The new Yellowstone Historic Center is open for business!

The Museum features stagecoaches, trains, buses, planes, and snow machines that have transported tourists from around the world. While you are there, explore the 10-acre Oregon Short Line Historic District surrounding the Depot, which includes other Union Pacific Railroad facilities built to serve park visitors.

More information at: yellowstonehistoriccenter.org
Lodging available at: faithfulstreetinn.com

It's that time of year again! April 20th the roads into Yellowstone’s interior open for vehicle traffic. The west entrance opens first followed by the other entrances.

Visit http://www.nps.gov/yell/conditions.htm for road schedules and road construction updates.

Also during National Parks Week from April 21st to 29th you can drive into Yellowstone Park without paying any admission fee!

Yellowstone Cycle Days

Spring is in the air and the snow is slowly melting away. Pretty soon Yellowstone National Park will be welcoming the summer crowds, but not before welcoming a special spring event known as the Cycle Days. From April 1 - 20 Yellowstone opens its roads to cyclists, while cars and buses are not permitted. You can bike around the park with the roads all to yourself! From the West Yellowstone entrance, take your bike to Madison Junction and then you can continue to the Canyon or to Mammoth Hot Springs. Make it a real adventure and bring the whole family!

Not sure where to rent bicycles or need more information about the Park roads? Let us know at Faithful Street Inn and we will help you plan your biking adventure, along with providing a relaxing western cabin for your daily rest!

Learn the area...on Snowshoes!

Winter in West Yellowstone brings with it a plethora of great outdoor activities. Many are familiar with snowmobiling, cross country skiing and wildlife viewing, but have you ever explored the area on snowshoes?

Snowshoeing around West Yellowstone is a great way to view the landscape and wildlife of Montana. It's cheap, family friendly and easy to learn! Gallatin National Forest employees even offer weekly snowshoe walks targeted for beginners of the sport.

There are many spots in West Yellowstone that offer snowshoe rentals and can get you moving on the best trails. Take a day to explore on snowshoes, you may love what you find!

If you need any other information about the area trails or snowshoe rentals, don't hesitate to contact us at Faithful Street Inn. We can make sure you are outfitted for a great day out in the snow!

Cubs make their West Yellowstone Debut!

Grant and Roosevelt, two orphaned grizzly bear cubs made their debut this past week at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone. Though the cubs have been reluctant to leave their dens, they are starting to explore around the Discovery Center.

The cubs have been doing very well, in part due to the fact that they have remained together. Losing a mother can be quite stressful on grizzly cubs and the Discovery Center is doing everything possible to keep these boys feeling secure and safe.

The cubs were named after US Presidents whose policies greatly influenced Yellowstone National Park. You can go by and visit them at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center!

'Tis the Season

Thanksgiving is over (as well as our food comas) and the Holidays are approaching quickly. The lights are strung, the snow is falling and we have plenty of fires to keep warm. All we need is a great event (or a few) to really kick off our winter spirit.

West Yellowstone winters tend to have lots of spirit and fun events to go around. This month there are a lot of great happenings for you to choose from. Check out our local Event Calendar on the Faithful Street Inn website for full December schedule. Here are a few that might pique your interest...

National Guard Biathlon Clinic
December 14-18
Think firearms and cross country skis don't make a good pairing? Think again - and learn all about biathlons at this winter clinic brought to you by the National Guard. At the Rendezvous Ski Trails and Biathlon Range.
West Yellowstone Christmas Stroll
December 15
The Parade of Lights kicks off this annual event with a range of activities for the young and the young at heart. Includes scavenger hunts, visits with Santa, shopping and visits with Dog Mushers.

Spam Cup Race #1
December 17
The Spam Cup Races are designed to be fun for everyone, with participants ranging in age from 5 to 75. Come join the fun - spectators are welcome and registration is always available the day of.

No matter what you holiday fun you seek, chances are you will find it in West Yellowstone! 'Tis the Season!

Where's the Snow?

October seemed to come and go quickly in West Yellowstone, dusting the valley with gold and gray tones and leaving a bit of the white stuff on its way out. Now that November is here and winter is closely calling we can't help but wonder, "Where's the snow?" We know it's on its way and we are anxious for all the winter activities awaiting us.

