Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SAFE CYCLING
Bicycles are subject to the same traffic rules as cars. While cycling is permitted on estab-
lished public roads, parking areas and designated routes, it is prohibited on backcountry
trails and boardwalks.
Yellowstone is not an easy place to bike. Road shoulders are slim and many a cyclist has
been threatened by an encroaching RV mirror. Cyclists must be very aware. For this reason,
it's best to bike early in the morning or after 6:30pm when traffic thins out. Drivers some-
times pass on hill crests, blind curves or in oncoming traffic. Wearing a helmet and using
high-visibility clothing and mirrors is essential. Never use headphones while cycling.
Bison may be a hazard to cyclists. If you come upon some, dismount and walk far
around them or wait for a vehicle to drive through (the bison will follow it).
Visitor centers will have additional information. For more cycling suggestions,
Click
Road Conditions
Use extreme caution when cycling in the park; roads are winding and narrow, and
shoulders are either narrow or nonexistent. Vehicle traffic is heavy most of the time. There
are no bicycle paths along roads.
Road elevations range from 5300ft to 8860ft, and services and facilities are relatively far
apart - typically 20 to 30 miles.
Cyclists should take advantage of shoulder seasons. A great time to bike is between
October and mid-November, when there is little traffic and less wind. Springtime cyclists
can enjoy some roads closed to motorized vehicles. While roads are plowed and summer
preparations are made, cycling is permitted between the West Entrance and Mammoth Hot
Springs from about mid-March (weather allowing) through to the third Thursday in April.
Note that high snow banks from April to June can make travel more dangerous. August is
typically the windiest month.
General road closures are posted at
www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/open_close
dates.htm.
