Roosevelt Corral Yellowstone National Park
Experience the Wild West at Roosevelt Corral with historic stagecoach, horseback rides, and a memorable Cowboy Cookout.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy cookouts under big skies
Roosevelt Corral Yellowstone National Park
Best Time
Enjoy cookouts under big skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the Wild West at Roosevelt Corral with historic stagecoach, horseback rides, and a memorable Cowboy Cookout.
"A unique and amazing experience with lots of history, awesome food, and great nature views!"
🤠 Book Cookout in Advance
The Cowboy Cookout is a must-do and sells out quickly! Book your wagon or horseback ride early.
🚗 Allow Ample Travel Time
Roosevelt Corral is far from Old Faithful. Factor in 1.5-2 hours driving time to avoid being late.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cowboy Cookout Experience
Roosevelt Corral
Enjoy a scenic wagon or horseback ride to a valley cookout with steak, campfire tales, and music.
Horseback Riding Trails
Roosevelt Corral
Explore Yellowstone's stunning landscapes on guided horseback rides, offering a historic way to see the park.
Historic Stagecoach Ride
Roosevelt Corral
Experience Yellowstone as it was 100 years ago on a slow-paced, scenic stagecoach ride. [^Review]
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Cowboy Cookout Early!
Factor in Travel Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤠 Book Cookout in Advance
The Cowboy Cookout is a must-do and sells out quickly! Book your wagon or horseback ride early.
🚗 Allow Ample Travel Time
Roosevelt Corral is far from Old Faithful. Factor in 1.5-2 hours driving time to avoid being late.
👖 Dress for Dust & Weather
Wagon rides can be dusty. Wear comfortable clothes and consider layers as Yellowstone weather changes rapidly. [^Review]
📸 Bring Your Camera
You'll likely see bison, coyotes, and stunning scenery. Capture those unforgettable Yellowstone moments! [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
🤠 Book Cookout in Advance
The Cowboy Cookout is a must-do and sells out quickly! Book your wagon or horseback ride early.
🚗 Allow Ample Travel Time
Roosevelt Corral is far from Old Faithful. Factor in 1.5-2 hours driving time to avoid being late.
👖 Dress for Dust & Weather
Wagon rides can be dusty. Wear comfortable clothes and consider layers as Yellowstone weather changes rapidly. [^Review]
📸 Bring Your Camera
You'll likely see bison, coyotes, and stunning scenery. Capture those unforgettable Yellowstone moments! [^Review]
🥩 Steak Cooked Your Way
For the cookout, you can often negotiate your steak's doneness (medium vs. well-done). [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique Cowboy Cookout experience, praising the scenic wagon and horseback rides, delicious food, and engaging entertainment. Many highlight the opportunity to see wildlife like bison and coyotes. Some note the long drive to reach the corral and the dusty conditions on the trails.
"We took the 1 hours stagecoach ride. It was a very nice experience. Saw a coyote in the field. The carriage is drawn by 2 horses so it's a bit of a slow ride. But it's nice to see how people experienced Yellowstone 100 years ago."
Matthijs
"This was really fun for my 6-year-old. We saw 2 bison from the wagon and a coyote. They take you right through a beautiful valley to the cook site. There, you will share a meal, time to meet your horses, enjoy some old-fashioned fireside tales, and listen to music. The ride is dusty, so be prepared. The guides were funny, helpful, and full of information."
Jordan Lugert
"My family and I did the cookout while in Yellowstone. They rode horses, I took the wagons. It was very well done, ride wasn’t too long, guides were great, food was awesome! Also saw some bison up close and personal. They suggested to bring bug spray but luckily didn’t need it."
Greg Jackson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive from Old Faithful to Roosevelt Corral is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, assuming no traffic delays. It's recommended to leave at least 2 hours before your reservation time to account for potential wildlife jams or construction.
Yes, Roosevelt Corral is accessible by car. It's located in the Tower-Roosevelt area of Yellowstone National Park. Parking is available on-site for those with reservations or visiting the lodge.
While there are park shuttles and tours, direct public bus service to Roosevelt Corral is limited. Driving your own vehicle or booking a guided tour that includes this stop is the most common way to get there.
The driving distance varies greatly depending on your starting point within Yellowstone. From Old Faithful, it's about 70 miles. From the North Entrance (Gardiner), it's roughly 50 miles.
Road closures can occur due to weather or construction. Always check the official Yellowstone National Park website or visitor center for the most up-to-date road conditions before your visit. [^Review]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
One-hour rides are typically around $70 per person, and two-hour rides are about $115 per person. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Yellowstone National Park Lodges website for current rates.
Absolutely! The Cowboy Cookout is extremely popular and reservations are essential. It's highly recommended to book your spot online as far in advance as possible, especially during peak season.
