The 2022 floods ravaged the area, rewrote the river, and showed how communities can and do rally to support one another.

City Walking Video for Treadmill

Gardiner Montana City Tour, Post Flood update on a Gateway to Yellowstone National Park Virtual Walk

Hello Walkers,

Today’s walk takes us down to Gardiner, Montana—a small town with a big personality and a front-row seat to Yellowstone National Park. Normally, Gardiner is a busy and bustling hub, serving as the historic northern gateway to the park. But during our visit, things were quieter than usual. That’s because the northern entrance had been closed due to major flood damage from the historic flooding back in June.

Cowboy lodge and grill on our virtual city tour
The restaurants were struggling after the flood

Even with that closure, Gardiner remains well worth a visit. Hotels and vacation rentals had plenty of availability, and the businesses here have kept going strong. Restaurants stayed open, welcoming visitors with warm meals and local flavor. And if you’re looking for adventure, there’s no shortage of options—whitewater rafting, e-bike rentals, wildlife tours, and scenic drives all await.

Bus and raft company on our virtual walking tour
Rafting bus in front of store fronts


The community has shown incredible resilience, and Gardiner is still very much open for business. Since my walk, there’s been a big update: the National Park Service has completed a brand-new road connecting the town to Mammoth Hot Springs. Not only does this road restore direct access to Yellowstone from Gardiner, but it also offers some incredible views along the way—a silver lining after the damage.

Corral burger outdoor seating on our virtual walking tour
Outdoor seating at the classic outdoor burger corral

Since the reopening, more restaurants have popped up or expanded, and tour providers are back in full swing. There’s truly a lot to do here. From guided wildlife safaris to local rodeos and river rafting excursions, Gardiner offers that perfect blend of outdoor fun and small-town charm.

So if you find yourself in the area—or if you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone—don’t overlook Gardiner. It’s a welcoming basecamp with rich character, friendly people, and now, an even more scenic route into the park itself.

Wonderland cafe on our virtual city tour
The Wonderland Cafe may be the best place to eat in Gardiner

Enjoy this virtual walk through town, and as always—

Keep on Steppin’
-Henry

Where to Stay in Gardiner, MT

Explore more of the Gardiner Area in the following walks:

Post Flood Gardiner, Montana
Gardiner Montana Walking Tour
Gardiner, Montana – Gateway to Yellowstone
Yellowstone NP Boiling River Trail in the Morning – Natural Hot Springs and River
Mammoth Terraces Virtual Treadmill Trail
Yellowstone’s Mammoth Terraces – morning autumn walk

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