It happened naturally. It all started in 1872 after Congress officially established Yellowstone National Park and people started flooding into this natural wonder. The area that served as a gateway to the park slowly turned into a more permanent settlement that was officially incorporated into a city in 1966. A small community of about 1200 permanent residents, the city welcomes and accommodates more than four million people who visit the national park every year. If you are wondering what to see in Montana, West Yellowstone is a great place to start exploring. While the tourism is good for the economy, the residents probably enjoy a nice breathing period during the cold winter months when the flow of tourists ebbs a bit. The city is a true gateway to all outdoor adventures. Fishing, especially fly fishing, is excellent year-round, and there is an ice fishing tournament on Hebgen Lake every year. There are miles and miles of snowmobile trails and about 35 kilometers of trails for cross-country skiing. Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center has live wolves, grizzly bears and raptors in their natural habitat. West Yellowstone has Montana's first IMAX Theatre, and the shopping ranges from outdoor gear to fine local crafts. And whatever your taste requires when dinner time comes, you will find it in this charming and welcoming small town in Montana.
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.