Updated April 16th:
Heavy, wet snow and cold temperatures are delaying the Friday, April 17, opening of an entrance and several roads in Yellowstone National Park, but only for a couple of hours.
The park announced in a Thursday news release that a winter storm has pushed the opening of the West Entrance at West Yellowstone until noon on Friday. The roads from the West Entrance to Old Faithful, the West Entrance to Canyon Village and from Mammoth Hot Springs to Norris Geyser Basin will open at noon.
Park officials say the North Entrance at Gardiner to the Northeast Entrance at Cooke City/Silver Gate is not affected by the delay and will remain open.
Yellowstone has received a foot of heavy, wet snow in certain areas and more is forecast for Thursday night with temperatures dropping to 10 degrees, creating hazardous driving conditions.
Park officials advise travelers to anticipate possible road closures due to the inclement weather, and temporary travel restrictions or closures can occur at any time without notice.
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The park announced in a Wednesday news release that the North Entrance at Gardiner and the West Entrance at West Yellowstone will open on Friday, April 17, at 8am, weather permitting.
From the north and west entrances visitors will be able to access Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, Norris Geyser Basin, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Old Faithful and the Northeast Entrance at Silver Gate and Cooke City, Montana.
Visitors are reminded to bring appropriate footwear and clothing for winter conditions because many trails and boardwalks are still snow covered at this time of year, and expect limited services in the spring and be prepared.
Park officials report additional roads in the park will open throughout May, weather permitting.(
