Snowmobiling

 

Every year in early November, most park roads close to regular traffic in preparation for the winter season. The only exception is the road between Mammoth Hot Springs and the northeast entrance, which is open to regular traffic all year.

Once enough snow accumulates (usually by mid-December), roads open to “oversnow” travel only. This means the only way to visit Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and other popular destinations during winter is by guided snowmobile or snowcoach, or through the Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program.

Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program

The Non-commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program permits people to snowmobile in Yellowstone without the presence of a commercial guide. Up to four non-commercially guided groups are allowed to enter the park daily: one at each oversnow entrance.

 

How to Apply

Anyone 18 or older can apply to be a non-commercial snowmobile guide in Yellowstone. Permits are issued through a lottery system hosted on Recreation.gov or by calling [phone]. Each permit costs $40 per day, plus a $6 application fee.

Lottery applications are accepted from August 1–31, and permits are awarded in mid-September. Any unclaimed or canceled permits become available on a first-come, first-served basis starting October 1—there is no waiting list. Cancellations can occur throughout the winter, so check the website regularly for openings.

You can list the names of friends or family joining your trip either during the application process or at the park entrance on the day of your visit.

Requirements & Restrictions

Non-commercial guides are responsible for ensuring that everyone in their group complies with park regulations and program logistics. Non-commercial guides should be familiar with snowmobile safety, general first aid, snowmobile repair, the park road system, as well as park regulations. In addition:

• Non-commercial guides may not charge a fee; these trips are for friends and family groups only.
• Maximum group size is five snowmobiles per permit.
• All snowmobiles must be registered and certified as meeting NPS requirements for New Best Available Technology (BAT). No side-by-side machines with tracks are allowed. BAT snowmobiles can be rented from local businesses.
• All snowmobile operators must:
  • be at least 16 years or older by the first day of the trip;
  • have a valid driver’s license;
  • pass the Yellowstone Snowmobile Education Certification course.
• Non-commercial guides may lead no more than two trips per winter season.
• To lead an overnight trip (maximum of three days and two nights), non-commercial guides must secure a multi-day permit in the lottery.

Make sure to read more about the logistics & regulations involved in planning a safe, fun trip.

Cancellation Policy

To cancel a reservation, visit Recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777. Trips that are canceled at least one week before their start date will receive a partial refund (the $6 application fee is nonrefundable). Permits will not be rescheduled or refunded in the event of poor weather or road closures.

Questions?

For questions about this program, contact the Non-commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program coordinator at 307-344-2165 or by email.

 

More Information

• 

  Snowmobile Access Program Logistics

  Review the logistics and regulations for the Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program.

• 

  Winter Safety

  Stay safe in Yellowstone’s winter! Dress warmly, carry essentials, check weather, and be prepared for extreme cold and changing conditions.

• 

  Guided Tours

  Professional guides can help you make the most of your visit.