
First stop for orientation, park passes, backcountry permits, and restroom breaks before entering Yellowstone
First-time orientation, Backcountry Permits, Bathroom breaks
Backcountry and fishing permits issued here; Passport cancellation stamps available; Free Unigrid maps
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ample street parking along the main street; busy times can occur, but no dedicated RV lot data available
Backcountry permits issued here; backcountry office inside the center
Flush toilets indoors; potable water filling stations and water fountains; Public WiFi available
Mornings can be busy; arrive early for quicker service.
Address
30 Yellowstone Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, USA
Based on 3910 Google reviews
Gaurav
The West Entrance is one of the most convenient and lively gateways to Yellowstone. It’s the fastest way to exit the park and offers easy access to great dining options, gas stations, and shops in West Yellowstone town. If you’re a vegetarian, don’t miss the Falafel Spot food truck (Address: 3 N Canyon St, West Yellowstone, MT 59758)—it serves amazing wraps and bowls!In case you have not encountered any Grizzly bears in the park, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (walking distance from the visitor centre) is a must-see, where you can safely watch Grizzly Bears, Gray Wolves, River Otters, Eagles, Owls and more. Tickets are valid for two days, so you can return the next day as well. The drive to Wyoming airport is about the same via West and North Entrances from inside of the park, making the West side a practical and enjoyable route.
Tan. T.
The West Yellowstone Visitor Center is the perfect pit stop before entering Yellowstone National Park. The facility is spacious, very clean, and conveniently located right before the main entrance. The restrooms are well kept, and the info desk and rangers are always available to answer questions. We enjoyed the many exhibits inside, which are both educational and engaging, and especially appreciated that it’s very kid-friendly. The Junior Ranger program was a big hit with our kids! A great place to pause, get oriented, and make the most of your visit to Yellowstone. Highly recommended.
Roy
Haven't been here since I was a teen, a long time ago! But its just as beautiful here as then. We saw old faithful and the pools. The bison were roaming near the roads on this visit.
Showing 3 of 3910 reviews
Yes—the backcountry desk is inside this center and permits are issued here.
Yes, free Unigrid maps are available at this center.
Yes, the Junior Ranger book is available and kid-friendly.
Not here—the Yellowstone Forever bookstore is at the Albright Visitor Center.
Not here—the Yellowstone Forever bookstore is at the Albright Visitor Center.
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