Old Faithful Snow Lodge

This lodge is a premier choice for those seeking immediate access to the Old Faithful Geyser and the surrounding thermal features, making it an ideal base for nature enthusiasts and park explorers. Its location allows guests to experience the park's wonders, especially during the unique winter season, with fewer crowds. While many guests appreciate the generally clean accommodations and the friendly staff, some reviews highlight significant ongoing construction and a notable lack of certain in-room amenities like air conditioning and television. For families and couples looking for a wilderness adventure, the lodge offers unparalleled proximity to trails and attractions. To make the most of your stay, be prepared for potential noise and visual disruptions from the renovations, and consider bringing your own food or snacks due to limited and sometimes disappointing dining options within the park.

Facilities & Amenities
The lodge offers a range of facilities, though some are affected by ongoing renovations. Guests can find a gift shop on-site, which also provides bike rentals for exploring the expansive area with its many bike-friendly trails. In winter, a popular feature is the ice rink located outside the lodge, offering 24/7 access and skate rentals. The lobby and other common spaces are often praised for their cozy atmosphere, featuring a large fireplace and providing areas for relaxation and gathering. While Wi-Fi is available, it is frequently reported as spotty or only reliable in the lobby, with limited or no connectivity in guest rooms. Some rooms include a refrigerator, and there are ice machines available, though their proximity to cabins can vary. Laundry facilities are also present, though some guests noted issues with soap dispensers. Parking is generally ample, but can be a walk from the lobby, especially during peak times or due to construction.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is mixed. Many describe the rooms as clean and comfortable, with some praising the comfortable beds and functional bathrooms. However, a significant number of reviews mention that rooms, particularly cabins, can feel dated and are in need of renovation, with issues like old carpet and worn fixtures. A recurring concern is the lack of air conditioning, leading to stuffy rooms that can become uncomfortably hot, even when outside temperatures are cool. Guests often resort to opening windows, but this can be problematic due to construction noise or thin walls contributing to noise levels from adjacent rooms or hallways. While some rooms include a coffee maker and refrigerator, many lack a television or microwave, and some guests noted insufficient outlets or issues with hot water availability.

Dining & Food Quality
Dining experiences at the lodge receive varied feedback. The Obsidian Dining Room and Geyser Grill are the primary options. The breakfast buffet is frequently described as overpriced and of poor food quality, with issues like cold, tasteless items and slow replenishment. Many guests found the overall dining options limited, especially for dinner, with long wait times and a menu that some found unappealing or expensive. The restaurant service can be inconsistent, with some staff being helpful while others are perceived as indifferent. The Firehole Lounge offers appetizers and drinks, which some guests found enjoyable. Due to these concerns, many visitors recommend bringing their own food or exploring dining options outside the lodge, as the quality and variety often do not meet expectations for the price.

Location & Accessibility
The lodge's central location is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, offering unparalleled accessibility to the park's main attractions. It is situated within a short walking distance of the Old Faithful Geyser and the extensive Upper Geyser Basin, allowing guests to easily visit these iconic sites multiple times, including during early morning or late evening hours when crowds are minimal. The visitor center and various trails are also conveniently close. For winter visitors, the lodge serves as a hub for snow coach tours and provides direct access to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. While parking is available, guests should be aware that it can be a considerable walk from the main lodge, and navigating the area can be confusing due to ongoing construction.

Staff & Service
The staff at the lodge generally receives positive remarks for their friendliness and helpfulness. Many guests commend the front desk staff for their welcoming demeanor and efficiency during the check-in process, though some experienced long waits or rigid policies regarding early check-in. There are instances where staff were noted for being responsive to guest concerns, such as room issues or noise complaints, though the effectiveness of their interventions varied. Housekeeping services are mentioned, with some guests noting that rooms were not serviced daily or that initial cleanliness was lacking in certain areas. Specific services like guided tours and the ski shop staff are often praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, contributing positively to the overall guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the significant ongoing construction at the lodge, which includes roof repairs and scaffolding around the exterior. This can lead to noise, blocked views, and some inconvenience, though the hotel attempts to minimize disruption. The lodge is particularly popular for its unique winter experience, offering activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating directly from the property. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to see the park in a less crowded setting during this season. It's important to note that the lodge has a no daily room service policy, meaning rooms are not cleaned every day. Some guests found the Wi-Fi to be unreliable in rooms, often requiring them to use the lobby for connectivity. The lodge also offers various tours and activities that can be booked on-site, enhancing the park exploration experience.