CLOSE TO THE SNOW. CLOSER TO COMFORT.
Winter turns Island Park into one of the best-known snowmobile destinations in the American West, and Blue Buffalo Resort puts you in the middle of it. Our 76 cabins sit at 3402 N Highway 20, Island Park, Idaho, about 14 miles (a 25-minute drive) from Yellowstone National Park’s West Entrance at West Yellowstone, Montana, with hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails threading the surrounding forest.
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Winter Guide
Island Park Winter Guide
Island Park is one of the West’s great winter destinations, and Blue Buffalo Resort sits in the middle of it: 76 cabins on Highway 20, about 14 miles (25 minutes) from Yellowstone National Park’s West Entrance. Here’s how to plan a winter trip from the resort.
Snowmobiling
Island Park is a major snowmobile hub, with hundreds of miles of groomed trails winding through the surrounding forest, and the town fills with riders from first snow through early spring. It’s widely considered one of the best snowmobile destinations in the western United States.
Blue Buffalo Resort does not rent snowmobiles, but local outfitters in Island Park offer rentals and guided rides. After a day on the trails, come back to a warm cabin, the cedar sauna, and fresh pizza at our on-site Blue Buffalo Pizzeria.
Yellowstone in Winter
In winter, Yellowstone’s roads from the West Entrance are closed to private vehicles. Access is by guided snowcoach or guided snowmobile tour, run by third-party operators out of West Yellowstone, Montana, about 14 miles (25 minutes) from the resort. Book tours ahead of your stay, then use your cabin as a warm base before and after your day in the park.
Cross-Country Skiing and Quiet Trails
For quieter winter days, Harriman State Park, an 11,000-acre wildlife refuge a short drive south of the resort, grooms trails for cross-country skiing along the Henry’s Fork, with regular sightings of moose and swans and far fewer crowds. Snowshoeing is popular on forest roads and trails throughout the Island Park area.
Winter at the Resort
All 76 cabins stay open through winter, with full kitchens and free WiFi. Select cabins feature private hot tubs, hard to beat after a day on the snow, and guests can warm up in the on-site cedar sauna or brave the cold plunge. Blue Buffalo Pizzeria serves hand-made pizza right at the resort, so there’s no need to drive after dark.
Winter FAQs
Does Blue Buffalo Resort rent snowmobiles?
No, we don't rent snowmobiles or other motorized equipment at the resort. Local outfitters in Island Park offer snowmobile rentals and guided rides, and our team is happy to point you toward current options when you arrive.
How do I visit Yellowstone in winter?
In winter, park roads from the West Entrance are closed to private vehicles. Guided snowcoach and snowmobile tours run by third-party operators depart from West Yellowstone, Montana, about 14 miles (25 minutes) from the resort.
Where can I cross-country ski near the resort?
Harriman State Park, a short drive south of Island Park, grooms trails for cross-country skiing through an 11,000-acre wildlife refuge. Snowshoeing is also popular throughout the area.
Are the cabins open in winter?
Yes, all 76 cabins are open year-round, with full kitchens and free WiFi. Select cabins have private hot tubs, and the on-site sauna, cold plunge, and Blue Buffalo Pizzeria stay busy all winter.
How far is Blue Buffalo Resort from West Yellowstone?
We're at 3402 N Highway 20, Island Park, Idaho, about 14 miles or a 25-minute drive from Yellowstone National Park's West Entrance at West Yellowstone, Montana.
