Roosevelt Corral, Yellowstone National Park - Image 1

Roosevelt Corral Yellowstone National Park

4.7
·106 reviews·, United States

Experience the Wild West at Roosevelt Corral with historic stagecoach, horseback rides, and a memorable Cowboy Cookout.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Enjoy cookouts under big skies

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Roosevelt Corral, Yellowstone National Park - Image 1

Roosevelt Corral Yellowstone National Park

Best Time

Summer evenings

Enjoy cookouts under big skies

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the Wild West at Roosevelt Corral with historic stagecoach, horseback rides, and a memorable Cowboy Cookout.

4.7
(106 reviews)

"A unique and amazing experience with lots of history, awesome food, and great nature views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🤠 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cowboy Cookout Experience

Cowboy Cookout Experience

Roosevelt Corral

Enjoy a scenic wagon or horseback ride to a valley cookout with steak, campfire tales, and music.

Instagram
Horseback Riding Trails

Horseback Riding Trails

Roosevelt Corral

Explore Yellowstone's stunning landscapes on guided horseback rides, offering a historic way to see the park.

Instagram
Historic Stagecoach Ride

Historic Stagecoach Ride

Roosevelt Corral

Experience Yellowstone as it was 100 years ago on a slow-paced, scenic stagecoach ride. [^Review]

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Cowboy Cookout Early!

The Roosevelt Corral Cowboy Cookout is a wildly popular experience. Reservations fill up fast, especially for wagon rides. Book online well in advance to secure your spot for this unique Yellowstone adventure. Instagram

Factor in Travel Time

Roosevelt Corral is in the northeast corner of the park. Driving from popular areas like Old Faithful can take nearly two hours. Plan your departure time carefully to avoid missing your reservation, especially for early morning rides. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Enjoy cookouts under big skies
Crowd
High
When
Early morning rides
Why
See wildlife before crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nueva colección Yellowstone de @ranchandcorral ya disponible🤠🔥 👉🏻www.botaschicho.com👈🏻
@botaschicho
21.3K likes • 459.2K views

🤠 Book Cookout in Advance

The Cowboy Cookout is a must-do and sells out quickly! Book your wagon or horseback ride early. Instagram

🚗 Allow Ample Travel Time

Roosevelt Corral is far from Old Faithful. Factor in 1.5-2 hours driving time to avoid being late. Reddit

Horseback riding at Roosevelt Corral in Yellowstone National Park and why you need to go: 1️⃣Historic Location: Roosevelt Corral is one of the historic sites within Yellowstone National Park. After your ride, pop in for a meal at the legendary Roosevelt Lodge. 2️⃣Scenic Trails: The riding trails take you through the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone. We traveled through meadows and forests. Rid...
travelbabblerepeat
169 likes • 3K views
📍 Yellowstone National Park -Cowboy Cookout from Roosevelt Corral- Did you know that you can take a covered wagon ride (or go on horse back) out to a beautiful Yellowstone valley for an evening cookout?! The cowboy cookout heads out from the Roosevelt corral in Yellowstone and is about a 30 minute wagon ride out to a picnic area where you’ll find steaks being grilled to your liking and a picni...
savoringthesouthwithsarah
16 likes • 910 views

👖 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]

SAVE this MUST DO in Yellowstone National Park! 📍Horseback Riding at Canyon Corral 🐴 Rides are offered at Canyon Corral and Roosevelt. 🐴 They offer one and two hour rides. One hour is $70pp and 2 hours is $115pp. 🐴 You must be at least 8 years old to ride. 🐴 You can book your reservation through the Yellowstone National Park Lodge @ynplodges. 🐴 You are not allowed to have handheld cameras...
travel_familystyle
247 likes • 7.8K views

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. Instagram

🚗 Allow Ample Travel Time

Roosevelt Corral is far from Old Faithful. Factor in 1.5-2 hours driving time to avoid being late. Reddit

👖 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

4.7
(106 reviews)

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

Unique Cowboy Cookout
Scenic wagon/horse rides
Delicious steak dinner

What People Dislike

Long drive time
Dusty trails

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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

The Cowboy Cookout is a huge hit with families! The wagon ride is perfect for younger children who might not be ready for horseback riding. Seeing bison and coyotes from the wagon is a thrilling experience for kids, and the campfire stories and music add to the fun. [^Review] Instagram

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. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While not the cheapest activity, the stagecoach ride offers a more budget-friendly historical experience compared to horseback riding. It still provides scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities. [^Review]

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. Instagram

💑 Couples

The Cowboy Cookout offers a romantic and unique evening experience, especially the horseback ride portion for couples seeking a bit more adventure. Enjoying a meal under the stars with live music creates a memorable atmosphere. [^Review] Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Roosevelt Corral Cowboy Cookout

The Cowboy Cookout at Roosevelt Corral is a quintessential Yellowstone experience that transports you back to the Old West. Participants can choose between a horseback ride or a covered wagon ride that winds through a scenic valley to a designated cookout area. This journey offers a unique perspective of the park's natural beauty and a chance to spot wildlife like bison and coyotes along the way. Instagram [^Review]

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. Instagram [^Review]

Horseback Riding Adventures

Roosevelt Corral offers guided horseback riding tours that allow visitors to explore Yellowstone's backcountry in a traditional and intimate way. These rides cater to various skill levels, with options for one-hour or two-hour excursions. The trails are carefully chosen to showcase the park's diverse scenery, from open meadows to forested areas, providing an authentic cowboy experience. Instagram+1

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. Instagram [^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. Instagram

Historic Stagecoach Rides

For a taste of Yellowstone's past, the stagecoach rides from Roosevelt Corral offer a charming and leisurely way to experience the park. These rides, drawn by two horses, provide a gentle journey through the landscape, reminiscent of travel from over a century ago. It's a unique opportunity to imagine life in the early days of Yellowstone tourism. [^Review]

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]