Explore Grand Teton & Yellowstone in Spring

During the winter months, access to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park is limited by seasonal road closures. It’s a sure sign of spring when park staff begin the gigantic task of plowing the roads, gearing up to welcome summertime visitors.

While exact dates of opening vary in different locations — and depend heavily on weather conditions — here’s what you can expect as you look forward to visiting Grand Teton or Yellowstone this spring!

Yellowstone National Park

As of March 16, crews began the process of plowing in Yellowstone National Park. Here’s how the park explains the current access: “The only road generally open year-round to regular vehicles is from the North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, through the park to Cooke City, Montana (via Tower Junction). Most park roads are closed to regular vehicles from early November to late-April, and are open to limited oversnow travel (commercially-guided snowmobiles and snowcoaches) from mid-December to mid-March. When open, roads are not gated at night and people may enter/exit the park 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

To get a snapshot of when roads may be cleared of snow and accessible to the public, Yellowstone National Park has shared the map below. You can always get more info at their Road Information Page here, too! 

Springtime in Yellowstone is truly magical. It’s much quieter than in summer months, and the cooler temperatures can make for some ethereal viewing conditions. It’s also a great time to catch a glimpse of a bear, as they’re emerging from hibernation and moving about at lower elevations. 

Be aware, however, that weather conditions can change quickly in the spring. Preparedness is key to having a safe and enjoyable experience in Yellowstone National Park! Not all stores or other operations are open in the early spring, so it’s smart to pack plenty of layers, a picnic for the day, and make sure the gas tank is full before you venture out!

Grand Teton National Park

The main thoroughfare that traverses Grand Teton National Park (U.S. HWY 89) is open throughout the winter season. Vehicle access to Flagg Ranch (near the South Entrance) is maintained, and you can also reach Dubois, WY, via Togwotee Pass all winter long. 

However, the road between Taggart Lake Trailhead (just past Moose) and Signal Mountain Lodge (just before the Jackson Lake Dam) is closed during the winter. It’s a popular spot for skiers and snowshoers during the winter, as it’s groomed for this use and offers easy access and stunning views. 

Grooming has wrapped up for this winter, but the road won’t be open to vehicles until May 1st. In the interim, park staff will plow the road (no word yet on exactly when), and it’s a popular spot to walk and ride bikes in the springtime sunshine! (Bonus: as long as your dog is on a leash that’s 6 feet or less and stays within 30 feet of the roadway, you’re allowed to bring your four-legged friend on your adventure!)

Smaller roads in Grand Teton are not plowed on a strict schedule, so if you’re hoping to access points like Schwabacher’s Landing or Mormon Row, you’ll need to be patient and hope for lots of sunshine. You can stay updated on accessibility on the Grand Teton website. 

Springtime is a magical time of year to explore the national parks near Jackson Hole. Not only are there fewer guests and more solitude, it’s a wonderful time to appreciate the dynamic nature of the landscape and its wild inhabitants. A beautiful reminder of the unparalleled majesty of Jackson Hole!