Yellowstone National Park Braces for Summer Traffic Delays Amid Construction Projects

As Yellowstone braces for an influx of visitors during the summer season, characterized by favorable weather conditions and abundant wildlife sightings, travelers are urged to plan their itineraries accordingly. Yellowstone National Park is gearing up for a bustling summer, but visitors should prepare for potential traffic snarls due to ongoing construction projects.

The National Park Service has issued a cautionary advisory, alerting travelers to anticipate increased congestion as work progresses on two significant infrastructure upgrades within the park. Visitors should prepare for potential traffic snarls due to ongoing construction projects.

The first of these projects involves the replacement of the Lewis River Bridge, located approximately 10 miles north of the South Entrance on the South Entrance Road. Commencing in 2022, this endeavor encompasses the complete overhaul of the bridge structure, with anticipated completion slated for the autumn months. During this period, visitors can expect delays of up to 20 minutes, particularly in the vicinity of the bridge. Additionally, certain amenities such as pullouts and access to the Lewis River Falls trail will be temporarily inaccessible.

Simultaneously, the NPS is overseeing renovations to the Yellowstone River Bridge, situated near Tower Junction along the Northeast Entrance Road. This initiative, which commenced last year and is scheduled for completion in 2026, will see the replacement of the aging 1961 bridge with a modern, 1,285-foot-long steel girder bridge. While the new structure aims to enhance access to and from the Northeast Entrance, it may necessitate temporary closures of nearby hiking trails.