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Posted by Max (50.46.247.91) on 14:03:34 12/20/12
In Reply to: YNP in winter posted by DWT
During that time of year, only the northern road between Gardiner and Cooke City is open to wheeled traffic (as you may know), so your options for exploration and lodging are a bit limited unless you opt for a snowboach/snowmobile tour into the interior.
Gardiner is a good winter base, since there are several motel choices and a few restaurants (plus Subway).
The other option outside the park is staying in Silver Gate or Cooke City. Of all of these towns, Silver Gate will be the quietest and most peaceful. It's also the closest option to the Lamar Valley. Cooke City is full of snowmobilers.
We have a rental cabin in Silver Gate (SilverWillowsCabin.com) and would be happy to give you a bit of a discount on your stay. However, that's going to be more expensive than staying in a motel. If you're looking for something more basic in Silver Gate, try the Pine Edges Cabins. The main difference between those and our cabin is that they're smaller, you have neighbors close to you and the cabins don't all have full facilities.
Inside the park you're looking at the Mammoth Hotel as your main option.
They do plow the road in winter, but driving can still be treacherous at times. It really helps to have a 4 wheel drive vehicle (though it's not absolutely necessary) and snow tires are a plus. If you're renting a car you will not get chains, but any 4x4 with snow tires usually does the trick. Just be careful when you're exploring, and only pull off in plowed pullouts. Tons of people catch a wheel in the thick snow on the shoulder and get stuck this way.
Should be a fun trip for you if the weather cooperates!
Max
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