In addition, think about what you want to see and do: Wildflowers, Animals, Fishing, Hiking? In the Spring Yellowstone is about 75% accessible due to snow, trail flooding and restricted animal zones, however the park is alive with lush green valleys accented with wildflowers. The snow melt fills rivers and streams creating roaring waterfalls while playful newborn bison, bear and elk are sighted in the lower regions. Summer brings full access to the park, tourists and warmer temperatures. The flowers slowly fade and larger animals make their ascent to higher ground. Recreational outfitters are at full swing and visitors take advantage of calmer lakes and rivers. Fall brings cooler temperatures, fewer people, limited concessions, fly fishing, golden colored aspen (more visible in the Teton's), bugling elk, and bull bison's territorial courtship. Winter blankets the park and the crowds are limited. While the road from Mammoth to Cooke City is open year around only government regulated snow coaches and snow mobiles provide transportation to major tourist spots such as Old Faithful and Canyon. The Mammoth Lodge and the Old Faithful Snow Lodge provide the only in-park winter lodging.