West Yellowstone Travel Guide

Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon stretches about 20–24 miles long, with depths exceeding 1,000 feet and widths between 800 and 4,000 feet, sculpted by the Yellowstone River over volcanic rhyolite terrain. Visitors often stop at major overlooks at the Upper and Lower Falls along both the North and South Rims. Expect dramatic geothermal-hued rock walls and panoramic views that unfold over several hours of scenic stops.

Located just outside West Yellowstone's west entrance, this AZA-accredited, not-for-profit wildlife park lets you observe grizzly bears, gray wolves, otters and birds of prey up-close in naturalistic habitats. Open year-round, admission includes two consecutive days of access. Educational exhibits such as the “Bears: Imagination & Reality” gallery enhance understanding of wildlife conservation.

Grand Teton National Park lies approximately 102–103 miles south of West Yellowstone with a drive time of about 2 hours 38 minutes in good conditions. The park features iconic peaks, clear lakes, abundant wildlife and scenic overlooks like Jackson Lake. While feasible as a day trip, many travelers choose to plan a longer visit to explore its trails and viewpoints.

Gibbon Falls is a 84‑foot tall roadside cascade on the Gibbon River, located about 4.7 miles upstream of Madison Junction on Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road. A paved footpath leads to an overlook deck offering unobstructed views of the rushing falls cascading over the caldera rim remnant. Easy access and dramatic geology make this a popular quick stop.

A community-run venue offering live musical productions, plays, and performances throughout the summer season in West Yellowstone. Located just a short drive from The Pioneer Motel, it presents works often inspired by regional history and Western themes. The intimate theater features rotating casts of local and visiting talent, creating a welcoming experience. The season typically includes musicals, comedies, and children’s shows. The theater’s schedule highlights a new production every few weeks.

The Rendezvous Ski Trails system offers over 100 kilometers of groomed cross‑country ski tracks winding through forested valleys, rolling hills, and open meadows just outside West Yellowstone. The trails accommodate all skill levels, from easy loops along Riverside to more challenging routes into Pine Creek and downstream of Hebgen Lake. Night skiing is also available on select trails with lit loops. The well‑maintained network is popular for both classic and skate skiing in a peaceful snow‑covered landscape.

This casual pub in West Yellowstone offers a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu that includes bison and elk burgers, creamy potato soup, French onion soup, and cream cheese wontons. Guests can choose from a wide selection of local Montana and Wyoming beers. With friendly staff and generous portions, the Otter Pub is popular for unwinding after exploring Yellowstone National Park.

Since 1999, this family-oriented pizzeria and bar has served pizza, wings, and live entertainment in downtown West Yellowstone. Located on Madison Avenue, the saloon boasts a community-oriented vibe and hosts karaoke, DJ nights, pool, and live music. In-season events complement its reputation for being among the best pizza spots in the Rockies.

A rustic western-style tavern and sports bar located on Highway 20 in West Yellowstone. Open daily with late hours, it offers burgers, bar bites, beers, and video slot machines. The Buffalo Bar is often filled with locals and tourists alike, making it a convivial place to relax, watch games, play pool, or enjoy lingering over a casual meal with friends.

Housed in West Yellowstone’s original 1918 schoolhouse, Madison Crossing Lounge blends historic charm with refined dining. The setting occupies a former first-grade classroom and offers an extensive global wine list alongside cocktails, local beers, and premium spirits. The menu features elegant entrées like flat iron steak, ribeye, and Madison‑River‑Ranch bison tenderloin. With cozy ambience and curated pairings, it’s especially appealing for evening meals after a day exploring Yellowstone. Nearby but distinctly upscale.

Hank’s Chop Shop, housed in a renovated former auto mechanic shop that opened in July 2022, serves up handcrafted fare using USDA Prime meats, fresh house-made pastas, hand-pattied half‑pound burgers, and indulgent homemade desserts. It keeps a lively atmosphere with 24 beers on tap, a pet‑friendly patio, 87‑inch TVs lining the walls, and even a casino space in the back—making it a vibrant spot to enjoy quality food and friendly fun.

The Outpost is a beloved family‑friendly eatery known for hearty, high‑quality home‑cooked meals served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Open seasonally, it’s the go‑to place for comforting favorites like blueberry pancakes, chili burgers, and biscuits and gravy, all served in a warm, nostalgic setting that complements the Montana experience.

Since 1992, Pete’s has been a family-run fixture in West Yellowstone, offering pizzas, pastas, and specialty Italian sodas, all crafted with pride and consistent quality. The restaurant is welcoming to furry friends with outdoor seating complete with water and treats, and it provides free delivery. With decades of tradition, familiar recipes, and homey hospitality, it’s a comforting local go‑to.

Firehole BBQ serves authentic Central Texas–style barbecue with meats smoked fresh daily (never frozen), available until they sell out each day. This casual, picnic‑table–style restaurant has quickly become a local and visitor favorite for flavorful brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. It’s known for doing one thing—barbecue—extraordinarily well, and has earned its reputation as one of the top spots in West Yellowstone.