Accessibility

 

Accessibility Resources

The official NPS app offers current accessibility details for facilities and select trails. It includes audio descriptions for outdoor exhibits and visitor center entrances, as well as alt text for images. Download the free app before your visit to enhance your experience using your device’s built-in accessibility features.

Access Pass

The America the Beautiful Access Pass provides free lifetime entry and discounts for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Passes are available at park entrances and visitor centers.

Sign Language Interpreters

Accessibility services for ranger programs are available with at least three weeks’ notice. This advance time is necessary as services are contracted with providers who may live several hours from the park. To request accommodations, call 307-344-2251 or email us.

Captioning

• Films at Canyon, Old Faithful, and Grant visitor centers are captioned.
• The Albright Visitor Center at Mammoth Hot Springs features open captions on silent videos accompanying displays and tactile exhibits.

Assistive Listening

• Assistive listening devices are available for films at Canyon and Old Faithful visitor centers.
• The Albright Visitor Center offers induction loop technology at the information desk.

Audio Description

• Audio-described films are available at Canyon and Old Faithful visitor centers.
• The NPS app includes audio-described self-guided trails: Fort Yellowstone National Historic Landmark District and Forces of the Northern Range.
• The Albright Visitor Center tour features audio description.
• Audio description for the Official Yellowstone Map & Guide.
• The UniDescription App offers audio descriptions for many NPS map and guide publications, including Yellowstone’s (free on the App Store and Google Play).

Large Print & Braille

Large print and braille versions of the official Yellowstone Map & Guide are available at visitor centers, contacting the park, or download a copy in a Braille Ready Format (BRF).

Service Animals

Trained service animals assisting individuals with disabilities are welcome in Yellowstone and must be leashed at all times. A service animal is defined as a dog trained to perform tasks the individual cannot do themselves—such as providing balance support, carrying gear, or alerting to medical conditions like seizures.Emotional support, therapy, or companion animals are not considered service animals and are not allowed in buildings, on boardwalks, nature trails, or in the backcountry.

 

 

Accessibility in Developed Areas

The National Park Service and its concessioners are committed to making Yellowstone National Park as accessible as possible. While many facilities are historic and not fully accessible, the park is actively working to identify and remove barriers through a self-assessment and transition plan. Due to Yellowstone’s remote, wilderness setting, some challenges remain. Not all accessible features meet federal standards, and some may not be marked with the international symbol.

Canyon

Facilities

Canyon Visitor Education Center

The building is wheelchair accessible. Accessible restrooms. Tactile and audio exhibits.

Food Service

• Canyon Lodge Dining Room, cafeteria, and deli
  Accessible. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms in the cafeteria and deli. Family restrooms near restrooms.
• Canyon General Store
  Accessible.

Stores

• Canyon Gas and Service Station
  Staffed seasonally during daylight hours and have call buttons at the pumps. Accessible restrooms.
• Canyon General Store
  Accessible.
• Yellowstone Adventures (Outdoor Store)
  Accessible.

Canyon Lodge and Cabins

Nineteen accessible rooms in Dunraven and Cascade lodges, including three accessible suites. Five accessible Western Cabin units with roll-in showers.

Canyon Campground

Three accessible sites in Loop L (can be reserved), with an extended picnic table and a raised fire grate. Accessible restrooms are also in Loop L, near the accessible sites. The camper services building is not accessible. Learn More about campgrounds in Yellowstone.

Learning About the Area

Films and Exhibits

The Canyon Visitor Education Center has accessible tactile and audio exhibits, Films are captioned and audio description and assistive listening devices are available for use in the theater.

Ranger-led Programs

Offered in the summer and sometimes in the fall. The schedule is in the park newspaper, in the online calendar, and posted around the area. Evening programs are accessible; others as noted.

What to See

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River

Accessible restrooms at Brink of Lower Falls parking area. Accessible vault toilets at Artist Point. Designated accessible parking on the north and south rims and at all overlooks. The trail guide includes more information about accessibility.

• North Rim
  Accessible portions of the North Rim Trail lead to additional views between the overlooks.
• Brink of Lower Falls
  A paved path with many steps leads toward the brink. For another view, continue right at the fork in the path on an accessible portion of the North Rim Trail.
• Inspiration Point
  Several accessible overlooks and viewpoints.
• Brink of Upper Falls
  An accessible route from the parking lot to viewpoints of the Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River.
• South Rim
  Accessible walkways with views from the Upper Falls Viewpoints, Discovery Overlook, and Artist Point.

Hayden Valley

No designated parking, but large pullouts are available. Nearest accessible restrooms are at Mud Volcano or Canyon areas.

Madison

Facilities

Madison Information Station

The building is located downhill approximately 250 feet (76 m) from the parking area. Wheelchair users may require assistance to the center and the amphitheater.

