Bookmark this page to stay up-to-date on local news, policies and events, such as weather emergencies, closures and other factors, that could affect your planned visit.
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK UPDATES
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GATEWAY COMMUNITY INFORMATION
In 2022, the Yellowstone National Park (YNP) experienced historic flooding causing road closures and evacuation of the park. It is important to check the entrances and park conditions before traveling to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Most Park Roads Are Now Closed to All Vehicles
Most roads, including the Beartooth Highway, are closed to all vehicles until mid-April. The road between the North and Northeast entrances remains open and is open year-round to regular vehicles.
More information can be found at the Montana Office of Tourism and the National Park Service.
The warm, dryer summer months bring out some of the most beautiful Montana scenery. But they also can create an environment prone to wildfires.
Explore safely. Be aware of active wildfires in Montana and how they might impact your plans. Active Wildfire Map Montana Fire Conditions
The unseen danger of wildfires is often the air quality. Be sure to check the air quality in the area you are visiting, especially if you or anyone in your family have respiratory diseases or illnesses. Smoke Forecasts
Not sure if wildfires will impact your plans? Consult the list of recreation restrictions from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. Recreation Restrictions
As always, stay safe and please do your part to help prevent wildfires.
MONTANA IS BEAR COUNTRY
Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks works to help keep people safe and bears wild. The most common human-bear conflicts involve unsecured attractants, such as garbage and human food. Protect yourself and bears by staying alert and following these guidelines:
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Never approach bears, always remain at least 100 yards (300 feet) away, or about the length of a football field.
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Practice ethical wildlife viewing by remaining a safe distance and never disturbing natural behaviors.
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Never feed, leave food for, or make food accessible to bears.
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Be aware of your surroundings.
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Make noise like talking loudly or utilize noisemakers such as bells.
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Travel/hike in groups.
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Carry bear spray and know how to use it: Bear Spray - Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) (igbconline.org)
<MARIJUANA INFORMATION
As of January 1, 2022, medical and adult-use marijuana is legal to purchase in the state of Montana by individuals 21 and over.
Adults 21 and over may possess and use up to one ounce of marijuana with no criminal penalties.
Marijuana consumption and possession (including medical marijuana) remains prohibited in public and certain other locations. It is also prohibited under federal law on all federal lands and waters.
Marijuana (except medical marijuana) is prohibited in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.
Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of marijuana remains illegal.
