Yellowstone National Park is one of America’s natural treasures. In the past, visitors to the park would have to rough it in old cabins with leaky faucets and faulty fireplaces. That changed this summer when the chic, new Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone were unveiled in July.
Delaware North built 50 unique homesteads that combine the amenities of a hotel with the comforts of home. Although not in the park itself, the homes are less than a mile from the entrance in West Yellowstone, Montana. Named after early American explorers and settlers, the cabins feature distressed wood, have vaulted ceilings, carpeted floors, full working kitchens, flatscreen TVs, free Wifi and modern bedrooms with artwork and photographs featuring Yellowstone. Some cabins have push-button fireplaces, making those chilly fall nights just a little cozier. Although the cabins are self-contained and perfect for large groups or families on vacation, you can mingle with fellow guests. A favorite Explorer activity is cooking smores over the fire pit at night. Guests also have access to the gym at the adjacent Yellowstone Park Hotel, and The Branch Restaurant down the street. Some cabins are dog-friendly so Fido doesn’t have to feel left out.
The Explorer Cabins are part of a new travel trend called Cabineering. Cabineering stresses the comforts of a hotel and home but in a remote location. Although West Yellowstone isn’t that remote, for many chic city dwellers, it remains a small town and retains a bit of a rural feel. Shops offer kitschy goods or authentic Western wear and most restaurants feature bison, elk and buffalo on menus.
The cabins are less than a mile from the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park and only a 30-mile drive to Old Faithful. Intrepid modern explorers can hike trails inside the park that are a stone’s throw away from the west entrance. Cabins have binoculars, walking sticks and other paraphernalia for hiking and exploring the park. Just don’t get too close to the bears and always have bear spray on hand.
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