Designated Accessible Parking

Designated accessible parking spaces at the walkway leading to the information station and in front of the restrooms and picnic area.

Picnic Areas

• Gibbon Falls
  Accessible vault toilet and picnic tables.
• Madison
  Accessible parking. Wheelchair users may require assistance. Accessible restroom. One accessible picnic table.
• Tuff Cliff
  Information about the volcanic cliff. Accessible vault toilet.

Fishing Ramp & Platform

At the Mount Haynes Overlook, approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) west of Madison Junction. A level boardwalk leads to the Madison River.

Campground

Three accessible sites (can be reserved), with an extended picnic table and a raised fire grate. The closest accessible shower is at Old Faithful Inn (16 miles / 26 km south). Visitors using wheelchairs may require assistance using some of the trails leading from the campground to the river. Learn more about campgrounds in Yellowstone.

West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center

Located 14 miles (23 km) west of Madison Junction, in the town of West Yellowstone, MT. Wheelchair-accessible entrance and restrooms.

Learning About the Area

Ranger-led Programs

Offered in summer. The schedule is in the park newspaper, in the online calendar, and posted around the Madison and West Yellowstone areas.

• Madison
  Visitors attending programs at the amphitheater may require assistance. Other programs as noted in the schedule.
• West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center
  All programs are accessible to visitors using wheelchairs.

What to See

Madison River Junction (Gibbon and Firehole Rivers)

Views of the river junction from several large, accessible pullouts on the West Entrance Road.

National Park Mountain

Wheelchair-accessible views along the West Entrance Road. Exhibits at the Madison Information Station explain the origin of the mountain’s name; wheelchair users may require assistance.

Firehole Canyon Drive

Approximately one mile (1.6 km) south of Madison Junction, this one-way drive descends between two lava flows to the Firehole River. Firehole Cascade is at the far end of the drive.

Two Ribbons Trail

Exhibits on a boardwalk along the Madison River.

Terrace Spring

Accessible boardwalk. A steep grade exists in the middle of the loop; wheelchair users may require assistance.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Facilities

Wheelchair Rental

Wheelchairs can be rented at the medical clinic for a $300 deposit and $15 per day. Wheelchairs are available for loan at the hotel for its guests, and at the visitor center while in the area.

Albright Visitor Center

Two designated parking spaces directly across the street from the accessible entrance. The Backcountry Office and all restrooms are in the basement (accessible by elevator). Accessible restrooms. A manual wheelchair is available for loan at the visitor center while in the area.

Induction loop technology is available for conversations with park rangers at the front desk. Audio description headsets (assistive listening system), a written description of the visitor center exhibits in large print (24 point), large print and braille versions of the official map and guide, and newspaper are available from information desk. Open captioning is included on silent videos associated with displays. Tactile exhibits are throughout the main floor.

Medical Clinic

Two designated parking spaces and wheelchair access at the rear of the building; no wheelchair-accessible restrooms.

Food Service

• Terrace Grill
  Designated accessible parking on the side of the building, adjacent to the ramp. Accessible entrance with ramp, dining, and restrooms. There is a doorbell at the Terrace Grill if assistance is needed.
• Mammoth Hotel Dining Room
  Accessible entrance to the Dining Room and accessible restrooms are inside the Terrace Grill located at the opposite end of the building. To enter the Dining Room, go up the ramp into the Terrace Grill. There is a doorbell at the Terrace Grill if assistance is needed.
• Mammoth Hotel Map Room
  Two spaces in front and two in rear.

Stores

• General Store
  Accessible (ramp on the south side of building).
• Hotel Gift Shop
  Front entrance accessible, near front door.
• Hotel Gift Shop
  Front entrance accessible.
• Mammoth Hot Springs Gas Station
  Staffed seasonally during daylight hours and have call buttons at the pumps. Accessible restrooms are south, right next to the service station on the Grand Loop Road.

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins

Accessible entrances to the hotel, gift shop, and Terrace Grill. Accessible restrooms in the hotel lobby and Terrace Grill. Two accessible hotel rooms. Four accessible cabins.

Campgrounds

Mammoth Campground will remain closed for the 2023-2024 winter season and will reopen in 2024 (dates TBD). During the 2022 flood, a sewer line adjacent to the road that carried wastewater from Mammoth Hot Springs to a sewage treatment plant in Gardiner was ruptured. Currently, work is underway to connect the Mammoth Campground to the new wastewater treatment system in Mammoth.

