Planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park means preparing for unforgettable landscapes, iconic wildlife, and remarkable geothermal features. But before you reach the park’s gates, you’ll want to know one of the basics: how much does it cost to get in?
Yellowstone charges an entrance fee, but there are several options to choose from depending on how you travel, how often you visit national parks, and whether you qualify for certain discounts.
Let’s break it down so you can pick the best pass for your journey.
Standard Yellowstone Entrance Fees
As of 2025, here are the current entrance fees for Yellowstone National Park:
- Private Vehicle Pass (non-commercial): $35
- Covers one private, non-commercial vehicle and all occupants
- Valid for 7 consecutive days
- Motorcycle Pass: $30
- Covers one motorcycle and one or two riders
- Valid for 7 consecutive days
- Individual Pass (on foot, bicycle, or non-motorized vehicle): $20
- Per person, ages 16 and up
- Valid for 7 consecutive days
- Children 15 and under are free
These fees apply whether you enter through the West Entrance at West Yellowstone, or any of the park’s four other entry points.
Yellowstone Annual Pass
If you plan to visit Yellowstone more than once in a year or are staying for an extended time, consider purchasing the Yellowstone Annual Pass:
- Cost: $70
- Valid for 12 months from the month of purchase
- Covers the pass holder and up to three accompanying adults (ages 16 and older)
- Only valid for entrance fees, not camping or other amenities
This pass makes sense for travelers who love the park and return often or for families planning multiple visits over the summer.
America the Beautiful National Parks Pass
For those planning to visit multiple national parks or federal recreation sites, the America the Beautiful Pass offers excellent value:
- Cost: $80
- Valid for 12 months
- Grants access to over 2,000 federal sites, including national parks, monuments, forests, and wildlife refuges
- Covers entrance fees for the pass holder and up to three other adults
This pass is a great investment if Yellowstone is just one stop on a larger road trip or if you enjoy exploring public lands throughout the year.
Discounted Passes
Several discounted or free passes are available to eligible individuals. These include:
- Senior Pass (age 62+):
- $20 for annual, or $80 for lifetime access
- Includes the same benefits as the America the Beautiful pass
- Military Pass:
- Free for current U.S. military members and their dependents
- Available with proper identification
- Veterans and Gold Star Families:
- Free lifetime access
- Requires documentation or military ID
- Access Pass:
- Free for U.S. citizens with permanent disabilities
- Includes entrance and amenity discounts
- Fourth Grade Pass:
- Free for U.S. 4th graders and their families during the school year
- Promotes youth engagement with public lands
These passes can be obtained online, at entrance stations, or from authorized retail outlets. Make sure to bring valid ID or necessary paperwork.
Where to Buy Your Pass
Passes can be purchased in several convenient ways:
- At the Entrance Gate: Cash and credit cards are accepted at all entrances, including the West Entrance at West Yellowstone.
- Online: Purchase through the National Park Service or Recreation.gov website.
- Authorized Retailers: Some outdoor stores and visitor centers sell passes.
If you buy your pass online, print a copy or download it to your phone for easy access at the gate.
Free Entrance Days
Each year, the National Park Service designates several free entrance days when all visitor fees are waived. These are great opportunities to explore the park at no cost:
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January)
- First Day of National Park Week (April)
- Great American Outdoors Act Anniversary (August)
- National Public Lands Day (September)
- Veterans Day (November)
These days are popular, so expect more crowds and plan ahead for parking and traffic.
What the Entrance Fee Covers
Your entrance fee or pass gives you access to:
- All open roads, scenic drives, and overlooks
- Visitor centers and ranger programs
- Hiking trails (except where otherwise restricted)
- Geothermal areas and boardwalks
- Picnic areas and designated day-use sites
It does not cover:
- Campground fees
- Guided tours
- Boat rentals or permits
- Fishing licenses
- Concessions and gift shops
Always check seasonal opening dates and park alerts before your visit. Road closures, wildlife activity, or construction may impact what you can see.
Tips for Saving Money and Time
Here are a few ways to stretch your budget and reduce stress when entering Yellowstone:
- Travel in a group: One private vehicle pass covers everyone in the car.
- Enter early or late: Avoid peak traffic by arriving before 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
- Explore outside the park: The towns around Yellowstone, including West Yellowstone, offer beautiful hikes and scenic drives that do not require an entrance fee.
- Stay nearby: Booking a spot at Grizzly RV Park in West Yellowstone puts you minutes from the gate and saves time each day.
Grizzly RV Park: A Convenient Home Base
If you’re staying at Grizzly RV Park, located right in West Yellowstone, you’re already in the ideal location to access the park quickly. The West Entrance is just minutes away, making it easy to arrive early and beat the rush.
Grizzly RV Park offers full hookups, clean facilities, and walking access to restaurants, shops, and attractions in town. Plus, you can rest easy knowing you have a comfortable spot to return to after a day of adventure.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead for a Seamless Entry
Knowing how much Yellowstone’s entrance fee is — and what your options are — helps you plan smarter and enjoy more. Whether you choose a single-entry pass, the annual Yellowstone pass, or the full America the Beautiful option, your purchase supports the preservation of this extraordinary place.
By staying nearby in West Yellowstone and arriving early, you can make the most of every dollar and every minute in the park. Grab your pass, pack your gear, and get ready to explore one of America’s greatest treasures.