You must be at least 8 years old to participate in horseback riding. For younger children or those who prefer not to ride, wagon rides are available for the Cowboy Cookout.
Yes, wagon rides are a popular option for the Cowboy Cookout. They offer a comfortable and scenic way to reach the cookout site, especially for families with younger children or those who don't want to ride a horse.
The Cowboy Cookout typically includes the wagon or horseback ride to the cookout site, a hearty meal (often steak cooked to your preference), campfire stories, and live music. [^Review]
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Riders often spot bison, coyotes, and various birds. Keep an eye out in the meadows and along the trails for a chance to see Yellowstone's incredible wildlife up close. [^Review]
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and long pants. Layers are recommended as Yellowstone weather can change quickly. A hat and sunglasses are also a good idea. [^Review]
Yes, the Cowboy Cookout is very family-friendly. Wagon rides are a great option for younger kids, and the cookout itself offers a fun, engaging experience with food, music, and stories. [^Review]
The rides typically last one or two hours, depending on the option you choose. The Cowboy Cookout involves a ride to the cookout site, dinner, and then the return ride.
The trails are generally well-maintained but can be dusty, especially during dry periods. They wind through meadows and open valleys, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. [^Review]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Cowboy Cookout features a hearty meal, typically including steak cooked to your preference, along with sides. Vegetarian options may be available upon request when booking. [^Review]
Yes, you can often negotiate your steak's doneness, whether you prefer medium or well-done. It's a nice touch that caters to individual preferences. [^Review]
While the primary meal is steak, it's advisable to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options when making your reservation. They may be able to accommodate with advance notice. [^Review]
Information on alcohol availability is not consistently provided. It's best to assume it might not be available or to inquire directly with the booking service when you make your reservation. [^Review]
The Roosevelt Lodge, located near the corral, offers dining services. It's a historic lodge with a rustic atmosphere, serving meals to visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic trails, wildlife sightings (bison, coyotes), the historic corral itself, and the vast 'big sky' views during the cookout are prime photo spots. [^Review]
It's generally safe to take photos with your phone or a small camera, but always be mindful of your surroundings and your horse. Avoid dangling equipment that could spook the animal.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Wildlife is also more active during these times. [^Review]
Drone usage is strictly prohibited within Yellowstone National Park, including at Roosevelt Corral, to protect wildlife and visitor safety. [^Review]
The open valleys during the cookout ride offer expansive views. Keep an eye out for wildlife in meadows and along the riverbanks during your ride. [^Review]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with children aged 8 and up, horseback riding offers an even more adventurous way to explore. The one-hour rides are a great introduction. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for dusty conditions. Booking well in advance is essential for this popular family activity.
💰 Budget Travelers
For the Cowboy Cookout, consider the wagon ride as it's typically priced similarly to horseback riding but might be perceived as better value for families. Packing your own snacks and water can also help manage costs.
💑 Couples
Consider booking a two-hour horseback ride for a more in-depth exploration of the trails, allowing for quiet moments amidst Yellowstone's stunning scenery. The historic setting of Roosevelt Corral adds to the charm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roosevelt Corral Cowboy Cookout
Upon arrival at the cookout site, guests are treated to a delicious, rustic meal, often featuring steak cooked to their personal preference. The evening is further enhanced by campfire stories, live music, and the chance to simply soak in the vast Yellowstone landscape under the 'big sky.' It's an immersive experience that combines adventure, dining, and entertainment, making it a memorable highlight for many visitors. [^Review]
Booking in advance is crucial as this popular activity fills up quickly, especially during the summer months. The experience is designed to be family-friendly, with wagon rides providing an accessible option for all ages. Remember to dress comfortably and be prepared for dusty conditions, as the trails can be dry. [^Review]
Horseback Riding Adventures
Experienced wranglers lead each group, ensuring safety and sharing insights about the park's history, geology, and wildlife. Riding allows for a slower pace than driving, increasing the chances of encountering animals like bison, elk, or even bears from a safe distance. It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature and appreciate the rugged beauty of Yellowstone. [^Review]
Important considerations for horseback riding include the age requirement (typically 8 years old) and the need for comfortable, closed-toe shoes and long pants. Reservations are highly recommended, as spots are limited and often booked well in advance, particularly during peak season.
Historic Stagecoach Rides
While slower than horseback riding, the stagecoach experience is incredibly scenic and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Passengers often report seeing bison and coyotes from the comfort of the carriage. The guides also share historical anecdotes about the area, adding an educational layer to the adventure. [^Review]
This option is particularly appealing for families with very young children or individuals who prefer a more relaxed mode of transport. Like other activities from Roosevelt Corral, booking ahead is advisable to secure a spot on these popular historical journeys. [^Review]
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