• Mammoth
  Five accessible sites. Picnic tables, fire rings, and tent platforms are accessible. The water hydrant near site #15 is accessible. Accessible routes along paved roadway. An accessible restroom is near site #4. Public accessible showers are available in Gardiner (5 miles/8 km north). They are the closest accessible shower facility to the Mammoth Hot Springs Campground. Evening ranger programs in the amphitheater are accessible. Designated parking is available. Loose gravel in the seating area may be difficult for wheelchair users to negotiate. Mammoth Campground will remain closed for the 2023-2024 winter season and will reopen in 2024 (dates TBD).
• Indian Creek (south of Mammoth)
  Two designated campsites with accessible tables and fire rings. Accessible vault toilets are adjacent to campsites. Amphitheater is accessible.
• Learn more about campgrounds in Yellowstone.

Yellowstone Heritage and Research Center

Located in Gardiner, MT, this wheelchair-accessible building houses the park’s research library and has exhibits about the park’s history. Learn more about the Heritage and Research Center.

Post Office

Designated accessible parking in front. Accessible entrance on south side of building.

Learning About the Area

Area Trail Guides

Available for a nominal fee at the Albright Visitor Center and near the boardwalks. The Mammoth area guide describes the hydrothermal features of Mammoth Hot Springs. The Fort Yellowstone guide describes the historic area (see below).

Ranger-led Programs

The schedule is in the park newspaper, in the online calendar, and posted around the Mammoth area. Evening programs at the hotel and campground are wheelchair-accessible; others as noted in the schedule.

What to See

Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces

• Lower Terraces
  Some sections of boardwalk are accessible. Transitions from asphalt walkways to boardwalks may require assistance. See the Mammoth Hot Springs Trail Guide map. Distance from the north parking lot in front of Liberty Cap to the end of the boardwalk at Palette Spring is approximately 135 yards (123 m).
• Upper Terrace Drive
  Accessible views of the hot springs. Enter the drive and proceed a short distance to the designated parking area on the left; the boardwalk begins on the right. An accessible boardwalk trail to Canary spring is available as well. Continue 0.7 miles (1.1 km) around the drive to Orange Spring Mound, which has wheelchair accessible parking and a short boardwalk to an exhibit. See the Mammoth Hot Springs Trail Guide map. Recreational vehicles and vehicles towing trailers are not permitted due to the steep and narrow roadway.

Fort Yellowstone National Historic Landmark Self-Guiding Trail

Enjoy a self-guiding tour of this historic site at Mammoth Hot Springs, which dates from the time of U.S. Army management (1886–1918). The route has some potential hazards where the concrete sidewalk has buckled (up to 1.5 inches / 3.6 cm high) or has large gaps at expansion joints. The concrete sidewalk is cracked or deteriorated in some places. Side slope may be up to 6% in places along Officer’s Row. The sidewalks between the Albright Visitor Center and the Administration Building (originally double cavalry barracks) have 10–12% slopes. The audio description in the app describes the wayside exhibits.

Forces of the Northern Range Trail

Designated accessible parking. The entire boardwalk is accessible. Some gaps between boards may exceed .5 inches (1 cm). The boardwalk surface is somewhat uneven in places. There are some tactile exhibits. The audio description in the app describes the wayside exhibits. The closest accessible toilet is at the Blacktail Creek pullout.

Boiling River Trail

Accessible parking space and vault toilet. The first 50 yards (45 m) of the compacted soil trail is accessible. Beyond this point, there are rocks, eroded trail surfacing, and drop-offs, as well as a couple small hills with up to a 20% grade. The soaking area is not accessible.

Winter in Mammoth

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel

Accessible entrances to the hotel, and gift shop. Accessible restrooms in the hotel lobby. Two accessible hotel rooms.

Medical Clinic

See above. Closed weekends.

Food Service

• Mammoth Hotel Dining Room
  Accessible entrance to the Dining Room and accessible restrooms are inside the Terrace Grill located at the opposite end of the building. To enter the Dining Room, go up the ramp to the Terrace Grill. Ring the doorbell to enter. Make your way through the Grill, towards the door on the far wall (near the front windows).
• Mammoth General Store
  Acessible; ramp on the south side of building.

Stores

• Mammoth General Store
  Acessible; ramp on the south side of building.
• Mammoth Hot Springs Gas Station
  Not staffed during winter. However, gas is available.
• Hotel Gift Shop
  Front entrance accessible, near front door.

Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces

• Lower Terraces
  Some sections of boardwalk are accessible during early and late winter depending on snowpack. Talk to a ranger at the Albright Visitor Center for updates.

Groomed Ski Trails

• Blacktail Plateau Drive
  The Blacktail Plateau Ski Trail is an easiest to more difficult 8 mile (12.8 km) one-way ski with two trailhead options. This trail travels through open meadows and forests with great wildlife viewing opportunities in winter.
• Upper Terrace Drive
  In winter this drive is closed to vehicles and groomed for skiing and snowshoeing. The Upper Terrace Loop Ski Trail is a groomed 1.5 mile (2.4 km) loop that ranges from easy to more difficult due to a steep downhill section if traveled to the right from the trailhead. This trail takes you around the Upper Terrace Drive to views of impressive thermal features, the Mammoth Hot Springs Historic District, and distant snow-covered mountain ranges.

