West Yellowstone Montana & Big Sky Vacations

West Yellowstone is a rustic mountain town nestled between national forests and Yellowstone National Park. Located in Southwestern Montana just 1.5 miles from Wyoming and eight miles from Idaho, West Yellowstone shares a common border with Yellowstone National Park and is the Park's only West gateway. As such, West Yellowstone considers itself to be the "Hub of Yellowstone Country" because of its fortuitous location to all the wonders of Yellowstone National Park.

The area abounds with captivating wildlife, breathtaking views and recreational activities for people of all ages. Within the world's first national park, Yellowstone, 10,000 thermal features and 2.5 million acres of nature's best offer days of exploration, adventure and learning. Restored gold mining towns, the fascinating 1959 earthquake area and two National Forests provide the backdrop for even further fun.

West Yellowstone nestles between national forests and Yellowstone National Park.

WEST YELLOWSTONE - A BRIEF HISTORY

Initially, West Yellowstone was a part of the National Forest. Lots were held on Forest Service Leases, and rules and regulations regarding usage were set by the District Forester. By 1913 there were thirteen lease holders and about fifty buildings in the area.

In January 1920, President Woodrow Wilson removed the lots from the National Forest, creating the new town site. That same year the town's name was changed for the third and final time. Beginning as Riverside in 1908, it was changed to Yellowstone the following year. To avoid confusion with the nearby park, "West" was added in 1920.

WEST YELLOWSTONE TODAY

Today, tourism remains West Yellowstone's main business, as it has been historically. The town's economy relies on tourists traveling to and from Yellowstone National Park, and not just during the summer months as it was initially. Beginning in 1971, when the first overnight accommodations opened for the winter in Yellowstone National Park, a two season economy became a reality.

Tourism remains West Yellowstone's main business.

WEST YELLOWSTONE - RECREATION

West Yellowstone tops every snowmobiler's dream. The trail system begins right in town, where snowmobilers share city streets with motorists. Then there is a choice from 180 miles of groomed trails inside the park or 400 miles outside.

Winter season visitors can also revel in cross-country skiing, dog sledding, snow shoeing or touring by snowcoach. West Yellowstone tops every snowmobiler's dream.

Summer activities include hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding and river rafting, all with a backdrop of spectacular scenery and wildlife.

A multitude of lodgings, attractions, restaurants, shops and events add the remaining ingredients that make West Yellowstone a great destination in any season.

WEST YELLOWSTONE AT A GLANCE

• Population: 912 permanent; 1,500 summer season
• Elevation: 6,666 feet
• Town Size: Approximately 49 square blocks
• Type of government: Self-government
• Medical Facilities: One year-around clinic served by physicians' assistants
• Emergency Services: Ambulance, Police, Fire and Search & Rescue
• Schools: West Yellowstone School District #62
• Enrollment: 242 K-12
• Other Town Services: Public Library, Social Services/Job Service, Parks and Recreation
• Public Parks: 3 including playing fields, basketball court, picnic facilities and skating rink
• Churches: Baptist, Catholic, Church of Christ, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Community Protestant Church