WyoFile reported on October 1, 2025, that the Department of the Interior ordered Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks to remain partially open as a federal government shutdown began. The directive follows a September 2025 contingency plan developed for a potential budget impasse in Congress. While the parks will have significantly reduced staffing, the plan allows for continued public access to certain areas and services.
- Park roads, trails, lookouts, and open-air memorials will generally remain accessible to visitors. Concessionaires that operate hotels, stores, and food services are also permitted to continue their normal seasonal operations.
- Government-provided services will not be available. This includes the closure of visitor centers and the suspension of all ranger-led programs. Park websites and social media feeds will not be updated except in case of emergencies.
- While entrance gates will be unstaffed, basic services such as trash collection and restroom maintenance will continue. Emergency services and law enforcement patrols will also remain active within the parks.
The contingency plan is expected to remain in place for the duration of the government shutdown.