Norris

Facilities

Norris Geyser Basin Museum

Designated accessible parking, but no curb cut. Trail to the museum is 200 yards (183 m) and in very poor condition; visitors may require assistance. The north wing (on your right from the trail) is accessible. Visitors using wheelchairs may need assistance to access the outside patio due to rocks embedded in the surface. Museum exhibits are accessible.

Learning About the Area

Area Trail Guide

Available for $1 from the box in front of the museum, this guide includes a map and descriptions of the hydrothermal features of the Norris Geyser Basin.

Ranger-led Programs

Offered in summer. The schedule is in the park newspaper, in the online calendar, and posted around the Norris area. Visitors attending programs at the campground amphitheater may require assistance.

Museum of the National Park Ranger

Designated accessible parking. The boardwalk around the building offers views of the meadow and Gibbon River. There are dropoffs of 1–4 inches (2.5–10 cm) in front of the outdoor exhibits adjacent to the boardwalk. Exhibits and videos are accessible.

What to See

Norris Geyser Basin Trails

Visitors using wheelchairs can see the steam and colors of Porcelain Basin from the Norris Museum. Emerald Pool, Steamboat and Echinus geysers are nearby and are accessible with assistance. Wheelchair travel into Porcelain and Back basins is difficult due to stairs, steep inclines, uneven ground, and changes in trail surface. Visitors using manual wheelchairs may require assistance; motorized wheelchairs may not have enough power. Consult the area trail guide or ask a ranger to recommend routes.

Due to rough terrain, expect steep grades that exceed 8% and uneven ground where rocks and roots protrude into the trail. Most of these sections are marked on the Norris Geyser Basin Trail Guide map, but may change. Use caution.

Roaring Mountain

Large parking pullout. Exhibit is accessible.

Obsidian Cliff

Designated accessible parking, access to the historic exhibit, and a short accessible trail that leads to a wayside exhibit.

Frying Pan Spring

Designated accessible parking. An accessible boardwalk 78 yards (71 m) leads to Frying Pan spring with a bench at the end of the boardwalk.

Artists Paintpots

3.8 miles/6 km south of Norris Junction, the lower portion of this colorful hydrothermal area is wheelchair-accessible. The upper trail to the mudpots includes stairs, is steep and rough, and not recommended for visitors using wheelchairs.

Old Faithful

Facilities

Wheelchair Rental

Wheelchairs can be rented (first-come, first-served) at the Old Faithful medical clinic for a $300 deposit and $15 per day. Manual wheelchairs are available for loan at all lodging facilities and the visitor center while in the area.

Old Faithful Visitor Education Center

Designated parking near entrance of visitor center. Accessible exhibits, including interactive displays with audio components, and open-captioned films. Evening programs are accessible. Others are noted in the schedule.

Yellowstone Tribal Heritage Center

The Yellowstone Tribal Heritage Center highlights Native American artists, scholars, and presenters, providing an opportunity for Indigenous peoples to directly engage visitors through formal and informal education. The Yellowstone Tribal Heritage Center is centrally located between Old Faithful Lodge and Old Faithful Visitor Education Center. Entrance and information desk are accessible.

Post Office

Accessible. Designated accessible parking near entrance.

Food Service

• Old Faithful Inn Dining Room
  Designated accessible parking in front and rear of building. Accessible restrooms. Dining room is accessible.
• Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli
  Designated accessible parking in front and rear of building. Accessible restrooms.
• Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria and Bake Shop
  Designated accessible parking in front of building. Accessible restrooms. Cafeteria and snack bar are accessible.
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room
  Designated accessible parking in front of building. Accessible restrooms and dining.
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyer Grill
  Designated accessible parking in front. Accessible.

Stores

• Old Faithful Gas and Service Station - Lower
  Staffed seasonally during daylight hours and have call buttons at the pumps.
• Old Faithful Gas and Service Station - Upper
  Staffed Seasonally during daylight hours and have call buttons at the pumps.
• Old Faithful General Store - Lower
  Accessible.
• Old Faithful General Store - Upper
  Accessible.
• Old Faithful Lodge Gift Shop
  Designated accessible parking in front. Accessible.
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge Gift Shop
  Designated accessible parking in front. Accessible.

Lodging

• Old Faithful Inn
  Designated accessible parking in front and rear. Accessible restrooms and shower. Family restrooms on first floor. Eight accessible rooms.
• Old Faithful Lodge and Cabins
  Designated accessible parking in front. Accessible restrooms and cafeteria. Two accessible cabins. Family restroom in lobby. Accessible shower house.
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge
  Designated accessible parking in front. Accessible restrooms, dining room, and Geyser Grill. Five accessible rooms and one accessible cabin.

