Home / Environment / Yellowstone Delays Opening Due to Major Winter Storm
Yellowstone Delays Opening Due to Major Winter Storm
17 Apr
Summary
- Yellowstone's Friday opening delayed by heavy snow and winds.
- Park roads covered in up to 12 inches of wet snow; ice expected.
- Power outages reported in Canyon Village and Old Faithful.

Yellowstone National Park's scheduled 8 a.m. opening on Friday, April 17, has been delayed to noon due to a severe winter storm. The park has experienced up to 12 inches of heavy, wet snow, with additional snowfall and temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit forecast.
These conditions have led to hazardous driving, including deep snow, ice, and poor visibility. NorthWestern Energy crews are working to restore power to Canyon Village and Old Faithful, which are experiencing weather-related outages. Park crews will continue road plowing overnight and assess conditions Saturday morning.
The road from the North Entrance in Gardiner to the Northeast Entrance near Cooke City, Montana, remains open, though winter driving conditions are expected. Visitors are advised to have flexible travel plans, as temporary road restrictions or closures may occur without notice.