Sylvan Pass Yellowstone National Park
A dramatic mountain pass in Yellowstone offering exhilarating drives, stunning vistas, and chances to spot bighorn sheep and mountain goats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Snow still lingers, adding to the beauty.
Sylvan Pass Yellowstone National Park
Best Time
Snow still lingers, adding to the beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic mountain pass in Yellowstone offering exhilarating drives, stunning vistas, and chances to spot bighorn sheep and mountain goats.
"Awesome views and a thrilling drive, but be prepared for steep drop-offs if you're scared of heights!"
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road has steep drop-offs and few guardrails. If you're scared of heights, this drive might be challenging.
🐐 Watch for Wildlife
Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are frequently spotted here. Have your camera ready!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Experience sweeping views of rugged peaks and dramatic landscapes. The drive itself is the main attraction.

Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
Keep your eyes peeled for majestic bighorn sheep and mountain goats often seen on the mountainsides.

Challenging & Exhilarating Road
A thrilling drive with steep inclines, sharp turns, and stunning, albeit sometimes scary, drop-offs.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Wildlife & Weather Watch
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Is Sylvan pass worth visiting?
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road has steep drop-offs and few guardrails. If you're scared of heights, this drive might be challenging.
🐐 Watch for Wildlife
Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are frequently spotted here. Have your camera ready!
East Yellowstone one day itinerary/recommendations
Yellowstone in late may?
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly. Snow is possible even in late June, so be prepared for varying temperatures.
📸 Capture the Views
The drive offers incredible scenic overlooks. Stop safely to take in the breathtaking mountain scenery.
Best route to travel in
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road has steep drop-offs and few guardrails. If you're scared of heights, this drive might be challenging.
🐐 Watch for Wildlife
Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are frequently spotted here. Have your camera ready!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly. Snow is possible even in late June, so be prepared for varying temperatures.
📸 Capture the Views
The drive offers incredible scenic overlooks. Stop safely to take in the breathtaking mountain scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sylvan Pass for its exhilarating drive and stunning mountain scenery, with many enjoying sightings of bighorn sheep and mountain goats. However, the steep drop-offs and winding roads can be a significant concern for those with a fear of heights. The lack of guardrails is a recurring point of caution.
"Really cool. Got to see six big horn sheep traversing the mountain side. And still snow at the end of June."
Glenn
"I loved the drive - exhilarating!
My wife hated it - she's scared of heights.
There's huge drop offs, not many guard rails, and awesome views. Take it or leave it depending on how are are with scary roads."
Tod Poirier
"My wife and I enjoyed driving here in Oct. 2017. It was beautiful."
Paul Fair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sylvan Pass is located on the eastern side of Yellowstone National Park, accessible via Highway 14/16/20. It's a scenic drive that connects the East Entrance to the interior of the park.
The drive can be challenging for those with a fear of heights due to steep drop-offs and winding roads. It's an exhilarating experience for others.
The best way is by car, allowing you to stop at various scenic points and look for wildlife. The drive itself is the primary experience.
Services are limited. There are some picnic areas, but it's advisable to fill up on gas and use restrooms before entering this section of the park.
Yes, there are a couple of trails available for short hikes, offering opportunities to explore the natural beauty further.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sylvan Pass is within Yellowstone National Park, so a standard park entrance fee is required. No separate ticket is needed for the pass itself.
Sylvan Pass is generally accessible year-round, but road closures can occur due to heavy snowfall, especially in winter and early spring. Always check the official Yellowstone National Park website for current road conditions.
Crowds can vary. It's generally less crowded than some of the more famous geyser basins, but popular during peak summer months. Visiting in the shoulder seasons or early/late in the day can offer a more serene experience.
Yes, RVs can navigate Sylvan Pass, but drivers should be cautious of the narrow, winding sections and steep grades. Larger RVs may find some pull-offs tight.
The East Entrance Station is located at the eastern end of Sylvan Pass, making it a convenient entry or exit point.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for pull-offs that offer expansive views of the Absaroka Range. The winding road itself can also make for dramatic photographic compositions.
Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are the most sought-after subjects. Keep an eye on the rocky slopes.
Sunrise and sunset can cast beautiful light on the mountains. However, be mindful of road safety and potential wildlife activity during these times.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand landscapes. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Standard park rules apply. Do not disturb wildlife, stay on designated trails, and be aware of your surroundings. Drone usage is restricted in national parks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as services are minimal. Ensure children are securely buckled in and consider bringing binoculars for them to spot wildlife. The picnic areas offer a chance to stretch legs and enjoy the views. Remember to check road conditions before you go, as winter closures can impact accessibility.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Plan for ample time to stop at the designated pull-offs to truly appreciate the scale of the landscape and to scan for the iconic bighorn sheep and mountain goats that call this area home. Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and potentially more dramatic weather, enhancing the overall road trip experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Drive
Despite the driving challenges, the rewards are immense. The pass offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding Absaroka Range. These vistas are a significant draw, providing a different perspective of Yellowstone's wild beauty compared to the more geothermal-focused areas. The drive is particularly stunning when the weather is dramatic, with one visitor mentioning it was 'Beautiful! Especially on a rainy day.' It's a journey that truly immerses you in the rugged mountain environment of the park.
Wildlife Encounters at Sylvan Pass
To maximize your chances of spotting these magnificent creatures, it's recommended to drive slowly and scan the hillsides, especially during the early morning and late afternoon. Binoculars are a valuable tool for observing wildlife from a safe distance without disturbing them. Remember that these are wild animals, and maintaining a respectful distance is crucial for both your safety and their well-being. The presence of wildlife adds a dynamic and unforgettable element to the Sylvan Pass experience, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
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