Gardiner, Montana
Surrounded by Yellowstone National Park and National Forest land, Gardiner, Montana, is home to just over 800 year-round residents. Occupying a total area of 5.89 square miles, this serene town is majestically perched at an elevation of 5,259 feet. With a total size of 5.89 square miles and nestled at an elevation of 5,259 feet, the town sits within a valley, making access convenient all year round despite the towering landscapes surrounding it. The Yellowstone River carves its way through the town, providing a scenic backdrop for hotels, restaurants, and shops. Ever since Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872, Gardiner has served as its main gateway, with the park's boundary running along Park Street.
History of Gardiner, Montana
The early history of Gardiner, Montana dates back to 1805 with the first historical references to the area. By the mid-1830s, the region became known as Gardner's Hole, named after the fur trapper, Johnson Gardner. The town has served as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park since the park's establishment in 1872. Officially founded in 1880, Gardiner's accessibility was further enhanced in 1883 when the Northern Pacific Railway extended its Park Branch Line to Cinnabar, just north of the town. By 1903, the rail line reached Gardiner, leading to the disappearance of the Cinnabar community. The construction of the Highway 89 bridge over the Yellowstone River in 1929 further eased access, and though rail service to Gardiner persisted until 1948, the town continues to flourish as a vital hub for Yellowstone National Park.
How to get to Gardiner
Gardiner is adjacent to Yellowstone National Park and is about 78 miles (120km) from Bozeman, Montana, which takes about 80 minutes to drive.
Nearby Airports
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) - about 80 minutes away in Bozeman. When flying into Bozeman, Gardiner is probably the most convienent location to stay when visiting Yellowstone National Park. It is probably the only airport that is easily accessible by car year round.
- Yellowstone Airport (WYS) - about 90 minutes away through Yellowstone Park at the park's West Entrance.
Things to do in Gardiner
Yellowstone National Park
Most visiters to Gardiner will be visiting Yellowstone National Park.
Hike with Llamas
Hike while accompanied by llamas carrying all of your stuff or visit with Llamas at Yellowstone Llamas.
Rafting
There are many Rafting companies in Gardiner, such as Yellowstone Raft Company, Montana Whitewater, and Wild West Rafting.
Horseback Riding
Go horseback riding with Yellowstone Roughriders, Specimen Creek Outfitters, or Hell’s A-Roarin’ Outfitters.
Hunting
Hunting is not allowed in Yellowstone National Park, but it is allowed in the national forests and private land (with permission) surrounding the park. Specimen Creek Outfitters and Hell’s A-Roarin’ Outfitters both have hunting trips.
Dining
Gardiner Montana has more than 25 restaurants.
Shopping
Gardiner Market is a grocery store that sells food, drinks, outdoor supplies, and souvenirs. It also has a deli with prepackaged meals that are more convenient and cheaper than eating in restaurants when visiting Yellowstone National Park.
Hotels in Gardiner
Gardiner has numerous hotels, and you can find a list here.
The Roosevelt Hotel
The Roosevelt Hotel has hotel rooms with wifi and refridgerators as well as cabins. The hotel provides free breakfast pastries and coffee in the morning, has laundry facilities, and is walking distance to restaurants in Gardiner.