Gateway Communities

Gateway Communities

Montana is home to three of the five entrances into Yellowstone National Park, and each of them is located in a “gateway community” that offers its own flavor of adventure. These three towns are more than just doorways to the park — they’re where your stories take root. One way to "do Yellowstone" is to make your home base one of these charming small towns.

GARDINER
NORTH ENTRANCE
(PARK ENTRANCE OPEN YEAR-ROUND)

Gardiner’s laid-back, no-fuss vibe makes it the year-round gateway to Yellowstone. With the Yellowstone River flowing through and the iconic Roosevelt Arch to welcome you, it’s the only entrance with winter vehicle access. It’s also a mere 10 minutes from the park’s Mammoth Hot Springs terraces. After exploring, unwind in town or soak at Yellowstone Hot Springs just up the road.

COOKE CITY-SILVER GATE
NORTHEAST ENTRANCE
(PARK ENTRANCE OPEN LATE MAY TO MID-OCTOBER)

Along the stunning Beartooth Highway, Cooke City and Silver Gate provide seasonal access to Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley, often called “America’s Serengeti” for its abundant wildlife. Enjoy hiking, fishing and snowmobiling, then explore Cooke City’s rustic shops and friendly cafés.

WEST YELLOWSTONE
WEST ENTRANCE
(OPEN LATE APRIL TO EARLY NOVEMBER)

West Yellowstone combines small-town charm with big adventure. It's Montana's largest park entrance town and has the most lodging options. It's also about 30 minutes from Old Faithful geyser. Visit the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, or wander the town’s shops, eateries and lively local scene. In the winter, consider a snowcoach or guided snowmobile tour of the park from West Yellowstone.