
A 50-foot-tall arch of columnar basalt frames the North Entrance at Gardiner, with a 30-by-25-foot opening. The inscription 'For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People' is carved on the stone, tying the entry to park legislation. Built in 1903 under Theodore Roosevelt's initiative, this is a man-made gateway rather than a natural feature, yet its basalt echoes Yellowstone's volcanic roots.
Open year-round. For the best light, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower and the area is less crowded.
Gardiner, MT; Mammoth Hot Springs; North Entrance Road Historic District
Drive-up viewing; accessible parking; minimal walking to arch
Safe to view from the parking area; keep distance from wildlife and moving vehicles
Gardiner, MT; Mammoth Hot Springs
Based on 2107 Google reviews
Debashri Manna
A place of strength and beauty! Roosevelt Arch, a rustic-style monument is the formal North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park at Gardiner, Montana, has a rich history. We drove from Mammoth Hot Springs to see this monument; it's a scenic but challenging drive with steep grades and sharp turns. We walked inside on either side of the wood covered doorways and paused to read the inscription, "For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People," feeling gratitude for the foresight to protect this land for everyone.
vasista k.j
A Historic and Iconic EntranceThe Roosevelt Arch is a beautiful and iconic monument that serves as a historic entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Inscribed with the powerful message "For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People," the stone structure is a perfect photo spot to begin your park adventure.The arch itself is a historic gem, with its grand stone blocks and classic design. The sentry entrances are a feature that adds to its historic charm, making it a fun discovery for visitors of all ages. Be sure to keep an eye out for nearby wildlife as you approach the arch. It’s not just an entry point, but a symbol of the national park system and a must-see for its historic and photogenic qualities.
Corey Twardoski
If you drive/walk through the Roosevelt Arch and you don't feel inspired, you're probably in the wrong place. I'm from St. Louis, so obviously I'm an Arch expert... And I can honestly say the Roosevelt Arch is probably my favorite man made arch. It's not the coolest or the most fascinating or even the most impressive, but the immensely powerful message this archway makes is everything. Yellowstone will remain one of the most influential natural wonders of the world, and the Roosevelt Arch reminds us that some of the most beautiful and unique places on earth belong to EVERYONE. The gateway is open, come on through!
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No; there is no arch-specific permit, but park entrance fees apply if you enter Yellowstone.
Parking near the arch can be tight; arrive early or plan for overflow lots nearby to minimize delays.
Yes; drive-up viewing with accessible parking; the area around the arch requires only short steps from the car.
Yes; it marks Yellowstone’s historic gateway and offers strong photographic framing of a key conservation milestone.
Golden hours—early morning or late afternoon—provide the soft light and fewer people for cleaner compositions.
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