While it was originally called “Wonderland” by its summer visitors, Yellowstone National Park takes on a completely new ambience when it is covered in snow. Traveling throughout the park during winter is well worth the extra planning – and clothing – as the wildlife watching is enhanced and the thermal features create an otherworldly effect.Understanding the seasonal needs of a winter visit to the park, Yellowstone National Park Lodges – operated by Xanterra Parks & Resorts – is offering a package this winter that includes accommodations, in-park transportation, naturalist/guide from the Yellowstone Association Institute and breakfasts and lunches.
The “Winter in Wonderland,” package is designed... as a comprehensive introduction to Yellowstone in winter. Guests receive four nights of lodging at the Mammoth Hotel and two nights at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge. Guests explore the park via snowcoach, skis and snowshoes and learn about wildlife in the Lamar Valley, geology in the Old Faithful region and more. In addition to instruction, transportation and lodging, the packages include welcome gift, five breakfasts and five lunches, in-field snacks, ski and snowshoe rentals, one-hour hot tub rental, unlimited ice skating and evening programs. This program runs Monday through Sunday, Dec. 22, 2008 through March 2, 2009. Rates start at $1,209 per person, plus tax, based on double occupancy and $1,527 for single occupancy.
“Even people who have visited the park in summer comment that Yellowstone in winter is like going there for the first time,” said Rick Hoeninghausen, director of sales and marketing for Xanterra’s Yellowstone operations. “Spending days of fun discovery with a naturalist/guide and traveling throughout the park in specially equipped over-the-snow vehicles is truly an unforgettable experience.
The park’s winter season begins Dec. 17, 2008 with the opening of the Old Faithful Snow Lodge. The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel opens Dec. 19, 2008. The lodges provide the only wintertime accommodations within the park. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel will close for the season March 8, 2009, and Old Faithful Snow Lodge will close March 15, 2009.
“Winter in Wonderland” is one of six “Lodging & Learning” packages offered by Xanterra and the Yellowstone Association Institute this winter. Xanterra also offers a variety of self-guided winter “Getaway Packages” as well as lodging and transportation options for those who want to explore the park on their own.
Except for the road from Gardiner, Mont. to Cooke City, Mont. via Mammoth Hot Springs, transportation within the park is limited to snowmobiles and enclosed heated snowcoaches during the winter. Snowcoach transportation is available daily to a variety of park locations. Xanterra also offers a variety of half- and full-day snowcoach, ski and snowshoe tour and ski and snowshoe rentals as well as expert instruction and other services.
Lodging & Learning programs can be booked by calling (1) 307-344-5566. Yellowstone Association members receive a $10 discount on all courses, and family memberships begin at just $30 per year. For detailed package information, go to www.YellowstoneAssociation.org
Complete details about accommodations, restaurants and activities in Yellowstone can be made by calling (1) 307-344-7311 or toll-free 866-GEYSERLAND (866-439-7375), or visiting the web site www.travelyellowstone.com.
