While you might think historic lodging means sacrificing comfort, you'll find Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel strikes the perfect balance between vintage charm and modern convenience. As you plan your Yellowstone escapade, it's worth noting that this 1936 landmark, built on the grounds of former Fort Yellowstone, presents more than just a place to rest your head. From wildlife watching on your doorstep to seasonal dining that showcases local ingredients, the hotel serves as your gateway to both the park's northern attractions and its rich military history. There's an untold story behind every corner of this remarkable property that's waiting to unfold.
Key Takeaways
- Historic hotel in Yellowstone National Park offers year-round lodging with diverse accommodations including deluxe rooms, frontier cabins, and luxury suites.
- Located 5 miles south of park's north entrance, featuring the unique Map Room and recently renovated public spaces and guest rooms.
- Dining options include certified green Mammoth Hotel Dining Room serving sustainable local cuisine and casual meals at Terrace Grill.
- Property operates during summer (April-October) and winter (December-March) seasons with shuttle service available from Bozeman Airport in winter.
- Guests enjoy easy access to iconic travertine terraces, wildlife viewing, hiking trails, and seasonal activities like snowcoach tours.
Location and Historical Background
Nestled in the heart of Yellowstone National Park, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel stands just 5 miles south of the park's north entrance at 2 Mammoth Hotel Avenue.
You'll find this historic hotel at coordinates 44.9765658, -110.7013212, near the former Fort Yellowstone site.
Built in 1936, the hotel retained a wing of guest rooms from 1911 and has recently undergone major renovations to both public spaces and guest rooms.
One of its most distinctive features is the Map Room, which houses a unique wooden map of the United States crafted from 15 different types of wood sourced from nine countries.
During recent renovations, this iconic room was transformed into a functional lounge area while preserving its historic character.
Rooms and Lodging Options
The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel provides diverse accommodations to match every visitor's needs and budget.
You'll find newly renovated deluxe rooms with various bed configurations, all featuring private bathrooms, safes, and mini-refrigerators. For a more rustic encounter, choose from several cabin options, including some with private hot tubs.
- Deluxe rooms come with one king bed, one queen bed, or two queens, plus essential amenities like coffee makers and mini-fridges.
- Frontier Cabins offer private bathrooms and typically include two queen beds.
- Hot Tub Cabins feature a private 6-person hot tub in a fenced area.
- Luxury suites include a separate bedroom, sitting area with satellite TV, and complimentary drinks.
All accommodations are accessible by elevator, and you can make reservations by phone or online.
Year-Round Activities
Mammoth Hot Springs provides four distinct seasons of outdoor escapades, from winter snowshoeing to summer wildlife viewing.
You'll find miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, plus guided snowcoach tours that'll take you to Lamar Valley and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Year-round, you can explore the iconic travertine terraces via interconnected boardwalks at both Upper and Lower Terraces.
Don't miss the scenic driving loop with stops at Undine Falls and Petrified Tree.
For wildlife enthusiasts, elk frequently graze on the historic lawns, while guided tours offer opportunities to spot wolves and bison in their natural habitat.
The Albright Visitor Center serves as your hub for activity planning, where you can learn about the area's unique geology and sign up for specialized tours.
Guest Services
Key Guest Services Features:
- ADA accessibility with 2 hotel rooms and 4 cabins equipped for wheelchair users, plus loaner wheelchairs available.
- 24-hour front desk support with check-in at 4:00 p.m. and check-out at 11:00 a.m.
- Winter shuttle service from Bozeman Airport to the hotel.
- Specialized winter amenities including a ski shop with equipment rentals, lessons, and guided tours for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Dining and Entertainment
Dining at this historic lodge centers around the award-winning Mammoth Hotel Dining Room, which proudly holds the distinction of being Yellowstone's first certified green restaurant.
You'll find sustainable local cuisine served in a bright space with floor-to-ceiling windows perfect for wildlife viewing.
Start your day with Montana grain buttermilk pancakes or house-smoked trout bagels, served from 6:00 to 10:30 AM without reservations.
For dinner, you'll need reservations in winter to enjoy specialties like bison sirloin, pistachio-parmesan trout, and elk sliders.
The dining room operates seasonally, with summer hours from 6:30 AM to 10 PM and winter hours from 6 AM to 9 PM.
If you're seeking a casual meal, head to the Terrace Grill for quick bites, or utilize one of the park's 52 picnic areas.
Seasonal Operating Schedule
Travelers planning their Yellowstone escapades should note the hotel's distinct seasonal schedule, with summer operations running from April 26 to October 14, 2024, and winter accommodations available from December 15, 2024, to March 3, 2025.
While Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel typically operates year-round, special circumstances like renovations or natural disasters may affect availability.
- You'll find various room options during summer, including suites, deluxe rooms, and cabins with or without bathrooms.
- Winter activities include snowshoeing, skiing, and guided tours to Lamar Valley and Old Faithful.
- Check-in time is 4:00 p.m., and check-out is 11:00 a.m., with 24-hour front desk service.
- Even if overnight stays aren't available, you can still access limited services like the gift shop and beverage service during certain closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pets Allowed in the Hotel Rooms or Cabins?
No, you can't bring pets to stay in hotel rooms or cabins. However, if you have a service animal that aids with disabilities, they're allowed. For pet-friendly options, you'll need to check nearby hotels outside the park.
What Is the Average Temperature Inside the Rooms During Winter?
You'll find the rooms maintain a comfortable average temperature between 68-72°F (20-22°C) during winter. You can adjust this using your in-room thermostat to meet your personal comfort preferences.
How Far in Advance Should I Book During Peak Season?
Did you know 90% of summer rooms get booked by January? You'll need to make your peak season reservation 13 months in advance, and don't wait past January for July stays to secure your spot.
Is There Cell Phone Service in the Mammoth Hot Springs Area?
You'll find very limited cell phone service in the Mammoth area. There aren't any cell towers nearby, so don't count on reliable coverage. You can purchase internet access in the hotel lounge if needed.
Can Guests Use the Hotel Address for Receiving Mail and Packages?
Yes, you can use the hotel's address – 2 Mammoth Hotel Avenue – for receiving mail and packages. You'll find your deliveries waiting at the front desk, where they'll handle both USPS and courier services.