Springtime in Wyoming: Car-Free Cycling and Walking in National Parks

Every spring, as winter retreats from Wyoming’s landscapes, Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks offer a unique experience—several weeks of car-free access to freshly plowed roads, WyoFile reports.

During this brief period, before vehicles are allowed back in, cyclists and pedestrians can enjoy some of the most scenic routes in the country without the usual traffic.

In both parks, crews work to clear snow from the highways, opening them exclusively for non-motorized use. This tradition has become a seasonal highlight for many outdoor enthusiasts.

“It’s a rite of spring,” said Jackson resident Anna Davis, who recently biked 28 miles along the base of the Teton Mountains. “To be able to bike in that setting, under those peaks with no cars—there’s not a lot of things like it.”

Yellowstone opened its 49-mile route between West Yellowstone and Mammoth for cycling last weekend, with motorized vehicles set to return on April 18. In Grand Teton, Teton Park Road remains closed to cars until May, giving visitors several more weeks to explore in peace.

While the experience is a favorite for cyclists, it also draws a diverse crowd. On sunny weekends, thousands gather at Grand Teton’s Taggart Lake Trailhead, where families stroll, rollerblade, skateboard, and take in the fresh mountain air.

“I just love the sort of carnival atmosphere,” Davis said. “Everyone’s so excited to be there. It’s hectic, but everybody’s being nice.”