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Yellowstone National Park vendors are planning to slowly phase in full services in the park, responding to continuing COVID-19 concerns.
Xanterra spokesperson René Mack said the company …
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Yellowstone National Park vendors are planning to slowly phase in full services in the park, responding to continuing COVID-19 concerns.
Xanterra spokesperson René Mack said the company bases its decision on guidance and recommendations from public health agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Park Service.
“We are modifying the opening schedule of our operations and beginning with a first phase of limited services for summer 2021,” Mack said.
As health and safety guidelines allow, the company hopes to open additional lodging and services as part of the second phase of summer 2021 operations.
“At this point, we are not able to predict when this might happen but will provide updates as they are available,” Mack said.
For updates, visit www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/summer2021/.
Dining will be take-out only starting on April 15 at the Geyser Grill at Old Faithful. Hotels, lodges and cabins will start to come online and open beginning on April 30 with the Mammoth Hotel. Xanterra-run campgrounds will begin to open May 14.
The East Entrance of the park is scheduled to open on May 7 — the month’s first Friday, said Yellowstone spokeswoman Linda Veress.
Currently, bicyclists “willing to brave the unpredictable elements of spring” may ride in some areas of the park, the public affairs office advises. Riders can get in the 49 miles between the West Entrance and Mammoth Hot Springs without too much worry about vehicles.
The Grand Loop Road between the West Entrance and Mammoth Hot Springs is now open to cycling, including West Entrance to Madison Junction; Madison Junction to Norris Junction; Norris Junction to Mammoth Hot Springs.
Snowplows and other motorized vehicles operated by park employees or construction workers will be on the road and riders can only do so during daylight hours. Participants are warned to prepare to spend an extended period of time in winter conditions in the event of a mechanical breakdown, injury or other emergency. Bear spray is strongly recommended.
