modern era of motorized transportation to the park. A host of new vehicles were introduced to the park during the 20th century, from iconic yellow tour buses to speedboats and snowmobiles, opening Yellowstone like never before to visitors and staff. These developments presented new questions about how to keep the park both wild and accessible to visitors, a delicate balance that continues to guide the work of the National Park Service at Yellowstone.
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Buses
Yellowstone National Park’s iconic yellow buses have toured visitors since 1917.
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Private Automobiles
Cars revolutionized the Yellowstone visiting experience.
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Boats and Blizzards
Visitors toured the park on steamships and oversnow vehicles.
Last updated: June 7, 2024