The West Entrance Is Yellowstone's Most Popular — and for Good Reason
The West Entrance handles roughly 40% of all Yellowstone traffic. It's the closest gate to Old Faithful (30 miles), Grand Prismatic Spring, and the park's most famous geyser basins.
If you're staying in Island Park or West Yellowstone, this is your entrance. It connects directly to the Madison Junction, the crossroads to the park's biggest attractions.
Hours, Fees & Passes
| Season | Dates (approx.) | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Late April – Early November | All vehicles, gates open 6 AM |
| Winter | Mid-Dec – Mid-March | Oversnow vehicles only |
| Shoulder | March–April, Nov–Dec | Road may be closed for plowing |
Entrance Fees (2025–2026)
- Private vehicle: $35 (valid 7 days, includes Grand Teton)
- Motorcycle: $30
- Individual (bike/foot): $20
- America the Beautiful Annual Pass: $80 (all national parks)
Buy Your Pass Online
Purchase at recreation.gov before you arrive. Show the QR code at the gate. During peak summer mornings, the entrance line can be 20–45 minutes.
What to Expect at the Gate
- Peak season (June–August): 15–45 minute waits between 8–10 AM
- Before 7 AM and after 3 PM: minimal waits
- Rangers check your pass or collect payment — have it ready
- You'll receive a park map and current alerts
First Stops Inside the West Entrance
After the gate, drive 14 miles along the Madison River to Madison Junction. From there:
- South → Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin (16 miles, 30 min)
- East → Canyon Village & Grand Canyon (32 miles, 50 min)
- North → Norris Geyser Basin (14 miles)
Recommended First-Day Stops
- Old Faithful — erupts every ~90 min, check predicted times at the visitor center
- Grand Prismatic Spring — take the overlook trail for the best views
- Midway Geyser Basin — boardwalk through steaming pools
- Biscuit Basin / Black Sand Basin — less crowded, equally beautiful
Drive Times from the West Entrance
| Destination | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Madison Junction | 14 mi | 20 min |
| Old Faithful | 30 mi | 45 min |
| Grand Prismatic | 24 mi | 35 min |
| Norris Geyser Basin | 28 mi | 40 min |
| Canyon Village | 46 mi | 1 hr 10 min |
| Mammoth Hot Springs | 49 mi | 1 hr 15 min |
| Lamar Valley | 72 mi | 1 hr 45 min |
| Yellowstone Lake | 56 mi | 1 hr 20 min |
Drive times assume no traffic or wildlife jams. In peak summer, add 20–40 minutes.
Insider Tips
- Fill your gas tank before entering — only 2 gas stations inside the park
- Pack lunch and snacks — in-park food is mediocre and overpriced
- Bring binoculars — Madison River corridor has excellent bison and elk viewing
- Check road status at nps.gov/yell before driving
- Download the NPS Yellowstone app for offline maps
Wildlife on the Madison River
The 14-mile drive to Madison Junction follows the Madison River. Bison herds frequently cross the road here, especially in early morning. Drive slowly and have your camera ready.
Where to Stay Near the West Entrance
West Yellowstone, Montana
Right at the park's doorstep. Hotels, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. Higher prices and smaller rooms during peak season.
Island Park, Idaho (Our Recommendation)
Just 30 minutes south. More space, better prices, quieter setting. Our cabin sleeps up to 12 with a full kitchen, hot tub, fire pit, and mountain views.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the West Entrance open?
Gates open at 6 AM during peak season (late April – early November). Winter access is oversnow vehicles only.
How long is the entrance line?
15–45 minutes between 8–10 AM in summer. Before 7 AM or after 4 PM, usually under 5 minutes.
How far is Island Park from the West Entrance?
About 25 miles / 30 minutes via Highway 20.
Is the West Entrance open in winter?
The gate is open but the road is restricted to oversnow vehicles (snowmobiles, snowcoaches) mid-December through mid-March.