Gardiner is located in Southwest Montana, at the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, with the Yellowstone River running right through the middle of town. Founded in 1880, Gardiner became a center of activity for visitors to the region, serving as the original, and only year-round entrance to the park. Sandwiched between the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness to the North, the Gallatin Wilderness to the West and the world's first and most famous park - Yellowstone - to the South, seasonal activities abound, with a focus on the outdoors.

In the summer and fall, activities include fishing, hiking, horseback riding, pack trips, whitewater rafting, kayaking and hunting.

Elk regularly roam around town, and Pronghorn can often be spotted in the hills and meadows near town. Listen carefully and you are apt to hear Coyotes in the foothills in the evening. Black Bear and Grizzly Bear inhabit Yellowstone and the surrounding area. In the winter, Bald Eagles and Osprey abound on the Yellowstone River, while Bighorn Sheep come down to graze within view. The more cautious Moose may be seen on occasion in the canyon above town, alongside the ever present Deer and Bison.

In the winter, Yellowstone country is magically transformed under a blanket of snow, and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and wildlife watching are the most popular activities.

Gardiner has survived a rough and tumble existence of gold rushes, the railroad and even destructive fires. A tough little frontier town, it fed and sheltered miners, entertained the early soldiers who operated Yellowstone Park, and learned to host the pioneer visitor.

Gardiner has matured, tempered and grown to meet the needs of today's visitor. It is a good place to spend some rich time in history, in the heart of some of the West's finest country. Gardiner offers motels, restaurants, shops, art galleries, churches, a small airport and other visitor services. Campground and trailer parks offer overnight services with full hookups.

We welcome you to spend time with us ~ a day, a week or more!