Yellowstone Hits Major Reopening Milestone as Busy Summer Tourism Season Looms

Yellowstone National Park has officially reopened Dunraven Pass, the final stretch of roadway to open for the season. And it comes just in time for the busy summer months. This high-elevation route connects Canyon Village to Tower Fall in the Wyoming portion of the park and its reopening marks a key seasonal milestone.

“This means all roads in the park are open and accessible,” park officials announced Friday via Facebook, kicking off full seasonal access across the park's 3,400 square miles.

Each year, most of Yellowstone’s roads close from early November through late April due to heavy snowfall, with only the Gardiner-to-Cooke City corridor in Montana remaining open during winter. The full reopening signals the start of peak visitation, granting travelers access to the park’s sprawling 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. As a result, full access to the grounds will grant summer visitors a wide range of experiences, from backcountry hikes and geyser watching to wildlife photography and classic road trips. 

As the first U.S. national park, established in 1872, Yellowstone continues to attract millions each year with its geothermal features and abundant wildlife. Though no timed-entry reservations are required, traffic can be heavy in summer, particularly at popular destinations like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Lamar Valley. So park officials are urging guests to plan ahead, stay alert, and follow all safety guidelines to ensure a safe and responsible visit.

Additionally, park rangers are also advising visitors to exercise caution around wildlife. Recent incidents, including a man gored by a bison and the euthanization of a grizzly bear that became food-conditioned, underscoring the importance of respecting both animals and park rules. With all roads now open, Yellowstone invites travelers to enjoy its natural wonders, responsibly. 

Visitors can check the park website for more information on current road conditions and closures.