South Entrance Road

The South Entrance Road is one of five roads that provide access to the Grand Loop Road and the rest of Yellowstone. This is the route taken by those coming from Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Grand Teton National Park. The South Entrance Road is typically open for vehicle travel May through October.

Mile 0 – South Entrance

The entrance sign welcomes you to the southern entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Just 0.2 miles beyond the sign, the road passes through the entrance station. The park entrance fee must be paid or a valid pass shown.

Mile 1.4 – Moose Falls

The road passes by a small parking area for Moose Falls. A short walk leads to a good view of this 30 foot waterfall on Crawfish Creek.

Mile 8.4 – Pitchstone Trailhead

A very small parking area for the Pitchstone Trailhead is on the left. This is a starting point for long hikes into an extremely remote and wild area of the park.

Mile 10.2 – Lewis Falls

The road goes by a small parking area for Lewis Falls. There is a good roadside view of this 30 foot waterfall on the Lewis River.

Mile 11.5 – Lewis Lake Campground

On the left is the side road to the Lewis Lake Campground, as well as a boat dock and picnic area. For more on the campground, see Yellowstone Camping.

Mile 14.4 – Heart Lake Trailhead

The road passes by the parking area for the Heart Lake Trailhead. This is a long hike, usually done as an overnight trip, to the enormous 2,160 acre Heart Lake. Thermal features can also be seen along the way.

Mile 17.6 – Riddle Lake Trailhead

The road goes by the parking area for the Riddle Lake Trailhead. This is an easy hike of a little over two miles to 274 acre Riddle Lake. This area is frequently closed for bear management.

Mile 20.0 – Grant Village

To the right is the side road to Grant Village. Most services are available here, including lodging, camping, dining, and a service station.

Mile 21.8 – West Thumb Junction

The road arrives at West Thumb Junction. A left turn joins the Grand Loop Road on the West Thumb to Old Faithful section. A right turn enters the Fishing Bridge to West Thumb section.