Its never too early to plan your Yellowstone winter.
August 1st is the opening for the 2020-2021 winter lottery for the Non-commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program in Yellowstone. These snowmobile permits are specifically for recreational use, without any commercial guides. First authorized in 2013, this permit allows for one group of up to 5 snowmobiles to enter the park thru each entrance every day.
There are a number of pre-requisites you will need if you’re interested in obtain 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 successfully 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 will be open on www.recreation.gov from August 1-31, 2020. Successful applicants will be notified in early September. Unclaimed or cancelled permits will be made available via www.recreation.gov on a first-come, first-serve basis beginning on October 1, 2020. 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, and permits cost $40 per day with a $6 application fee.
