As Summer 2021 dries up, Yellowstone National Park is allowing people to plan their winter excursions through the annual snowmobile permit lottery.
On Sunday, August 1, the 2021-2022 winter lottery for Yellowstone snowmobile permits is officially open. Authorized in 2013, the Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program allows one group of up to five snowmobiles without a commercial guy to enter Yellowstone from each of its four winter entrances per day.
There are several pre-requisites you will need if you’re interested in this unique opportunity.
- Permit holders are considered non-commercial guides and must be at least 18 years old on the first day of their trips.
- All snowmobile operators must possess a state-issued driver’s license
- You must complete the free online Yellowstone Snowmobile Education Certification program, a free course thru the website proValens learning which covers the lottery and essentials of snowmobile handling, park resources, and safety while in the park.
- All snowmobiles must meet the park’s New Best Available Technology There’s a full list of the standard and compliant snowmobile models on the Yellowstone website.
This year’s lottery is open on www.recreation.gov from August 1-31, 2021. Successful applicants will be notified in early September. Unclaimed or canceled permits will be made available via www.recreation.gov on a first-come, first-serve basis beginning on October 1, 2021.
There is no waiting list. Cancellations may occur throughout the winter season, so check the website often for openings.
Trips can be for a maximum of three days in length. Permits cost $40 per day with a $6 application fee.