Have you spent time in West Yellowstone in the winter? It's a great time of year to visit our friendly community and the outdoor events are plentiful. Cross country skiing, snowshoeing, Ranger lead walks, wildlife viewing, snowmobiling and tons of special events sprinkled across the season make for a wonderful winter in West Yellowstone. Won't you join us?

Faithful Street Inn still has cabins available for winter guests, but we encourage you to book fast as winter is a very popular time here. Just one visit will show you why!

Do you have a great Winter West Yellowstone story? We would love to hear it and add it to ours - post in the comments below!

A Piece of Yellowstone History

Since 2005 The Jammer Trust has held a yearly get together in West Yellowstone to celebrate a very unique piece of Yellowstone history - 1920's and 1930's Yellowstone Buses. These bright yellow buses once transported crowds of summer visitors through Yellowstone National Park. Many are now restored and were on full display at the recent stop for the Jammer holiday getaway.

Each bus has its own story and number. Their owners are very proud to own a piece of true Americana and are eager to tell the story of their model. Living in West Yellowstone, we are fortunate to have such great events take place in our town and encourage visitors to take part in learning about this era of Yellowstone.

Learn more about these buses and their history in Yellowstone National Park by visiting the West Yellowstone News. There are always many great things happening to inform you on the history around West Yellowstone. Let us know at Faithful Street Inn what you are interested in seeing on your trip to West Yellowstone, Montana and we can set you up with the perfect Western vacation!

Being Bear Aware

There are over 600 bears in the greater Yellowstone area, and lately they have been getting a lot of (bad) press. It's important to remember that bears are wild animals and that you can take some simple steps to keep yourself safe when in bear country. While you are planning your trip in West Yellowstone, we highly recommend you take in some of the lush scenery via hikes, so here are some safety tips on how to be "bear aware."

1- If you are hiking within the park, check with park officials/rangers for recent bear activity or trail warnings. Park officials will have the best information as to bear sitings in the area and can give you alternative places to visit if you want to avoid those areas.

2- Make noise! If bears are in the area it is important for them to be aware of you long before you enter their personal space. This is especially true when hiking through thick areas with low visibility. So talk within your group.

3- Travel with larger groups. Larger groups of people make more noise, already helping you with the last tip. Larger groups also appear more threatening to bears and are less likely to trigger an attack.

4- Learn the signs of black and grizzly bear activity such as droppings, feeding on berries and diggings. If you see any of these signs that appear fresh, it is best to leave the area.

5- Carry Bear Spray. Make sure your bear spray works and is easily accessible for emergency situations. You will only need to use bear spray if you have a close encounter with a bear and you should research more on how and when to use bear spray.

6- Most importantly - be alert! Remember you are in the wild west and animals are everywhere around you (not just bears). Most wild animals are not interested in causing you harm, but you should always stay alert and on the lookout. If you see a bear from a distance, use this to your advantage and steer clear!

Now go have fun and enjoy all the wildness Yellowstone has to offer. If you would like any advise on where to visit in the park, contact Faithful Street Inn and we would be happy to get you started on your day in Yellowstone.

Free Casting Clinic - Why Not?

Fly-fishing is big around these parts. This past winter was long and very snowy, which makes for a very slow start to summer fishing. But now the waters are starting to clear up and the fisherman are taking every chance they can get to take a day off and fish.

Many visitors to the west have never had the opportunity to fly-fish and we want to encourage them to give it a try. What better way to introduce yourself to one of the best pastimes of the west than with a FREE fly-casting clinic? That's right, every Sunday in West Yellowstone Jacklin's Fly Shop owner Bob Jacklin offers free casting clinics. The clinic starts at 7:30 and they will even set you up with a fly rod if you don't have your own.

Fly-fishing in Montana is a once in a lifetime experience, and who knows, you just may get hooked! If you are interested in a guided trip, please let us at Faithful Street Inn know, we can put together the perfect fly-fishing package for you.

So much fun for the 4th!

Are you ready for the 4th of July? West Yellowstone certainly is and there are tons of options for everyone this holiday weekend. Is music your thing? Bring the family, cooler and blankets for a free concert in the park, immediately following the 4th of July parade. Parade you say? Yes, West Yellowstone's own 4th parade will begin at 6 pm, and an outdoor bar-b-que will follow.

If you prefer a taste of the "west," there will also be a special Rodeo on the 4th, beginning at 8 pm. For those who can't resist good old fashioned fireworks for the 4th, fret not. Fireworks will begin at 10 pm.