Picnic Areas

• East Lot
  Accessible table.
• Whiskey Flat (north of Biscuit Basin)
  Accessible table.

Learning About the Area

Films and Exhibits

The Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, has accessible exhibits, including tactile displays with audio components, and open-captioned films.

Ranger-led Programs

The schedule is in the park newspaper, in the online calendar, and posted around the area. Evening programs are accessible; others as noted in the schedule.

What to See

Geyser Basins

• Old Faithful Geyser and Upper Geyser Basin
  Accessible walkways lead from all parking areas to Old Faithful Geyser, and from the visitor center to other hydrothermal features. The paved path is also accessible from the Old Faithful Inn to the Lower General Store, and across the road into the geyser basin.
• Black Sand Basin
  One mile (1.6 km) north of the Old Faithful intersection on the main road. Sidewalks leading to the boardwalk have slopes of 9% and 12%.
• Biscuit Basin (closed until further notice due to 2024 hydrothermal explosion)
  Three miles (5 km) north of the Old Faithful intersection on the main road. Boardwalks are accessible, but there is no curb cut at the parking lot.
• Midway Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic Spring)
  Five and one-half miles (8.9 km) north of the Old Faithful intersection on the main road. Accessible parking, boardwalk, and vault toilets.
• Grand Prismatic Overlook at Fairy Falls Trailhead
  Fountain Freight Road leads to steep uphill path to overlook. The running slope at the beginning of the trail is 14%, with grades up to 19%, and cross slopes up to 10%. Not accessible at this time.

Fountain Paint Pot and Firehole Lake Drive

• Fountain Paint Pot
  Nine miles (14.5 km) north of Old Faithful. Designated-accessible parking, but there is no curb cut at the first space. The first part of the trail is wheelchair accessible and perfectly level. It is easily accessible to Silex Spring. Other areas of the boardwalk have steep portions and stairs. Check the map in the Fountain Paint Pot Trail Guide.
• Firehole Lake Drive
  Eight miles (12.6 km) north of the Old Faithful intersection on the main road. Boardwalks are accessible; no restrooms.

Kepler Cascades

• Three and one-half miles (5.6 km) southeast of the Old Faithful overpass on the main road. A level boardwalk leads to a view of Kepler Cascades. Accessible parking is provided.

Winter at Old Faithful

Old Faithful Visitor Education Center

Accessible exhibits, including interactive displays with audio components, and open-captioned films. Evening programs are accessible. Others are noted in the schedule.

Medical Clinic

Emergency: Dial 911. Not open in winter.

Warming Huts

None of the warming huts are accessible at this time. The lobby of the Canyon Visitor Education Center is open during the winter and is accessible and has accessible restrooms.

Food Service

• Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room
  Accessible restrooms and dining.
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyer Grill
  Accessible.

Stores

• Old Faithful Gas and Service Station - Lower
  Not staffed in winter. However, gas is available.
• Old Faithful Gas and Service Station - Upper
  Not staffed in winter. However, gas is available.
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge Gift Shop and Bear Den Ski Shop
  Accessible.

Old Faithful Snow Lodge

Accessible restrooms, Obsidian Dining Room, Geyser Grill, gift shop, and Bear Den Ski Shop. Five accessible rooms and one accessible cabin.

Upper Geyser Basin Boardwalk

Upper Geyser Basin Boardwalk conditions vary in the winter from clear in warm areas, to hard packed snow. Inquire at the visitor center for open areas of boardwalk.

Groomed Ski Trails

• An easy, flat, groomed road that parallels the oversnow travel road begins just outside the front entrance of the Snow Lodge. Inquire at the Bear Den Ski Shop located inside the Old Faithful Snow Lodge Gift Shop for trail conditions.
• Black Sand Basin Ski Trail
  A groomed, 4 mile (6.4 km) round trip, easiest trail that takes you from the Upper Geyser Basin to Black Sand Basin.
• Lone Star Geyser Ski Trail
  A 9 mile (14.4 km) round-trip, easy, machine-groomed trail that takes skiers along the Firehole River to Lone Star Geyser.

Tower-Roosevelt

Facilities

Roosevelt Lodge

Designated accessible parking is adjacent to the General Store, with a ~75 yd (69 m) walk to the lodge.

Food Service

• Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room
  Designated accessible parking in front of lodge. Accessible restrooms in lodge and dining.
• Tower General Store
  Designated accessible parking in front. Accessible.

Stores

• Roosevelt Lodge Gift Shop
  Designated accessible parking in front.
• Tower Fall General Store
  Designated accessible parking is adjacent to the store.
• Tower–Roosevelt Junction Gas Station
  Staffed seasonally during daylight hours and have call buttons at the pumps. Accessible restrooms in building, vault toilet in parking area to the east.

