Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins is a popular accommodation option within Yellowstone National Park, offering visitors a unique and comfortable stay near the famous Old Faithful geyser. Here are the key details about this lodging:
Location and Access
The Old Faithful Snow Lodge is situated in the Upper Geyser Basin, just a short walk from Old Faithful geyser. It’s approximately 30 miles from West Yellowstone. During winter, the lodge is only accessible by snowcoach or snowmobile due to its elevation of about 7,300 feet.
Accommodations
The lodge offers a variety of room types:
- Lodge Rooms: Located in the main lodge building, these rooms feature western-themed decor, private bathrooms, and amenities like coffee makers and mini-refrigerators.
- Western Cabins: More spacious and modern, typically with two queen beds and full bathrooms.
- Frontier Cabins: Simple duplex-style cabins with two double beds and private bathrooms with showers.
All accommodations lack air conditioning, televisions, and radios, encouraging guests to connect with nature.
Amenities and Services
- Dining: The Obsidian Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Geyser Grill offers quick-service meals.
- Firehole Lounge: A cozy spot to relax by the fireplace.
- Gift Shop: The Bear Den Gift Shop sells souvenirs and rents ski equipment in winter.
- Activities: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowcoach tours are available in winter. In summer, hiking and geyser viewing are popular.
Seasonal Operation
The lodge operates during two seasons:
Design and Architecture
Built in 1999, the Snow Lodge features timber and log construction with a cedar shingle roof, inspired by rustic Western design. It received the Cody Award for Western Design in 1999.
Reservations
Reservations can be made by booking online. Prices vary by season and room type, starting from around $123 for cabins to $500 for deluxe rooms.
Are there any special activities or events at the lodge during peak season?
While the Old Faithful Snow Lodge itself doesn’t have a specific calendar of special events, there are several activities and events that take place in and around the lodge during the peak summer season:
Ranger Programs
Yellowstone National Park offers various ranger-led programs throughout the summer, typically from Memorial Day weekend through September. These may include walks, talks, and other educational activities near Old Faithful and the surrounding geyser basin.
Local Flavors Events
From June to August 2024, the Old Faithful Inn and Old Faithful Lodge (which are near the Snow Lodge) will host “Local Flavors” events. These events showcase specialty foods and drinks from local producers, giving visitors a taste of the Yellowstone region.
Inspired by Yellowstone Artist Marketplace
From now through October 2, 2024, the Old Faithful Inn and Old Faithful Lodge will feature an “Inspired by Yellowstone Artist Marketplace”. This is an opportunity to meet artists in person and view or purchase artwork inspired by the park.
Summer Activities
While not specific to the lodge, there are numerous activities available in the Old Faithful area during peak season:
- Guided Tours: Various bus tours, including the “Circle of Fire” and “Firehole Basin Adventure” tours, depart from the Old Faithful area.
- Old Faithful Inn Tours: Visitors can take guided tours of the historic Old Faithful Inn.
- Photography Tours: “Picture Perfect Photo Safari” tours are available for photography enthusiasts.
- Evening Programs: “Twilight on the Firehole” offers an evening exploration of the area.
- Bicycle Rentals: The lodge offers bicycle rentals for exploring the area.
Geyser Viewing
Of course, the main attraction is Old Faithful geyser itself, along with numerous other geothermal features in the Upper Geyser Basin. The lodge’s proximity to these natural wonders means that geyser viewing is a constant “event” throughout the peak season.
While specific event dates may vary, these activities provide a range of options for visitors staying at or near the Old Faithful Snow Lodge during the busy summer months. It’s always a good idea to check with the lodge’s front desk or the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on current and upcoming events during your stay.