Summer is officially upon us and the 4th marks a great weekend in West Yellowstone, Montana. If you are joining us for the weekend, we can't wait! You will be just a few short blocks from all of the fun 4th of July festivities. Looking for your summer lodging options? Take a peek at Faithful Street Inn and see if our modern, rustic cabins meet your vacation needs!

June: Season of the Rodeo

The west wouldn't truly be "the west" without its own brand of Rodeos. West Yellowstone is home to the Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo and the summer season kicks off June 15, with Rodeos taking place Wednesday through Saturday at 8 pm nightly.

A family trip to the Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo is the perfect add on to your West Yellowstone Vacation. The rodeo grounds are just minutes from the heart of town and visitors will enjoy a multitude of events, including: barrel racing, roping, saddle bronc riding, bull riding and more. You can even buy tickets beforehand at yellowstonerodeo.com (we definitely recommend buying in advance as this is a very popular event).

Are you ready for your summer vacation in West Yellowstone? Visit us today at FaithfulStreetInn.com for all your West Yellowstone vacation and cabin lodging needs.

Spotlight on Yellowstone Historic Center

May is almost here, and it means we are one step closer to the green pastures and sunny skies of Summer in West Yellowstone. Many "hibernating" companies and programs will be opening their doors in May and we want to spotlight one such place today: The Yellowstone Historic Center.
Opening May 21 for the 2011 season, the Yellowstone Historic Center allows guests to explore the history of travel to the nation's first National Park (Yellowstone). They have a large collection of artifacts, exhibits and documents relating to travel around Yellowstone and in the town of West Yellowstone. Learn more about the town first created in 1906 as a welcome to visitors to this unique place.

You need not be a kid to enjoy the wonders of Yellowstone and the Yellowstone Historic Center. Visit their site at http://www.yellowstonehistoriccenter.org for more information about hours and special events.

And don't forget about your lodging needs while in West Yellowstone. Faithful Street Inn has unique cabin rentals for groups of all sizes. Check us out at http://faithfulstreetinn.com.

Why not visit West Yellowstone in April?

Though April is a time of shifting seasons in West Yellowstone (trading winter snow for spring thaws), there are still plenty of reasons to plan an "off-season" vacation to the area. A great winter 2010-2011 season in West Yellowstone means there will be plenty of snow left in April to enjoy via snowmobile or cross country skiing.

Another perk of visiting West Yellowstone in April? Yellowstone National Park is offering free admission from April 16 - 24! Spring is a great time to catch the wildlife awaking from their winter hibernation.

Now all you need is the perfect West Yellowstone vacation rental to complete your spring stay. Faithful Street Inn provides unique Yellowstone cabins for area visitors, and specials abound on lodging in April. Visit faithfulstreetinn.com to learn more about all the cabin rentals we offer and to plan your West Yellowstone Spring vacation!

Exciting Upcoming Events in West Yellowstone!

March 11, 12 & 13, 2011: 21st World Snowmobile EXPO

A terrific end and beginning for snowmobilers! The World Snowmobile Expo culminates a year of Sno-Cross racing for many Rocky Mountain competitors with three days of racing thrills. Snowmobile manufacturers and after-market companies strut their 2011 stuff at the exposition hall. Nighttime activities include a Funny-Money Casino night and plenty of laughs. Plan now to attend!

For more EXPO information click here www.snowmobileexpo.com

March 19-20, 2011: Equinox Ski Challenge

The Equinox Ski Challenge is a springtime celebration, a season finale and also an opportunity for skiers to challenge themselves to new levels. This event is ingrained with camaraderie, challenge, and commitment to the well being of the local community. Skiers of ALL abilities are welcome. The goal is to have a lot of fun and also complete as many laps as you can in the 3 Hour, 6 Hour, 12 Hour or 24 Hour divisions. Skiers can enter as a relay team of up to 8 members or as a soloist. Choose your challenge! Kids under 12 are welcome to enter the 24 Minute event, which is always a highlight. The weekend includes a Saturday evening potluck with beverages and an all night bonfire at the start/finish line. How far can you go?

Cost: Varied, depending on team and late fee

More information: www.equinoxskichallenge.com

To learn more, be sure to visit our Events Calendar at http://faithfulstreetinn.com/activities/calendar.html. West Yellowstone activities and more are highlighted here.

