People hoping to experience Yellowstone National Park by snowmobile without a commercial guide can begin applying for permits next month.
The National Park Service announced that the lottery for the 2026-2027 Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program will open Aug. 1 and remain open through Aug. 31 on Recreation.gov.
The program, established in 2013, allows successful applicants to enter Yellowstone with a group of up to five snowmobilers for trips lasting up to three consecutive days without hiring a commercial guide.
Lottery winners will be notified in early September. Any unclaimed or canceled permits will become available on a first-come, first-served basis through Recreation.gov beginning Oct. 1. Park officials noted there is no waiting list, and cancellations may become available throughout the winter season.
Permits cost $40 per day, plus a $6 non-refundable application fee.
To qualify, permit holders must be at least 18 years old on the first day of their trip and serve as the group’s non-commercial guide. Every snowmobile operator must possess a valid state-issued driver’s license and complete Yellowstone’s free online Snowmobile Education Certification course before entering the park.
In addition, all snowmobiles must meet Yellowstone’s New Best Available Technology emissions and sound standards.
More information about the lottery, permit requirements and planning a winter trip to Yellowstone is available through Recreation.gov and the National Park Service’s winter travel resources.