Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SIGHTS
Mammoth Country
Mammoth Country is renowned for its graceful geothermal terraces and the towering Gal-
latin Range to the northwest. As the lowest and driest region of the park, it's also the
warmest and a good base for winter and early- or late-season activities.
The region's Northern Range is an important wintering area for wildlife, including the
park's largest herds of elk, pronghorn, mule deer and bighorn sheep. Around half the park's
population of elk winter here, attracted by the lower temperatures and lack of snow on
many south-facing slopes (due to the sun and prevailing wind). The poorly aerated and
drained soil supports scant vegetation, creating 'dry desert' conditions.
For visitors (and most elk) the focal point of the Mammoth region is Mammoth Junction
(6239ft), 5 miles south of the park's Northwest Entrance, on a plateau above Mammoth
Campground. The junction contains the region's main services, including a visitor center,
backcountry office, post office, gas station, medical center and even a church and court-
house. The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel has espresso and public showers, while the Yel-
lowstone General Store offers groceries, souvenirs, cold beer, coffee and ice cream.
Just south of the junction is Mammoth Hot Springs, the area's main thermal attraction.
From here roads go south to Norris (21 miles) and east to Tower-Roosevelt Junction (18
miles).
