Is snowmobiling allowed in Yellowstone National Park?

Only four non-commercially guided snowmobile groups are allowed in Yellowstone per day, which equates to one per park entrance. There are snowmobile tour operators at Yellowstone’s North, West, South and East entrances.

Why did it take 15 years to finalize snowmobiling in Yellowstone National Park?

The U.S. government Tuesday announced new rules for snowmobiles in Yellowstone that should make the country’s oldest national park cleaner and quieter. The rules were 15 years in the making because of intense wrangling between snowmobile operators and environmentalists.

Can you snowmobile in national parks?

Today, snowmobiling occurs in 43 of the 388 units of the National Park System in 21 different states with most of the snowmobile use occurring on existing roads or frozen water surfaces. Of these 43 parks, 22 receive less than 200 snowmobile visitors per year or limit use to a small area.

Can you snowmobile in Glacier National Park?

Though not permitted within Glacier National Park boundaries, snowmobiling is a popular Winter sport near Glacier National Park. The north shore of Flathead Lake area offers more than 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and forest service roads about an hour from Glacier Park Airport.

What months Can you snowmobile in Yellowstone?

Yellowstone opens up 600 miles of snowmobile trails during its winter season, from mid-December to mid-March. Off-road use of snowmobiles is prohibited. The main road between Mammoth Hot Springs, Gardiner and the Northeast Entrance is plowed and open to the public year-round.

How old do you have to be to snowmobile in Yellowstone?

In order to operate the snowmobile inside Yellowstone National Park you have to have a valid drivers license. Children of age 6 or older are allowed to ride along as a passenger on the snowmobile.

How much do snowmobiles pollute?

A two-stroke snowmobile can emit as many hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides as 100 cars and create up to 1,000 times more car- bon monoxide (EPA, 2002).

Are 2 stroke snowmobiles allowed in Yellowstone?

This large number of two stroke motors in the park created a serious noise and pollution problem that even snowmobile tour operators took issue with. This ruling allows riding to continue in the park, and give tourists ample opportunity to do so, without overwhelming the park with sleds.

When can you snowmobile in Montana?

Montana is worth visiting any time of the year, but the winter months provide some unique and stunning riding opportunities for snowmobilers. You can venture deep into the backcountry or bounce around beginner trails, all while witnessing the unmatched beauty of the West.

Why are snowmobiles banned in Yellowstone National Park?

Winter use first became a legal issue in 1997 when the animal rights organization Fund For Animals filed a lawsuit to ban all snow grooming of paved roads in the Park, effectively banning snowmobiles because they are only allowed to travel on groomed roads.

Can I rent a snowmobile in Yellowstone National Park?

The following businesses rent Best Available Technology snowmobiles approved for use in Yellowstone’s Non-commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program. Winter is a magical time to explore Yellowstone by skis, snowshoes, snowmobile, or snowcoach. Make tracks in a winter wonderland.

When were snowmobiles first allowed into the park?

Snowmobiles were first allowed into the Park in 1963. At the time, the National Park Service (NPS) encouraged sensible snowmobile use in the Park as a way to increase winter visitation.

What are the rules and regulations for Yellowstone National Park?

These regulations help us protect park resources while also providing you a safe and enjoyable experience. The following activities are prohibited in Yellowstone: Willfully remaining near or approaching wildlife, including nesting birds, within any distance that disturbs or displaces the animal.