Trip Planner
All three of Montana’s Yellowstone gateways are built for adventure, but West Yellowstone adds a special dose of small-town personality to its lineup of tour operators, outfitters and recreation hubs. Often referred to simply as “West,” this lively town just outside the park’s west entrance has everything from private cabins and boutique hotels to coffee shops, galleries, taquerias, gear shops and one of the largest IMAX theaters in the region.
There’s no shortage of ways to explore the surrounding wilderness. In winter, snowmobile and snowcoach tours are the way into Yellowstone National Park. Nordic skiers and snowshoers will also find groomed trails in and around town. The surrounding forest is laced with trails for fat biking and snowmobiling, and West is often considered one of the top snowmobiling destinations in the country.
In summer, the action shifts to the lakes and rivers. Hebgen and Quake lakes are prime for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Fly-fishing thrives year-round on the Madison and Gallatin rivers, drawing anglers from all over the world. And after a day outdoors, there’s a steakhouse, microbrew, museum or theater seat waiting for you back in town.
Kick off the day at Running Bear Pancake House, then hit the river or trails. In the evening, choose from the West Yellowstone Rodeo (June–August), a show at The Playmill Theatre (Memorial Day–Labor Day), or Music in the Park—the free summer concert series at Pioneer Park (June–August). Bring a blanket and enjoy the sunset.
Don’t miss the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center — a nonprofit educational facility that cares for rescued, non-releasable grizzlies and wolves. It’s open year-round, with naturalistic habitats, interpretive exhibits, and daily programs that teach bear-country safety. See bears and wolves up close — even in winter.
From June to August, the West Yellowstone Rodeo keeps the arena buzzing, while The Playmill Theatre runs its beloved summer season. Fourth of July brings a parade, live music and fireworks. Thanksgiving week kicks off winter with the West Yellowstone Ski Festival, a Nordic favorite. On select weekends December through March, families can join KIDS ’N’ SNOW — a free/low-cost program that introduces kids to winter fun like ice skating, snowshoeing, Nordic skiing and wildlife activities. In March, engines roar at the Octane Snowmobile Expo, and in December the town sparkles during the Christmas Stroll.