As always, we welcome you to West Yellowstone and have many lodging options to fit your vacation needs. Visit our full list of cabins and more at FaithfulStreetInn.com.

Winter is here in West Yellowstone!

The snow is piling up in West Yellowstone, and we look forward to a great winter season for 2010-2011. Winter is a wonderful time to take a vacation in West Yellowstone and we want to give you an idea of the many recreational activities available to winter visitors. Remember to visit Waterdog Lodging for all your lodging needs while in West Yellowstone and get ready for some these great activitities:

Snowmobiling
The terrain in and around Yellowstone National Park is perfect for those who enjoy the more adventurous fun of snowmobiling. Guides and rentals are readily available and to experience the winter landscapes on snowmobiles is simply unbelievable.

Cross-Country Skiing
With millions of acres of public land available to cross-country skiers, West Yellowstone is a great destination for the active visitor. The winter wonderland provides the perfect backdrop to neatly groomed trails.

Dog Sled Tours
Yet another way to explore in and around West Yellowstone is on a dog sled tour. Get ready for fast paced fun on a guided trip.

Wildlife Viewing
You may see an assortment of wildlife during any winter activity in West Yellowstone, so stay on the lookout!

The snow has already begun to fall in West Yellowstone, and we look forward to a great winter season for 2010-2011. Winter is a wonderful time to take a vacation in West Yellowstone and we want to give you an idea of the many recreational activities available to winter visitors. Remember to visit Faithful Street Inn for all your lodging needs while in West Yellowstone and get ready for some these great activitities:

Snowmobiling

The terrain in and around Yellowstone National Park is perfect for those who enjoy the more adventurous fun of snowmobiling. Guides and rentals are readily available and to experience the winter landscapes on snowmobiles is simply unbelievable.

Cross-Country Skiing

With millions of acres of public land available to cross-country skiers, West Yellowstone is a great destination for the active visitor. The winter wonderland provides the perfect backdrop to neatly groomed trails.

Dog Sled Tours

Yet another way to explore in and around West Yellowstone is on a dog sled tour. Get ready for fast paced fun on a guided trip.

Wildlife Viewing

You may see an assortment of wildlife during any winter activity in West Yellowstone, so stay on the lookout!

Fall in Yellowstone

We’ve been enjoying a wonderful extended summer season in the area but winter will be here before we know it, don’t miss out on the abundance of Fall colors in West Yellowstone, MT.

If you are planning a trip to West Yellowstone in the coming weeks, many great colors will still be around for viewing. Fall can be over and gone before you know it around here but right now is an incredible opportunity to experience all the beautiful hues, wildlife, and greatly diminished crowds. Don’t miss out!

If you are still contemplating a trip to West Yellowstone for the Fall, be sure to check out our availability of cabins at Faithfulstreetinn.com.

Great fishing on the Madison & Firehole Rivers

This summer has been a bit slow on many of the Montana and Wyoming rivers, with heavy rainfall and a long snow runoff season. Luckily for West Yellowstone, nearby Madison and Firehole Rivers are looking great for fly fishing. If you are planning a trip to West Yellowstone, Montana, now is the perfect time to practice your cast on one or both of these great rivers.

Here is the latest info on area fishing... (from West Yellowstone News)
The Firehole River: Currently the best river in West Yellowstone area for dry fly fishing. Fish are rising quickly for PMD's, Baetis hatches and Caddis. Plenty of fishing available for all the happy anglers out there.

The Madison River: The Madison is seeing mid-morning to afternoon rises. PMD and Caddis hatches are kicking in. Not as much rise as on the Firehole, but still plenty of fish to keep the fishermen casting.

If you are still contemplating a trip to West Yellowstone for the summer, be sure to check out our availability of cabins at FaithfulStreetInn.com.

Summer 1 & 2 night Stays!

For this summer, Faithful Street Inn is offering 1 & 2 night stays on select cabins, based on availability. Quantities are limited and this is a CALL-IN Special ONLY. Please call us at 866-646-4329 or visit FaithfulStreetInn.com for more information on all of our cabins and summer activities in and around West Yellowstone, Montana.

Summer is just around the bend and we can't wait for the warm weather in West Yellowstone. Planning your Yellowstone vacation? Be sure to visit us for great group and family vacation lodging.