Picnic Areas

• Soda Butte Creek
  Designated accessible parking, accessible vault toilet, and accessible tables.
• Warm Creek
  Accessible vault toilet and parking. Level picnic sites.
• Yellowstone River
  Not currently accessible.

Campgrounds

• Pebble Creek
  One accessible site.
• Slough Creek
  One accessible site.
• Tower Fall
  One accessible site.
• Learn more about campgrounds in Yellowstone.

Learning About the Area

Ranger-led Programs

The nearest visitor centers, with exhibits and ranger-led programs, are the Canyon Visitor Education Center (19 miles / 31 km south) and the Albright Visitor Center at Mammoth (18 miles / 29 km west). Interpretive park rangers rove the Tower–Roosevelt area.

What to See

Tower Fall

Designated accessible parking. Redesigned and constructed in 2021, this ~150 yard (137 m) asphalt trail leads to a view of Tower Fall. Grades range between 2% and 4%.

Mount Washburn and Dunraven Pass

Designated accessible parking at most overlooks. Accessible vault toilets on Dunraven Pass.

Lamar Valley

There are many viewing areas with wayside exhibits, some with designated accessible parking. There is an accessible vault toilet at the Lamar River stock trailhead.

West Thumb

Facilities

Grant Visitor Center

Designated accessible parking. Wheelchair accessible, though users may require assistance at the visitor center restroom. Orientation film is captioned and transcripts are available. Some exhibits are accessible. Manual wheelchairs are available for loan at the visitor center while in the area.

Grant Village Campground

Designated parking at camper services building. Three wheelchair-accessible sites (can be reserved). Three shower, sink, toilet family restrooms. Accessible restrooms in Loop A. Accessible shower in camper services building. Evening ranger programs at amphitheater are accessible; others as noted in schedule. Learn More about campgrounds in Yellowstone.

Grant Marina

Boat launch is accessible.

Food Service

• Grant Lake House Restaurant
  Accessible. Breakfast and dinner only.
• Grant Village Dining Room
  Accessible.
• Grant General Store
  Fast food. Accessible.

Stores

• Grant Village Gas & Service Station
  Staffed seasonally during daylight hours and have call buttons at the pumps.
• Grant Village General Store
  Designated accessible parking. Accessible, including restrooms.
• Grant Village Gift Shop
  Accessible.

Grant Village Lodge

Designated accessible parking at lodging registration building. Twelve wheelchair-accessible hotel rooms. Wheelchairs are available for loan at the lodging registration building for its guests.

Shower

In the Camper Services Building.

West Thumb Information Station

Designated parking. Entrance is accessible. Accessible vault toilets in parking area.

Learning About the Area

Films and Exhibits

Films at Grant Visitor Center are opencaptioned, or transcripts are available.

Ranger-led Programs

Offered in summer. The schedule is in the park newspaper, in the online calendar, and posted around the area. Evening programs at the amphitheater are accessible; others as noted in the schedule.

What to See

West Thumb Geyser Basin

The waters of this geyser basin flow into Yellowstone Lake, the largest lake at high elevation in North America. Enjoy the views of the hydrothermal features, the lake, and the Absaroka Range from the boardwalk. Visitors using wheelchairs may need assistance on the lower loop, which has grades up to 10 percent.

Lewis Falls

11.3 miles (18.3 km) south of West Thumb Junction, this cascade on the Lewis River can be viewed from a pullout along the road. No designated parking, but the pullout may have enough room to maneuver a wheelchair.

Lake

Facilities

Fishing Bridge Visitor Center

If you use a mobility device or have difficultly walking, the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center has a beach wheelchair for strolling along the shore of Yellowstone Lake with your family or friends. The beach wheelchair is available for use during visitor center hours. No reservations are required. Ask a ranger for availability.

Medical Clinic (Lake Village)

Emergency: Dial 911. Designated accessible parking in rear.

Food Service

• Lake Hotel Dining Room
  Accessible.
• Lake Yellowstone Hotel Deli
  Accessible.
• Lake Lodge Cafeteria
  Accessible.

Stores

• Fishing Bridge General Store
  Designated accessible parking. Accessible, including restrooms.
• Fishing Bridge Gas and Service Station
  Staffed seasonally during daylight hours and have call buttons at the pumps.
• Lake General Store
  Accessible. Accessible restrooms northeast of the general store.
• Lake Hotel Gift Shop
  Accessible.
• Lake Lodge Gift Shop
  Accessible.
• Bridge Bay Marina Store
  Accessible from boat ramp area.

Lodging

• Lake Hotel
  Designated accessible parking in front of Sandpiper Annex of hotel. Thirteen accessible rooms in the hotel and Sandpiper Annex. Five accessible cabins.
• Lake Lodge Cabins
  Wheelchair users may require assistance (no curb cut) to access lodge and cafeteria. Ten accessible cabins.

