Wyoming Tourism Will be Hit by National Park Closures

Wyoming Tourism Will be Hit by National Park Closures

UW researchers recently received permission to execute numerous tests and collect extensive data from Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone National Park. (National Park Service Photo)

CHEYENNE– Governor Mark Gordon announced on Thursday during his press conference that the opening date for National Parks, including Yellowstone and Grand Teton, is unknown at this time, which will present a significant hit to Wyoming’s tourism revenue.

“Summer tourism in terms of revenue will not look similar to previous years,” Governor Gordon said. “That’s a big concern.”

When the parks do open, lodging availability will be “greatly reduced” within the parks, he said.

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According to Governor Gordon, the Old Faithful Inn and Lake Hotel in Yellowstone will not open this summer, and Jenny Lake Lodge and Jackson Lake Lodge are not expected to open in Grand Teton.

This means visitors will be staying in the gateway communities, such as Cody. Governor Gordon said he is working closely with Park County to ensure they are ready if or when these national parks open.

Governor Gordon said he is in “constant conversation” with Governor Brad Little, Idaho, and Governor Steve Bullock, Montana, about getting Yellowstone National Park opened as soon as they possibly can.

“These destinations are of course critical parts of our tourism economy in the northwest and northeast corners of our state,” he said.

The full video of Governor Gordon’s press conference can be found below.