Welcome to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park

The Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park is a picturesque and less-traveled gateway located near Cooke City, Montana. It is open year-round, though accessibility can be limited in the winter due to snow. This entrance is renowned for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and proximity to the famous Lamar Valley, often referred to as the "Serengeti of North America" due to its abundant and easily visible wildlife.

Nearest Gateway Communities

Featured Attractions

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Lamar Valley

Just a short drive from the Northeast Entrance, Lamar Valley is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The valley is home to large herds of bison and elk, and it’s one of the best places in the park to see wolves and grizzly bears. Early morning and late evening are the best times to spot wildlife, but the expansive vistas and natural beauty make it worth a visit any time of day.
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Pebble Creek

Pebble Creek, located near the Northeast Entrance, offers a serene and beautiful area for camping, fishing, and hiking. The Pebble Creek Campground is a favorite for those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience with nature. The nearby Pebble Creek Trail provides excellent opportunities for day hikes and exploring the scenic terrain.
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Soda Butte

Soda Butte is an interesting geothermal feature near the Northeast Entrance. It is a large, dormant hot spring cone that rises dramatically from the landscape. This unique formation provides a glimpse into the park's volcanic past and makes for a great photo opportunity.
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Beartooth Highway

The Beartooth Highway (US-212), leading to the Northeast Entrance, is often described as one of the most beautiful drives in America. This All-American Road winds through the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, reaching elevations over 10,000 feet. The highway is typically open from late May through mid-October and offers breathtaking views, alpine lakes, and numerous hiking opportunities.

Getting Here

The Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park offers a serene and scenic entry point, leading to some of the park’s most iconic and wildlife-rich areas. Whether you're exploring the abundant wildlife in Lamar Valley, hiking along Pebble Creek, or driving the spectacular Beartooth Highway, the Northeast Entrance provides an unforgettable Yellowstone experience. Here’s how to get to the Northeast Entrance:

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Driving

  • From Billings, MT: Take I-90 West to Exit 434 for US-212 South. Follow US-212 through Red Lodge, MT, and over the Beartooth Highway to the Northeast Entrance. The drive is approximately 130 miles and takes about 3 hours. This route offers spectacular mountain scenery and is a highlight of any trip to Yellowstone.
  • From Cody, WY: Take WY-120 North to the junction with WY-296 (Chief Joseph Scenic Byway). Follow WY-296 West to US-212 and continue west to the Northeast Entrance. The drive is about 95 miles and takes around 2 hours. This route also offers stunning views and a scenic journey through the Absaroka Range.
  • From Red Lodge, MT: Take US-212 West over the Beartooth Highway directly to the Northeast Entrance. The drive is approximately 65 miles and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. This route is known for its breathtaking views and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the United States.
  • From Bozeman, MT: Take I-90 East to Exit 408 for US-89 South. Follow US-89 South through Livingston and then take MT-540 South to US-212 East. Continue on US-212 East to the Northeast Entrance. The drive is approximately 140 miles and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, offering beautiful views of the Montana landscape.

Flying

  • Billings Logan International Airport (BIL): Located about 140 miles from the Northeast Entrance, this is the closest major airport. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to the entrance, enjoying the scenic Beartooth Highway along the way.
  • Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD): Located in Cody, Wyoming, about 110 miles from the Northeast Entrance. This airport provides another convenient option, with rental cars available for the drive through the beautiful Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and Beartooth Highway.
  • Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN): Approximately 140 miles from the PNortheast Entrance, this airport offers another option for visitors. Rental cars are available for the drive, which includes scenic routes through the Montana countryside.

Shuttles

  • Shuttle Services: Public transportation options to the Northeast Entrance are limited, but some private shuttle services may operate from nearby towns during peak seasons. Check with local providers for availability and schedules.

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