Campgrounds

• Bridge Bay
  Three accessible sites (can be reserved). Accessible restrooms in Loop A of campground and the picnic area on the marina entrance road. Designated accessible parking at restrooms and at the Bridge Bay Marina Store. Amphitheater does not meet accessibility standards and visitors may require assistance; park next to the restroom in Loop D.
• Fishing Bridge RV Park
  Fully accessible RV sites (10), showers, family toilet/shower rooms, and laundry facilities.
• Learn more about campgrounds in Yellowstone.

Learning About the Area

Ranger-led Programs

Offered at Fishing Bridge and Bridge Bay in the summer. The schedule is in the park newspaper, in the online calendar, and posted around the area.

What to See

Fishing Bridge

Designated accessible parking and wayside exhibits.

Natural Bridge

Park in pullout on main road just south of Bridge Bay Marina. This 2.5 mile (4 km), semi-paved trail has slopes up to 8%. Some areas have 5% cross slopes that can be avoided. The trail transitions to a rocky, natural surface where the first views of the natural bridge can be seen. Ask for current trail conditions at the Bridge Bay Marina or Fishing Bridge Visitor Center.

Mud Volcano

Designated accessible parking and accessible restrooms. The lower loop is accessible. Start at the northeast end of the parking area. At the boardwalk junction beyond the Mud Volcano, turn left and return to the parking area.

LeHardys Rapids

There are two pullouts. Park at the north end. The distance from the parking lot to views of the river is approximately 150 feet (46 m). The trail transitions from boardwalk to a level, natural surface. The southern end of the trail has stairs.

All Accessible Resources

ATM

Accessible ATMs are available in the major areas.

Boating

Bridge Bay Marina and Grant Village have accessible boating facilities. Read more about boating regulations in Yellowstone.

Camping

All campgrounds have at least one wheelchair-accessible site. Two backcountry campsites are maintained to accommodate wheelchair users.

Designated Accessible Parking

Accessible parking is designated in all major areas and at some overlooks, outdoor exhibits, and picnic areas.

Dining

Accessible dining options include fast food restaurants and dining rooms.

Exhibits & Viewpoints

There are many accessible roadside exhibits and viewpoints. Visitor center exhibits are accessible as noted in the area descriptions.

Fishing

Accessible fishing platforms are on the Madison River and at the Grant Marina on Yellowstone Lake. Learn more about fishing regulations in Yellowstone.

Lodging

Accessible lodging is available in all areas of the park.

Medical Clinics

The three medical clinics are accessible. Only Mammoth is open year round. Wheelchairs can be rented for $15 per day, with a $300 refundable deposit (cash or credit card).

Motorized Personal Vehicles

Motorized wheelchairs and scooters that are designed solely for use by a person with a mobility impairment are allowed.

Picnic Areas

Accessibility at picnic areas is improving. Check the picnicking page, the official NPS app, or ask for a free handout at visitor centers to learn more.

Post Offices

The Mammoth, Old Faithful, and Grant post offices are accessible. The Mammoth Post Office is open year-round.

Ranger Programs

Check calendar listings for accessible programs (also available in the park newspaper, at visitor centers, and entrance stations).

Restrooms

Accessible restrooms with sinks and flush toilets are located at all major areas except West Thumb. Accessible vault toilets are found at some scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Accessible vault toilets are located just inside the East and South entrances, and on the right side before the West Entrance gate.

Service Animals

Qualified service animals assisting people with disabilities are allowed and must be leashed. A service animal is defined as a dog that performs some of the functions and tasks that the individual with a disability cannot perform such as carrying a pack for persons with mobility impairments, assisting persons with balance, or alerting medically-dependent persons of specific conditions such as oncoming seizures.

Service Stations

Service stations are staffed seasonally during daylight hours and have call buttons at the pumps.

Showers

Accessible showers are available at Fishing Bridge RV Park, Grant Village Campground, and the Old Faithful Inn.

Stand-up Devices

Visitors who would otherwise need to use manual or motorized wheelchairs are allowed some use of the Segway® Personal Transporter and similar stand-up personal vehicles. Although wheelchairs are allowed wherever pedestrians are allowed in Yellowstone National Park, standup personal vehicles do not meet the description of a wheelchair and their use is limited for safety reasons.

• Operators must have a federal Access Pass in their possession.
• Stand-up personal vehicles may be used on sidewalks, at paved overlooks (such as Artist Point in the Canyon area), and in campgrounds.
• Stand-up personal vehicles are not allowed in buildings, on or along the edges of major roads (because of congestion, visibility, and vehicle speeds), on boardwalks (because of their proximity to hydrothermal features and the hazards associated with these areas), or on backcountry trails.
• Speed limit for stand-up personal vehicles is no greater than 2–3 mph (3–5 km/h), which is equivalent to walking. (36CFR Section 1.5 (a)(2))

Stores & Gift Shops

The Mammoth, Old Faithful, and Canyon areas have accessible general stores, gift shops (in lodging), and bookstores (in visitor centers). The accessibility of stores in other areas varies.

