Yellowstone Winter Jobs

Magically covered with a pristine blanket of snow, Yellowstone is the essence of winter. With the dramatic contrast between cold temperatures and thermal geology,  abundant wildlife watching, and miles of nordic ski trails, Yellowstone is an unrivaled winter destination. All of these features come together to draw a small but hearty population of visitors to the park from December through March. It is truly a special time of year when one of the busiest national parks transitions to a more mellow, idyllic atmosphere.  There are countless reasons employees also find the winter season to be their favorite.

The winter season runs from early December to early March, a shorter period of time from open to close compared to summer. Winter is often the season that hooks employees who end up working in the park year after year (myself included). It is not uncommon to hear, “I work the summer season to have the opportunity to experience winter in Yellowstone.”

That sentiment can be partly attributed to a more relaxed vibe – Yellowstone sees around 4 million visits annually and only three hundred thousand visits in the winter. Two hotels and 3 restaurants offer services to day and overnight visitors. Guests stay a little longer and explore farther – their interest and connection to the park run as deep as the snow.  While we hire over three thousand employees in the summer, that number drops to 475 between Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs, offering a more tight-knit community.

Then there is the wildlife – wolves, bald eagles, and trumpeter swans are a few species more commonly seen in winter than summer. Between the magical scenery and abundant wildlife, photo opportunities abound. Bears are mostly sleeping but that’s okay – it’s a short break from worrying about a run-in (though we still recommend always carrying bear spray).

Winter in the park also offers ample downtime to simply enjoy quiet and solitude for those who prefer it. The cozy atmosphere inside and the soundscape outside provide a restorative environment. If you are looking for community, there is no shortage of activities; from evening dance parties and events at the employee pub to YCERP-led ski trips, wildlife watching/photography excursions, and their annual trip to Targhee Ski Resort.

And did we mention some of the best Nordic skiing and snowshoeing in the country is right out your backdoor? Just because things slow down in the park, it doesn’t mean you have to.  Two things you’ll definitely see during the winter months are skis and snowshoes!  If these items are part of your essential travel gear (or items you’d like to get more use out of), Yellowstone is probably an excellent fit.

All of this adds up to an unparalleled winter experience.

Sure, there is an abundance of snow coupled with chilly temps that would make many a city dweller loathe this wondrous season. At Snow Lodge, there are typically no car windshields to scrape, sidewalks to shovel, or white-knuckle commutes (unless you are a snowcoach driver).  Mammoth offers the same stress-free option – you don’t have to venture out in the weather if you don’t want to. Wait for one of the many sunny days!

While there is really no bad time to come live, work, and explore in Yellowstone, there is definitely something incredibly unique about being here in the winter; don’t believe me? Try it out for yourself.

If you are interested in working in Yellowstone in the winter, please visit the Yellowstone Jobs website to learn more.