Offering a Prime Snowmobiling Destination – And So Much More

Yellowstone National Park and West Yellowstone, Montana have long been known as an unparalleled winter vacation destination. Despite a new ruling on snowmobiling in Yellowstone Park, announced December 17, 2003, the opportunity to experience the nation's first National Park, in all its snowy, geothermal, wildlife-rich glory is still very much available.

The new rule requires that those visiting Yellowstone Park by snowmobile this winter be accompanied by a National Park Service-permitted guide. Donna Madsen, with Yellowstone Tour & Travel said, “It's amazing how much more you see and learn when taking a trip into Yellowstone with one of our guides … spotting bald eagles, safely navigating around frosty bison, or learning about the fire and ice geology of this national landscape treasure. Everyone should experience winter in Yellowstone at least once in their life.”

Snowcoaches, another inclusive way visitors can tour the park, are a family friendly means to experience the wonders of winter Yellowstone. Carrying no more than 13 p assengers, these intimate tours are perfect for smaller groups and snowcoach drivers are fully knowledgeable about the wildlife and storied history of this magical place.

West Yellowstone, Montana, long considered the snowmobiling capital of the world, will continue offering a definitive snowmobiling experience for riders of all abilities. There are boundless opportunities to snowmobile in the national forests (Gallatin, Beaverhead, and Targhee) adjacent to Yellowstone. In addition to the 205 miles of guided snowmobiling available in Yellowstone Park this winter, these surrounding national forests offer over 600 miles of groomed and ungroomed trails to beckon winter enthusiasts to the area. From trails suitable for first-time riders to meadows of fresh powder awaiting the most passionate, experienced snowmobilers, West Yellowstone is snowmobiling's Mecca. Whether riding atop Lion's Head, cruising through the Centennial Valley or exploring the South Plateau, the snowmobiling in this region is like no other place on earth.

For those who prefer alternative recreation to snowmobiling, Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone and, for that matter, the whole state of Montana offers a bounty of other fun winter options. For some it's the quiet, kick and glide serenity of cross-country skiing, while others might opt for the exhilaration of a dog sled ride. For an outing your family will never forget, take a dinner sleigh ride to a backcountry lodge and feast on Rocky Mountain fare. In and around this part of Montana, many seek out restorative, relaxing vacations available at one of the area's many hot springs resorts. And, of course, visitors to this winter wonderland region should consider indulging in a bit of downhill skiing or snowboarding.

Though the rules affecting snowmobiling in Yellowstone National Park have changed, the opportunity to have a snowmobiling experience of lifetime has not. Come to Montana this winter and see for yourself. For more information go to: www.wintermt.com