Visitor Centers

Yellowstone has nine visitor centers and information stations. The visitor centers at Canyon Village, Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs (Albright), Grant, West Thumb, and West Yellowstone are accessible. The Fishing Bridge visitor center is partially accessible. Visitors at the Norris and Madison visitor centers may require assistance.

Walkways & Self-Guiding Trails

Most walkways and self-guiding trails have at least one accessible route.

Wheelchair Loans & Rentals

Manual wheelchairs are available for loan at Old Faithful, Canyon, Mammoth (Albright), Grant, Fishing Bridge and Norris visitor centers, and all lodging facilities, except Roosevelt Lodge, while staying in those areas. Wheelchairs can be rented on a first-come, first-served basis at medical clinics.

A beach wheelchair is available for use along the shore of Yellowstone Lake. No reservations are required. Ask about availability at Fishing Bridge Visitor Center.

 

Maneuvering trail obstacles with an off-road wheelchair.

Backcountry Accessibility

Yellowstone’s backcountry and recommended wilderness areas are open to all, including people with disabilities. While wheeled devices are generally prohibited on park trails and in the backcountry, exceptions are made for wheelchairs used by individuals whose disabilities require them. A backcountry permit is required year-round for all overnight stays in Yellowstone’s backcountry.

Wheelchair Use in the Backcountry

• Manual Wheelchairs: Human-powered devices designed for and used by individuals with mobility impairments.
• Motorized Wheelchairs: Electrically powered devices designed solely for and used by people with mobility impairments, suitable for indoor pedestrian areas.
• Note: Stand-up devices (e.g., Segways) are not allowed on backcountry trails.

Accessible Campsites & Trails

While not fully wheelchair accessible, the following locations are more feasible for individuals with mobility impairments:

• Goose Lake Campsite (OD5): Located between Madison and Old Faithful, 1.5 miles from the Fountain Freight Road trailhead. This site is held for people with disabilities or cyclists until 4 pm daily. The trail is a hard-packed dirt bike path, and the campsite is 0.25 miles off the main trail. Wheelchair users may need assistance.
• Ice Lake Campsite (4D3): Near Norris and Canyon, this campsite includes an accessible tent pad and pit toilet. The trail is under 0.5 miles long but may require assistance for wheelchair users.

• Wheelchair-Accessible Trails: Lone Star Geyser Trail (Old Faithful area) & Natural Bridge Trail (Bridge Bay area).

Service Animals in the Backcountry

Trained service dogs are allowed in the backcountry but come with added risks:

• Wildlife Encounters: Service animals can attract wolves, bears, and other wildlife. Keep them on a tight leash and have them sleep in your tent.
• Thermal Hazards: Boiling pools and hot springs can severely injure animals. Never let them drink from or enter thermal features.
• Disease Transmission: Domestic dogs can spread or contract diseases like parvovirus, rabies, and distemper.

To reduce risks, service dogs must always be leashed, under control, and attended at all times. Pet food should be treated like any bear attractant—stored securely and never left unattended. Waste must be properly cleaned up: fecal matter should be disposed of in a trash can, toilet, or pit toilet. If these options are not available, it must be buried in a hole at least six inches (15 cm) deep and 200 feet (61 m) from any water source, campsite, or trail.

 

Accessibility Self-Evaluation Transition Plan (SETP)

Yellowstone National Park’s Accessibility Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan (SETP) is the result of an inventory and assessment of the park’s facilities, programs, and services. The SETP was completed by design professionals and accessibility specialists in facility operations, with input from other park staff.

The SETP includes findings from a self-evaluation process, as well as a plan for improving accessibility parkwide. Actions for specific park areas were developed. Associated time frames and implementation strategies were recommended to assist National Park Service (NPS) park staff in scheduling and performing required actions and to document completed work. Park policies, practices, communication, and training needs were also addressed.

The goals of the plan are to 1) document existing park barriers to accessibility for people with disabilities, 2) provide an effective approach for upgrading facilities and services, and 3) instill a culture around creating universal access and accessibility awareness. The Plan will be a “working document” and will be used as the principle guiding document for barrier removal and improved accessibility in Yellowstone National Park.

 

More Information

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  National Park Service App

  One app puts every park at your fingertips. Experience Yellowstone like never before!

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  Yellowstone Map & Guide

  The park brochure is available in a variety of formats: Braille, audio description or text-only.

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  Things To Do

  From driving to horseback riding, and hiking to biking, explore all the different things there are to do in the park!